The glory days of railroading are being recreated in Texarkana-in a manner of speaking.
David Peavy, owner of the Ritchie Grocery building on Front Street near the Bi-State Justice Building, has relocated a vintage Pullman lounge car to a spot beside his building where it is slated to become a stylish and nostalgic restaurant.
The car, dubbed "Concho," was modern for its time. It's 80 feet long, clad in stainless steel and has an art-deco lounge, bar, dining area and kitchen. There is even a dormitory area for train staff.
Back in the days before airlines began to dominate, passenger train travel was the thing for those who needed to get away for business trips, visit with family or vacations. The rail lines competed with each other to offer the best accommodations and most luxurious service.
Peavy's car was a feature on one of the best-known passenger trains, the Santa Fe Super Chief, which traveled between Chicago and Los Angeles. The Super Chief was the train of choice for the rich and famous. Many times Hollywood stars traveling from New York back to California would transfer to the Super Chief after arriving on the equally famous 20th Century Limited of the New York Central Line, which offered service from the Big Apple to Chicago.
From 1940 to to the late 1970s, the Concho saw service on the Super Chief, the Chief and the Texas Chief. There is no telling how many household names of the time enjoyed a drink, a snack and conversation in the car. And after extensive renovations, it will again welcome the public.
And we welcome the Concho to downtown. We're sure it will be well received buy locals and visitors alike.