Société des chemins de fer de l'État belge
Brussels
On May 16, 1836, the Brussels to Mechelen railway in Belgium became the first public steam railway in continental Europe, marking a pivotal moment in European transportation history by connecting major cities and spurring industrial growth across the continent.
Tsarskoye Selo Railway
St. Petersburg
The Tsarskoye Selo Railway, Russia's first public railway, opened on May 16, 1836, marking the beginning of rail transport in the country with a 27-kilometer line powered by steam locomotives, connecting St. Petersburg to the imperial summer residence and facilitating faster travel for passengers and goods.
Ohio and Mississippi Railway
Jackson County
On May 16, 1866, the Reno Gang executed the first peacetime train robbery in the US, targeting an Ohio and Mississippi Railway train and sparking a wave of criminal activities on the rails.
Boston Elevated Railway
Boston
The Boston Elevated Railway introduces one of the earliest electric multiple-unit trains, revolutionizing urban rapid transit.
Japanese National Railways
Tokyo
On May 16, 1957, Japanese National Railways completed the electrification of the Tokaido Main Line, enhancing speed and efficiency on this key route between Tokyo and Osaka, which paved the way for bullet train development and modernized Japan's post-war transportation network.
Electro-Motive Corporation
Chicago
On May 16, 1929, the Electro-Motive Corporation showcased the first practical diesel-electric locomotive in the United States, revolutionizing rail efficiency by replacing steam engines with cleaner, more powerful alternatives.
Canterbury and Whitstable Railway
Canterbury
One of Britain's earliest passenger railways begins service with steam locomotives hauling passengers between Canterbury and Whitstable.
Russian State Railways
Vladivostok
On May 16, 1891, the foundation stone for the Trans-Siberian Railway was laid in Vladivostok, initiating the world's longest railroad project that connected European Russia to the Pacific, fostering trade, migration, and imperial expansion.
The first major wagon train heading for the Pacific Northwest sets out on the Oregon Trail from Elm Grove, Missouri, with 100 pioneers.
Trans-Siberian Railway
Vladivostok
On May 16, 1891, the groundbreaking ceremony for the Trans-Siberian Railway took place, initiating the construction of the world's longest railway line, spanning over 9,000 kilometers from Moscow to Vladivostok, driven by Tsar Alexander III's vision to connect Russia's vast territories and boost economic and military strength.
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