Everett Railroad: Roster, Excursions, Route
Published: January 9, 2025
By: Adam Burns
The Everett Railroad is a short line freight and heritage railroad that operates in the state of Pennsylvania, specifically in Blair and Bedford Counties.
It is a compelling example of the living history of rail transportation, serving both functional and recreational purposes.
This article explores the roots, development, and current operations of the Everett Railroad, illustrating its significance in Pennsylvania's railroading landscape.
Everett Railroad 2-6-0 #11 rolls past the PRR station in Roaring Spring, Pennyslvania on April 21, 2018. Jon Wright photo.Historical Background
The Everett Railroad's origins are deeply intertwined with the expansion of rail transportation in the mid-19th century. Initially constructed as part of the Huntingdon and Broad Top Mountain Railroad and Coal Company (H&BTM), this line served the coal-rich regions of Bedford County.
The H&BTM was chartered in 1852 to extract and transport coal, playing a crucial role in the regional economy by connecting local industries to broader markets.
As with many railroads, the decline of the coal industry and increased competition from road transportation profoundly affected the H&BTM and the Everett Railroad in the mid-20th century. Consequently, the line fell into disuse and then eventual abandonment.
Formation
The Everett Railroad originally began operations on April 1, 1954 of the southernmost 4 miles of H&BTM trackage, spanning from Tatesville to Mount Dallas, interchanging at the latter point with the Pennsylvania Railroad
With Conrail's formation, the line was abandoned on what was then the Mt. Dallas Secondary in October, 1982. The move effectively cut off the Everett, and the operation was abandoned.
However, the little short line was reactivated in May, 1984 when it acquired the ex-Conrail Bedford Secondary between Brooks Mill and Sproul. This segment, built in 1910
It grew again less than a year later when it picked up Conrail's former Morrison's Cove Secondary between Roaring Spring to Curryville, Pennsylvania. Initially operated in conjunction with the Allegheny Southern Railway as the Morrison's Cove Railroad between September, 1982 and 1984, the Everett Railroad took over full ownership of the line on January 1, 1985.
Conrail maintained running the rest of the Morrison's Cove Secondary—from Roaring Spring through Brooks Mill to Hollidaysburg—until March 1995. Then, Alan W. Maples, who owned the Everett Railroad, set up the Hollidaysburg & Roaring Spring Railroad, taking ownership of this line. At the same time, the Everett Railroad secured trackage rights to Hollidaysburg and started handling the H&RS under contract.
Operations and Services
Today, the Everett Railroad operates a total of 23 miles. This line passes through the scenic landscapes of Blair and Bedford Counties, offering visitors not only a journey through beautiful scenery but also a trip back in time.
Freight Services
As a short line, the Everett provides vital connections for local industries to interstate rail networks. Predominantly carrying agricultural products, lumber, and industrial components, the Everett Railroad plays a crucial role in the local economy.
By offering flexible and personalized freight services, it ensures that small and medium-sized enterprises maintain access to broader markets that larger rail networks may overlook.
Heritage Passenger Excursions
In addition to its freight services, the Everett is celebrated for its passenger excursions, which have become a central aspect of its operations. Featuring beautifully restored vintage locomotives and rail cars, these excursions invite guests to relive the golden age of rail travel.
One of the distinctive elements of the Everett Railroad excursions is the historical narration that accompanies each trip. Passengers learn about the significance of the rail line, the local history of the areas traversed, and the technical and operational history of steam and diesel engines. The excursions often include themed events, such as fall foliage tours, holiday trains, and special events during the year that cater to families, train enthusiasts, and tourists.
The Locomotives
An important aspect of any heritage railway is, of course, the locomotives. The Everett has endeavored to preserve and showcase various locomotives that played instrumental roles in its operations over the years. While the roster of active locomotives might change due to maintenance and operational needs, the standout is undoubtedly #11, a 2-6-0 steam engine built in 1923 by the Baldwin Locomotive Works.
This steam engine is a crown jewel, as it offers passengers the rare chance to experience a steam-powered journey, complete with characteristic sounds and visual allure. The presence of No. 11 is a major draw for rail enthusiasts and contributes significantly to the authenticity and charm of the heritage service.
Roster
| Road Number | Model Type | Builder | Serial Number | Completion Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 2-6-0 | Alco-Cooke | 62635 | 1920 | Narragansett Pier Railroad/Bath & Hammondsport (operational) |
| 38 | 2-8-0 | Baldwin | 59946 | 1927 | Huntingdon & Broad Top Mountain Railroad (resortation) |
| 4 | 80-tonner | GE | 18065 | 1943 | U.S. Army (stored) |
| 18 | 65-tonner | GE | 30497 | 1950 | East Jersey Railroad & Terminal Company (stored) |
| 1712 | GP16 | EMD | 13538 | 1950 | Built as Clinchfield GP7 #911 (operational) |
| 1828 | GP16 | EMD | 17370 | 1952 | Built as Seaboard Air Line GP7 #1798 (operational) |
Everett Railroad 2-6-0 #11 rolls through the beautiful rural countryside near Martinsburg, Pennsylvania on April 21, 2018. Jon Wright photo.Conclusion
The Everett Railroad is a remarkable testament to the enduring legacy of rail transport in Pennsylvania. It remains both a functional freight carrier vital to regional commerce and a beloved piece of living history through its heritage tours. The blend of historical authenticity, economic functionality, and community engagement makes it a unique and cherished institution within the state.
