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Laurinburg and Southern Railroad: An NC Shortline

Published: July 28, 2024

By: Adam Burns

The Laurinburg and Southern Railroad (reporting mark LRS) is a venerable short line established in 1909 to serve the southeastern region of North Carolina, particularly Laurinburg and the surrounding areas.

Conceived to support the burgeoning agricultural and lumber industries in Scotland County, the railroad played a crucial role in facilitating transportation and commerce in this largely rural area.

The initial route stretched from Laurinburg to Wagram, providing essential freight services for local businesses. Over the decades, LRS expanded its reach, acquiring additional trackage to serve more communities and industries.

The railroad became particularly known for its efficient handling of tobacco, cotton, and lumber products, becoming an indispensable ally to local economies.

In 1994, the railroad was acquired by Gulf and Ohio Railways, which continued to operate and invest in the line.

Despite the broader challenges faced by the railroad industry, LRS managed to sustain its operations by focusing on efficient and reliable service, adapting to the changing needs of its customer base.

Today, the 28-mile L&S remains a significant player in North Carolina’s rail transport sector, embodying a rich history of resilience and community service. Its enduring presence underscores the vital role of short line railroads in America's transportation network.

Laurinburg & Southern 70-tonner #76, wearing its Bicentennial livery, at Laurinburg, North Carolina on March 10, 1976. Warren Calloway photo.

History

The Laurinburg & Southern Railroad was established on March 4, 1909 with N. G. Wade, D. M. Flynn, J. F. McNair, J. Blue, A. L. Jones, and J. A. Jones as incorporators while McNair was tapped as president.

Construction on the system commenced quickly and was in service from Johns to East Laurinburg by July 2nd that year.  The railroad promptly celebrated its first freight shipment: a carload of finished cotton goods.

Within a year, the line extended to Wagram, marking a period of rapid growth. The expansion continued with the strategic acquisition of a section from Wagram to Raeford from the Aberdeen & Rockfish Railroad on November 12, 1921.

These developments set the stage for the Laurinburg & Southern to become a vital player in the region's transportation network, facilitating the movement of goods and bolstering local economies.

Beyond its primary 28-mile stretch from Laurinburg to Raeford, L&S broadened its operations by acquiring several other shortline railroads across North Carolina and even extending into Virginia.

Laurinburg & Southern 70-tonners #107 and #76 were photographed here in service by Warren Calloway at Laurinburg, North Carolina on November 19, 1978.

Later Years

Key acquisitions included the Fairmont & Western and Red Springs & Northern in 1984, the Franklin County Railroad and Nash County Railroad in 1985, and Virginia’s Saltville Railroad in 1982. Additionally, the Yadkin Valley Railroad began operations under L&S management in 1989.

In 1994, Gulf & Ohio Railways acquired the Laurinburg & Southern holding company. By this time, L&S had streamlined its portfolio, retaining only its namesake line and two others: the Nash County Railroad and the Yadkin Valley Railroad. The previously acquired lines had either been abandoned or were no longer in service.

Diesel Roster

Laurinburg & Southern 70-tonner #105 leads a cut of cars down McKay Street in Laurinburg, North Carolina on October 22, 1984. Warren Calloway photo.

Present Day

Today, the Yadkin Valley Railroad and the Laurinburg & Southern continue to operate under Gulf & Ohio’s ownership. The former Nash County Railroad, sold in 2011, now operates under the CLNA reporting mark.

Typically, the Laurinburg and Southern handles about 7,500 carloads annually with traffic generally consisting of feed ingredients, soda ash, lime, fertilizer, chemicals, and glass.