Railroads In America
Last revised: February 22, 2025
By: Adam Burns
This website's purpose is take you, the casual visitor, on a journey back in time to experience what our great nation's railroads once were, where they operated, the high quality passenger trains they once possessed, and the classic equipment they utilized.
America's railroads were once the crown jewel of the world:
- Passenger trains were capable of speeds in excess of 100 mph via four-track main lines.
- Travelers boarded and debarked from fabulous stations.
- Long, heavy freights moved everything from merchandise to coal, all of which powered the country's mighty industrial complex.
There were many reasons for the industry's decline but it largely all began with the passage of several Congressional acts at the turn of the 20th century.
These new pieces of legislation (specifically the Elkins Act of 1903, Hepburn Act of 1906, and Mann-Elkins Act of 1910) brought increased regulation and significantly expanded the Interstate Commerce Commission's (ICC) power.
This regulatory body lasted for over a century and its new role placed a considerable burden on railroads. However, the industry, itself, could be partially blamed for the stricter government oversight due to its longstanding careless and arrogant attitude towards the general public. The ICC carried the final say in rate increases (or decreases) and potential abandonments.
Photos
A handsome Rio Grande F7A, #5664, was photographed here in Denver, Colorado, circa 1970. Robert Eastwood, Jr. photo. American-Rails.com collection.Essentially, the free market no longer held true for railroads, everything was controlled and monitored through the agency. Uncle Sam's draconian measures slowly took their toll until many systems were on the brink of collapse by the 1970's.
That decade was a dark era as several either failed, were liquidated, or handed their once high-class passenger services over to the National Railroad Passenger Corporation, Amtrak ("American Travel And Track").
Following several corporate bankruptcies the government, always slow to remedy a problem, created the Consolidated Rail Corporation, or Conrail, to fix the freight mess in the Northeast (brought about through Penn Central's collapse in 1970).
In addition, legislation was signed into law by President Jimmy Carter through the Staggers Act of 1980 which greatly deregulated the industry. The passage of this bill proved the turning point as railroads have since made a strong comeback.
They are now able to more freely set rates and abandon/sell unprofitable routes. In addition, through technology improvements crew sizes have been reduced from five members to only two (conductor and engineer).
History
The earliest of all American railroads dates back to the New Jersey Railroad Company of 1815, chartered by Colonel John Stevens. The line was ultimately never constructed and while small gravity and mule-powered roads popped up here and there it was the coming of the steam locomotive which changed everything.
In August of 1829 Horatio Allen tested an English-built steamer named the Stourbridge Lion in Pennsylvania and the rest, as they say, is history. By the time of the Civil War there were more than 60,000 miles in service and this ballooned to more than 190,000 by the turn of the 20th century.
During the so-called "Golden Age," great steel ribbons of rail crisscrossed our great nation. In 1916 there were more than 254,000 miles in service, the all-time record.
So thick was the country's network that some smaller municipalities were served by as many as three or four different railroads! Sadly, as the 20th century progressed trains lost their luster and during the post-World War II period many lines were abandoned.
In some cases, entire trunk lines were severed including Erie Lackawanna's route to Chicago, Milwaukee Road's Pacific Coast Extension, and Pennsylvania Railroad's "Panhandle Route" to St. Louis among the more notable.
The setbacks went beyond just corridor losses; landmark structures such as PRR's iconic Pennsylvania Station (New York City), Central Railroad of New Jersey’s magnificent Newark Bay Bridge, and many of Chicago's great passenger terminals were all torn down.
The general public, and even some in the government, viewed railroads as an archaic, old-fashioned mode of transportation. The low point was reached during the 1970s with the collapse of Penn Central.
The biggest corporate failure up until that time (Penn Central carried assets of $7 billion and revenues of nearly $2 billion according to Gregory Schneider's book, "Rock Island Requiem") forced the federal government into action. The Northeast's bankrupts were reorganized into the Consolidated Rail Corporation, or Conrail, in 1976.
