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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Texas State Railroad</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>789 Park Road 70</div> <div> <span>Palestine</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>75801</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://texasstaterailroad.net/" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 855-632-7729</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Texas+State+Railroad%2C+789+Park+Road+70%2C+Palestine%2C+TX+75801" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881. Inmates built the line, which was used to transport hardwood which was used as fuel for the furnaces at the prison-operated iron smelter at the Rusk Penitentiary. The furnace supplied the State of Texas with iron products, including the columns and dome structure for the capitol building in Austin. The original construction was a narrow gauge line but was later built in standard gauge in order to join into the main line.</p> <p>In 1906 prison crews extended the rail line to Maydelle and in 1909 reached their final destination of Palestine. Once the train line was completed into Palestine the line was easily accessible to the main lines and commerce in and around the area flourished.</p> <p>In 1913 the prison ceased operations of the iron furnace and the Penitentiary was converted into the state mental hospital. In 1921 the regular rail service was discontinued and the line was leased to the Texas & New Orleans (Southern Pacific Railroad Co.) The Texas Southeastern Railroad leased the line in the early 1960s and continued operation of the line until 1969.</p> <p>The railroad was conveyed to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in 1972 and state inmates were again brought in to help with the creation of the state historical park. The park and railroad were opened to the public on July 4th, 1976, as part of the nation's Bicentennial Celebration.</p> <p>Maydelle Turntable</p> <p>In 1981, the Texas State Railroad acquired a turntable and installed it in Maydelle. This vintage piece of equipment is used to turn the engines around to go in a different direction.</p> <p>It was built in the late 1890s by the St. Louis and San Francisco (Frisco) Railroad on site at their Paris, Texas rail yard. It began operation in Paris in 1902, serving a six stall roundhouse.</p> <p>The Texas State Railroad is proud to possess this rare example of railroad technology and to be able to demonstrate, during special train rides, what was done routinely so many decades ago in rail yards across our nation.</p> <p>In 2003 Texas State Representative Chuck Hopson lead the way in proclaiming a resolution from the 78th Legislature of the State of Texas, designating the Texas State Railroad as the Official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The state's parks and wildlife department successfully ran the railroad until the management was privatized with a contract with American Heritage Railways in September of 2007. In August of 2012 American Heritage Railways sold the Texas State Railroad to Iowa Pacific Holdings. In addition to continuing passenger operations, Iowa Pacific Holdings opened the track to the main line in Palestine on November 1, 2012 to begin offering freight services.</p> <p>Please join us in helping to maintain this important piece of Texas heritage by taking a ride on the Texas State Railroad, truly a "Texas Treasure!"</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/palestine-tx/report/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/palestine-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/palestine-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Palestine</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Palestine</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-fitness-a-gentle-workout-with-nia-dallas-tx-11052024-ssnv27bm562.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-GENTLE-WORKOUT-WITH-NIA">A Gentle Workout With Nia</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 5, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-tx-pizza-and-policy-east-texas-advocacy-volunteer-recruitment-tyler-tx-11132024-87ngxp5ncbn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-PIZZA-AND-POLICY-EAST-TEXAS-ADVOCACY-VOLUNTEER-RECRUITMENT">Pizza and Policy: East Texas Advocacy Volunteer Recruitment</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Nov 13, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Bruno's | Pizza & Pasta</p> <p class="loc">Tyler, TX</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11424-8dnwsnmpzfn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-CLASS-A-TOTALBODY-ZUMBA-WORKOUT">Fitness Class: A Total-Body Zumba Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Nov 4, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/palestine-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-PALESTINE-TX">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-PALESTINE-TX">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Texas</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:TXAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">TXAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/texas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Texas</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-texas/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-PALESTINE-TX" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPTX" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarptx/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Texas State Railroad - Palestine, TX</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Texas State Railroad - Palestine, TX"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas. The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881." name="description"/> <meta content="Texas, State, Railroad, Palestine, TX" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Texas State Railroad"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas. The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881."/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Texas State Railroad"/> <meta property="og:description" content="The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas. The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881."/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="31.744499"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-95.573997"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Texas State Railroad</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>789 Park Road 70</div> <div> <span>Palestine</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>75801</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://texasstaterailroad.net/" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 855-632-7729</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Texas+State+Railroad%2C+789+Park+Road+70%2C+Palestine%2C+TX+75801" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881. Inmates built the line, which was used to transport hardwood which was used as fuel for the furnaces at the prison-operated iron smelter at the Rusk Penitentiary. The furnace supplied the State of Texas with iron products, including the columns and dome structure for the capitol building in Austin. The original construction was a narrow gauge line but was later built in standard gauge in order to join into the main line.</p> <p>In 1906 prison crews extended the rail line to Maydelle and in 1909 reached their final destination of Palestine. Once the train line was completed into Palestine the line was easily accessible to the main lines and commerce in and around the area flourished.</p> <p>In 1913 the prison ceased operations of the iron furnace and the Penitentiary was converted into the state mental hospital. In 1921 the regular rail service was discontinued and the line was leased to the Texas & New Orleans (Southern Pacific Railroad Co.) The Texas Southeastern Railroad leased the line in the early 1960s and continued operation of the line until 1969.</p> <p>The railroad was conveyed to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in 1972 and state inmates were again brought in to help with the creation of the state historical park. The park and railroad were opened to the public on July 4th, 1976, as part of the nation's Bicentennial Celebration.</p> <p>Maydelle Turntable</p> <p>In 1981, the Texas State Railroad acquired a turntable and installed it in Maydelle. This vintage piece of equipment is used to turn the engines around to go in a different direction.</p> <p>It was built in the late 1890s by the St. Louis and San Francisco (Frisco) Railroad on site at their Paris, Texas rail yard. It began operation in Paris in 1902, serving a six stall roundhouse.</p> <p>The Texas State Railroad is proud to possess this rare example of railroad technology and to be able to demonstrate, during special train rides, what was done routinely so many decades ago in rail yards across our nation.</p> <p>In 2003 Texas State Representative Chuck Hopson lead the way in proclaiming a resolution from the 78th Legislature of the State of Texas, designating the Texas State Railroad as the Official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The state's parks and wildlife department successfully ran the railroad until the management was privatized with a contract with American Heritage Railways in September of 2007. In August of 2012 American Heritage Railways sold the Texas State Railroad to Iowa Pacific Holdings. In addition to continuing passenger operations, Iowa Pacific Holdings opened the track to the main line in Palestine on November 1, 2012 to begin offering freight services.</p> <p>Please join us in helping to maintain this important piece of Texas heritage by taking a ride on the Texas State Railroad, truly a "Texas Treasure!"</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/palestine-tx/report/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/palestine-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/palestine-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Palestine</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Palestine</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-fitness-a-gentle-workout-with-nia-dallas-tx-11052024-ssnv27bm562.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-GENTLE-WORKOUT-WITH-NIA">A Gentle Workout With Nia</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 5, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-tx-pizza-and-policy-east-texas-advocacy-volunteer-recruitment-tyler-tx-11132024-87ngxp5ncbn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-PIZZA-AND-POLICY-EAST-TEXAS-ADVOCACY-VOLUNTEER-RECRUITMENT">Pizza and Policy: East Texas Advocacy Volunteer Recruitment</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Nov 13, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Bruno's | Pizza & Pasta</p> <p class="loc">Tyler, TX</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11424-8dnwsnmpzfn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-CLASS-A-TOTALBODY-ZUMBA-WORKOUT">Fitness Class: A Total-Body Zumba Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Nov 4, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/palestine-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-PALESTINE-TX">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-PALESTINE-TX">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Texas</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:TXAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">TXAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/texas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Texas</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-texas/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-PALESTINE-TX" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPTX" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarptx/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>Texas State Railroad - Palestine, TX</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Texas State Railroad - Palestine, TX"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas. 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Texas State Railroad</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>789 Park Road 70</div> <div> <span>Palestine</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>75801</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://texasstaterailroad.net/" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 855-632-7729</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Texas+State+Railroad%2C+789+Park+Road+70%2C+Palestine%2C+TX+75801" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881. Inmates built the line, which was used to transport hardwood which was used as fuel for the furnaces at the prison-operated iron smelter at the Rusk Penitentiary. The furnace supplied the State of Texas with iron products, including the columns and dome structure for the capitol building in Austin. The original construction was a narrow gauge line but was later built in standard gauge in order to join into the main line.</p> <p>In 1906 prison crews extended the rail line to Maydelle and in 1909 reached their final destination of Palestine. Once the train line was completed into Palestine the line was easily accessible to the main lines and commerce in and around the area flourished.</p> <p>In 1913 the prison ceased operations of the iron furnace and the Penitentiary was converted into the state mental hospital. In 1921 the regular rail service was discontinued and the line was leased to the Texas & New Orleans (Southern Pacific Railroad Co.) The Texas Southeastern Railroad leased the line in the early 1960s and continued operation of the line until 1969.</p> <p>The railroad was conveyed to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in 1972 and state inmates were again brought in to help with the creation of the state historical park. The park and railroad were opened to the public on July 4th, 1976, as part of the nation's Bicentennial Celebration.</p> <p>Maydelle Turntable</p> <p>In 1981, the Texas State Railroad acquired a turntable and installed it in Maydelle. This vintage piece of equipment is used to turn the engines around to go in a different direction.</p> <p>It was built in the late 1890s by the St. Louis and San Francisco (Frisco) Railroad on site at their Paris, Texas rail yard. It began operation in Paris in 1902, serving a six stall roundhouse.</p> <p>The Texas State Railroad is proud to possess this rare example of railroad technology and to be able to demonstrate, during special train rides, what was done routinely so many decades ago in rail yards across our nation.