- Home ›
- Interurbans ›
- Arkansas
Arkansas Interurban and Streetcar History
Published: April 6, 2025
By: Adam Burns
The state of Arkansas contained no active interurbans although was home to a few streetcar lines throughout the state. These systems are briefly mentioned below.
Fort Smith Traction Light & Power Company: The Fort Smith Traction Light & Power Company was formed in 1903 by the merger of the Fort Smith Railway Company (incorporated in 1883) and the Fort Smith & Van Buren Electric Street Railway Light & Power Company (incorporated in 1893).
After the railroad came under the control of Oklahoma Gas & Electric in 1933 it was abandoned in November of that same year.
Arkansas Power & Light Company: The Arkansas Power & Light Company began operations on November 4, 1886 as the Citizens Street Railway Company, originally using mules and horses for power.
It gained electric operation in 1902 now known as the Citizens Light & Transit Company operating about 8 miles of trackage.
It reached its peak length of 11 miles in 1918 and again changed its name to the Pine Bluff Company. By 1930 the Arkansas Power & Light Company (created in 1914) took over operations and replaced the operation with buses.
Southwestern Gas & Electric Company: The Southwestern Gas & Electric Company was a small interurban operation in Texarkana that operated until 1935 having been acquired by the Middle West Utilities Company in 1925.
Walnut Ridge & Hoxie Traction Company: The earliest history of the Walnut Ridge & Hoxie Traction Company (also known as the Walnut Ridge & Hoxie, Light, Power and Transit Company) was opened in 1899 connecting the towns of Hoxie and Walnut Ridge, a distance of about 1 1/2 miles.
The WR&HLP&T was created in 1903, gained electric operation in 1906 and changed its name to the Central Power and Light Company in 1918. It abandoned all operations in 1928.
Recent Articles
-
California Easter Train Rides
Mar 01, 26 10:11 AM
California is home to many tourist railroads and museums; several offer Easter-themed train rides for the entire family. -
North Carolina Easter Train Rides
Mar 01, 26 10:09 AM
The springs are typically warm and balmy in the Tarheel State and a few tourist trains here offer Easter-themed train rides. -
Maryland Murder Mystery Dinner Train Rides
Mar 01, 26 10:05 AM
Maryland is known for its scenic landscapes, historical landmarks, and vibrant culture, but did you know that it’s also home to some of the most thrilling murder mystery dinner trains? -
Minnesota Murder Mystery Dinner Train Rides
Mar 01, 26 10:03 AM
Murder mystery dinner trains offer an enticing blend of suspense, culinary delight, and perpetual motion, where passengers become both detectives and dining companions on an unforgettable journey. -
Indiana Wine Tasting Train Rides
Mar 01, 26 10:01 AM
In this article, we'll delve into the experience of wine tasting trains in Indiana, exploring their routes, services, and the rising popularity of this unique adventure. -
South Dakota Wine Tasting Train Rides
Mar 01, 26 09:58 AM
For wine enthusiasts and adventurers alike, South Dakota introduces a novel way to experience its local viticulture: wine tasting aboard the Black Hills Central Railroad. -
Metro-North Unveils Veterans Heritage Locomotive
Feb 28, 26 11:02 PM
The Metro-North Railroad marked Veterans Day 2025 with the unveiling of a striking new heritage locomotive honoring the service and sacrifice of America’s military veterans. -
Pennsylvania's Whiskey Tasting Train Rides
Feb 28, 26 08:46 AM
For whiskey aficionados and history buffs alike, a train ride through the Keystone State offering such spirits provides a unique and memorable experience. -
Alabama's Whiskey Tasting Train Rides
Feb 28, 26 08:44 AM
With a little planning, you can build a memorable whiskey-and-rails getaway in the Heart of Dixie. -
Georgia Murder Mystery Dinner Train Rides
Feb 28, 26 08:43 AM
In the heart of the Peach State, a unique form of entertainment combines the thrill of a murder mystery with the charm of a historic train ride. -
Colorado Murder Mystery Dinner Train Rides
Feb 28, 26 08:40 AM
Nestled among the breathtaking vistas and rugged terrains of Colorado lies a unique fusion of theater, gastronomy, and travel—a murder mystery dinner train ride. -
New Mexico Wine Tasting Train Rides
Feb 28, 26 08:37 AM
For oenophiles and adventure seekers alike, wine tasting train rides in New Mexico provide a unique opportunity to explore the region's vineyards in comfort and style. -