Interestingly, after PC exited the business it was renamed American Premier Underwriters, Inc. Today, the corporation is a component of American Financial Group which specializes in commercial insurance for a wide range of businesses.
Since that time the public has taken a greater interest in preserving our remaining rail history, including important rail lines and depots. In some cases, corridors have even been restored for renewed freight or commuter service.
A sharp Santa Fe F3A, #29-L, sits just off the turntable at Redondo Junction in Los Angeles during the 1960's. Fred Worsfold photo. American-Rails.com collection.About
I have always held a personal interest in trains for as long as I can remember. As I began using the Internet more extensively for research purposes I found it a bit frustrating that there was no single website covering the railroad industry in great detail.
After some time I began to think, "why not just create such a website myself?" And that, in a nutshell, is the basis behind American-Rails.com; a website designed as an educational resource tool highlighting the American railroads.
Similarly, it is my hope this site can be a beneficial guide for both “railfans” out there who may want to know more about a particular subject (for instance, the true history of the downfall and collapse of the fabled Milwaukee Road) or anyone with a passing interest in trains.
I will state up front that I in no way claim to be a bonafide expert on the industry (I simply enjoy studying the fascinating history of railroads) and while the information presented here at American-Rails.com is as accurate as I can possibly make it I am aware that there is the likelihood for an occasional error.
So, please feel very free to either send me an e-mail or use the Facebook comments section if you see a needed correction (and my sincere thanks in advance).
America By Rail, Traveling By Train
Many have remarked that even with today's watered down services under the National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak), experiencing America by rail is one of the very best ways to see the country's magnificent beauty.
With trains passing through such scenic vistas as the New River Gorge, Glacier National Park, Rocky Mountains, parts of the Southwest, Pacific coast line, and the Great Lakes its no wonder why so many hold such sentiments.
There is even a website dedicated to this very subject, designed to aid travelers in their quest to ride the rails, whether that be a cross-country adventure or local excursion. In his book, Train, author Tom Zoellner detailed what it was like to travel America by rail.
He not only noted the magnificent views but also the affordability of such an experience. The focus here at American-Rails.com is not to aid in booking such a trip but highlighting America's rich heritage with trains.
Many years ago, prior to Amtrak's 1971 formation, one could enjoy countless long-distance journeys by train with a multitude of services to choose from such as relaxing parlor cars, exquisite meals prepared freshly on-board, enjoying an entire room to one's self, nursing and barber services, domes for maximum viewing, and much more.
Louisville & Nashville U25B #1602 leads a general manifest northbound near Louisville, Kentucky on July 19, 1972. American-Rails.com collection.America by rail in those days was an entirely different experience and something to remember. Even today, those who rode such names as the Super Chief, Broadway Limited, Panama Limited, City of Los Angeles, Capitol Limited, 20th Century Limited, Empire Builder, Olympian Hiawatha, North Coast Limited, Sunset Limited, Silver Comet, and Champion still fondly recall these first-class trains.
You will never find such services aboard Amtrak although some tourist attractions like the Grand Canyon Railway, Strasburg Railroad, and Napa Valley Wine Train attempt to duplicate the "Silver Age" of rail travel.
In a time before airliners and automobiles, the journey itself was as important as the destination and railroads worked incredibly hard to attract ridership and retain patronage.
Unfortunately, the freedom of the highway and speed of the jetliner made passenger trains highly unprofitable, resulting in Amtrak's creation (a complete history of this quasi-government company can be found elsewhere at this site).
If you are interested in experiencing America by rail there are many ways to do so as mentioned above. Despite today's lack of services it is nevertheless a thrilling, unforgettable experience!
This is perfectly fine with me because I am very interested in always learning more about railroads as well as helping others with questions they might have. Since I first began writing the website back in 2007 it has grown well beyond the initial intended scope.
Today, you can find information on everything from streamliners, fallen flags, and notable engineering landmarks to surviving depots/stations, interurbans and trolleys, and logging railroads.
In total, there are currently more than 1,350 pages of information available on all of these subjects and many others (if you are looking for a particular topic just use the Google search tool presented at the top of each page).