</p> <p>In 2003 Texas State Representative Chuck Hopson lead the way in proclaiming a resolution from the 78th Legislature of the State of Texas, designating the Texas State Railroad as the Official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The state's parks and wildlife department successfully ran the railroad until the management was privatized with a contract with American Heritage Railways in September of 2007. In August of 2012 American Heritage Railways sold the Texas State Railroad to Iowa Pacific Holdings. In addition to continuing passenger operations, Iowa Pacific Holdings opened the track to the main line in Palestine on November 1, 2012 to begin offering freight services.</p> <p>Please join us in helping to maintain this important piece of Texas heritage by taking a ride on the Texas State Railroad, truly a "Texas Treasure!"</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/palestine-tx/report/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881."/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Texas State Railroad"/> <meta property="og:description" content="The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas. The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881."/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="31.744499"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-95.573997"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Texas State Railroad</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>789 Park Road 70</div> <div> <span>Palestine</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>75801</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://texasstaterailroad.net/" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 855-632-7729</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Texas+State+Railroad%2C+789+Park+Road+70%2C+Palestine%2C+TX+75801" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881. Inmates built the line, which was used to transport hardwood which was used as fuel for the furnaces at the prison-operated iron smelter at the Rusk Penitentiary. The furnace supplied the State of Texas with iron products, including the columns and dome structure for the capitol building in Austin. The original construction was a narrow gauge line but was later built in standard gauge in order to join into the main line.</p> <p>In 1906 prison crews extended the rail line to Maydelle and in 1909 reached their final destination of Palestine. Once the train line was completed into Palestine the line was easily accessible to the main lines and commerce in and around the area flourished.</p> <p>In 1913 the prison ceased operations of the iron furnace and the Penitentiary was converted into the state mental hospital. In 1921 the regular rail service was discontinued and the line was leased to the Texas & New Orleans (Southern Pacific Railroad Co.) The Texas Southeastern Railroad leased the line in the early 1960s and continued operation of the line until 1969.</p> <p>The railroad was conveyed to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in 1972 and state inmates were again brought in to help with the creation of the state historical park. The park and railroad were opened to the public on July 4th, 1976, as part of the nation's Bicentennial Celebration.</p> <p>Maydelle Turntable</p> <p>In 1981, the Texas State Railroad acquired a turntable and installed it in Maydelle. This vintage piece of equipment is used to turn the engines around to go in a different direction.</p> <p>It was built in the late 1890s by the St. Louis and San Francisco (Frisco) Railroad on site at their Paris, Texas rail yard. It began operation in Paris in 1902, serving a six stall roundhouse.</p> <p>The Texas State Railroad is proud to possess this rare example of railroad technology and to be able to demonstrate, during special train rides, what was done routinely so many decades ago in rail yards across our nation.</p> <p>In 2003 Texas State Representative Chuck Hopson lead the way in proclaiming a resolution from the 78th Legislature of the State of Texas, designating the Texas State Railroad as the Official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The state's parks and wildlife department successfully ran the railroad until the management was privatized with a contract with American Heritage Railways in September of 2007. In August of 2012 American Heritage Railways sold the Texas State Railroad to Iowa Pacific Holdings. In addition to continuing passenger operations, Iowa Pacific Holdings opened the track to the main line in Palestine on November 1, 2012 to begin offering freight services.</p> <p>Please join us in helping to maintain this important piece of Texas heritage by taking a ride on the Texas State Railroad, truly a "Texas Treasure!"</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/palestine-tx/report/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/palestine-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/palestine-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Palestine</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Palestine</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-fitness-a-gentle-workout-with-nia-dallas-tx-11052024-ssnv27bm562.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-GENTLE-WORKOUT-WITH-NIA">A Gentle Workout With Nia</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 5, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-tx-pizza-and-policy-east-texas-advocacy-volunteer-recruitment-tyler-tx-11132024-87ngxp5ncbn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-PIZZA-AND-POLICY-EAST-TEXAS-ADVOCACY-VOLUNTEER-RECRUITMENT">Pizza and Policy: East Texas Advocacy Volunteer Recruitment</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Nov 13, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Bruno's | Pizza & Pasta</p> <p class="loc">Tyler, TX</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11424-8dnwsnmpzfn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-CLASS-A-TOTALBODY-ZUMBA-WORKOUT">Fitness Class: A Total-Body Zumba Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Nov 4, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/palestine-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-PALESTINE-TX">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-PALESTINE-TX">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Texas</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:TXAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">TXAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/texas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Texas</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-texas/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-PALESTINE-TX" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPTX" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarptx/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>Texas State Railroad - Palestine, TX</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Texas State Railroad - Palestine, TX"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas. 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Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.root.html) [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 54]Code Context<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Texas State Railroad</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>789 Park Road 70</div> <div> <span>Palestine</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>75801</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://texasstaterailroad.net/" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 855-632-7729</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Texas+State+Railroad%2C+789+Park+Road+70%2C+Palestine%2C+TX+75801" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881. Inmates built the line, which was used to transport hardwood which was used as fuel for the furnaces at the prison-operated iron smelter at the Rusk Penitentiary. The furnace supplied the State of Texas with iron products, including the columns and dome structure for the capitol building in Austin. The original construction was a narrow gauge line but was later built in standard gauge in order to join into the main line.</p> <p>In 1906 prison crews extended the rail line to Maydelle and in 1909 reached their final destination of Palestine. Once the train line was completed into Palestine the line was easily accessible to the main lines and commerce in and around the area flourished.</p> <p>In 1913 the prison ceased operations of the iron furnace and the Penitentiary was converted into the state mental hospital. In 1921 the regular rail service was discontinued and the line was leased to the Texas & New Orleans (Southern Pacific Railroad Co.) The Texas Southeastern Railroad leased the line in the early 1960s and continued operation of the line until 1969.</p> <p>The railroad was conveyed to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in 1972 and state inmates were again brought in to help with the creation of the state historical park. The park and railroad were opened to the public on July 4th, 1976, as part of the nation's Bicentennial Celebration.</p> <p>Maydelle Turntable</p> <p>In 1981, the Texas State Railroad acquired a turntable and installed it in Maydelle. This vintage piece of equipment is used to turn the engines around to go in a different direction.</p> <p>It was built in the late 1890s by the St. Louis and San Francisco (Frisco) Railroad on site at their Paris, Texas rail yard. It began operation in Paris in 1902, serving a six stall roundhouse.</p> <p>The Texas State Railroad is proud to possess this rare example of railroad technology and to be able to demonstrate, during special train rides, what was done routinely so many decades ago in rail yards across our nation.</p> <p>In 2003 Texas State Representative Chuck Hopson lead the way in proclaiming a resolution from the 78th Legislature of the State of Texas, designating the Texas State Railroad as the Official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The state's parks and wildlife department successfully ran the railroad until the management was privatized with a contract with American Heritage Railways in September of 2007. In August of 2012 American Heritage Railways sold the Texas State Railroad to Iowa Pacific Holdings. In addition to continuing passenger operations, Iowa Pacific Holdings opened the track to the main line in Palestine on November 1, 2012 to begin offering freight services.</p> <p>Please join us in helping to maintain this important piece of Texas heritage by taking a ride on the Texas State Railroad, truly a "Texas Treasure!"</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/palestine-tx/report/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/palestine-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/palestine-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Palestine</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Palestine</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-fitness-a-gentle-workout-with-nia-dallas-tx-11052024-ssnv27bm562.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-GENTLE-WORKOUT-WITH-NIA">A Gentle Workout With Nia</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 5, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-tx-pizza-and-policy-east-texas-advocacy-volunteer-recruitment-tyler-tx-11132024-87ngxp5ncbn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-PIZZA-AND-POLICY-EAST-TEXAS-ADVOCACY-VOLUNTEER-RECRUITMENT">Pizza and Policy: East Texas Advocacy Volunteer Recruitment</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Nov 13, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Bruno's | Pizza & Pasta</p> <p class="loc">Tyler, TX</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11424-8dnwsnmpzfn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-CLASS-A-TOTALBODY-ZUMBA-WORKOUT">Fitness Class: A Total-Body Zumba Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Nov 4, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/palestine-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-PALESTINE-TX">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-PALESTINE-TX">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Texas</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:TXAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">TXAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/texas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Texas</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-texas/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-PALESTINE-TX" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPTX" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarptx/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Texas State Railroad - Palestine, TX</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Texas State Railroad - Palestine, TX"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas. The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881." name="description"/> <meta content="Texas, State, Railroad, Palestine, TX" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Texas State Railroad"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas. The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881."/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Texas State Railroad"/> <meta property="og:description" content="The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas. The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881."/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="31.744499"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-95.573997"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Texas State Railroad</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>789 Park Road 70</div> <div> <span>Palestine</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>75801</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://texasstaterailroad.net/" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 855-632-7729</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Texas+State+Railroad%2C+789+Park+Road+70%2C+Palestine%2C+TX+75801" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881. Inmates built the line, which was used to transport hardwood which was used as fuel for the furnaces at the prison-operated iron smelter at the Rusk Penitentiary. The furnace supplied the State of Texas with iron products, including the columns and dome structure for the capitol building in Austin. The original construction was a narrow gauge line but was later built in standard gauge in order to join into the main line.</p> <p>In 1906 prison crews extended the rail line to Maydelle and in 1909 reached their final destination of Palestine. Once the train line was completed into Palestine the line was easily accessible to the main lines and commerce in and around the area flourished.</p> <p>In 1913 the prison ceased operations of the iron furnace and the Penitentiary was converted into the state mental hospital. In 1921 the regular rail service was discontinued and the line was leased to the Texas & New Orleans (Southern Pacific Railroad Co.) The Texas Southeastern Railroad leased the line in the early 1960s and continued operation of the line until 1969.