Interurban Railway Museum


Interurban Railway Museum: A Journey Through Plano’s Historic Transportation


The Interurban Railway Museum, located in downtown Plano, Texas, is a fascinating tribute to the region’s early 20th-century transportation history. Housed in a restored train station that was once a key stop along the Texas Electric Railway, this museum offers visitors a unique glimpse into how the electric railway shaped both Plano and the broader North Texas region. Through interactive exhibits, educational displays, and hands-on experiences, the museum brings to life the era when electric interurban trains were the primary mode of travel between cities like Dallas, Denison, and Waco.


The Texas Electric Railway, operational from 1908 to 1948, was part of a widespread interurban network that connected smaller towns to major urban centers, providing a faster and more efficient alternative to horse-drawn carriages and early automobiles. The Plano station served as a vital hub for passengers and freight, significantly influencing the growth and development of the city. The museum preserves this important chapter of local history, allowing visitors to experience what travel was like during this period and understand its impact on the region's economy and culture.


One of the main attractions at the Interurban Railway Museum is Car 360, a fully restored interurban railcar that visitors can board to get a sense of what it was like to travel by electric train in the early 1900s. The car’s interior has been meticulously preserved, from the wooden seats to the conductor’s controls, offering a tactile experience that transports guests back in time. Docents, many of whom are well-versed in Plano’s history, provide guided tours that explain how the railway functioned and its significance to the local community.


In addition to the railcar, the museum features exhibits on the technology behind electric railways, including a detailed explanation of how the overhead trolley system powered the trains. There are also displays that showcase artifacts from the era, such as vintage tickets, railway uniforms, and historical photographs, painting a vivid picture of daily life during the interurban’s heyday. For younger visitors, interactive exhibits offer a fun way to learn about transportation history and the science of electricity, making the museum both educational and engaging for all ages.


As the Interurban Railway Museum continues to educate and inspire the community, the support from DBM Janitorial Services plays an essential role in its upkeep and success. Together, they demonstrate the value of collaboration between local businesses and cultural organizations, highlighting the importance of preserving our history for future generations.


The Interurban Railway Museum plays an important role in preserving Plano’s heritage, celebrating a time when the city was a pivotal point in North Texas’s transportation network. Its location in Haggard Park adds to its appeal, providing a picturesque setting for visitors to explore after their museum visit. For those interested in transportation history or simply looking to experience a unique slice of local culture, the Interurban Railway Museum is a must-visit destination that bridges Plano’s past and present.


DBM Janitorial Services

101 E Park Blvd Suite 600, Plano, TX 75074

(469) 656-7010

Make sure you visit this local gem as well!

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