It has been an incredible amount of work, not just in researching the topics but also the more tedious technical tasks. However, the enjoyment of it all, and the many thanks I receive from readers, makes it well worth it.
As time allows plans call for writing about many other topics so please stay tuned! (If you may like to know when new pages are added, subscribe to the site's RSS feed or join our Facebook and/or Twitter pages.)
Santa Fe F7A #260-C and other F units head west over Cajon Pass near Keenbrook, California, circa 1960. Fred Worsfold photo. American-Rails.com collection.There are also sections within this site that go beyond the history of the industry such as areas covering tourist railroads, museums (broken down by state), and dates/times where you can find Thomas the Tank Engine as well as Polar Express trips during the holiday season. Additionally, there is a large section covering jobs within the industry.
This includes individual positions like engineer and conductor as well as a breakdown by state of railroads which operate there. You can also find more information about schools and classes to gain certificates in the above mentioned fields as well as others.
Overall, it should be strongly mentioned that the jobs section of this site does not provide information on how to obtain employment within the industry only the background regarding some of the best known fields and what you can expect on the job.
With all of the above said, I really appreciate your time and interest in visiting the site and without bugging you further feel free to explore around the site using either the navigation buttons located along the left side of the page or the links here at the bottom of the homepage. Have fun and I hope you enjoy the site!
Recent Articles
-
B&O Railroad Museum Rebrands
Jul 15, 26 03:23 PM
The historic B&O Railroad Museum, long celebrated as a cornerstone of American railroad heritage, announced on July 14, 2026, that it is changing its name to the National Museum of Railroad History… -
Amtrak’s Empire Builder – Complete Scenic Route Guide 2026
Jul 15, 26 12:56 PM
Complete 2026 guide to Amtrak’s Empire Builder. Route overview, best scenic sections, schedules, what to expect, and tips for riding this iconic long-distance train through the northern United States. -
Washington ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 15, 26 11:39 AM
Here’s a detailed look at where and how to ride, what to expect, and practical tips to make the most of wine tasting by rail in Washington. -
Kentucky ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 15, 26 11:37 AM
Kentucky, often celebrated for its rolling pastures, thoroughbred horses, and bourbon legacy, has been cultivating another gem in its storied landscapes; enjoying wine by rail. -
Best THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Rides Across the United States 2026
Jul 15, 26 11:04 AM
Discover the best THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Rides in the US for 2026. Top locations, what to expect, dates, and tips for this magical holiday experience based on the beloved story. -
Indiana ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 15, 26 09:20 AM
This piece explores the allure of murder mystery trains and why they are becoming a must-try experience for enthusiasts and casual travelers alike. -
Ohio ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 15, 26 09:14 AM
The murder mystery dinner train rides in Ohio provide an immersive experience that combines fine dining, an engaging narrative, and the beauty of Ohio's landscapes. -
Arizona ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 15, 26 09:06 AM
Let's delve into the captivating world of Arizona's Wild West train adventures, currently offered at the popular Grand Canyon Railway. -
Michigan ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 15, 26 08:49 AM
While the term 'wild west' often conjures up images of dusty plains and expansive deserts, Michigan offers its own unique take on this thrilling period of history. -
Amtrak’s Coast Starlight – Complete Scenic Route Guide 2026
Jul 14, 26 02:24 PM
Complete 2026 guide to Amtrak’s Coast Starlight. Route highlights, best scenic sections, schedules, what to expect, and tips for riding one of America’s most beautiful long-distance trains. -
Best Steam-Powered Scenic Train Rides in the Eastern U.S. 2026
Jul 14, 26 01:21 PM
Discover the best steam-powered scenic train rides in the Eastern U.S. for 2026. From Cass Scenic Railroad Shays to Strasburg and other heritage steam operations — schedules, highlights, and tips. -
Indiana - Beer Tasting - Train Rides
Jul 14, 26 12:34 PM
On select dates, the French Lick Scenic Railway adds a social twist with its popular Beer Tasting Train—a 21+ evening built around craft pours, rail ambience, and views you can’t get from the highway. -
