Louisiana Railroad Days Festival April 9, 2009

The City of DeQuincy which observed the centennial of its incorporation in 2003, owes its existence to the railroads. The original townsite was laid out in 1896 and 1897 when the main line of the Kansas City Pittsburgh and Gulf Railroad reached here.

Over the years the railroad -- the Kansas City Southern and Union Pacific Railroads -- have provided employment for several generations of DeQuincy residents and have been a mainstay of the local economy.

Before the coming of the Interstate system and better roads, DeQuincy was the hub for railroad travel, with several east-west and north-south passenger trains coming through each day. The passenger trains are gone now, but the city is still important in the railroad freight industry and continues to be a “railroad town.”

We invite everyone to come and help us celebrate our heritage and traditions as a railroad town; visit our beautiful Railroad Museum which was built in 1923 as the Kansas City Southern Depot, and which is recognized as one of the most attractive restored depots in the nation.

The Festival's finer points:
Talent Show
Louisiana Railroad Days Pageant
Ole Timers Reunion at DeQuincy Masonic Lodge
Cannon Ball 5K run and 1 Mile Fun Run
Bicycle Parade
Carnival Rides, Food Booths, and Arts & Crafts Booths
Gospel Night
Diaper Derby
Classic Car Show
Live Bands

Official Website: http://www.dequincynews.com/rrfest/rrfest.htm