</p> <p>The railroad was conveyed to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in 1972 and state inmates were again brought in to help with the creation of the state historical park. The park and railroad were opened to the public on July 4th, 1976, as part of the nation's Bicentennial Celebration.</p> <p>Maydelle Turntable</p> <p>In 1981, the Texas State Railroad acquired a turntable and installed it in Maydelle. This vintage piece of equipment is used to turn the engines around to go in a different direction.</p> <p>It was built in the late 1890s by the St. Louis and San Francisco (Frisco) Railroad on site at their Paris, Texas rail yard. It began operation in Paris in 1902, serving a six stall roundhouse.</p> <p>The Texas State Railroad is proud to possess this rare example of railroad technology and to be able to demonstrate, during special train rides, what was done routinely so many decades ago in rail yards across our nation.</p> <p>In 2003 Texas State Representative Chuck Hopson lead the way in proclaiming a resolution from the 78th Legislature of the State of Texas, designating the Texas State Railroad as the Official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The state's parks and wildlife department successfully ran the railroad until the management was privatized with a contract with American Heritage Railways in September of 2007. In August of 2012 American Heritage Railways sold the Texas State Railroad to Iowa Pacific Holdings. In addition to continuing passenger operations, Iowa Pacific Holdings opened the track to the main line in Palestine on November 1, 2012 to begin offering freight services.</p> <p>Please join us in helping to maintain this important piece of Texas heritage by taking a ride on the Texas State Railroad, truly a "Texas Treasure!"</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/palestine-tx/report/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/palestine-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/palestine-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Palestine</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Palestine</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-fitness-a-gentle-workout-with-nia-dallas-tx-11052024-ssnv27bm562.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-GENTLE-WORKOUT-WITH-NIA">A Gentle Workout With Nia</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 5, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-tx-pizza-and-policy-east-texas-advocacy-volunteer-recruitment-tyler-tx-11132024-87ngxp5ncbn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-PIZZA-AND-POLICY-EAST-TEXAS-ADVOCACY-VOLUNTEER-RECRUITMENT">Pizza and Policy: East Texas Advocacy Volunteer Recruitment</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Nov 13, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Bruno's | Pizza & Pasta</p> <p class="loc">Tyler, TX</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11424-8dnwsnmpzfn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-CLASS-A-TOTALBODY-ZUMBA-WORKOUT">Fitness Class: A Total-Body Zumba Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Nov 4, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/palestine-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-PALESTINE-TX">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Texas State Railroad</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>789 Park Road 70</div> <div> <span>Palestine</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>75801</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://texasstaterailroad.net/" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 855-632-7729</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Texas+State+Railroad%2C+789+Park+Road+70%2C+Palestine%2C+TX+75801" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881. Inmates built the line, which was used to transport hardwood which was used as fuel for the furnaces at the prison-operated iron smelter at the Rusk Penitentiary. The furnace supplied the State of Texas with iron products, including the columns and dome structure for the capitol building in Austin. The original construction was a narrow gauge line but was later built in standard gauge in order to join into the main line.</p> <p>In 1906 prison crews extended the rail line to Maydelle and in 1909 reached their final destination of Palestine. Once the train line was completed into Palestine the line was easily accessible to the main lines and commerce in and around the area flourished.</p> <p>In 1913 the prison ceased operations of the iron furnace and the Penitentiary was converted into the state mental hospital. In 1921 the regular rail service was discontinued and the line was leased to the Texas & New Orleans (Southern Pacific Railroad Co.) The Texas Southeastern Railroad leased the line in the early 1960s and continued operation of the line until 1969.</p> <p>The railroad was conveyed to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in 1972 and state inmates were again brought in to help with the creation of the state historical park. The park and railroad were opened to the public on July 4th, 1976, as part of the nation's Bicentennial Celebration.</p> <p>Maydelle Turntable</p> <p>In 1981, the Texas State Railroad acquired a turntable and installed it in Maydelle. This vintage piece of equipment is used to turn the engines around to go in a different direction.</p> <p>It was built in the late 1890s by the St. Louis and San Francisco (Frisco) Railroad on site at their Paris, Texas rail yard. It began operation in Paris in 1902, serving a six stall roundhouse.</p> <p>The Texas State Railroad is proud to possess this rare example of railroad technology and to be able to demonstrate, during special train rides, what was done routinely so many decades ago in rail yards across our nation.</p> <p>In 2003 Texas State Representative Chuck Hopson lead the way in proclaiming a resolution from the 78th Legislature of the State of Texas, designating the Texas State Railroad as the Official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The state's parks and wildlife department successfully ran the railroad until the management was privatized with a contract with American Heritage Railways in September of 2007. In August of 2012 American Heritage Railways sold the Texas State Railroad to Iowa Pacific Holdings. In addition to continuing passenger operations, Iowa Pacific Holdings opened the track to the main line in Palestine on November 1, 2012 to begin offering freight services.</p> <p>Please join us in helping to maintain this important piece of Texas heritage by taking a ride on the Texas State Railroad, truly a "Texas Treasure!"</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/palestine-tx/report/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/palestine-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/palestine-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Palestine</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Palestine</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-fitness-a-gentle-workout-with-nia-dallas-tx-11052024-ssnv27bm562.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-GENTLE-WORKOUT-WITH-NIA">A Gentle Workout With Nia</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 5, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-tx-pizza-and-policy-east-texas-advocacy-volunteer-recruitment-tyler-tx-11132024-87ngxp5ncbn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-PIZZA-AND-POLICY-EAST-TEXAS-ADVOCACY-VOLUNTEER-RECRUITMENT">Pizza and Policy: East Texas Advocacy Volunteer Recruitment</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Nov 13, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Bruno's | Pizza & Pasta</p> <p class="loc">Tyler, TX</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11424-8dnwsnmpzfn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-CLASS-A-TOTALBODY-ZUMBA-WORKOUT">Fitness Class: A Total-Body Zumba Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Nov 4, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/palestine-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-PALESTINE-TX">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-PALESTINE-TX">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Texas</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:TXAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">TXAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/texas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Texas</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-texas/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-PALESTINE-TX" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPTX" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarptx/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Texas State Railroad - Palestine, TX</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Texas State Railroad - Palestine, TX"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas. The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881." name="description"/> <meta content="Texas, State, Railroad, Palestine, TX" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Texas State Railroad"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas. The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881."/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Texas State Railroad"/> <meta property="og:description" content="The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas. The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881."/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="31.744499"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-95.573997"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Texas State Railroad</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>789 Park Road 70</div> <div> <span>Palestine</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>75801</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://texasstaterailroad.net/" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 855-632-7729</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Texas+State+Railroad%2C+789+Park+Road+70%2C+Palestine%2C+TX+75801" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881. Inmates built the line, which was used to transport hardwood which was used as fuel for the furnaces at the prison-operated iron smelter at the Rusk Penitentiary. The furnace supplied the State of Texas with iron products, including the columns and dome structure for the capitol building in Austin. The original construction was a narrow gauge line but was later built in standard gauge in order to join into the main line.</p> <p>In 1906 prison crews extended the rail line to Maydelle and in 1909 reached their final destination of Palestine. Once the train line was completed into Palestine the line was easily accessible to the main lines and commerce in and around the area flourished.</p> <p>In 1913 the prison ceased operations of the iron furnace and the Penitentiary was converted into the state mental hospital. In 1921 the regular rail service was discontinued and the line was leased to the Texas & New Orleans (Southern Pacific Railroad Co.) The Texas Southeastern Railroad leased the line in the early 1960s and continued operation of the line until 1969.</p> <p>The railroad was conveyed to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in 1972 and state inmates were again brought in to help with the creation of the state historical park. The park and railroad were opened to the public on July 4th, 1976, as part of the nation's Bicentennial Celebration.</p> <p>Maydelle Turntable</p> <p>In 1981, the Texas State Railroad acquired a turntable and installed it in Maydelle. This vintage piece of equipment is used to turn the engines around to go in a different direction.</p> <p>It was built in the late 1890s by the St. Louis and San Francisco (Frisco) Railroad on site at their Paris, Texas rail yard. It began operation in Paris in 1902, serving a six stall roundhouse.</p> <p>The Texas State Railroad is proud to possess this rare example of railroad technology and to be able to demonstrate, during special train rides, what was done routinely so many decades ago in rail yards across our nation.</p> <p>In 2003 Texas State Representative Chuck Hopson lead the way in proclaiming a resolution from the 78th Legislature of the State of Texas, designating the Texas State Railroad as the Official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The state's parks and wildlife department successfully ran the railroad until the management was privatized with a contract with American Heritage Railways in September of 2007. In August of 2012 American Heritage Railways sold the Texas State Railroad to Iowa Pacific Holdings. In addition to continuing passenger operations, Iowa Pacific Holdings opened the track to the main line in Palestine on November 1, 2012 to begin offering freight services.</p> <p>Please join us in helping to maintain this important piece of Texas heritage by taking a ride on the Texas State Railroad, truly a "Texas Treasure!"</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/palestine-tx/report/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/palestine-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/palestine-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Palestine</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Palestine</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-fitness-a-gentle-workout-with-nia-dallas-tx-11052024-ssnv27bm562.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-GENTLE-WORKOUT-WITH-NIA">A Gentle Workout With Nia</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 5, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-tx-pizza-and-policy-east-texas-advocacy-volunteer-recruitment-tyler-tx-11132024-87ngxp5ncbn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-PIZZA-AND-POLICY-EAST-TEXAS-ADVOCACY-VOLUNTEER-RECRUITMENT">Pizza and Policy: East Texas Advocacy Volunteer Recruitment</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Nov 13, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Bruno's | Pizza & Pasta</p> <p class="loc">Tyler, TX</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11424-8dnwsnmpzfn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-CLASS-A-TOTALBODY-ZUMBA-WORKOUT">Fitness Class: A Total-Body Zumba Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Nov 4, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/palestine-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-PALESTINE-TX">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? 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The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881." name="description"/> <meta content="Texas, State, Railroad, Palestine, TX" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Texas State Railroad"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas. 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The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas.
