Laurinburg and Southern Railroad: An NC Shortline
Published: July 28, 2024
By: Adam Burns
The Laurinburg and Southern Railroad (reporting mark LRS) is a venerable short line established in 1909 to serve the southeastern region of North Carolina, particularly Laurinburg and the surrounding areas.
Conceived to support the burgeoning agricultural and lumber industries in Scotland County, the railroad played a crucial role in facilitating transportation and commerce in this largely rural area.
The initial route stretched from Laurinburg to Wagram, providing essential freight services for local businesses. Over the decades, LRS expanded its reach, acquiring additional trackage to serve more communities and industries.
The railroad became particularly known for its efficient handling of tobacco, cotton, and lumber products, becoming an indispensable ally to local economies.
In 1994, the railroad was acquired by Gulf and Ohio Railways, which continued to operate and invest in the line.
Despite the broader challenges faced by the railroad industry, LRS managed to sustain its operations by focusing on efficient and reliable service, adapting to the changing needs of its customer base.
Today, the 28-mile L&S remains a significant player in North Carolina’s rail transport sector, embodying a rich history of resilience and community service. Its enduring presence underscores the vital role of short line railroads in America's transportation network.
Laurinburg & Southern 70-tonner #76, wearing its Bicentennial livery, at Laurinburg, North Carolina on March 10, 1976. Warren Calloway photo.History
The Laurinburg & Southern Railroad was established on March 4, 1909 with N. G. Wade, D. M. Flynn, J. F. McNair, J. Blue, A. L. Jones, and J. A. Jones as incorporators while McNair was tapped as president.
Construction on the system commenced quickly and was in service from Johns to East Laurinburg by July 2nd that year. The railroad promptly celebrated its first freight shipment: a carload of finished cotton goods.
Within a year, the line extended to Wagram, marking a period of rapid growth. The expansion continued with the strategic acquisition of a section from Wagram to Raeford from the Aberdeen & Rockfish Railroad on November 12, 1921.
These developments set the stage for the Laurinburg & Southern to become a vital player in the region's transportation network, facilitating the movement of goods and bolstering local economies.
Beyond its primary 28-mile stretch from Laurinburg to Raeford, L&S broadened its operations by acquiring several other shortline railroads across North Carolina and even extending into Virginia.
Laurinburg & Southern 70-tonners #107 and #76 were photographed here in service by Warren Calloway at Laurinburg, North Carolina on November 19, 1978.Later Years
Key acquisitions included the Fairmont & Western and Red Springs & Northern in 1984, the Franklin County Railroad and Nash County Railroad in 1985, and Virginia’s Saltville Railroad in 1982. Additionally, the Yadkin Valley Railroad began operations under L&S management in 1989.
In 1994, Gulf & Ohio Railways acquired the Laurinburg & Southern holding company. By this time, L&S had streamlined its portfolio, retaining only its namesake line and two others: the Nash County Railroad and the Yadkin Valley Railroad. The previously acquired lines had either been abandoned or were no longer in service.
