Auto Train using much of the same equipment and the same route as the train operated by Auto-Train Corporation. Amtrak discontinues the commuter-oriented Chesapeake between Washington and Philadelphia. December events December 18 - Canadian National Railway abandons track between Renfrew Junction and Whitney, Ontario on the company's Renfrew Subdivision. Unknown date events Benjamin Biaggini steps down as Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Southern Pacific Company, the parent company of the Southern Pacific Railroad. Boston and Maine Corporation is purchased by Guilford Transportation Industries. Accidents December 9 - The Wrawby Junction rail crash near Barnetby station in North Lincolnshire, England, killed one passenger. Deaths August 27 – Harry A. deButts, president of Southern Railway 1951–1962, dies. References Rivanna Chapter, National Railway Historical Society (2005), This Month in Railroad History: July. Retrieved July 12, 2005. Rivanna Chapter, National Railway Historical Society (2005), This Month in Railroad History: October. Retrieved October 28, 2005.