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PO, Compagnie du chemin de fer de Paris à Orléans



The Compagnie du chemin de fer de Paris à Orléans (PO)  was established in 1838 with the goal of constructing a railway between Paris and Orléans (south of Paris). The first section  was inaugurated in 1843. The line was one of the earliest long-distance railways in France and marked a significant step in linking Paris to regional centers. After successfully completing the Paris-Orléans route, the company expanded its lines to connect more cities in the Loire Valley and the southwest of France. The company rapidly acquired concessions and constructed additional routes. It reached important cities such as Tours, Bordeaux, Limoges, and even Nantes. The company's hub in Paris was the Gare d'Orléans (later known as Gare d'Austerlitz), one of Paris's main rail termini. To manage its expanding operations, the PO invested heavily in infrastructure, including bridges, tunnels, and large station buildings. The 19th century saw increasing competition among French rail companies. The Paris-Orléans company faced rivals such as the Compagnie des chemins de fer de l'Ouest and the Compagnie du Midi. In response, the PO strategically acquired smaller lines and expanded its influence to maintain profitability. The company was instrumental in supporting the economic growth of southwestern France. It facilitated the transportation of agricultural products (e.g., wine, cereals) and industrial goods to Paris and ports for export. The PO also played a role in tourism, as its lines provided access to cultural and scenic regions like the Loire Valley. By the early 20th century, French railways began facing financial and operational challenges, including competition from road transportation. PO was nationalized along with other private rail companies to form the Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF). At this point, the PO’s network was integrated into the broader French railway system, ending its existence as an independent company. The Paris-Orléans railway company’s legacy remains evident in French rail infrastructure today and the Gare d’Austerlitz in Paris continues to serve as a major station.

November 1st 2024

 

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