The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881. Inmates built the line, which was used to transport hardwood which was used as fuel for the furnaces at the prison-operated iron smelter at the Rusk Penitentiary. The furnace supplied the State of Texas with iron products, including the columns and dome structure for the capitol building in Austin. The original construction was a narrow gauge line but was later built in standard gauge in order to join into the main line.
In 1906 prison crews extended the rail line to Maydelle and in 1909 reached their final destination of Palestine. Once the train line was completed into Palestine the line was easily accessible to the main lines and commerce in and around the area flourished.
In 1913 the prison ceased operations of the iron furnace and the Penitentiary was converted into the state mental hospital. In 1921 the regular rail service was discontinued and the line was leased to the Texas & New Orleans (Southern Pacific Railroad Co.) The Texas Southeastern Railroad leased the line in the early 1960s and continued operation of the line until 1969.
The railroad was conveyed to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in 1972 and state inmates were again brought in to help with the creation of the state historical park. The park and railroad were opened to the public on July 4th, 1976, as part of the nation's Bicentennial Celebration.
Maydelle Turntable
In 1981, the Texas State Railroad acquired a turntable and installed it in Maydelle. This vintage piece of equipment is used to turn the engines around to go in a different direction.
It was built in the late 1890s by the St. Louis and San Francisco (Frisco) Railroad on site at their Paris, Texas rail yard. It began operation in Paris in 1902, serving a six stall roundhouse.
The Texas State Railroad is proud to possess this rare example of railroad technology and to be able to demonstrate, during special train rides, what was done routinely so many decades ago in rail yards across our nation.
In 2003 Texas State Representative Chuck Hopson lead the way in proclaiming a resolution from the 78th Legislature of the State of Texas, designating the Texas State Railroad as the Official Railroad of Texas.
The state's parks and wildlife department successfully ran the railroad until the management was privatized with a contract with American Heritage Railways in September of 2007. In August of 2012 American Heritage Railways sold the Texas State Railroad to Iowa Pacific Holdings. In addition to continuing passenger operations, Iowa Pacific Holdings opened the track to the main line in Palestine on November 1, 2012 to begin offering freight services.
Please join us in helping to maintain this important piece of Texas heritage by taking a ride on the Texas State Railroad, truly a "Texas Treasure!"
Tuesday, Nov 5, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT
Zoom and Facebook
Online Event
Wednesday, Nov 13, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT
Bruno's | Pizza & Pasta
Tyler, TX
Monday, Nov 4, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT
Online Event
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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Texas State Railroad</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>789 Park Road 70</div> <div> <span>Palestine</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>75801</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://texasstaterailroad.net/" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 855-632-7729</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Texas+State+Railroad%2C+789+Park+Road+70%2C+Palestine%2C+TX+75801" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881. Inmates built the line, which was used to transport hardwood which was used as fuel for the furnaces at the prison-operated iron smelter at the Rusk Penitentiary. The furnace supplied the State of Texas with iron products, including the columns and dome structure for the capitol building in Austin. The original construction was a narrow gauge line but was later built in standard gauge in order to join into the main line.</p> <p>In 1906 prison crews extended the rail line to Maydelle and in 1909 reached their final destination of Palestine. Once the train line was completed into Palestine the line was easily accessible to the main lines and commerce in and around the area flourished.</p> <p>In 1913 the prison ceased operations of the iron furnace and the Penitentiary was converted into the state mental hospital. In 1921 the regular rail service was discontinued and the line was leased to the Texas & New Orleans (Southern Pacific Railroad Co.) The Texas Southeastern Railroad leased the line in the early 1960s and continued operation of the line until 1969.</p> <p>The railroad was conveyed to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in 1972 and state inmates were again brought in to help with the creation of the state historical park. The park and railroad were opened to the public on July 4th, 1976, as part of the nation's Bicentennial Celebration.</p> <p>Maydelle Turntable</p> <p>In 1981, the Texas State Railroad acquired a turntable and installed it in Maydelle. This vintage piece of equipment is used to turn the engines around to go in a different direction.</p> <p>It was built in the late 1890s by the St. Louis and San Francisco (Frisco) Railroad on site at their Paris, Texas rail yard. It began operation in Paris in 1902, serving a six stall roundhouse.</p> <p>The Texas State Railroad is proud to possess this rare example of railroad technology and to be able to demonstrate, during special train rides, what was done routinely so many decades ago in rail yards across our nation.</p> <p>In 2003 Texas State Representative Chuck Hopson lead the way in proclaiming a resolution from the 78th Legislature of the State of Texas, designating the Texas State Railroad as the Official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The state's parks and wildlife department successfully ran the railroad until the management was privatized with a contract with American Heritage Railways in September of 2007. In August of 2012 American Heritage Railways sold the Texas State Railroad to Iowa Pacific Holdings. In addition to continuing passenger operations, Iowa Pacific Holdings opened the track to the main line in Palestine on November 1, 2012 to begin offering freight services.</p> <p>Please join us in helping to maintain this important piece of Texas heritage by taking a ride on the Texas State Railroad, truly a "Texas Treasure!"</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/palestine-tx/report/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881." name="description"/> <meta content="Texas, State, Railroad, Palestine, TX" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Texas State Railroad"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas. The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881."/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Texas State Railroad"/> <meta property="og:description" content="The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas. The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881."/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="31.744499"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-95.573997"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Texas State Railroad</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>789 Park Road 70</div> <div> <span>Palestine</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>75801</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://texasstaterailroad.net/" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 855-632-7729</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Texas+State+Railroad%2C+789+Park+Road+70%2C+Palestine%2C+TX+75801" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881. Inmates built the line, which was used to transport hardwood which was used as fuel for the furnaces at the prison-operated iron smelter at the Rusk Penitentiary. The furnace supplied the State of Texas with iron products, including the columns and dome structure for the capitol building in Austin. The original construction was a narrow gauge line but was later built in standard gauge in order to join into the main line.</p> <p>In 1906 prison crews extended the rail line to Maydelle and in 1909 reached their final destination of Palestine. Once the train line was completed into Palestine the line was easily accessible to the main lines and commerce in and around the area flourished.</p> <p>In 1913 the prison ceased operations of the iron furnace and the Penitentiary was converted into the state mental hospital. In 1921 the regular rail service was discontinued and the line was leased to the Texas & New Orleans (Southern Pacific Railroad Co.) The Texas Southeastern Railroad leased the line in the early 1960s and continued operation of the line until 1969.</p> <p>The railroad was conveyed to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in 1972 and state inmates were again brought in to help with the creation of the state historical park. The park and railroad were opened to the public on July 4th, 1976, as part of the nation's Bicentennial Celebration.</p> <p>Maydelle Turntable</p> <p>In 1981, the Texas State Railroad acquired a turntable and installed it in Maydelle. This vintage piece of equipment is used to turn the engines around to go in a different direction.</p> <p>It was built in the late 1890s by the St. Louis and San Francisco (Frisco) Railroad on site at their Paris, Texas rail yard. It began operation in Paris in 1902, serving a six stall roundhouse.</p> <p>The Texas State Railroad is proud to possess this rare example of railroad technology and to be able to demonstrate, during special train rides, what was done routinely so many decades ago in rail yards across our nation.</p> <p>In 2003 Texas State Representative Chuck Hopson lead the way in proclaiming a resolution from the 78th Legislature of the State of Texas, designating the Texas State Railroad as the Official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The state's parks and wildlife department successfully ran the railroad until the management was privatized with a contract with American Heritage Railways in September of 2007. In August of 2012 American Heritage Railways sold the Texas State Railroad to Iowa Pacific Holdings. In addition to continuing passenger operations, Iowa Pacific Holdings opened the track to the main line in Palestine on November 1, 2012 to begin offering freight services.</p> <p>Please join us in helping to maintain this important piece of Texas heritage by taking a ride on the Texas State Railroad, truly a "Texas Treasure!"</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/palestine-tx/report/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/palestine-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/palestine-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Palestine</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Palestine</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-fitness-a-gentle-workout-with-nia-dallas-tx-11052024-ssnv27bm562.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-GENTLE-WORKOUT-WITH-NIA">A Gentle Workout With Nia</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 5, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-tx-pizza-and-policy-east-texas-advocacy-volunteer-recruitment-tyler-tx-11132024-87ngxp5ncbn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-PIZZA-AND-POLICY-EAST-TEXAS-ADVOCACY-VOLUNTEER-RECRUITMENT">Pizza and Policy: East Texas Advocacy Volunteer Recruitment</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Nov 13, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Bruno's | Pizza & Pasta</p> <p class="loc">Tyler, TX</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11424-8dnwsnmpzfn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-CLASS-A-TOTALBODY-ZUMBA-WORKOUT">Fitness Class: A Total-Body Zumba Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Nov 4, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/palestine-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-PALESTINE-TX">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? 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Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242]Code Context<?php // if (!$nowrapper) (Globals::$language == 'es') ? include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer_es.html") : include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer.html"); ?>