Wisconsin ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 14, 26 12:10 PM
Through a unique blend of interactive entertainment and historical reverence, Wisconsin offers a captivating glimpse into the past with its Wild West train rides. -
Georgia ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 14, 26 11:46 AM
Nestled within its lush hills and historic towns, the Peach State offers unforgettable train rides that channel the spirit of the Wild West. -
Florida ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 14, 26 11:34 AM
Wine by train not only showcases the beauty of Florida's lesser-known regions but also celebrate the growing importance of local wineries and vineyards. -
Texas ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 14, 26 10:05 AM
This article invites you on a metaphorical journey through some of these unique wine tasting train experiences in Texas. -
New Mexico ~ Wine Tasting ~Train Rides
Jul 14, 26 09:26 AM
For oenophiles and adventure seekers alike, wine tasting train rides in New Mexico provide a unique opportunity to explore the region's vineyards in comfort and style. -
Tennessee ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 14, 26 09:10 AM
Amidst the rolling hills and scenic landscapes of Tennessee, an exhilarating and interactive experience awaits those with a taste for mystery and intrigue. -
California ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 14, 26 09:01 AM
When it comes to experiencing the allure of crime-solving sprinkled with delicious dining, California's murder mystery dinner train rides have carved a niche for themselves among both locals and touri… -
North Carolina ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 13, 26 01:49 PM
North Carolina, a state known for its diverse landscapes ranging from serene beaches to majestic mountains, offers a unique blend of history and adventure through its Wild West train rides. -
Pennsylvania ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 13, 26 01:45 PM
The Keystone State is home to a variety of historical attractions, but few experiences can rival the excitement and nostalgia of a Wild West train ride. -
New York ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 13, 26 01:40 PM
This article will delve into the history, offerings, and appeal of wine tasting trains in New York, guiding you through a unique experience that combines the romance of the rails with the sophisticati… -
Michigan ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 13, 26 01:35 PM
In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Michigan’s wine tasting train experiences that cater to both wine connoisseurs and railway aficionados. -
Illinois ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 13, 26 01:32 PM
Among Illinois's scenic train rides, one of the most unique and captivating experiences is the murder mystery excursion. -
Vermont ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 13, 26 01:28 PM
There are currently murder mystery dinner trains offered in Vermont but until recently the Champlain Valley Dinner Train offered such a trip! -
The Flying Scotsman’s American Adventure: LNER 4472’s U.S. Tour
Jul 13, 26 12:02 PM
In the fall of 1969, a gleaming British steam locomotive unlike anything most Americans had ever seen rolled into Boston and spent the next four years touring the U.S. -
Amtrak's California Zephyr – Complete Scenic Route Guide 2026
Jul 12, 26 01:04 PM
Explore Amtrak’s California Zephyr, one of America’s most scenic long-distance train routes. Complete 2026 guide with highlights, best times to ride, what to expect, photography tips, and fall foliage… -
Alabama ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 12, 26 12:25 PM
Although Alabama isn't the traditional setting for Wild West tales, the state provides its own flavor of historic rail adventures that draw enthusiasts year-round. -
Indiana ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 12, 26 12:22 PM
In this article, we'll delve into the experience of wine tasting trains in Indiana, exploring their routes, services, and the rising popularity of this unique adventure. -
South Dakota ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 12, 26 12:04 PM
For wine enthusiasts and adventurers alike, South Dakota introduces a novel way to experience its local viticulture: wine tasting aboard the Black Hills Central Railroad. -
New Mexico ~ Murder Mystery ~ Train Rides
Jul 12, 26 11:41 AM
Among Sky Railway's most theatrical offerings is “A Murder Mystery,” a 2–2.5 hour immersive production that drops passengers into a stylized whodunit on the rails. -
Michigan ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 12, 26 11:36 AM
