"Pittsburgher" (Train): Timetable, Route, History, Consist
Last revised: September 15, 2024
By: Adam Burns
Arguably, one of the Pennsylvania's finest trains was the crack Pittsburgher, an overnight service connecting the Steel City with New York via the railroad's principal main line between those two points.
Originally launched during the mid-1920s, for many years the train pampered an elite clientele of businessmen and executives. Despite its regional status the crème de la crème, "All Pullman" Pittsburgher was one of the first PRR trains to receive streamlining during the late 1930s.
Unlike many other Pennsy trains, patronage remained strong through the declining postwar years. Unfortunately, the interstate and airlines eventually caught up with the Pittsburgher and ridership sank precipitously by the early 1960s prompting the PRR to cancel it a few years later.
The name Pittsburgher first appeared on PRR's timetable on May 28, 1916 as a westbound-only, daytime regional (train #61) connecting Philadelphia and Pittsburgh according to the Pennsylvania Railroad Technical & Historical Society.
However, the train best remembered carrying that name was inaugurated on January 14, 1924 as an overnight, extra-fare (discontinued in April of 1932), all-Pullman service.
Because of its direct connection to the Big Apple and the industrious city of Pittsburgh (then of course noted for its production of steel among other products), the Pittsburgher quickly became the top choice for business travelers wishing to arrive at their destination by the next morning.
More so, the PRR had virtually no competition in this market; New York Central's access into Pittsburgh was essentially a branch via subsidiary Pittsburgh & Lake Erie while the Baltimore & Ohio's route was simply far too circuitous (it also never reached downtown Manhattan). The Pittsburgher was listed on Pennsy's timetable as trains #60, eastbound, and #61 westbound.
In time, it became one of the railroad's most important trains but not only because it sold out on a nearly nightly basis.
According to Harry Stegmaier, Jr.'s book, "Pennsylvania Railroad: Passenger Trains, Consists & Cars - 1952 Volume I," a number of Pittsburgh steel tycoons and financiers also sat on PRR's board of directors. As such, they expected the train to utilize the very best of equipment.
When the railroad's new streamliners, the legendary "Fleet Of Modernism," debuted in the summer of 1938 the Pittsburgher was not far behind in receiving such sleek, elegant equipment which arrived in 1939 according to Mike Schafer and Brian Solomon's book, "The Pennsylvania Railroad."
It was the first New York - Pittsburgh train to receive such cars while other notables on the route included the Duquesne, Iron City Express, Juniata, New Yorker, and Pittsburgh Night Express.
The Pittsburgher, for obvious reasons, ran a very fast schedule as business travelers expected to arrive in their respective city by breakfast the following day for morning meetings.
Mr. Stegmaier goes on to note that some companies, such as U.S. Steel and Kaufmann's Department stories, blocked out sections of the train five nights a week.
In both directions the Pittsburgher departed late at night between 11 PM and Midnight, offering limited stops along the way and reaching its destination in about nine hours on the 440-mile corridor.
After World War II the train continued receiving new equipment and through the early 1950s continued to sell out regularly, averaging nearly 150 passengers every trip.
Its consist included a Class PB-70 combine, three 21-roomette sleepers, a 4-compartment/4-double bedroom/2-drawing room sleeper, sleeper-lounge (6-double bedroom/bar), diner, a pair of 12-duplex stateroom/4-double bedroom sleepers, and a 10-roomette/6-double bedroom sleepers.
Additionally, the train handled a 10-section/1-compartment/1-drawing room sleeper as well as a 10-roomette/6-double bedroom sleeper from Roanoke via the Norfolk & Western at Hagerstown, Maryland and delivered to Harrisburg where they joined eastbound, #60.
It is interesting to note that while the train did not operate during the dinnertime hour its diner remained opened for some time and still saw use offering early arrivals light meals, such as sandwiches.
Timetable (1952)
Time/Arrive (Train #60) |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
| 11:59 PM (Dp) | 0.0 | 8:00 AM (Ar) | |
| 12:20 AM | 10.0 | 7:42 AM | |
| 58.1 | 6:48 AM | ||
| 1:37 AM | 85.9 | 6:17 AM | |
| 111.4 | 5:50 AM | ||
| 3:30 AM | 194.6 | 4:10 AM | |
| 6:07 AM | 325.4 | 1:45 PM | |
| 7:59 AM | 399.2 | 12:00 AM | |
| 8:49 AM | 434.7 | 11:14 PM | |
| 9:00 AM (Ar) | 439.3 | 11:00 PM (Dp) |
Throughout the years the Pittsburgher never lost its elite, "All Pullman" status even as patronage disappeared throughout the 1950s. During this time the train still maintained a strong following but even it began feeling the effects by the 1960s. The PRR looked for ways to reduce the train's losses, including outright cancellation.
