Last week, I began a short series of blogs spotlighting some of Caddo and Bossier Parishes rural attractions. Let’s continue our journey to the charming town of Vivian, Louisiana. Located less than an hour north of the heart of Shreveport and Bossier City, the small town literally takes you back in time. General stores and automotive repair shops line the highway that leads travelers into town, while downtown Vivian consists of local businesses, a classic barber shop and one of north Caddo Parish’s historical gems.
The Vivian Railroad Station Museum, located at 100 North Front Street was built in 1921 by the Kansas City Southern Railway. KCS now ships freight throughout the central United States and Mexico, but the company was once a passenger railway until 1969. The railroad station was then turned into a museum to tell the story of the industry and how it created towns and communities along the way.
Today, the museum is a stop on the Boom or Bust Scenic Byway, and it is packed full of KCS historical artifacts and memorabilia. Outside the museum, a vintage red caboose sits on tracks waiting to be restored. The authentic car, donated by KCS, is a locomotive fanatic’s must-see. Also outside, visitors will enjoy a brand new informational kiosk with photos of the area from the early 1900s.
FUN FACT: The town of Vivian was named after a KCS executive’s daughter as were many of the towns along the railway.
The museum is open from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Monday-Friday and available by appointment. Call (318) 375-5300 for more information. Click here to see a full map and get directions to the museum.