Among the lesser-known treasures of this state are the intriguing murder mystery dinner train rides—a perfect blend of suspense, dining, and scenic exploration. -
Best Christmas and Holiday Train Rides in the Eastern U.S. 2026
Jul 12, 26 11:05 AM
Discover the best Christmas and holiday train rides in the Eastern U.S. for 2026, including Polar Express experiences, Santa trains, and festive scenic journeys. Plan your magical rail adventure this… -
New York ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 12, 26 09:53 AM
Join us as we explore wild west train rides in New York, bringing history to life and offering a memorable escape to another era. -
Ohio ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 12, 26 09:38 AM
For those enamored with tales of the Old West, Ohio's railroad experiences offer a unique blend of history, adventure, and natural beauty. -
Western Pacific's 4-6-6-4 "Challengers" (M-100)
Jul 11, 26 11:29 PM
In the late 1930s, the Western Pacific stood at a crossroads. Traffic volumes were recovering from the Great Depression, and the railroad needed more powerful, faster locomotives to move longer freigh… -
Cass Scenic Railroad Fall Foliage Trips 2026 – Complete Guide
Jul 11, 26 04:28 PM
Plan your 2026 fall foliage trip on the Cass Scenic Railroad. Complete guide to the Bald Knob route, schedules, what to expect, photography tips, and why this West Virginia steam train ride is one of… -
Best Fall Foliage Scenic Train Rides in the Eastern United States 2026
Jul 11, 26 03:16 PM
Discover the best fall foliage train rides in the Eastern U.S. for 2026. From steam-powered mountain climbs in West Virginia to scenic heritage railroads across the Appalachians and beyond — plan your… -
Missouri ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 11, 26 11:27 AM
In Missouri, a state rich in history and natural beauty, you can experience the thrill of a bygone era through the scenic and immersive Wild West train rides. -
Indiana ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 11, 26 11:17 AM
Indiana offers a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of the Wild West through its captivating train rides. -
North Carolina ~ Whiskey Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 11, 26 11:05 AM
One of the GSMR's most distinctive special events is Spirits on the Rail, a bourbon-focused dining experience built around curated drinks and a chef-prepared multi-course meal. -
West Virginia ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 11, 26 10:45 AM
West Virginia, often celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and rich history, offers visitors a unique way to explore its rolling hills and picturesque vineyards: wine tasting trains. -
Utah ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 11, 26 10:42 AM
Utah, a state widely celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty and dramatic landscapes, is also gaining recognition for an unexpected yet delightful experience: wine tasting trains. -
Virginia ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 11, 26 10:12 AM
Among the state's railroad attractions, murder mystery dinner trains stand out as a captivating fusion of theatrical entertainment, fine dining, and scenic travel. -
Maryland ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 11, 26 10:02 AM
Maryland is known for its scenic landscapes, historical landmarks, and vibrant culture, but did you know that it’s also home to some of the most thrilling murder mystery dinner trains? -
U.S. Rail Traffic Surges 8.7% in Holiday Week Ending July 4, 2026
Jul 10, 26 03:39 PM
Despite the Independence Day holiday (which fell on a Saturday), U.S. freight railroads delivered an impressive performance, posting an 8.7% year-over-year increase in total traffic -
APSL Nears Acquisition Of B&O Depot In Paw Paw, WV
Jul 10, 26 11:44 AM
After decades of quiet abandonment, a dedicated preservation effort by the Allegany Preservation Society Limited (APSL) is racing to secure its future— having already raised approximately 90 percent o… -
Minnesota ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 10, 26 10:05 AM
Murder mystery dinner trains offer an enticing blend of suspense, culinary delight, and perpetual motion, where passengers become both detectives and dining companions on an unforgettable journey. -
Georgia - Murder Mystery - Dinner Train Rides
Jul 10, 26 09:32 AM
In the heart of the Peach State, a unique form of entertainment combines the thrill of a murder mystery with the charm of a historic train ride. -
Vermont ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 10, 26 09:29 AM
Known for its stunning green mountains, charming small towns, and burgeoning wine industry, Vermont offers a unique experience that seamlessly blends all these elements: wine tasting train rides.