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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Texas State Railroad</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>789 Park Road 70</div> <div> <span>Palestine</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>75801</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://texasstaterailroad.net/" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 855-632-7729</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Texas+State+Railroad%2C+789+Park+Road+70%2C+Palestine%2C+TX+75801" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881. Inmates built the line, which was used to transport hardwood which was used as fuel for the furnaces at the prison-operated iron smelter at the Rusk Penitentiary. The furnace supplied the State of Texas with iron products, including the columns and dome structure for the capitol building in Austin. The original construction was a narrow gauge line but was later built in standard gauge in order to join into the main line.</p> <p>In 1906 prison crews extended the rail line to Maydelle and in 1909 reached their final destination of Palestine. Once the train line was completed into Palestine the line was easily accessible to the main lines and commerce in and around the area flourished.</p> <p>In 1913 the prison ceased operations of the iron furnace and the Penitentiary was converted into the state mental hospital. In 1921 the regular rail service was discontinued and the line was leased to the Texas & New Orleans (Southern Pacific Railroad Co.) The Texas Southeastern Railroad leased the line in the early 1960s and continued operation of the line until 1969.</p> <p>The railroad was conveyed to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in 1972 and state inmates were again brought in to help with the creation of the state historical park. The park and railroad were opened to the public on July 4th, 1976, as part of the nation's Bicentennial Celebration.</p> <p>Maydelle Turntable</p> <p>In 1981, the Texas State Railroad acquired a turntable and installed it in Maydelle. This vintage piece of equipment is used to turn the engines around to go in a different direction.</p> <p>It was built in the late 1890s by the St. Louis and San Francisco (Frisco) Railroad on site at their Paris, Texas rail yard. It began operation in Paris in 1902, serving a six stall roundhouse.</p> <p>The Texas State Railroad is proud to possess this rare example of railroad technology and to be able to demonstrate, during special train rides, what was done routinely so many decades ago in rail yards across our nation.</p> <p>In 2003 Texas State Representative Chuck Hopson lead the way in proclaiming a resolution from the 78th Legislature of the State of Texas, designating the Texas State Railroad as the Official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The state's parks and wildlife department successfully ran the railroad until the management was privatized with a contract with American Heritage Railways in September of 2007. In August of 2012 American Heritage Railways sold the Texas State Railroad to Iowa Pacific Holdings. In addition to continuing passenger operations, Iowa Pacific Holdings opened the track to the main line in Palestine on November 1, 2012 to begin offering freight services.</p> <p>Please join us in helping to maintain this important piece of Texas heritage by taking a ride on the Texas State Railroad, truly a "Texas Treasure!"</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/palestine-tx/report/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/palestine-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/palestine-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Palestine</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Palestine</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-fitness-a-gentle-workout-with-nia-dallas-tx-11052024-ssnv27bm562.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-GENTLE-WORKOUT-WITH-NIA">A Gentle Workout With Nia</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 5, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-tx-pizza-and-policy-east-texas-advocacy-volunteer-recruitment-tyler-tx-11132024-87ngxp5ncbn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-PIZZA-AND-POLICY-EAST-TEXAS-ADVOCACY-VOLUNTEER-RECRUITMENT">Pizza and Policy: East Texas Advocacy Volunteer Recruitment</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Nov 13, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Bruno's | Pizza & Pasta</p> <p class="loc">Tyler, TX</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11424-8dnwsnmpzfn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-CLASS-A-TOTALBODY-ZUMBA-WORKOUT">Fitness Class: A Total-Body Zumba Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Nov 4, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/palestine-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-PALESTINE-TX">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? 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The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881." name="description"/> <meta content="Texas, State, Railroad, Palestine, TX" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Texas State Railroad"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas. The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881."/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Texas State Railroad"/> <meta property="og:description" content="The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas. The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881."/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="31.744499"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-95.573997"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Texas State Railroad</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>789 Park Road 70</div> <div> <span>Palestine</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>75801</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://texasstaterailroad.net/" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 855-632-7729</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Texas+State+Railroad%2C+789+Park+Road+70%2C+Palestine%2C+TX+75801" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881. Inmates built the line, which was used to transport hardwood which was used as fuel for the furnaces at the prison-operated iron smelter at the Rusk Penitentiary. The furnace supplied the State of Texas with iron products, including the columns and dome structure for the capitol building in Austin. The original construction was a narrow gauge line but was later built in standard gauge in order to join into the main line.</p> <p>In 1906 prison crews extended the rail line to Maydelle and in 1909 reached their final destination of Palestine. Once the train line was completed into Palestine the line was easily accessible to the main lines and commerce in and around the area flourished.</p> <p>In 1913 the prison ceased operations of the iron furnace and the Penitentiary was converted into the state mental hospital. In 1921 the regular rail service was discontinued and the line was leased to the Texas & New Orleans (Southern Pacific Railroad Co.) The Texas Southeastern Railroad leased the line in the early 1960s and continued operation of the line until 1969.</p> <p>The railroad was conveyed to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in 1972 and state inmates were again brought in to help with the creation of the state historical park. The park and railroad were opened to the public on July 4th, 1976, as part of the nation's Bicentennial Celebration.</p> <p>Maydelle Turntable</p> <p>In 1981, the Texas State Railroad acquired a turntable and installed it in Maydelle. This vintage piece of equipment is used to turn the engines around to go in a different direction.</p> <p>It was built in the late 1890s by the St. Louis and San Francisco (Frisco) Railroad on site at their Paris, Texas rail yard. It began operation in Paris in 1902, serving a six stall roundhouse.</p> <p>The Texas State Railroad is proud to possess this rare example of railroad technology and to be able to demonstrate, during special train rides, what was done routinely so many decades ago in rail yards across our nation.</p> <p>In 2003 Texas State Representative Chuck Hopson lead the way in proclaiming a resolution from the 78th Legislature of the State of Texas, designating the Texas State Railroad as the Official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The state's parks and wildlife department successfully ran the railroad until the management was privatized with a contract with American Heritage Railways in September of 2007. In August of 2012 American Heritage Railways sold the Texas State Railroad to Iowa Pacific Holdings. In addition to continuing passenger operations, Iowa Pacific Holdings opened the track to the main line in Palestine on November 1, 2012 to begin offering freight services.</p> <p>Please join us in helping to maintain this important piece of Texas heritage by taking a ride on the Texas State Railroad, truly a "Texas Treasure!"</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/palestine-tx/report/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Texas State Railroad</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>789 Park Road 70</div> <div> <span>Palestine</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>75801</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://texasstaterailroad.net/" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 855-632-7729</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Texas+State+Railroad%2C+789+Park+Road+70%2C+Palestine%2C+TX+75801" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881. Inmates built the line, which was used to transport hardwood which was used as fuel for the furnaces at the prison-operated iron smelter at the Rusk Penitentiary. The furnace supplied the State of Texas with iron products, including the columns and dome structure for the capitol building in Austin. The original construction was a narrow gauge line but was later built in standard gauge in order to join into the main line.</p> <p>In 1906 prison crews extended the rail line to Maydelle and in 1909 reached their final destination of Palestine. Once the train line was completed into Palestine the line was easily accessible to the main lines and commerce in and around the area flourished.</p> <p>In 1913 the prison ceased operations of the iron furnace and the Penitentiary was converted into the state mental hospital. In 1921 the regular rail service was discontinued and the line was leased to the Texas & New Orleans (Southern Pacific Railroad Co.) The Texas Southeastern Railroad leased the line in the early 1960s and continued operation of the line until 1969.</p> <p>The railroad was conveyed to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in 1972 and state inmates were again brought in to help with the creation of the state historical park. The park and railroad were opened to the public on July 4th, 1976, as part of the nation's Bicentennial Celebration.</p> <p>Maydelle Turntable</p> <p>In 1981, the Texas State Railroad acquired a turntable and installed it in Maydelle. This vintage piece of equipment is used to turn the engines around to go in a different direction.</p> <p>It was built in the late 1890s by the St. Louis and San Francisco (Frisco) Railroad on site at their Paris, Texas rail yard. It began operation in Paris in 1902, serving a six stall roundhouse.</p> <p>The Texas State Railroad is proud to possess this rare example of railroad technology and to be able to demonstrate, during special train rides, what was done routinely so many decades ago in rail yards across our nation.</p> <p>In 2003 Texas State Representative Chuck Hopson lead the way in proclaiming a resolution from the 78th Legislature of the State of Texas, designating the Texas State Railroad as the Official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The state's parks and wildlife department successfully ran the railroad until the management was privatized with a contract with American Heritage Railways in September of 2007. In August of 2012 American Heritage Railways sold the Texas State Railroad to Iowa Pacific Holdings. In addition to continuing passenger operations, Iowa Pacific Holdings opened the track to the main line in Palestine on November 1, 2012 to begin offering freight services.