Just like many other states, the railroad played a huge part in Mississippi’s history. The first rails arrived in the state in 1835, and before long, Mississippi was home to several major railroads, including Illinois Central and Gulf, Mobile & Ohio. Many of these railroads are now defunct, but the state’s rich history lives on through historic depots. Some depots are still standing, some have been converted to museums, and others remain only in photographs – no matter the circumstance, these charming Mississippi train depots will transport you back to a much simpler time.
- Up until 1995, this Grenada depot was a stop for Amtrak’s City of New Orleans train.
Matthew Nichols/Flickr
- This historic Biloxi depot was part of the Louisville and Nashville Railroad, which acquired its first tracks in Mississippi in October of 1881.
Courtesy of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History
- The Illinois Central Gulf Railroad serviced Mississippi from 1972 – 1988, and this Brandon depot was one of the many stops along its route.
Courtesy of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History
- The Illinois Central Railroad arrived in Mississippi as early as 1883. This Clarksdale depot was photographed nearly a century later in 1968.
Courtesy of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History
- This former GM&O passenger station was originally located in Tiplersville but was eventually relocated to Blue Mountain.
Courtesy of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History
- First settled in the 1880s, the arrival of the railroad substantially changed Bay Springs. Today, this quaint station stands as a reminder of the days long gone.
Courtesy of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History
- Part of the Illinois Central Railroad, this passenger depot is still standing and now serves as a museum.
Courtesy of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History
- This historic depot is located in the small, unincorporated community of Martinsville, which is in Copiah County.
Courtesy of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History
- Part of the Illinois Central Railroad, this Beauregard depot also housed the area’s post office.
Courtesy of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History
- This photo of the Gloster depot was taken in 1883. In March of the following year, Gloster was officially incorporated.
Courtesy of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History
It’s always so interesting to look at photos from the past and see how much the state has changed. What other historic train depots can be added to this list?
Matthew Nichols/Flickr
Courtesy of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History
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