With its tracks securely laid towards the future, the Everett promises to continue enchanting visitors and serving its community for decades to come. Whether you're a rail aficionado, a history buff, or someone looking for a special travel experience, the railroad is a journey worth taking.
Recent Articles
-
Wisconsin Dinner Train Rides In North Freedom!
Jan 06, 26 08:41 PM
Featured here is a practical guide to Mid-Continent’s dining train concept—what the experience is like, the kinds of menus the museum has offered, and what to expect when you book. -
Pennsylvania Dinner Train Rides In Boyertown!
Jan 06, 26 06:48 PM
With beautifully restored vintage equipment, carefully curated menus, and theatrical storytelling woven into each trip, the Colebrookdale Railroad offers far more than a simple meal on rails. -
North Carolina ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Ride
Jan 06, 26 11:26 AM
While there are currently no murder mystery dinner trains in the Tarheel State the Burgaw Depot does host a murder mystery dinner experience in September! -
Florida's - Murder Mystery - Dinner Train Rides
Jan 06, 26 11:23 AM
Florida, known for its vibrant culture, dazzling beaches, and thrilling theme parks, also offers a unique blend of mystery and fine dining aboard its murder mystery dinner trains. -
New Mexico's - Wine Tasting - Train Rides
Jan 06, 26 11:19 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. -
Ohio's - Wine Tasting - Train Rides
Jan 06, 26 11:14 AM
Among the intriguing ways to experience Ohio's splendor is aboard the wine tasting trains that journey through some of Ohio's most picturesque vineyards and wineries. -
Connecticut's Thomas The Train Rides
Jan 06, 26 11:06 AM
For 2026, the tour stop at Essex brings Thomas (and Percy, too) to the historic Valley Railroad for a full day of events for the kids. -
Maryland's Thomas The Train Rides
Jan 06, 26 11:00 AM
In 2026, the B&O Railroad Museum in Baltimore welcomes the Let’s Rock, Let’s Roll Tour with four event days that combine a Thomas-themed excursion with other activities. -
Tennessee's Thomas The Train Rides
Jan 06, 26 10:51 AM
Set on the grounds of one of the Southeast’s best-known operating railroad museums, the Thomas the train event blends kid-friendly fun with the unmistakable sights, sounds, and atmosphere of a real wo… -
Georgia's Thomas The Train Rides
Jan 06, 26 10:44 AM
Day Out With Thomas is set to roll back into Cordele in 2026, bringing Thomas the Tank Engine and a full family festival to the SAM Shortline at Georgia Veterans Memorial State Park. -
Staten Island Rapid Transit
Jan 06, 26 10:02 AM
The Staten Island Rapid Transit has long served Staten Island since the 19th century and today is known as the Staten Island Railway. -
New York Dinner Train Rides In The Adirondacks!
Jan 05, 26 09:45 PM
Operating over a restored segment of the former New York Central’s Adirondack Division, the Adirondack Railroad has steadily rebuilt both track and public interest in passenger rail across the region. -
Ohio Dinner Train Rides On The CVSR!
Jan 05, 26 08:32 PM
While the railroad is well known for daytime sightseeing and seasonal events, one of its most memorable offerings is its evening dining program—an experience that blends vintage passenger-car ambience… -
Pennsylvania's - Wine Tasting - Train Rides
Jan 05, 26 01:08 PM
Wine tasting trains are a unique and enchanting way to explore the state’s burgeoning wine scene while enjoying a leisurely ride through picturesque landscapes. -
West Virginia - Wine Tasting - Train Rides
Jan 05, 26 01:02 PM
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. -
Virginia - Wine Tasting - Train Rides
Jan 05, 26 12:58 PM
Wine tasting trains in Virginia provide just that—a unique experience that marries the romance of rail travel with the sensory delights of wine exploration. -
Utah - Wine Tasting - Train Rides
Jan 05, 26 12:37 PM
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. -
Kentucky Valentine's Train Rides
Jan 05, 26 12:31 PM
If you’re looking for a date night that feels a little more cinematic than the usual reservation-and-a-movie routine, Bardstown’s My Old Kentucky Dinner Train delivers the kind of evening you remember… -
Pennsylvania Valentine's Train Rides
Jan 05, 26 12:12 PM
Tucked amid the rolling farmland of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, the Strasburg Rail Road stands as one of the most celebrated and successful heritage railroads in North America. -
New York's - Murder Mystery - Dinner Train Rides
Jan 05, 26 11:01 AM
New York State, renowned for its vibrant cities and verdant countryside, offers a plethora of activities for locals and tourists alike, including murder mystery train rides!