</p> <p>Please join us in helping to maintain this important piece of Texas heritage by taking a ride on the Texas State Railroad, truly a "Texas Treasure!"</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/palestine-tx/report/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/palestine-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/palestine-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Palestine</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Palestine</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-fitness-a-gentle-workout-with-nia-dallas-tx-11052024-ssnv27bm562.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-GENTLE-WORKOUT-WITH-NIA">A Gentle Workout With Nia</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 5, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-tx-pizza-and-policy-east-texas-advocacy-volunteer-recruitment-tyler-tx-11132024-87ngxp5ncbn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-PIZZA-AND-POLICY-EAST-TEXAS-ADVOCACY-VOLUNTEER-RECRUITMENT">Pizza and Policy: East Texas Advocacy Volunteer Recruitment</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Nov 13, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Bruno's | Pizza & Pasta</p> <p class="loc">Tyler, TX</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11424-8dnwsnmpzfn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-CLASS-A-TOTALBODY-ZUMBA-WORKOUT">Fitness Class: A Total-Body Zumba Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Nov 4, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/palestine-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-PALESTINE-TX">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? 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The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881." name="description"/> <meta content="Texas, State, Railroad, Palestine, TX" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Texas State Railroad"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas. The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881."/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Texas State Railroad"/> <meta property="og:description" content="The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas. The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881."/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="31.744499"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-95.573997"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Texas State Railroad</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>789 Park Road 70</div> <div> <span>Palestine</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>75801</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://texasstaterailroad.net/" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 855-632-7729</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Texas+State+Railroad%2C+789+Park+Road+70%2C+Palestine%2C+TX+75801" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881. Inmates built the line, which was used to transport hardwood which was used as fuel for the furnaces at the prison-operated iron smelter at the Rusk Penitentiary. The furnace supplied the State of Texas with iron products, including the columns and dome structure for the capitol building in Austin. The original construction was a narrow gauge line but was later built in standard gauge in order to join into the main line.</p> <p>In 1906 prison crews extended the rail line to Maydelle and in 1909 reached their final destination of Palestine. Once the train line was completed into Palestine the line was easily accessible to the main lines and commerce in and around the area flourished.</p> <p>In 1913 the prison ceased operations of the iron furnace and the Penitentiary was converted into the state mental hospital. In 1921 the regular rail service was discontinued and the line was leased to the Texas & New Orleans (Southern Pacific Railroad Co.) The Texas Southeastern Railroad leased the line in the early 1960s and continued operation of the line until 1969.</p> <p>The railroad was conveyed to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in 1972 and state inmates were again brought in to help with the creation of the state historical park. The park and railroad were opened to the public on July 4th, 1976, as part of the nation's Bicentennial Celebration.</p> <p>Maydelle Turntable</p> <p>In 1981, the Texas State Railroad acquired a turntable and installed it in Maydelle. This vintage piece of equipment is used to turn the engines around to go in a different direction.</p> <p>It was built in the late 1890s by the St. Louis and San Francisco (Frisco) Railroad on site at their Paris, Texas rail yard. It began operation in Paris in 1902, serving a six stall roundhouse.</p> <p>The Texas State Railroad is proud to possess this rare example of railroad technology and to be able to demonstrate, during special train rides, what was done routinely so many decades ago in rail yards across our nation.</p> <p>In 2003 Texas State Representative Chuck Hopson lead the way in proclaiming a resolution from the 78th Legislature of the State of Texas, designating the Texas State Railroad as the Official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The state's parks and wildlife department successfully ran the railroad until the management was privatized with a contract with American Heritage Railways in September of 2007. In August of 2012 American Heritage Railways sold the Texas State Railroad to Iowa Pacific Holdings. In addition to continuing passenger operations, Iowa Pacific Holdings opened the track to the main line in Palestine on November 1, 2012 to begin offering freight services.</p> <p>Please join us in helping to maintain this important piece of Texas heritage by taking a ride on the Texas State Railroad, truly a "Texas Treasure!"</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/palestine-tx/report/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/palestine-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/palestine-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Palestine</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Palestine</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-fitness-a-gentle-workout-with-nia-dallas-tx-11052024-ssnv27bm562.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-GENTLE-WORKOUT-WITH-NIA">A Gentle Workout With Nia</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 5, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-tx-pizza-and-policy-east-texas-advocacy-volunteer-recruitment-tyler-tx-11132024-87ngxp5ncbn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-PIZZA-AND-POLICY-EAST-TEXAS-ADVOCACY-VOLUNTEER-RECRUITMENT">Pizza and Policy: East Texas Advocacy Volunteer Recruitment</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Nov 13, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Bruno's | Pizza & Pasta</p> <p class="loc">Tyler, TX</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11424-8dnwsnmpzfn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-CLASS-A-TOTALBODY-ZUMBA-WORKOUT">Fitness Class: A Total-Body Zumba Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Nov 4, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/palestine-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-PALESTINE-TX">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? 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Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243]Code Context<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Texas State Railroad</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>789 Park Road 70</div> <div> <span>Palestine</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>75801</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://texasstaterailroad.net/" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 855-632-7729</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Texas+State+Railroad%2C+789+Park+Road+70%2C+Palestine%2C+TX+75801" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881. Inmates built the line, which was used to transport hardwood which was used as fuel for the furnaces at the prison-operated iron smelter at the Rusk Penitentiary. The furnace supplied the State of Texas with iron products, including the columns and dome structure for the capitol building in Austin. The original construction was a narrow gauge line but was later built in standard gauge in order to join into the main line.</p> <p>In 1906 prison crews extended the rail line to Maydelle and in 1909 reached their final destination of Palestine. Once the train line was completed into Palestine the line was easily accessible to the main lines and commerce in and around the area flourished.</p> <p>In 1913 the prison ceased operations of the iron furnace and the Penitentiary was converted into the state mental hospital. In 1921 the regular rail service was discontinued and the line was leased to the Texas & New Orleans (Southern Pacific Railroad Co.) The Texas Southeastern Railroad leased the line in the early 1960s and continued operation of the line until 1969.</p> <p>The railroad was conveyed to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in 1972 and state inmates were again brought in to help with the creation of the state historical park. The park and railroad were opened to the public on July 4th, 1976, as part of the nation's Bicentennial Celebration.</p> <p>Maydelle Turntable</p> <p>In 1981, the Texas State Railroad acquired a turntable and installed it in Maydelle. This vintage piece of equipment is used to turn the engines around to go in a different direction.</p> <p>It was built in the late 1890s by the St. Louis and San Francisco (Frisco) Railroad on site at their Paris, Texas rail yard. It began operation in Paris in 1902, serving a six stall roundhouse.</p> <p>The Texas State Railroad is proud to possess this rare example of railroad technology and to be able to demonstrate, during special train rides, what was done routinely so many decades ago in rail yards across our nation.</p> <p>In 2003 Texas State Representative Chuck Hopson lead the way in proclaiming a resolution from the 78th Legislature of the State of Texas, designating the Texas State Railroad as the Official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The state's parks and wildlife department successfully ran the railroad until the management was privatized with a contract with American Heritage Railways in September of 2007. In August of 2012 American Heritage Railways sold the Texas State Railroad to Iowa Pacific Holdings. In addition to continuing passenger operations, Iowa Pacific Holdings opened the track to the main line in Palestine on November 1, 2012 to begin offering freight services.</p> <p>Please join us in helping to maintain this important piece of Texas heritage by taking a ride on the Texas State Railroad, truly a "Texas Treasure!"</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/palestine-tx/report/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/palestine-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/palestine-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Palestine</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Palestine</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-fitness-a-gentle-workout-with-nia-dallas-tx-11052024-ssnv27bm562.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-GENTLE-WORKOUT-WITH-NIA">A Gentle Workout With Nia</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 5, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-tx-pizza-and-policy-east-texas-advocacy-volunteer-recruitment-tyler-tx-11132024-87ngxp5ncbn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-PIZZA-AND-POLICY-EAST-TEXAS-ADVOCACY-VOLUNTEER-RECRUITMENT">Pizza and Policy: East Texas Advocacy Volunteer Recruitment</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Nov 13, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Bruno's | Pizza & Pasta</p> <p class="loc">Tyler, TX</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11424-8dnwsnmpzfn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-CLASS-A-TOTALBODY-ZUMBA-WORKOUT">Fitness Class: A Total-Body Zumba Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Nov 4, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/palestine-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-PALESTINE-TX">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? 