Our River and Rail Transport Exhibit looks at the vast and unique history of transportation in Phillips County, and how that transportation network connection it to the nation at large. From railroad ferries to mule driven trollies, Phillips County has operated a little bit of everything over the past 218 years.
This exhibit was constructed with grant funding from the Phillips County Community Foundation. We are ever greatful for their support.
River Travel
As far back as 1803 with William Patterson’s resupply warehouse near the southern tip of Crowley’s Ridge, Phillips County has been an intregral part of the Mississippi River’s commerce.
Helena-Glendale Ferry
Being a river town, a (mostly) reliable carriage/automobile ferry was vital to the success of Helena and Phillips County by offering transport across the Mississippi River to Trotter’s Point, MS.
American Steam
Since 1870, Phillips County has hosted to a number of railroads that swung south of Crowley’s Ridge to connect the town of Helena to other markets like Little Rock, Memphis, and St. Louis.
Railroad Ferry
Beginning in 1889 with the Louisville, New Orleans, and Texas Railroad, Helena has hosted a series of railroad ferries that moved people and freight across the Mississippi River to Trotter’s Point, MS.
