Highball - The Railroads of Branson, Missouri (In-Person Only)

Highball - The Railroads of Branson, Missouri (In-Person Only)

Study Group (2-3 session | This program is completed

150 N. Skyline Drive Fayetteville, AR 72701 United States

Conference Center-Retreat

Open to OLLI Members and Non-OLLI Members

Friday, May 7, 2021-Friday, May 14, 2021

1:00 PM-4:00 PM on Fri

Download iCalendar

$80.00

$65.00

Discover the rich history of Branson, Missouri and the impact of the coming of the railroad in the early 1900s. Known as the “White River Line,” this scenic stretch of railroad ran from Carthage, Missouri through Branson and along the White river to near Newport, Arkansas. Course participants will enjoy a 3 hour lecture on the history of the line concluded by a 40-mile round trip excursion through Ozark foothills and tunnels aboard the Branson Scenic Railroad. As participants cross bridges and trestles, they will experience the luxury of rail travel from yesteryear on a restored historic streamlined passenger train.
The first session will be in the classroom while the second will consist of the train ride. Price of ticket ($29) is included with class fee. 2nd date 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM.
Depending on COVID restrictions, transportation to Branson will be the responsibility of the participant.

  • The first session will be in the classroom while the second will consist of the train ride. Price of ticket ($29) is included with class fee. 2nd date 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM.
  • This course is being offered in person only at Mt. Sequoyah Conference Retreat, located at 150 N. Skyline Drive, Fayetteville. The room location will be sent in the class reminder as the start date nears.

Mike Sypult is a railroad historian from Rogers, Arkansas and currently serves as website and communications administrator of the Arkansas Boston Mountains Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society in Springdale. A native of Rogers, Mike is a graduate of Arkansas Tech University and Southwestern Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas. Mike taught at the University of Arkansas for 15 years and developed the Whistle Stops West Elderhostel program – Chicago, St. Louis and Kansas City by rail. Mike lives in Rogers and has 5 adult children and 6 wonderful grandchildren.