The history of the Delaware, Lackawanna and Western Railroad Company is a fascinating study of America and its growth from an agrarian economy to a manufacturing giant. The railroads played an indisputably central role in America's industrialization and the Lackawanna Railroad as it was commonly known is a classic case study of this transition. From the beginnings of its earliest predecessor; the Ithaca & Owego Rail Road chartered in 1828 through the formation of the Delaware, Lackawanna and Western Railroad in 1853. Its coming of age as a major New York to Buffalo Trunk Line in the 1880s and continuing until the apex of the Lackawanna's expansion in the early part of the 20th century, the Lackawanna transformed itself from a primarily anthracite coal hauling railroad into one of the most highly developed railroad properties of the 20th century.
The Delaware, Lackawanna and Western Railroad earned a reputation for innovation and progressive reinvestment in its physical plant few other railroads would match. Even today the legacy of the Lackawanna still serves as testimony to its forward looking management which guided its course through the first half of the 20th century.
Join us as we explore the rich history of the Lackawanna Railroad, its processors and affiliated lines, its ultimate merger with the Erie Railroad in 1960, the Erie Lackawanna and Conrail years, up to today with major parts of the property still operated by several Class 1 and short line railroads and a major commuter rail agency. Your membership will entitle you to receive the Society's quarterly newsletter: The Roustabout as well as access to additional resources on the Society's website. Whether you are a historian, railfan or simply interested in learning more of the past and the ongoing history of the railroad which ran through your town we invite you to become a member of the Delaware, Lackawanna and Western Railroad Historical Society. Embark with us on this fascinating journey through history up to today and into the future.
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