Steaming Back in Time: The Enchantment of the Legendary Red River and Gulf Railroad - Southern Forest Heritage Museum

 Photos and Story By Ken Hulsey

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.

In its prime, this railroad transported lumber from nearby logging camps, as well as goods and passengers to and from the nearby town of Lecompte, where it connected with the Rock Island and Texas & Pacific railroads. However, the Red River and Gulf ceased operations in the early 1950s, leaving its facilities and equipment abandoned for decades until the museum was established.

Related: Uncover the Story Behind Abandoned Locomotive #400 in Long Leaf, Louisiana | Ken Hulsey Photographer

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Today, a dedicated group of volunteers works to restore the railroad's tracks, locomotives, and rolling stock to their former glory. As a self-proclaimed "railroad enthusiast," this is one of my favorite places in Louisiana. Spending a quiet, rainy afternoon surrounded by these historic machines creates a magical experience, allowing me to imagine what life was like when the railroad and adjacent mill were fully operational many years ago. Rainy days here are truly special, providing a peaceful opportunity to reflect on our past.

My absolute favorite piece of equipment from the mill's heyday is the former Crowell & Spencer Lumber Company 4-6-0 Steam Locomotive #400. This old logging locomotive has been sitting on the edge of the woods, just beyond the old engine house, for decades. I’ve been captivated by it ever since I first laid eyes on it seven years ago.

It’s always been heartbreaking to see such a grand machine deteriorating in the elements. However, the contrast of the locomotive against the woods and the nearby old tracks makes it a fantastic subject for photography. The locomotive is truly a sight to behold.

The crown jewel of the Southern Forest Heritage Museum is the former Red River and Gulf 4-6-0 steam locomotive #106. This locomotive is notable for being the last to operate on the Red River and Gulf line, having pulled the final mixed freight train from nearby Lecompte in May 1954.

Related: Unearthing History: The Remarkable Journey of Locomotive #202 from Logging Workhorse to Hidden Treasure

Local railroad historians note that #106 was backed into the Car Knocker Shed during a heavy thunderstorm after its last run. Fortunately, this decision to store the locomotive in the shed preserved it in excellent condition. Years later, when a hurricane caused the shed to collapse, the fallen structure protected #106 from Louisiana's harsh elements.

Today, #106 is recognized as the best-preserved steam locomotive in the state. The museum staff is carefully restoring the locomotive to its original appearance, intending to eventually return it to working order. They are optimistic that one day, this historic engine will once again operate under its own power.

In recent years, a dedicated group of volunteers has spent many weekends restoring and rebuilding the old train tracks located just beyond the Red River and Gulf engine facilities. These tracks were once the railroad's main line, extending all the way to the town of Lecompte, which is northeast of Long Leaf. Thanks to the volunteers' hard work, the tracks now appear brand new and are ready for train operations. However, there are still numerous sections that need to be cleared and restored.

The Southern Forest Heritage Museum offers much more than just the old Red River and Gulf Railroad. In addition to an excellent World War II memorabilia exhibit from the nearby former Camp Claiborne, it features an impressive collection of artifacts from the local logging industry. Visitors can explore the preserved buildings of the former town of Long Leaf, as well as the remnants of the mill complex itself. With so many fascinating areas to discover, I recommend dedicating an entire day to fully experience all that the museum has to offer.

Southern Forrest Heritage Museum
77 Longleaf Rd, Longleaf, LA 71448

On this rainy afternoon, I enjoyed exploring the remnants of the once-thriving Red River and Gulf Railroad at the Southern Forest Heritage Museum. I've included some photos from my visit.