“Come all you rounders if you want to hear
A story ’bout a brave engineer,
Casey Jones was the rounder’s name
“Twas on the Illinois Central that he won his fame…”
“…Casey’s body lies buried in Jackson, Tennessee
Close beside the tracks of the old I.C.
May his spirit live forever throughout the land
As the greatest of all heroes of a railroad man.”
If you love history or perhaps have a train aficionado in your family, then perhaps you know that April 30, 1900, is day that was not easily forgotten by many in the railroad industry. After all, it is the day that Casey Jones became a hero. If you want a chance to learn more about this brave American then don’t overlook Jackson, Tennessee. This gem of Tennessee tourism is a great place to spend a day. Located between Memphis and Nashville, this Tennessee town offers two locomotive related attractions.
The Casey Jones Village offers turn of the century shops, buildings and hands on history. Be sure to check out the Brooks Shaw & Son Old Country Store has more than 15,000 antiques on display. More fun and locomotion facts can be had by visiting the Casey Jones Amphitheatre, touring the Judge Milton Brown Pullman Railcar or touring the Wildlife in Wood Studio. More fun can be had playing a round of mini-golf at the course by the Country Store or shopping at the many shops in the Casey Jones Village. There is also a restaurant, a confectioners shop and an ice cream parlor to visit here.
The Casey Jones Home and Railroad Museum gives guests a peak into the past. You will find railroad memorabilia like the railroad passes, timetables, steam whistles and other related items. Don’t forget to check out the 1890s steam locomotive and coach cars on display!
Jackson, Tennessee is just the spot to spend a day with your family. Come make some memories.