Northwest Wig-Wags: Knappa, Oregon

I originally posted this information on my old website on March 26, 2009, and last updated it on December 18, 2009.

Wig-wag at Knappa, Oregon on September 24, 2005

The Portland & Western Railroad's Astoria Line, formerly Spokane Portland & Seattle and then Burlington Northern, doesn't go through the actual town of Knappa, which is actually a little inland from the river and the railroad stays close to the river here.

Wig-wag at Knappa, Oregon on September 24, 2005

Two roads cross the railroad at Knappa. Knappa Road crosses above the tracks on an old wooden overpass. Waterhouse Road crosses the tracks at a traditional grade crossing adjacent to the overpass. This crossing was protected by a wig-wag.

Wig-wag at Knappa, Oregon on September 24, 2005

This is a very photogenic spot for train photographs but unfortunately, the Portland & Western has no freight business this far down the line.

Wig-wag at Knappa, Oregon on September 24, 2005

Despite the lack of rail traffic, the State of Oregon felt it necessary to remove this well-maintained wig-wag, leaving only simple crossbucks.

Wig-wag at Knappa, Oregon on September 24, 2005