The Seligman, Mo. Chamber of Commerce will offer historical passenger train excursions into the wooded outback of Northwest Arkansas, zooming through tunnels and balancing across lofty trestles as it winds its way toward historic Van Buren.
Seligman is the only Missouri town with access to the Arkansas and Missouri Railroad, which offers “a window seat to history” and the opportunity to travel in the style most Americans did in the 19th century.
“We usually do this twice a year, the spring or the fall,” said Cleta Stanley, secretary for the Seligman Chamber of Commerce.
Next year, trains with about 230 seats will leave Seligman during the third weekend of April and the second or third week of October, 2009. It’s a day trip, with the train reaching Van Buren at 11 a.m. for lunch and shopping, and departing back toward Missouri at 2 p.m. The train returns to Seligman at 6:30 p.m. Two free snacks — usually a beverage and cinnamon rolls or chips — are handed out during the train trip. Free pictures are also provided.
Seats are still available: first class tickets are $70 adult, $63 senior, $35 children, while those under 4 ride free. Upgrade car tickets are $60 adult, $54 senior and $35 child.
“We have a really good time,” Stanley said.
The train rides have been leaving Seligman, which is located in south Barry County, for the last four years. Departure takes place at the tracks near the city’s senior citizen center.
The trip to and from Van Buren is the highlight — real, authentic train travel through the mountains and valleys of Northwest Arkansas. Over trestles with views for miles and through a 1,700-foot tunnel, the journey winds the train through the scenic Boston Mountains and down into the historic Arkansas River Basin.
The Arkansas and Missouri Railroad is one of the few commercial lines left in the United States that operates both freight and passenger service.
The train cars are beautifully restored, turn-of-the-century passenger cars with elegant inlaid mahogany interior or a 1950s-era parlor car. Each excursion train is staffed with knowledgeable passenger conductors to provide a nostalgic touch and historical commentary — a treat for the beginning and seasoned rail traveler alike.
The train’s destination, Van Buren, is often featured in movies and television filming. There, you can study the historic downtown architecture, enjoy shopping at more than 80 stores or dine at several fine restaurants.
For more information about the Seligman train ride, call (417) 662-3611 or e-mail Stanley at cneal@arkansas.net.
Carthage Press
