This is part of the shortline HARTWELL RAILROAD. It still operates on a shorter line, having abandoned much of it's rails years ago. It is over 100 years old.
These tracks were used until 1947 with "mixed " Trains. That means passenger and freights.
Very nostalgic to look at these days.
It is sad to see such a great way to travel disappear. I love riding trains; the last one I rode was the old Southerner line in New Zealand - it is gone now.
Great image..I always travel by rail whenever I can, although the number of routes and trains traveling on them shrinks every year in the US.
One good coming from the efforts of the past is a movement to convert old train tracks and rail beds-including one near us- into a 'railtrails' for joggers, hikers and bikers.
I know of an area in Australia where they converted an old rail line to a walking/biking trail of about 40km or so in length. It is a great place to walk and relax.