New owners likely to climb aboard railroad

Ironhorse Resources, an Illinois-based company with railroads primarily in Texas, has agreed to buy Caney Fork & Western Railroad located at Depot Bottom.

The only sticking point is the $1.4 million transaction still needs approval from the Tri-County Rail Authority.

Ownership of the railroad has been in limbo since the death of owner Sam Frissell a couple years ago. The railroad is being sold now to settle Frissell’s estate.

Ed Cox and his wife, Debbie, were the previous owners. Ed is still on board now as the current railroad manager and says the business is still thriving.

“It’s a valuable service, a much-needed service,” said Ed. “A lot of businesses depend on us to get their products.”

Ed said Bridgestone, A.O. Smith and Spar Gas are just a few of the main local customers. He says the railroad has 24 customers between Sparta and Tullahoma and runs virtually every day.

The railroad has 60 miles of track that has to be inspected weekly. There are three engines that can reach speeds of 50 to 60 mph.

If you need anything sent by rail, the number at Caney Fork & Western is 473-4910.