Jackson & Suburban Rail Road Co.

 Posted 03/25/2011  12:22 am

The Jackson & Suburban Rail Way was established as a horse-drawn omnibus system in the town of Jackson, Tennessee on or about 1881. The system was quite average in size for the era; it stretched approximately 7 miles. Later, the system was upgraded and electrified, and was drawn by locomotives that pulled passenger cars. As with many passenger rail services at the time, the system connected to one or more amusement parks in an effort to improve business.



Records indicate that the company's legal franchise was granted in 1881, yet actual service didn't begin until sometime around 1887. Initially named the 'Jackson & Suburban Rail Way Company', the line went through several re-organizations and names². In 1894 such a reorganization took place, and was renamed the the 'Jackson & Suburban Rail Road Company.' It is at this time the system is thought to have been transitioned to electric.



During the life of the Jackson & Suburban Rail Road, the town of Jackson exploded in population. Figures show that Jackson had a population of 10,039 in 1890. Only 16 years later its population had doubled to 22,500 people.



The system remained in business until 1906. In that year the system became part of a larger conglomeration, and became known as the Jackson Railway & Light Company.


Of equal historical interest, it should also be noted that the song 'Jackson', sung by the late greats Johnny Cash and June Carter, in fact refers to Jackson Tennessee!¹ June Carter wrote the version.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vN17L5Gb_gA





I estimate this particular token to be Choice EF. It was photographed using axial lighting with glass angled at 45 degrees. At present I possess two in my cabinet, and both are approximately the same grade.



Thanks,

- Cheetah
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¹ Source: http://www.chacha.com/question/is-t...-mississippi
² Source: http://web.me.com/willvdv/chirailfan/aattn6.html

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