This branch was a remnant of an earlier line that extended from Benson (on SP's Sunset Route) to Nogales, on the Arizona border with Mexico. It passed through remote country, serving military forts and mines in the area. Heading west from Fairbank, the branch line passed through Brookline, Huachuca City, Ballybrophy, Landers, Elgin, Canelo, Sonoita, Ashburn, Casa Blanca and (Fort) Crittenden to Patagonia.
In later years (1930s) only the Fairbank to Patagonia segment remained in service, and this was later cut back and then abandoned. The eastern portion of the branch does not pass near many paved roads, and the old grade can be located near the Babocomari River. Further west the line paralleled Ariz. Route 82 between Sonoita and Patagonia.
This branch was several miles north of, and not connected to, the SP Fort Huachuca Branch.
This view faces east from Az. Route 90 in Huachuca City. Railroad Drive is a washboard-type dirt road that parallels the old SP right of way in both directions.
It would be ok for 4WD or dirt bikes but not ordinary cars.
White car is parked on approximate location of former rail line. February 2002. Photo courtesy of Mike Palmer.
This view faces east, and is a little further east from the picture above. The right of way heads straight into the ridge line in the distance, and is slowly being taken over by the native plants in the area.
Some ballast was still there, but no rails or ties. February 2002. Photo courtesy of Mike Palmer.
