Came across this old railroad switch wedged between two buildings in the SODO district of Seattle. Sodo is an industrial area south of downtown. The switch looks complete though a little stiff to the touch. The tracks are buried in the earth and reappear on the asphalt covered streets. These rails have long since been abandoned.

The switch stands roughly six feet. At about the three foot level there is a round metal plate with the name Mulliken embossed. This is the name of the manufacturer, formally Petibone, Mulliken and Company, formed in 1880. They specialized in track equipment such as frogs, crossings, and switches, according to the Encyclopedia of Chicago. The company is still around today and goes by Petibone. Their website mentions a line of heavy equipment used for lifting heavy materials. No mention of the manufacturing of rail equipment.

From the switch, the tracks follow a westward path and crosses 6 Ave South. Near the center of the quiet street is metal band running perpendicular to the tracks; possibly keep the tracks in tight. Embossed on the band is the name Nelson Ironworks Seattle. Dissolved as a company in 2003, their name lives on. Incorporated on October 21, 1920.

Like gold and silver, when you see vintage steel, look for the maker’s mark.