“Traqueros” The Mexican American Railroad Track Workers
In the vast and intricate web of railroad history, certain terms hold cultural significance and encapsulate the essence of a particular group’s contribution. One such term is ‘Traquero,’ referring to Mexican or Mexican American railroad track workers. These dedicated individuals, akin to the English term ‘gandy dancers,’ played a crucial role in shaping the railroad landscape of the Southwest.
The term ‘Traquero’ finds its roots in Spanglish, with ‘traque’ meaning ‘track.’ These individuals were the backbone of the railroad trackwork, performing physically demanding tasks to ensure the smooth functioning of the railway system. A poignant photo captures Mexican American women workers on the Southern Pacific Railroad during World War II, exemplifying the diverse roles Traqueras took on during this crucial period.
As early as the turn of the 20th century, Mexican workers emerged as the dominant immigrant labor force for trackwork in the Southwest. Although they worked in various states and territories west of Chicago and the Mississippi River, their presence was most prominent in the Southwest and West, spanning from Texas to California.
The Traqueros found employment with major railroad companies, with the Atchison, Topeka & Sant Fe, Southern Pacific, and Denver & Rio Grande standing out as the biggest employers. These companies relied on the dedication and expertise of Mexican American workers to build and maintain their rail networks. Additionally, other notable employers included the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific, Northern Pacific, Great Northern, and Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul (Pacific Northwest) during the early 1900s.
The contributions of Traqueros to the development of the railroad industry were immense, but they also faced numerous challenges. Discrimination, harsh working conditions, and the physically demanding nature of their jobs were daily realities. Despite these obstacles, Traqueros played a vital role in connecting communities, facilitating trade, and contributing to the economic growth of the regions they served.
The legacy of Traqueros lives on in the history of the Southwest, as their hard work and dedication continue to be acknowledged. While their stories may not have been widely recognized in the past, contemporary efforts seek to bring attention to the vital role Traqueros played in shaping the railroad infrastructure of the United States.
The term ‘Traquero’ serves as a reminder of the Mexican American railroad track workers who shaped the Southwest and contributed significantly to the growth of the railroad industry. Their stories deserve recognition, as they played a vital role in connecting communities, fostering economic development, and leaving an indelible mark on the history of railroads in the United States. As we reflect on the term ‘Traquero,’ let us honor the resilience and contributions of these dedicated individuals who helped lay the tracks that connected the diverse landscapes of the Southwest.
