This post looks at the start of the association and acquisition of control of the Baltimore and Ohio (B&O) by the Chesapeake and Ohio (C&O) as part of the lead up to the formation of the Chessie System. The B&O first coming under control of the C&O was not a merger, but was about saving and rehabilitating the B&O, making it stronger and better able to serve the public. Both roads would maintain their identities as they merged into the Chessie System and CSX up until 1986, when they were merged into CSX Transportation
The C&O-B&O Unity, the beginning of the Chessie System
The start of the C&O – B&O relationship in May, 1960 put into motion the spin toward the Chessie System as a holding company led by the C&O.for the purpose of diversifying the C&O. What begin in May 1960 was the beginnings of the Chessie System Railroads.