Ohio Wine Tasting Train Rides
Feb 28, 26 08:35 AM
Among the intriguing ways to experience Ohio's splendor is aboard the wine tasting trains that journey through some of Ohio's most picturesque vineyards and wineries. -
KC Streetcar Ridership Surges With Opening of Main Street Extension
Feb 27, 26 11:24 AM
Kansas City’s investment in modern urban rail transit is already paying dividends, especially following the opening of the Main Street Extension. -
“Auburn Road Special” Excursions To Aid URHS
Feb 27, 26 09:04 AM
The United Railroad Historical Society of New Jersey (URHS) and the Finger Lakes Railway have jointly announced a special series of rare-mileage passenger excursions scheduled for April 18–19, 2026. -
New Jersey Easter Train Rides
Feb 27, 26 08:53 AM
New Jersey is home to several museums and a few heritage railroads that vividly illustrate its long history with the iron horse. A few host special events for the Easter holiday. -
Washington Easter Train Rides
Feb 27, 26 08:49 AM
You can find many heritage railroads in Washington State which illustrates its rich history with the iron horse. A few host Easter-themed events each spring. -
South Dakota Murder Mystery Dinner Train Rides
Feb 27, 26 08:46 AM
While the state currently does not offer any murder mystery dinner train rides, the popular 1880 Train at the Black Hills Central recently hosted these popular trips! -
Wisconsin Murder Mystery Dinner Train Rides
Feb 27, 26 08:42 AM
Whether you're a fan of mystery novels or simply relish a night of theatrical entertainment, Wisconsin's murder mystery dinner trains promise an unforgettable adventure. -
Pennsylvania Wine Tasting Train Rides
Feb 27, 26 08:38 AM
Wine tasting trains are a unique and enchanting way to explore the state’s burgeoning wine scene while enjoying a leisurely ride through picturesque landscapes. -
West Virginia Wine Tasting Train Rides
Feb 27, 26 08:37 AM
West Virginia, often celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and rich history, offers visitors a unique way to explore its rolling hills and picturesque vineyards: wine tasting trains. -
Nebraska Lawmakers Advance UP Tax Incentive Bill
Feb 27, 26 08:31 AM
Nebraska lawmakers are advancing new economic development legislation designed in large part to ensure that Union Pacific Railroad maintains its historic corporate headquarters in Omaha. -
UP And NS Ask FRA To Waive Cab-Signals For Big Boy 4014
Feb 26, 26 01:44 PM
Union Pacific’s famed 4-8-8-4 “Big Boy” No. 4014 could see new eastern mileage on Norfolk Southern in 2026—but first, the two railroads are asking federal regulators for help bridging a technology gap… -
Cando Rail & Terminals to Acquire Savage Rail
Feb 26, 26 11:29 AM
Cando Rail & Terminals has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Savage Rail, the U.S. rail-services business of Savage Enterprises LLC. -
Dollywood To Convert Steam Locomotives From Coal To Oil
Feb 26, 26 09:20 AM
Dollywood’s most recognizable moving landmark—the Dollywood Express—will soon look and feel a little different. -
Missouri Murder Mystery Dinner Train Rides
Feb 26, 26 09:10 AM
Missouri, with its rich history and scenic landscapes, is home to one location hosting these unique excursion experiences. -
Washington Murder Mystery Dinner Train Rides
Feb 26, 26 09:08 AM
This article delves into what makes murder mystery dinner train rides in Washington State such a captivating experience. -
Utah Wine Tasting Train Rides
Feb 26, 26 09:04 AM
Utah, a state widely celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty and dramatic landscapes, is also gaining recognition for an unexpected yet delightful experience: wine tasting trains. -
Vermont Wine Tasting Train Rides
Feb 26, 26 09:02 AM
Known for its stunning green mountains, charming small towns, and burgeoning wine industry, Vermont offers a unique experience that seamlessly blends all these elements: wine tasting train rides. -
Amtrak San Joaquins Becomes Gold Runner
Feb 26, 26 08:59 AM
California’s busy state-supported rail link between the Bay Area and the Central Valley entered a new chapter in early November 2025, when the familiar Amtrak San Joaquins name was officially retired. -
Canadian National Marks 30 Years Since Privatization
Feb 25, 26 02:07 PM
Canadian National Railway marked a milestone last fall that helped redefine not only the company, but the modern Canadian freight-rail landscape: 30 years since CN went private. -
