Katy Railroad Historical Society
Official Website for Fans of the Katy Railroad
Our History and Mission Statement
The Katy Railroad Historical Society, a non profit organization, was formed in Parsons, Kansas, on October 1, 1977 with a nucleus of 43 charter members. The purpose of the society is to bring together in close association those persons who have a common interest in the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad, known to many as the Katy. To increase the enjoyment of their interest through appropriate activities. These include; group trips to points on the railroad, photographic excursions, photo, slide, and video shows, meetings, discussions, and other undertakings of a fundamentally social nature. The encouragement of members to contribute, as they are able to the collection, compilation and publication of interesting data pertaining to the Katy, including preservation of such information for future reference. The increase of knowledge of and fostering of goodwill towards the M-K-T Railroad among members and the general public. The promotion of good fellowship among the members through ethical social functions found to be beneficial, educational, and morally wholesome to those interested in the Katy Railroad.
Major Eras of the Katy Railroad
Early Steam Era
Mostly 4-4-0, 2-8-0 Wood burners,
gold leaf lettering and brass trim
Red River Railroad Museum Archives
Turn of the Century
Larger, more powerful steam power,
less ornate lettering
Red River Railroad Museum Archives
Post 1923 Reorganization
Renamed the M-K-T Railroad,
oil burners and white trim.
Red River Railroad Museum Archives
Late Steam Era
Matthew S Sloan brings enameled red M-K-T emblem and bright yellow cabooses.
Red River Railroad Museum Archives
Early Diesel Era
Bright red diesels begins
the end of the steam locomotive era.
2012 KRHS, Katy Lines Calendar
1957 – 1962 William N. Deramus
Lean years for the
Katy bring the road to the brink.
1965 – 1970 John W. Barriger
Passenger service ends, but
financial health begins to recover.
John B. Charles photograph
1972 – 1988 Katy Red Retired
for Whitman green and yellow
leading to merger with Uncle Pete
Raymond B. George Collection
1988 Brings Farewell to the Katy
Please help us preserve the memory
of the Missouri-Kansas-Texas R.R.
Courtesy U.P. Company Website
Katy Video and Photo Gallery
Notice to Members
2026 KRHS CONVENTION
April 29 – May 3, 2026
Kansas City, Missouri
The 2026 Katy Railroad Historical Society annual convention is coming to the Kansas City area from April 29 – May 3, 2026. The convention will be held at the Holiday Inn & Suites, 8787 Reeder Street, Overland Park, Kansas 66214. Single King or Double Queen non-smoking rooms are available, including breakfast for two. Please make room reservations at 913-888-8440, ask for the KRHS room rate for $119 per night. Convention registration fee paid by mail is $195 per person for all five days of activities or $40 for the Saturday Banquet only. Online payment is available at KRHS website at KatyRailroad.org/krhscostoregiftshop1 . Convention information and registration form will be included in the December Katy Flyer magazine. Be prepared for a memorable KRHS weekend in 2026.
Email questions to krhsinfo@katyrailroad.org.