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The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881." name="description"/> <meta content="Texas, State, Railroad, Palestine, TX" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Texas State Railroad"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas. The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881."/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Texas State Railroad"/> <meta property="og:description" content="The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas. The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881."/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="31.744499"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-95.573997"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Texas State Railroad</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>789 Park Road 70</div> <div> <span>Palestine</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>75801</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://texasstaterailroad.net/" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 855-632-7729</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Texas+State+Railroad%2C+789+Park+Road+70%2C+Palestine%2C+TX+75801" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881. Inmates built the line, which was used to transport hardwood which was used as fuel for the furnaces at the prison-operated iron smelter at the Rusk Penitentiary. The furnace supplied the State of Texas with iron products, including the columns and dome structure for the capitol building in Austin. The original construction was a narrow gauge line but was later built in standard gauge in order to join into the main line.</p> <p>In 1906 prison crews extended the rail line to Maydelle and in 1909 reached their final destination of Palestine. Once the train line was completed into Palestine the line was easily accessible to the main lines and commerce in and around the area flourished.</p> <p>In 1913 the prison ceased operations of the iron furnace and the Penitentiary was converted into the state mental hospital. In 1921 the regular rail service was discontinued and the line was leased to the Texas & New Orleans (Southern Pacific Railroad Co.) The Texas Southeastern Railroad leased the line in the early 1960s and continued operation of the line until 1969.</p> <p>The railroad was conveyed to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in 1972 and state inmates were again brought in to help with the creation of the state historical park. The park and railroad were opened to the public on July 4th, 1976, as part of the nation's Bicentennial Celebration.</p> <p>Maydelle Turntable</p> <p>In 1981, the Texas State Railroad acquired a turntable and installed it in Maydelle. This vintage piece of equipment is used to turn the engines around to go in a different direction.</p> <p>It was built in the late 1890s by the St. Louis and San Francisco (Frisco) Railroad on site at their Paris, Texas rail yard. It began operation in Paris in 1902, serving a six stall roundhouse.</p> <p>The Texas State Railroad is proud to possess this rare example of railroad technology and to be able to demonstrate, during special train rides, what was done routinely so many decades ago in rail yards across our nation.</p> <p>In 2003 Texas State Representative Chuck Hopson lead the way in proclaiming a resolution from the 78th Legislature of the State of Texas, designating the Texas State Railroad as the Official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The state's parks and wildlife department successfully ran the railroad until the management was privatized with a contract with American Heritage Railways in September of 2007. In August of 2012 American Heritage Railways sold the Texas State Railroad to Iowa Pacific Holdings. In addition to continuing passenger operations, Iowa Pacific Holdings opened the track to the main line in Palestine on November 1, 2012 to begin offering freight services.</p> <p>Please join us in helping to maintain this important piece of Texas heritage by taking a ride on the Texas State Railroad, truly a "Texas Treasure!"</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/palestine-tx/report/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Texas State Railroad</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>789 Park Road 70</div> <div> <span>Palestine</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>75801</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://texasstaterailroad.net/" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 855-632-7729</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Texas+State+Railroad%2C+789+Park+Road+70%2C+Palestine%2C+TX+75801" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881. Inmates built the line, which was used to transport hardwood which was used as fuel for the furnaces at the prison-operated iron smelter at the Rusk Penitentiary. The furnace supplied the State of Texas with iron products, including the columns and dome structure for the capitol building in Austin. The original construction was a narrow gauge line but was later built in standard gauge in order to join into the main line.</p> <p>In 1906 prison crews extended the rail line to Maydelle and in 1909 reached their final destination of Palestine. Once the train line was completed into Palestine the line was easily accessible to the main lines and commerce in and around the area flourished.</p> <p>In 1913 the prison ceased operations of the iron furnace and the Penitentiary was converted into the state mental hospital. In 1921 the regular rail service was discontinued and the line was leased to the Texas & New Orleans (Southern Pacific Railroad Co.) The Texas Southeastern Railroad leased the line in the early 1960s and continued operation of the line until 1969.</p> <p>The railroad was conveyed to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in 1972 and state inmates were again brought in to help with the creation of the state historical park. The park and railroad were opened to the public on July 4th, 1976, as part of the nation's Bicentennial Celebration.</p> <p>Maydelle Turntable</p> <p>In 1981, the Texas State Railroad acquired a turntable and installed it in Maydelle. This vintage piece of equipment is used to turn the engines around to go in a different direction.</p> <p>It was built in the late 1890s by the St. Louis and San Francisco (Frisco) Railroad on site at their Paris, Texas rail yard. It began operation in Paris in 1902, serving a six stall roundhouse.</p> <p>The Texas State Railroad is proud to possess this rare example of railroad technology and to be able to demonstrate, during special train rides, what was done routinely so many decades ago in rail yards across our nation.</p> <p>In 2003 Texas State Representative Chuck Hopson lead the way in proclaiming a resolution from the 78th Legislature of the State of Texas, designating the Texas State Railroad as the Official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The state's parks and wildlife department successfully ran the railroad until the management was privatized with a contract with American Heritage Railways in September of 2007. In August of 2012 American Heritage Railways sold the Texas State Railroad to Iowa Pacific Holdings. In addition to continuing passenger operations, Iowa Pacific Holdings opened the track to the main line in Palestine on November 1, 2012 to begin offering freight services.</p> <p>Please join us in helping to maintain this important piece of Texas heritage by taking a ride on the Texas State Railroad, truly a "Texas Treasure!"</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/palestine-tx/report/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881." name="description"/> <meta content="Texas, State, Railroad, Palestine, TX" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Texas State Railroad"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas. The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881."/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Texas State Railroad"/> <meta property="og:description" content="The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas. The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881."/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="31.744499"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-95.573997"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Texas State Railroad</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>789 Park Road 70</div> <div> <span>Palestine</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>75801</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://texasstaterailroad.net/" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 855-632-7729</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Texas+State+Railroad%2C+789+Park+Road+70%2C+Palestine%2C+TX+75801" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881. Inmates built the line, which was used to transport hardwood which was used as fuel for the furnaces at the prison-operated iron smelter at the Rusk Penitentiary. The furnace supplied the State of Texas with iron products, including the columns and dome structure for the capitol building in Austin. The original construction was a narrow gauge line but was later built in standard gauge in order to join into the main line.</p> <p>In 1906 prison crews extended the rail line to Maydelle and in 1909 reached their final destination of Palestine. Once the train line was completed into Palestine the line was easily accessible to the main lines and commerce in and around the area flourished.</p> <p>In 1913 the prison ceased operations of the iron furnace and the Penitentiary was converted into the state mental hospital. In 1921 the regular rail service was discontinued and the line was leased to the Texas & New Orleans (Southern Pacific Railroad Co.) The Texas Southeastern Railroad leased the line in the early 1960s and continued operation of the line until 1969.</p> <p>The railroad was conveyed to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in 1972 and state inmates were again brought in to help with the creation of the state historical park. The park and railroad were opened to the public on July 4th, 1976, as part of the nation's Bicentennial Celebration.</p> <p>Maydelle Turntable</p> <p>In 1981, the Texas State Railroad acquired a turntable and installed it in Maydelle. This vintage piece of equipment is used to turn the engines around to go in a different direction.</p> <p>It was built in the late 1890s by the St. Louis and San Francisco (Frisco) Railroad on site at their Paris, Texas rail yard. It began operation in Paris in 1902, serving a six stall roundhouse.</p> <p>The Texas State Railroad is proud to possess this rare example of railroad technology and to be able to demonstrate, during special train rides, what was done routinely so many decades ago in rail yards across our nation.</p> <p>In 2003 Texas State Representative Chuck Hopson lead the way in proclaiming a resolution from the 78th Legislature of the State of Texas, designating the Texas State Railroad as the Official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The state's parks and wildlife department successfully ran the railroad until the management was privatized with a contract with American Heritage Railways in September of 2007. In August of 2012 American Heritage Railways sold the Texas State Railroad to Iowa Pacific Holdings. In addition to continuing passenger operations, Iowa Pacific Holdings opened the track to the main line in Palestine on November 1, 2012 to begin offering freight services.</p> <p>Please join us in helping to maintain this important piece of Texas heritage by taking a ride on the Texas State Railroad, truly a "Texas Treasure!"</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/palestine-tx/report/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/palestine-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/palestine-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Palestine</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Palestine</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-fitness-a-gentle-workout-with-nia-dallas-tx-11052024-ssnv27bm562.