Southbridge to Webster Spur
This is not part of the Air Line Railroad or rail trail. It is part of a spur that connected to the Air Line in East Thompson, passed through Webster, Massachusetts, and ended in Southbridge, Massachusetts. About two miles of the railroad dipped like the letter 'U' into Thompson. The railroad was operated between Webster and Southbridge until 1985 when it was abandoned. The rails and ties have never been removed, and add an interesting insight to how the Air Line Railroad looked. It also shows the amount of effort required by the state and local communities who have committed to building the Air Line Rail Trail.
This is from the road grade crossing with Linehouse Road in Thompson looking north. Note the fast encroachment of the brush and evergreens in the 17 years since the rail line was abandoned. (4/2002)
Looking in the opposite direction on the Linehouse Road crossing. (4/2002)
Railroad crossing of the Southbridge spur with Laporte Road in Thompson, looking north towards the Massachusetts state line which is about 0.2 miles away. The evergeens have so overgrown the rail line that even a hiker would have trouble getting through here. (4/2002)
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Page Last Updated: May 7, 2002