In the heart of Fort Smith, Arkansas, the Fort Smith Trolley Museum stands as a living testament to the golden age of streetcars and railroads. This unique museum, which opened its doors to the public in 1985, offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience the charm and history of early 20th-century transit. With its meticulously restored streetcars and locomotives, the Fort Smith Trolley Museum is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts, families, and anyone looking to explore a fascinating slice of American history.
The Fort Smith Trolley Museum was established by the Fort Smith Streetcar Restoration Association (FSSRA) in 1979. The association's mission was to preserve and display the rich transit history of Fort Smith. The first museum building was constructed in 1985 on land that once belonged to the Missouri Pacific Railroad. Over the years, the museum expanded its property through purchases and donations, allowing it to grow into the remarkable institution it is today.
One of the main attractions of the Fort Smith Trolley Museum is its operating heritage streetcar line. Streetcar operation began on May 19, 1991, with the debut of the ex-Fort Smith Light and Traction Company car 224, a Birney-type streetcar built in 1926. This charming streetcar, listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) as Birney Safety Streetcar No. 224, takes visitors on a delightful ride through the historic streets of Fort Smith.
The initial streetcar line was about a quarter-mile long, connecting the carbarn at 100 S. 4th Street with the Fort Smith National Historic Site. Over the years, the line has been extended several times, now stretching approximately three-quarters of a mile. The route passes by several NRHP-listed sites, including the Fort Smith National Cemetery, the West Garrison Avenue Historic District, and the 1907 Atkinson-Williams Warehouse Building, which houses the Fort Smith Museum of History.
The Fort Smith Trolley Museum boasts an impressive collection of streetcars and locomotives, each with its own unique story. In addition to the operational Birney car 224, the museum also features Hot Springs Street Railway Company car 50, built in 1904 by the St. Louis Car Company. After 16 years of meticulous restoration work, car 50 entered service in May 2016, offering visitors another glimpse into the past.
Among the museum's other streetcars are several that once operated in Fort Smith, including:
The museum also acquired an open streetcar built by the J. G. Brill Company in 1908, which originally operated in Veracruz, Mexico. This car, along with others in the collection, showcases the diverse history of streetcar transportation.
The Fort Smith Trolley Museum is home to four locomotives, three of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places:
These locomotives, along with various cabooses, a passenger car, and other railroad rolling stock, provide visitors with a comprehensive look at the evolution of rail transportation.
One of the highlights of a visit to the Fort Smith Trolley Museum is the opportunity to ride on the historic streetcars. The streetcar line operates year-round, with daily service from May 1 through October 31 and weekend service during the rest of the year. The experience of riding a vintage streetcar, complete with its original wooden seats and period advertisements, is both nostalgic and educational.
The Fort Smith Trolley Museum hosts a variety of events and activities throughout the year, including special rides, educational programs, and community events. These events provide visitors with additional opportunities to learn about the history of streetcars and railroads, as well as to engage with the museum's dedicated volunteers and staff.
The Fort Smith Trolley Museum is more than just a museum; it is a living history experience that transports visitors back to a time when streetcars and railroads were the lifeblood of American cities. Whether you are a history buff, a train enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique and enjoyable outing, the Fort Smith Trolley Museum offers something for everyone. Come and discover the magic of this timeless treasure in the heart of Fort Smith, Arkansas.
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