Diesel Roster
| Road Number | Model | Builder | Serial Number | Completion Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 76 | 70-Ton | GE | 29298 | 3/1948 | Bicentennial unit, renumbered from 109; built as St. Johnsbury & Lamoille County #47. |
| 101-102 | 70-Ton | GE | 29089, 29467 | 9/1947, 1/1948 | #101 acquired new. #102 is ex-High Point, Thomasville & Denton 203. |
| 103-104 | 70-Ton | GE | 30837, 30458 | 1/1951, 10/1950 | #103 acquired new. #104 ex-Lancaster & Chester #62. |
| 105, 107 | 70-Ton | GE | 29466, 30038 | 1/1948, 3/1949 | ex-High Point, Thomasville & Denton Railroad #202 and Pacific Great Eastern #553 |
| 108 | 40-Ton | Plymouth | 5608 | 12/1952 | ex-Morris County Central Railroad #5608 |
| 109 | 70-Ton | GE | 29298 | 3/1948 | Renumbered 76 for the Bicentennial. |
| 110 | 70-Ton | GE | 30013 | 6/1948 | ex-Norfolk Southern (original) #701 |
| 112 | S2 | Alco | 78014 | 6/1947 | x-South Buffalo Railway #91 |
| 114-115 | SW1 | EMD | 7503, 7505 | 6/1949 | ex-Union Railroad #456-457 |
| 116-118 | SW1 | EMD | 7510, 7512, 7515 | 8/1949 | ex-Union Railroad #463, #465 and #468. |
| 121 | SW1 | EMD | 1041 | 3/1940 | ex-Milwaukee Road #1615 |
| 123, 125 | NW2 | EMD | 7521, 7525 | 4/1949 | ex-Union Railroad #541 and #545 |
| 127-128 | NW2 | EMD | 8539, 6691 | 11/1949, 2/1949 | ex-Union Railroad #555, ex-B&O #568 |
| 130 | NW2 | EMD | 10266 | 9/1949 | ex-C&O #5207 |
| 131 & 132 | S2 | Alco | 76169, 74493 | 9/48, 10/46 | ex-RF&P #69 and #58 |
| 133, 136 | SW1 | EMD | 4804, 1778 | 4/1947, 1/1942 | ex-Republic Steel #372 and #371. |
| 138 | SW9 | EMD | 14927 | 11/1951 | ex-ACL #701 |
| 143 | SW1 | EMD | 14559 | 8/1951 | ex-Republic Steel #306 |
| 144 | S2 | Alco | 76514 | 12/1948 | ex-D&H #3025 |
| 145 | S4 | Alco | 81094 | 4/1954 | ex-Piedmont & Northern #1005 |
| 146 | S2 | Alco | 70273 | 8/1943 | ex-Newburg & South Shore #11 |
Laurinburg & Southern 70-tonner #105 leads a cut of cars down McKay Street in Laurinburg, North Carolina on October 22, 1984. Warren Calloway photo.Present Day
Today, the Yadkin Valley Railroad and the Laurinburg & Southern continue to operate under Gulf & Ohio’s ownership. The former Nash County Railroad, sold in 2011, now operates under the CLNA reporting mark.
Typically, the Laurinburg and Southern handles about 7,500 carloads annually with traffic generally consisting of feed ingredients, soda ash, lime, fertilizer, chemicals, and glass.
Recent Articles
-
Georgia Independence Day Train Rides
May 24, 26 12:26 PM
As the 4th of July approaches in 2026, the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway in Blue Ridge, Georgia, invites you to celebrate America in true patriotic style aboard its Firecracker Special. -
Illinois Independence Day Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:58 AM
As America gears up for the 4th of July in 2026, the Illinois Railway Museum (IRM) in Union, Illinois, offers the perfect blend of patriotic festivities, family-friendly excitement, and living railroa… -
Alabama Independence Day Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:55 AM
For those seeking a unique way to celebrate the Fourth of July, Alabama offers a distinctive experience: honoring veterans and active military personnel on Independence Day by train. -
Ohio Independence Day Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:47 AM
In this guide, we will explore some of the best Independence Day train ride experiences available in Ohio. -
Alabama 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:45 AM
Although Alabama isn't the traditional setting for Wild West tales, the state provides its own flavor of historic rail adventures that draw enthusiasts year-round. -
Missouri 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:29 AM
In Missouri, a state rich in history and natural beauty, you can experience the thrill of a bygone era through the scenic and immersive Wild West train rides. -
Indiana 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:27 AM
Indiana offers a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of the Wild West through its captivating train rides. -
Independence Day Train Rides (2026): A Complete Guide
May 24, 26 11:25 AM
Americans celebrate Independence Day with fireworks, barbecues, and parades, but there's another unique way to experience the spirit of freedom: train rides. -
Illinois 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:23 AM
If you're in Illinois and searching for something distinctive, consider taking your dad on a train ride through the picturesque landscapes of the Prairie State. -
Florida 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:21 AM
For those looking for something a little different this year, why not consider celebrating dad on Father's Day by train? -