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-GENTLE-WORKOUT-WITH-NIA">A Gentle Workout With Nia</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 5, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-tx-pizza-and-policy-east-texas-advocacy-volunteer-recruitment-tyler-tx-11132024-87ngxp5ncbn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-PIZZA-AND-POLICY-EAST-TEXAS-ADVOCACY-VOLUNTEER-RECRUITMENT">Pizza and Policy: East Texas Advocacy Volunteer Recruitment</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Nov 13, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Bruno's | Pizza & Pasta</p> <p class="loc">Tyler, TX</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11424-8dnwsnmpzfn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-CLASS-A-TOTALBODY-ZUMBA-WORKOUT">Fitness Class: A Total-Body Zumba Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Nov 4, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/palestine-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-PALESTINE-TX">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Texas State Railroad</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>789 Park Road 70</div> <div> <span>Palestine</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>75801</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://texasstaterailroad.net/" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 855-632-7729</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Texas+State+Railroad%2C+789+Park+Road+70%2C+Palestine%2C+TX+75801" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881. Inmates built the line, which was used to transport hardwood which was used as fuel for the furnaces at the prison-operated iron smelter at the Rusk Penitentiary. The furnace supplied the State of Texas with iron products, including the columns and dome structure for the capitol building in Austin. The original construction was a narrow gauge line but was later built in standard gauge in order to join into the main line.</p> <p>In 1906 prison crews extended the rail line to Maydelle and in 1909 reached their final destination of Palestine. Once the train line was completed into Palestine the line was easily accessible to the main lines and commerce in and around the area flourished.</p> <p>In 1913 the prison ceased operations of the iron furnace and the Penitentiary was converted into the state mental hospital. In 1921 the regular rail service was discontinued and the line was leased to the Texas & New Orleans (Southern Pacific Railroad Co.) The Texas Southeastern Railroad leased the line in the early 1960s and continued operation of the line until 1969.</p> <p>The railroad was conveyed to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in 1972 and state inmates were again brought in to help with the creation of the state historical park. The park and railroad were opened to the public on July 4th, 1976, as part of the nation's Bicentennial Celebration.</p> <p>Maydelle Turntable</p> <p>In 1981, the Texas State Railroad acquired a turntable and installed it in Maydelle. This vintage piece of equipment is used to turn the engines around to go in a different direction.</p> <p>It was built in the late 1890s by the St. Louis and San Francisco (Frisco) Railroad on site at their Paris, Texas rail yard. It began operation in Paris in 1902, serving a six stall roundhouse.</p> <p>The Texas State Railroad is proud to possess this rare example of railroad technology and to be able to demonstrate, during special train rides, what was done routinely so many decades ago in rail yards across our nation.</p> <p>In 2003 Texas State Representative Chuck Hopson lead the way in proclaiming a resolution from the 78th Legislature of the State of Texas, designating the Texas State Railroad as the Official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The state's parks and wildlife department successfully ran the railroad until the management was privatized with a contract with American Heritage Railways in September of 2007. In August of 2012 American Heritage Railways sold the Texas State Railroad to Iowa Pacific Holdings. In addition to continuing passenger operations, Iowa Pacific Holdings opened the track to the main line in Palestine on November 1, 2012 to begin offering freight services.</p> <p>Please join us in helping to maintain this important piece of Texas heritage by taking a ride on the Texas State Railroad, truly a "Texas Treasure!"</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/palestine-tx/report/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/palestine-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/palestine-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Palestine</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Palestine</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-fitness-a-gentle-workout-with-nia-dallas-tx-11052024-ssnv27bm562.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-GENTLE-WORKOUT-WITH-NIA">A Gentle Workout With Nia</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 5, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-tx-pizza-and-policy-east-texas-advocacy-volunteer-recruitment-tyler-tx-11132024-87ngxp5ncbn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-PIZZA-AND-POLICY-EAST-TEXAS-ADVOCACY-VOLUNTEER-RECRUITMENT">Pizza and Policy: East Texas Advocacy Volunteer Recruitment</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Nov 13, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Bruno's | Pizza & Pasta</p> <p class="loc">Tyler, TX</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11424-8dnwsnmpzfn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-CLASS-A-TOTALBODY-ZUMBA-WORKOUT">Fitness Class: A Total-Body Zumba Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Nov 4, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/palestine-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-PALESTINE-TX">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? 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The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881." name="description"/> <meta content="Texas, State, Railroad, Palestine, TX" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Texas State Railroad"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas. The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881."/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Texas State Railroad"/> <meta property="og:description" content="The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas. The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881."/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="31.744499"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-95.573997"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Texas State Railroad</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>789 Park Road 70</div> <div> <span>Palestine</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>75801</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://texasstaterailroad.net/" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 855-632-7729</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Texas+State+Railroad%2C+789+Park+Road+70%2C+Palestine%2C+TX+75801" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881. Inmates built the line, which was used to transport hardwood which was used as fuel for the furnaces at the prison-operated iron smelter at the Rusk Penitentiary. The furnace supplied the State of Texas with iron products, including the columns and dome structure for the capitol building in Austin. The original construction was a narrow gauge line but was later built in standard gauge in order to join into the main line.</p> <p>In 1906 prison crews extended the rail line to Maydelle and in 1909 reached their final destination of Palestine. Once the train line was completed into Palestine the line was easily accessible to the main lines and commerce in and around the area flourished.</p> <p>In 1913 the prison ceased operations of the iron furnace and the Penitentiary was converted into the state mental hospital. In 1921 the regular rail service was discontinued and the line was leased to the Texas & New Orleans (Southern Pacific Railroad Co.) The Texas Southeastern Railroad leased the line in the early 1960s and continued operation of the line until 1969.</p> <p>The railroad was conveyed to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in 1972 and state inmates were again brought in to help with the creation of the state historical park. The park and railroad were opened to the public on July 4th, 1976, as part of the nation's Bicentennial Celebration.</p> <p>Maydelle Turntable</p> <p>In 1981, the Texas State Railroad acquired a turntable and installed it in Maydelle. This vintage piece of equipment is used to turn the engines around to go in a different direction.</p> <p>It was built in the late 1890s by the St. Louis and San Francisco (Frisco) Railroad on site at their Paris, Texas rail yard. It began operation in Paris in 1902, serving a six stall roundhouse.</p> <p>The Texas State Railroad is proud to possess this rare example of railroad technology and to be able to demonstrate, during special train rides, what was done routinely so many decades ago in rail yards across our nation.</p> <p>In 2003 Texas State Representative Chuck Hopson lead the way in proclaiming a resolution from the 78th Legislature of the State of Texas, designating the Texas State Railroad as the Official Railroad of Texas.</p> <p>The state's parks and wildlife department successfully ran the railroad until the management was privatized with a contract with American Heritage Railways in September of 2007. In August of 2012 American Heritage Railways sold the Texas State Railroad to Iowa Pacific Holdings. In addition to continuing passenger operations, Iowa Pacific Holdings opened the track to the main line in Palestine on November 1, 2012 to begin offering freight services.</p> <p>Please join us in helping to maintain this important piece of Texas heritage by taking a ride on the Texas State Railroad, truly a "Texas Treasure!"</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/palestine-tx/report/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881." name="description"/> <meta content="Texas, State, Railroad, Palestine, TX" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/texas-state-railroad-palestine-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Texas State Railroad"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="The Texas State Railroad is not only a "Texas Treasure," it is the official Railroad of Texas. 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The Texas state prison system established the railroad in 1881."/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="31.744499"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-95.573997"/> ' $title_for_layout = 'Place Detail - AARP' $asset_version = '230831' $min = true $nowrapper = false $css = '' $highlighting = '' $location = '<a href="/palestine-tx/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Palestine, TX</a>' $no_header = false $header_title = '<a href="/palestine-tx/things-to-do/">Places</a>' $header_subtitle = '' $isPR = false $navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse"> <div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div> <ul class="secondary-menu" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true"> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/palestine-tx/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/palestine-tx/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/palestine-tx/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/palestine-tx/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/palestine-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/palestine-tx/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more"> <span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span> <ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu"> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/palestine-tx/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/palestine-tx/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/palestine-tx/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/palestine-tx/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li> <!-- <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/palestine-tx/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/palestine-tx/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/palestine-tx/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li> --> </ul> </li> </ul> </nav>' $header_custom = '' $breadcrumbs = array( (int) 0 => array( 'title' => 'Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) ) $row = array( 'title' => 'Back to Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) $i = (int) 0include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? 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