Guide to Arizona's Miniature Railroads
Featuring
Arizona Republic Railroad
Defunct Railroad
Unfortunately the Arizona Republic Railroad is no longer in operation
Unfortunately the Arizona Republic Railroad is no longer in operation
Located in Phoenix, Arizona, the R & G Ranch is a very private park for the exclusive
use of the employees and families of Phoenix Newspapers, Inc. – now part of the Gannett
media conglomerate. The park was named for the two newspapers owned and operated for many
years by PNI the Arizona Republic and the Phoenix Gazette. The Phoenix Gazette (the evening newspaper)
ceased operation several years ago, however, the Arizona Republic continues to serve as
the morning newspaper in metropolitan Phoenix.
The beautiful little park is situated in the mature Arcadia district of Phoenix and dates to the late 1950s.
The lush green grounds are full of plants and shrubbery which are meticulously trimmed and well-maintained.
Near the rear of the family-friendly park, beyond the Olympic size swimming pool and the wading pool for
youngsters and past the partially enclosed dance and activities pavilion lies the loading platform for the train.
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Added to the park in 1961, the train affectionately known as “Mr. Train” is a
National Amusement Device “Century Flyer” (pre-1959 model). The two passenger
cars are open on both sides and are in fantastic condition. The cars are the
standard swept side model with 4 seats each and are painted red and blue. The
engine has had some shop modifications including removal of the front skirt,
but is in remarkably good shape considering its age. Believed to be the only
NAD “Century Flyer” in operation public or private in Arizona, it is quite a
treat getting to ride “Mr. Train” and the children just love it. Resplendent
in its red, white, blue paint scheme, the polished metal of the engine glimmers
under the bright Arizona sun.
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The loading platform was added in 1963 and serves not only as the point at which
enthusiastic young passengers board the train, but also serves to protect the train
from the seasonally harsh climate in Phoenix. There are no side tracks or structures
other than the loading platform and two hand-painted wooden railroad crossing signs.
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The track layout is rather simplistic and is a slightly modified oval of
approximately 850 feet in total track length. The track work is very nicely
done as the rail is straight and level and the curves are smooth and uniform.
Elevated slightly, the track is well-ballasted and utilizes 12 pound rail.
The track gauge is 24 inch. The track circles several small barbecue areas
and numerous mature citrus trees on its route through the rear section of the
park. The ride is strictly low speed and depending on whether a line of passengers
is present may involve several loops around the track. The rides are free of charge.
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Although the park is open several days a week, “Mr. Train” only operates during
special functions like the company wide picnic or the annual Easter Egg Hunt.