I know we have the upcoming quad state bbq coming up but I have thought of a potentially very fun meeting and we probably will only have 1 chance to ever do it. It is quite simply a run to the Texas State Railroad that runs between Rusk and Palestine. This wonderful 25 mile ride is set to close it's doors forever on December 31st due to state budget cuts to the park system. I have been on this ride a few times and remember it as a child. It is a wonderful historical ride and I can't understand how our lawmakers could let it go away.

The drive would be a fun one. It's a couple of hours from damn near anywhere but that's just a nice caravan. Not to mention the fact that there are some fun hilly roads on the way out there for people from both cities. Others would be welcome of course such as Texarkana, etc... I'd really like to see this become a reality even if it is only a few people on relatively short notice. I hope some of you would see this as a worthwhile and fun idea for more than one reason. It would be neat to have different car clubs all converge. Half in Rusk and the other half in Palestine. The 2 trains meet in the middle and spend an hour on the other side before turning around.

Is anyone in on this idea? At the very least please sign the petition to save it.

Here's info on the railroad:
http://www.texasstaterailroad.com/

 

What a shame it would be to lose this historical asset. I rode the line a few years back and really enjoyed it and the tour of the grounds that we had.

I've signed the petition and might be up for the drive, too, depending on the date.

 

I am familiar with the railroad but have never ridden on it. Years ago, I had some relatives that lived in Maydelle, which is between Rusk and Palestine on Hwy 84.

FM 2138 from Maydelle to Jacksonville is one of the best roads in Texas! Lots of fast curves and hills make for an interesting drive.

 

I would be interested in going. I'm always up for a drive and sightseeing.