South Dakota 'Beer Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:51 PM
While the 1880 Train's regular runs are a treat in any season, the Oktoberfest Express adds an extra layer of fun: German-inspired food, seasonal beer, and live polka set against the sound and spectac… -
Michigan 'Beer Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:49 PM
If you’re looking for a pure slice of autumn in West Michigan, the Coopersville & Marne Railway (C&M) has a themed excursion that fits the season perfectly: the Oktoberfest Exp… -
Indiana 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:47 PM
This piece explores the allure of murder mystery trains and why they are becoming a must-try experience for enthusiasts and casual travelers alike. -
Maryland 'Ice Cream' Tasting Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:46 PM
Among WMSR's shorter outings, one event punches well above its “simple fun” weight class: the Ice Cream Train. -
Colorado 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:43 PM
With its rugged mountains, rich railroading history, and picturesque landscapes, Colorado sets the perfect stage for a memorable Father's Day outing aboard a vintage train. -
California 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:41 PM
Celebrate and honor dad by train on a scenic rail experience! Find out which locations in California host these unique trips. -
Kentucky 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:40 PM
Kentucky, often celebrated for its rolling pastures, thoroughbred horses, and bourbon legacy, has been cultivating another gem in its storied landscapes; enjoying wine by rail. -
Florida 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 11:56 AM
Wine by train not only showcases the beauty of Florida's lesser-known regions but also celebrate the growing importance of local wineries and vineyards. -
Southern 2-8-2 4501 Debuts In "Virginia Green"
May 23, 26 11:54 AM
Southern Railway 2-8-2 #4501 debuted in its return to Virginia Green at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum today, May 23, 2026. -
NS Unveils First America250 Locomotive: 1776, "The Bell"
May 22, 26 11:15 PM
On May 22, 2026 Norfolk Southern unveiled its first in the America250 heritage locomotives series, 1776, "The Bell". -
Reading & Northern Issues Safety Directive Ahead Of 4014 Visit
May 22, 26 12:01 PM
With thousands of tickets sold for its upcoming series of Semiquincentennial Steam Celebration excursions, Reading & Northern Railroad is also anticipating thousands more trackside spectators to bear… -
Ohio 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:36 AM
The murder mystery dinner train rides in Ohio provide an immersive experience that combines fine dining, an engaging narrative, and the beauty of Ohio's landscapes. -
Tennessee 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:31 AM
Amidst the rolling hills and scenic landscapes of Tennessee, an exhilarating and interactive experience awaits those with a taste for mystery and intrigue. -
Alabama 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:29 AM
Alabama, with its rich railway heritage and scenic countryside, is a wonderful way to experience by train. One location even hosts a special trip for Father's Day! -
North Carolina 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:26 AM
Celebrating dad on a scenic train in North Carolina can be found at the New Hope Valley Railway which hosts a special event for the day. -
Texas 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:25 AM
This article invites you on a metaphorical journey through some of these unique wine tasting train experiences in Texas. -
New York 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:22 AM
This article will delve into the history, offerings, and appeal of wine tasting trains in New York, guiding you through a unique experience that combines the romance of the rails with the sophisticati… -
The Spirit of America: George H.W. Bush’s 1992 Campaign Train
May 22, 26 11:11 AM
In the fading days of summer 1992, President George H. W. Bush embarked on a classic American political tradition: the whistle-stop tour. -
Burlington Northern Timetables (May, 1972)
May 21, 26 11:56 PM
Presented here is the Burlington Northern's condensed freight timetables from the May, 1972 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways." -
Whiskey Tasting Train Rides (2026)
May 21, 26 11:12 PM
These rides across the United States offer a sensory journey through lush landscapes and historical corridors, often pairing scenic vistas with curated whiskey tastings. -
Father's Day Train Ride Locations (2026)
May 21, 26 10:54 PM
