Texas State Railroad

he Texas State Railroad enjoyed by today's tourist riders and steam enthusiasts rests on more than a century of fascinating railroading history in rural east Texas. Inaugurated by the state of Texas in 1883 to haul iron ore and timber abundant to the region, the first segment of the line was constructed by state inmates at the East Texas Penitentiary in Rusk. By 1909 trackage reached as far as Palestine, where interchange was conducted with the International & Great Northern Railroad. Although the prison foundry played out in 1913, the road continued as a common carrier until 1921. State operations ceased, all rolling stock was liquidated, and the line was put up for lease. Southern Pacific subsidiary Texas & New Orleans leased the line as a part of the SP system until 1960, when shortline Texas South-Eastern took over the lease to supply its owners sawmills. By 1969 the shortline exited its lease, leaving the line is poor condition and with few prospects. The state turned the property over to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.

For the second time in the line's colorful history, state inmates were put to work to clear the overgrown right of way and rehabilitate the property. State employees secured suitable steam locomotives and rolling stock from around the country, and tourist operations commenced in 1976. State operation continued until 2007, when the railroad was transferred to the Texas State Railroad Authority with direction to seek a private operator. American Heritage Railways was first to lease and operate, followed by Iowa Pacific Holdings and currently the Western Group. The railroad maintains a small stable of steam locomotives paired with a fleet of Victorian-styled rolling stock. 50 mile round trips are offered during regular operating seasons. The railroad also has a long history of starring in various film and television productions.