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Exploring the DeQueen & Eastern Railroad Grounds in Arkansas - Historic Railroad Locations


 Photos and Story by Ken Hulsey

As a dedicated railfan, I'm truly fortunate to inspect the DeQueen & Eastern Railroad facilities in DeQueen, Arkansas once a month. In my role as an inspector, I have full access to the property, allowing me to observe the railroad's operations in detail. This insider access grants me, as a railroad photographer, unique opportunities to capture images that other fans simply cannot obtain. Perhaps some of my exclusive photos will even make it into the company calendar!

For any fan of short-line railroads, these images will be a real treat. The DeQueen & Eastern Railroad (DQE) and the Texas, Oklahoma & Eastern (TOE) Railroad operate as a single, interconnected system spanning 91 track miles across southeast Oklahoma and southwest Arkansas. The DQE/TOE network interchanges with major Class I railroads, including BNSF, Kansas City Southern, and Union Pacific.

The company's origins date back to 1900, when it was first incorporated. The railroad opened in stages, reaching Provo, Arkansas in 1903 and Dierks, Arkansas by 1906. The full line, except for the final 10 miles to Perkins, Arkansas, was completed by 1921. Passenger service was discontinued in 1948. In 2011, the DQE was acquired by Patriot Rail from Weyerhaeuser.











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