The Texas State Railroad will celebrate its 135th anniversary with a four-day celebration beginning Friday and continuing through Monday, July 4. 

The Texas State Railroad was founded in 1881 to serve the foundry at the State Penitentiary in Rusk. It was built by inmate labor to haul timber to fuel the foundry and iron ore rock to be made into such items as the iron framework for the dome at the state Capitol.

Friday

The Texas Hobo State Championship Cook-Off and Gypsy Jamboree kicks off its first round of competition in the railroad’s campground from 5 to 8 p.m. Categories include Margaritas, Cook’s Choice and Desserts.

Saturday

The cook-off continues with competition categories, including bloody mary’s, beans, chicken, ribs and brisket.

There also will be children’s games and activities on the grounds, a farmers market, classic car and motorcycle show and food and other vendors. The Happy Hobo Express train ride departs at 6 p.m.

At 8 p.m. The Rail Fan Photographer’s Special event kicks off with a night shoot of the steam engine, which also offers the opportunity to photograph it with fireworks going off in the sky behind it.

The fireworks show over the lake begins at 9:15 p.m. A live concert in the park starts immediately after the fireworks show, featuring The Beau Walker Band and national recording artist Jon Wolfe.  

Sunday

The Rail Fan Photographer’s Special continues Sunday with an all-day photo shoot of the train doing run-by’s at various scenic locations along the track that are not normally accessible to the public. Breakfast and lunch are included in the ticket price.

Monday

There will be a brief ceremony at 9:45 a.m. Monday to mark the railroad’s anniversary. Birthday cake will be served. Local appreciation train rides will depart from the Rusk Depot at 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. There will also be children’s activities on the grounds.

Entry fees to the event range from $4 to $18. Ticket prices for the Happy Hobo Express train ride range from $10 to $40.  

For more information, go to www.TexasStateRR.com or follow the Texas State Railroad on Facebook. Tickets can be booked online or by calling 903-683-3098.