The Everett Railroad is a short-line railroad company that operates on standard gauge tracks of 4 feet 8.5 inches. It currently operates on a 16-mile line between Roaring Spring and Claysburg in the state of Pennsylvania.
Yup, its in Hollidaysburg!
The company has its train station in Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania, where it operates a locomotive shop and maintenance facility. The Everett Railroad has a fleet of diesel-electric locomotives and a range of rolling stock, including freight cars and passenger cars.
Special Tourist Trains
In addition to its regular freight operations, the Everett Railroad also operates excursion trains for tourists and railfans. These include the popular “Ice Cream Special” and “Pumpkin Patch Special” trains, which run during the summer and fall seasons, respectively.
The Everett Railroad’s infrastructure includes a variety of features, such as sidings, passing loops, and signals, which allow for safe and efficient operation of its trains. The company has also invested in upgrading its tracks and bridges to ensure they meet modern safety standards.
Railfans Love Everett Railroad!
Railfans are drawn to the Everett Railroad for a number of reasons. Firstly, it is a historic railway that has been in operation for over a century and has played a significant role in the transportation of goods and people in the central Pennsylvania region. This makes it a popular destination for rail enthusiasts who enjoy learning about the history of railroads and their impact on the local economy and community.
Scenic Routes
Secondly, the Everett Railroad is known for its scenic routes and offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the Pennsylvania countryside from a different perspective. This makes it a popular choice for railfans who enjoy taking photographs and videos of trains in scenic locations.
Vintage Locomotives
Finally, the Everett Railroad operates a variety of vintage locomotives and rolling stock, which may be of interest to railfans who are interested in historic trains and their design and technology. This includes locomotives such as the EMD SW9 and SW8, as well as vintage passenger cars and freight cars.
Risen from a Failed Venture
Following the demise of an earlier 1852-founded company, the Everett Railroad was established in 1954 by local businessmen as a way to transport limestone from a quarry to a processing plant.
The line originally ran between Claysburg and Sproul, Pennsylvania, and was operated with one locomotive and a handful of cars. The railroad was acquired by the Hollidaysburg and Roaring Spring Railroad in 1957 and became a part of the larger Pennsylvania Railroad network. The line was later extended to the Martinsburg area to serve a coal mine and a paper mill.
Conrail Involvement
Following the merger of the Pennsylvania Railroad and the New York Central Railroad to form Penn Central Transportation Company, the Everett Railroad became a part of Conrail in 1976. In 1981, the railroad was sold to private interests and began operating as an independent short-line.
Today, the Everett Railroad operates over 16 miles of track and serves several customers in the area, including a limestone quarry, a plastics manufacturer, and a paper mill. The railroad also operates excursion trains on select weekends throughout the year, including fall foliage rides and Christmas-themed trains.
EMD GP10, EMD SD40, Classic Passenger Cars
The Everett Railroad owns and operates a fleet of vintage locomotives and rolling stock, including a number of diesel locomotives such as the EMD GP10 and EMD SD40. The railroad also owns a collection of historic passenger cars that it uses for its excursions and events. The Everett Railroad’s primary freight customers include local industries and businesses, and the railroad handles a variety of commodities such as coal, limestone, and scrap metal.
In addition to its freight and passenger operations, the Everett Railroad also offers railcar storage and repair services at its yard in Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania. The railroad is known for its commitment to preserving the heritage of railroading in Pennsylvania, and it is a popular destination for railfans and tourists alike.
Get your Tickets!
Railfans interested in riding the Everett Railroad can purchase tickets online through the railroad’s website, or by calling the ticket office. The website also provides information on the schedules and fares for different train rides offered by the railroad. It is advisable to book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons or holidays, as trains can fill up quickly. Additionally, railfans can inquire about special events or private charters for a more personalized experience.