Western Rail Coalition: Returning Passenger Trains To Colorado
Feb 25, 26 11:48 AM
Colorado’s passenger-rail conversation is often framed as two separate stories: a Front Range “spine” along I-25, and a harder, longer-term quest to offer real alternatives to the I-70 mountain drive. -
Union Pacific Unveils Full Schedule For Big Boy 4014
Feb 25, 26 09:24 AM
Union Pacific Railroad has released the complete western leg schedule for its groundbreaking 2026 Big Boy No. 4014 Coast-to-Coast Tour. -
Kentucky Murder Mystery Dinner Train Rides
Feb 25, 26 08:55 AM
In the realm of unique travel experiences, Kentucky offers an enchanting twist that entices both locals and tourists alike: murder mystery dinner train rides. -
Utah Murder Mystery Dinner Train Rides
Feb 25, 26 08:53 AM
This article highlights the murder mystery dinner trains currently avaliable in the state of Utah! -
Rhode Island Wine Tasting Train Rides
Feb 25, 26 08:50 AM
It may the smallest state but Rhode Island is home to a unique and upscale train excursion offering wide aboard their trips, the Newport & Narragansett Bay Railroad. -
Oregon Wine Tasting Train Rides
Feb 25, 26 08:45 AM
For those looking to explore this wine paradise in style and comfort, Oregon's wine tasting trains offer a unique and enjoyable way to experience the region's offerings. -
Amtrak Posts Record Ridership and Revenue in Fiscal Year 2025
Feb 24, 26 11:22 PM
Amtrak, the national passenger rail operator, has announced historic results for Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25), reporting the highest ridership and revenue in its history as demand for train travel across t… -
NC By Train Posts Busiest Month In 35-year History
Feb 24, 26 06:17 PM
North Carolina’s state-supported passenger rail service, marketed under the NC By Train brand, reached a milestone last fall. -
Northern Pacific 4-6-0 No. 1364 Returns To Life
Feb 24, 26 11:12 AM
The whistle of Northern Pacific steam returned to the Yakima Valley in a big way this month as Northern Pacific 4-6-0 No. 1364 moved under its own power for the first time in 73 years. -
CSX’s 2025 Santa Train: 83 Years of Holiday Cheer
Feb 24, 26 10:38 AM
On Saturday, November 22, 2025, CSX’s iconic Santa Train completed its 83rd annual run, again turning a working freight railroad into a rolling holiday tradition for communities across central Appalac… -
Alabama Murder Mystery Dinner Train Rides
Feb 24, 26 09:25 AM
There is currently one location in the state offering a murder mystery dinner experience, the Wales West Light Railway! -
Rhode Island Murder Mystery Dinner Train Rides
Feb 24, 26 09:21 AM
Let's dive into the enigmatic world of murder mystery dinner train rides in Rhode Island, where each journey promises excitement, laughter, and a challenge for your inner detective. -
Virginia Wine Tasting Train Rides
Feb 24, 26 09:20 AM
Wine tasting trains in Virginia provide just that—a unique experience that marries the romance of rail travel with the sensory delights of wine exploration. -
Tennessee Wine Tasting Train Rides
Feb 24, 26 09:17 AM
One of the most unique and enjoyable ways to savor the flavors of Tennessee’s vineyards is by train aboard the Tennessee Central Railway Museum. -
Southeast Wisconsin Eyes New Lakeshore Passenger Rail Link
Feb 23, 26 11:26 PM
Leaders in southeastern Wisconsin took a formal first step in December 2025 toward studying a new passenger-rail service that could connect Milwaukee, Racine, Kenosha, and Chicago. -
MBTA Sees Over 29 Million Trips in 2025
Feb 23, 26 11:14 PM
In a milestone year for regional public transit, the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) reported that its Commuter Rail network handled more than 29 million individual trips during 2025… -
Historic Blizzard Paralyzes the U.S. Northeast, Halts Rail Traffic
Feb 23, 26 05:10 PM
A powerful winter blizzard sweeping the northeastern United States on Monday, February 23, 2026, has brought transportation networks to a near standstill. -
Mt. Rainier Railroad Moves to Buy Tacoma’s Mountain Division
Feb 23, 26 02:27 PM
A long-idled rail corridor that threads through the foothills of Mount Rainier could soon have a new owner and operator. -
BNSF Activates PTC on Former Montana Rail Link Territory
Feb 23, 26 01:15 PM
BNSF Railway has fully implemented Positive Train Control (PTC) on what it now calls the Montana Rail Link (MRL) Subdivision.
