As a Colorado State University grad, I know I asked, many times, 'Why do we have railroad tracks that run right through campus?' (all while cursing at the train because I was late for class, of course). 

It really comes down to $100. CSU shared on its Facebook page that in the 1870s, the university (then Colorado A&M) was paid that amount in exchange for giving trains the legal right of way through the campus — permanently.

Unfortunately, you have to pay CSU way more than that for a degree, or even a parking permit. But, back in the 19th century, $100 went a lot further, I guess.

Check it out:

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