This past Saturday, I spent the afternoon exploring the grounds of the Southern Forest Heritage Museum in Long Leaf, Louisiana. The museum is situated on the site of the former Long Leaf Sawmill Complex, which was one of many mill complexes in the region. While the mill itself is fascinating to explore, I chose to focus on the old facilities of the Red River and Gulf Railroad on this gloomy day.
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| The famous City of New Orleans arrives in McComb, Mississippi |
In 2025, I traveled to various locations throughout the southern United States. As an avid photographer and railfan, I seized every opportunity to photograph trains. Over the past decade and a half, I have earned a reputation for capturing images of trains, railroad-related items, and significant locations. I've also shared a wealth of regional railroad history that relates to the photographs and sites I've documented.
Tucked away in the brush in a field just south of Lecompte, Louisiana, is the intriguing remains of the former depot of the Red River & Gulf Railroad. This historic depot, which was constructed in 1906, was a pivotal stop for the railroad until its closure in 1954. If you take a moment to gaze towards the left side of the depot (In one of the photos below), you’ll spot a noticeable gap in the treeline where the Red River & Gulf tracks once existed.
Photo and Story By Ken Hulsey
Bolton's Crown Quality Wheat Express GP9 locomotive #1005 sits proudly, poised to switch cars destined for the grain elevator visible in the distance. This resilient locomotive recently weathered one of the fierce thunderstorms typical in northern Texas, showcasing its durability. The Bolton Crown Quality (BCQ) line plays a vital role in the local economy, serving the communities of Vernon—where this photo was captured—and Harrold, Texas.
Today, I was reviewing some of my old railroad-themed photography, searching for my best shots to share with the railfan community. I came across a set of images taken back in 2012 of a group of locomotives and cabooses at the BNSF facilities in La Mirada, California, on a dreary May afternoon. What makes these images unique and particularly interesting for modern railfans is that every piece of equipment I photographed was still in the colors of the old Santa Fe Railroad.
This is one of my favorite photographs, and I cherish it for several reasons. Firstly, it was taken at the Southern California Railway Museum in Perris, California, which is one of my favorite places on Earth. Secondly, it’s railroad-related, and the intriguing part is that it looks as if I used a time machine to capture the scene.
I took this shot back in 2009, but it could easily have been taken in the 1930s or 40s. Everything in this image is from that period—well, almost everything. From the streetcar to the buildings, the railroad crossing sign, the street lights, the power poles, and the traffic signal, all reflect vintage Southern California. I feel like I truly captured the essence of that era.
What I love most about this museum is that it features numerous well-preserved locations, including buildings, signs, vintage cars and trucks, as well as vintage railroad equipment, such as old LA streetcars like this one. Unfortunately, if you look closely enough, you can spot an item that seems out of place for the 1930s, which somewhat spoils the illusion.
I enhanced the photo using a couple of filters that give it a vintage look. These enhancements really bring out the nostalgic feel and composition of this photograph.
Summer has arrived, and it’s the perfect season to embark on an unforgettable adventure aboard the Durango Train! With a variety of experiences to choose from, there’s something for everyone—whether you're interested in scenic half-day explorations to Cascade Canyon, full-day excursions to the historic town of Silverton, or our special limited-time evening Highline experience, this summer is brimming with excitement.
Imagine a full day winding along the beautiful Animas River, surrounded by lush forests and impressive mountain peaks, all leading you to the charming Silverton. It’s the quintessential Colorado experience, available until November 1. If you're short on time but still want to soak in breathtaking views, the Cascade Canyon Express offers a fantastic half-day adventure that immerses you in Colorado’s stunning Rocky Mountains. This option is available through August 11. So why wait? Book your adventure today!
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