Celebrate dad by train! Several heritage railroads and museums host trips honoring dads. Learn more about which locations offer such excursions. -
The Chessie Safety Express: Steam-Powered Advocacy for Railroad Safety
May 21, 26 10:44 PM
In the fall of 1980, a gleaming Chesapeake & Ohio (C&O) 4-8-4 steam locomotive named No. 614 thundered across the rails of the Chessie System, pulling a colorful consist of passenger cars filled with… -
Frankfort and Cincinnati Railroad: "The Kentucky Midland Route"
May 21, 26 06:08 PM
The Frankfort & Cincinnati was a small shortline located in north-central Kentucky that was known as "The Whiskey Route" for the many distilleries it served. The F&C shutdown in 1985. -
North Carolina 'Whiskey Tasting' Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:43 PM
One of the GSMR's most distinctive special events is Spirits on the Rail, a bourbon-focused dining experience built around curated drinks and a chef-prepared multi-course meal. -
Connecticut 'Whiskey Tasting' Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:42 PM
While the Naugatuck Railroad runs a variety of trips throughout the year, one event has quickly become a “circle it on the calendar” outing for fans of great food and spirited tastings: the BBQ & Bour… -
Kansas "Dinner" Train Rides From Abilene
May 21, 26 12:37 PM
If you’re looking for a heritage railroad that feels authentically Kansas—equal parts prairie scenery, small-town history, and hands-on railroading—the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad delivers. -
Vermont "Dinner" Train Rides At Burlington
May 21, 26 12:34 PM
There is one location in Vermont hosting a dedicated dinner train experience at the Green Mountain Railroad. -
New Jersey "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:24 PM
There are a few locations in New Jersey celebrating dads with a train ride. Learn more about these unique trips here! -
Massachusetts "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:16 PM
The Cape Cod Central is the one location in the state hosting an event just for dads, a special brunch train. Learn more here! -
Historic Steam Locomotive Heads To Charleston For America250 Exhibit
May 21, 26 11:58 AM
A rare piece of West Virginia industrial history, an 0-4-0F fireless steam locomotive by H.K. Porter in 1945, is being installed near the West Virginia State Capitol Complex in Charleston as part of a… -
Connecticut 'Dinner' Train Rides At Essex
May 20, 26 11:55 AM
Connecticut's rail heritage can be traced back to the industry's earliest days and a few organizations preserve this rich history by offering train rides. The Essex Steam Train also hosts dinner-theme… -
Arkansas 'Dinner 'Train Rides On The A&M
May 20, 26 11:54 AM
If you want a railroad experience that feels equal parts “working short line” and “time machine,” the Arkansas & Missouri Railroad delivers in a way few modern operations can. -
Illinois 'Dinner' Train Rides At The MRM
May 20, 26 11:52 AM
The Monticello Railway Museum (MRM) is one of those places that quietly does a lot: it preserves a sizable collection, maintains its own operating railroad, and—most importantly for visitors—puts hist… -
California 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 20, 26 11:51 AM
When it comes to experiencing the allure of crime-solving sprinkled with delicious dining, California's murder mystery dinner train rides have carved a niche for themselves among both locals and touri… -
Michigan 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 20, 26 11:50 AM
In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Michigan’s wine tasting train experiences that cater to both wine connoisseurs and railway aficionados. -
Indiana 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 20, 26 11:48 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. -
Texas & Pacific Railway Timetables (September, 1937)
May 20, 26 11:10 AM
Featured here is the Texas & Pacific's timetables and system map from the September, 1937 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways." -
Norfolk Southern Unveils America250 Locomotive Series
May 20, 26 10:30 AM
Norfolk Southern has rolled out a bold new commemorative series to mark America’s 250th anniversary (the nation’s Semiquincentennial in 2026). -
The Nebraska Zephyr: Burlington's Lincoln Service
May 20, 26 09:49 AM
ntroduced in 1947, the Nebraska Zephyr provided fast, stylish daylight service between Chicago, Illinois, and Lincoln, Nebraska (via Omaha), covering 551 miles (887 km) in under 10 hours at an average… -
Colorado & Southern Timetables (March, 1940)
May 19, 26 11:55 PM
Featured here is the Colorado & Southern's timetables from the March, 1940 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways."
