Southern Railway Timetables (August, 1952)
Published: April 16, 2026
By: Adam Burns
The information below includes Southern's public timetables from the August, 1952 issue of "The Official Guide Of The Railways." In addition, the listing noted the railroad's system map and corporate information.
The Southern was a major U.S. railroad system established in 1894. It served 13 southeastern states, extending from Washington D.C., and Virginia in the east, to Missouri, Kentucky, and Tennessee in the west. Covering a network of approximately 6,400 miles, the Southern was lauded for the proficiency and innovation cultivated during its near-century of operation.
The railroad's strategic merger with Norfolk & Western Railway in 1982 led to the creation of the Norfolk Southern Corporation, a Fortune 500 transporter of coal, automobiles, and other freight. The Southern moved a wide range of freight from coal and furniture to automobiles, paper, and even woodchips. The railroad popularized a Virginia Green and white passenger scheme that is still fondly remembered today.
In terms of infrastructure, it's notable for the Saluda Grade, the steepest standard gauge mainline railroad grade in the U.S. The company's innovative 'Southern Serves The South' slogan is still a significant institution in railroad history.
Southern's impact on the development and operation of railroads in the southeastern U.S. is undeniable. It received recognition for its advanced mechanized maintenance-of-way method, saving time, and increasing safety. It ultimately helped shape the modern railroad industry.
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