www.txrrhistory.com - Interlocking Tower 77 - Carrollton,
Texas
Historic Photo - Tower 77
Detail photo of Tower 77 in Carrollton, Texas.
Photo of the crossing of the Cotton Belt, MKT and Frisco in Carrollton,
Texas. Photo from the collection of Dennis Hogan.
Modern Photo - Tower 77
The tower structure in the above photo would have stood in about
the same location as the concrete bunker that now houses the automatic
interlocking machine. The former Cotton Belt (SSW) depot
is still in use by the Dallas, Garland and Northeastern shortline
which operates much of the former Cotton Belt and MKT trackage
in the north Dallas area. Track from left to right in the foreground
of this photo is the Frisco. Track between the interlocker cabinet
and depot is the Cotton Belt. The Frisco and Cotton Belt cross
each other just to the right out of the photo. The MKT line from
Dallas to Denison is crossing the Frisco and SSW. Photo by Jim
King.
The City of Carrollton, TX has placed a historical marker on
the west side of the depot at this interlocker. The text of the
marker is as follows:
Carrollton, TX Designated Historic Landmark
The Carrollton Crossing
In 1878 the Dallas - Wichita Railroad came to Carrollton
and by 1879 the Katy Railroad owned the line. By 1908 there were
three railroads using Carrollton as a way station. The Cotton
Belt and Katy provided passenger service and maintained a depot
while the Frisco railroad only provided freight service. Prior
to the 1940's, all significant commence was by rail. Access to
the railroads enabled Carrollton to grow and prosper.
Location Map - Tower 77
Map by Jim King.
