Texas & Northern Railway: A Specialized Industrial Link
The Texas and Northern Railway (reporting mark TN) serves as a critical industrial artery in East Texas. Operating a short but vital stretch of track, this railroad connects the industrial hub of Lone Star, Texas, to the broader rail network, facilitating the movement of heavy materials essential for steel production.
Operational Overview
The railway spans eight miles (13 km), linking Lone Star to the former Louisiana and Arkansas Railway at a point known as Veals Switch, located between Daingerfield and Hughes Springs. The line utilizes standard gauge track, which measures 4 ft 8 1⁄2 in (1,435 mm), ensuring compatibility with the majority of North American rail systems.
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Industrial Evolution and Current Status
Historically, the Texas and Northern Railway supported a wider array of mining and smelting activities. Over time, several branches were removed as ore mining ceased. The facility's blast furnace and ore smelter were both shut down during the 1980s.
Today, the site remains active through its electric blast furnace, pipe rolling mill, and various warehouse facilities. Following the acquisition of the Lone Star site by U.S. Steel, the railroad's management was transitioned to Transtar, Inc., the company's dedicated railroad division.
Freight and Logistics
The current traffic on the line is highly specialized, focusing on the needs of the steel mill. Outbound shipments primarily consist of finished pipe, while inbound shipments bring in scrap steel and alloy steel ingots required for production.
Motive Power
To maintain its operations, the railroad has a history of acquiring secondhand ALCO diesel locomotives. These engines were heavily modified to meet the specific demands of the Texas and Northern line and the internal requirements of the steel mill's rail operations.
Key Facts
- Reporting Mark: TN
- Total Length: 8 miles (13 km)
- Headquarters: Lone Star, TX
- Management: Transtar, Inc. (a division of U.S. Steel)
- Primary Cargo: Outbound pipe; inbound scrap and alloy steel ingots
- Track Gauge: 4 ft 8 1⁄2 in (Standard Gauge)
Technical Summary
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Operational Dates | 1948 – Present |
| Connection Point | Veals Switch (former Louisiana and Arkansas Railway) |
| Active Facilities | Electric blast furnace, pipe rolling mill, warehouses |
| Locomotive Type | Modified ALCO diesel locomotives |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Texas and Northern Railway located?
The railroad is based in Lone Star, Texas, and connects that location to Veals Switch between Daingerfield and Hughes Springs.
Who currently manages the railroad?
The railroad is managed by Transtar, Inc., which is the railroad division of U.S. Steel.
What materials are transported on this line?
The railway transports outbound pipe and inbound scrap steel and alloy steel ingots.
What happened to the mining branches of the railway?
A number of branches were removed over the years because ore mining is no longer conducted in the area.
Which facilities are still operational at the Lone Star site?
The electric blast furnace, the pipe rolling mill, and warehouse facilities remain in operation.