History of the West Jacksonville Rail Yard

Started by thelakelander, March 31, 2025, 01:52:26 PM

thelakelander

Quote

For much of the 20th century, the West Jacksonville Yard and its locomotive maintenance and repair shops served as a key economic anchor on Jacksonville's Westside. Here's a look back at the rich history of this iconic industrial site.

Read More: https://www.thejaxsonmag.com/article/history-of-the-west-jacksonville-rail-yard/
"A man who views the world the same at 50 as he did at 20 has wasted 30 years of his life." - Muhammad Ali

jaxlongtimer

Great history.  So, Jax actually had two turntables/engine shops at one time, this one and one in the Honeymoon yard?  It would really have been cool if at least one survived.  I wonder if someone would ever build a "reproduction" as it could be a unique tourist draw, especially if integrated with other rail oriented attractions/rides, shopping, dining, etc.

Seems Jax's rail history and its impact on our development has been underappreciated.  We hear about the port so much more than the rails.  Would appear they are equals in some respects and 1 + 1 = 3 as we had both back to the 1800's.