By then, it less than half the ridership from just a decade earlier. Amid much reluctance, and with agreement by some of the directors, its cars were transferred to other trains including the eastbound Manhattan Limited and westbound Pennsylvania Limited.
The once-proud Pittsburgher made its final run on September 13, 1964, at which time it handled no more than a baggage, three sleepers, and a diner. You can read more about other PRR trains by visiting the Pennsylvania Railroad section of the site, which can be reached from the top of this page.
Recent Articles
-
Virginia 'Dinner Train' Rides At Staunton
Jun 01, 26 12:11 PM
If you’ve ever wished you could pair a classic scenic train ride with a genuinely satisfying meal—served at your table while the countryside rolls by—the Virginia Scenic Railway was built for you. -
Oregon 'Dinner Train' Rides At Hood River
Jun 01, 26 12:06 PM
The Mt. Hood Railroad is the moving part of that postcard—a century-old short line that began as a working railroad. -
Maryland 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
Jun 01, 26 11:58 AM
This article delves into the enchanting world of wine tasting train experiences in Maryland, providing a detailed exploration of their offerings, history, and allure. -
Indiana 'Whiskey Tasting' Train Rides
Jun 01, 26 11:50 AM
Among IRE’s most talked-about offerings is the Wine & Whiskey Train—an adults-only, evening-style trip that leans into the best parts of classic rail travel: atmosphere, comfort, and a little… -
Maryland 'Dinner Train' Rides At Cumberland
Jun 01, 26 11:44 AM
The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad (WMSR) has become one of the Mid-Atlantic’s signature heritage operations—equal parts mountain railroad, living museum, and “special-occasion” night out. -
Massachusetts 'Dinner Train' Rides At Cape Cod
Jun 01, 26 11:43 AM
The Cape Cod Central Railroad (CCCR) has carved out a special niche by pairing classic New England scenery with old-school hospitality, including some of the best-known dining train experiences in the… -
Rhode Island 'Dinner Train' Rides In Portsmouth
Jun 01, 26 11:41 AM
Despite its small size, Rhode Island is home to one popular dinner train experience where guests can enjoy the breathtaking views of Aquidneck Island. -
Maine 'Dinner Train' Rides At Portland
Jun 01, 26 11:38 AM
While this isn’t generally a “dinner train” railroad in the traditional sense—no multi-course meal served en route—Maine Narrow Gauge does offer several popular ride experiences where food and drink a… -
Atlantic Coast Line Diesel Roster (All-Time)
May 31, 26 11:47 AM
The Atlantic Coast Line was an early pioneer in dieselization, acquiring its first diesel locomotives in 1939 and completing the transition from steam by the mid-1950s. -
New Hampshire - Murder Mystery - Dinner Train Rides
May 31, 26 11:27 AM
The state's murder mystery trains stand out as a captivating blend of theatrical drama, exquisite dining, and scenic rail travel. -
New York - Murder Mystery - Dinner Train Rides
May 31, 26 11:25 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! -
Pennsylvania 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 31, 26 11:23 AM
Pennsylvania, steeped in history and industrial heritage, offers a prime setting for a unique blend of dining and drama: the murder mystery dinner train ride. -
New Jersey 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 31, 26 11:18 AM
There are currently no murder mystery dinner trains available in New Jersey although until 2023 the Cape May Seashore Lines offered this event. Perhaps they will again soon! -
Colorado 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 31, 26 11:14 AM
To truly savor these local flavors while soaking in the scenic beauty of Colorado, the concept of wine tasting trains has emerged, offering both locals and tourists a luxurious and immersive indulgenc… -
Georgia 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides In Cordele
May 31, 26 11:03 AM
While the railroad offers a range of themed trips throughout the year, one of its most crowd-pleasing special events is the Wine & Cheese Train—a short, scenic round trip designed to feel like a tasti… -
Iowa 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 31, 26 10:55 AM
The state not only boasts a burgeoning wine industry but also offers unique experiences such as wine by rail aboard the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad. -
Arizona 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 31, 26 10:47 AM
For those who want to experience the charm of Arizona's wine scene while embracing the romance of rail travel, wine tasting train rides offer a memorable journey through the state's picturesque landsc… -
Atlantic Coast Line Steam Roster (Post 1900)
May 31, 26 10:43 AM
The Atlantic Coast Line Railroad (ACL), operating primarily over the relatively flat terrain of the Southeast from Virginia to Florida and Alabama, built a steam roster emphasizing versatile, efficien… -
Norfolk & Western 611 Debuts In "America250" Livery
May 30, 26 11:19 PM
The Virginia Museum of Transportation has announced that Class J No. 611 will receive a temporary special red, white, and blue livery in celebration of America’s 250th Anniversary. -
Boston & Maine Diesel Roster (All-Time)
May 30, 26 03:08 PM
The Boston & Maine Railroad pioneered dieselization in the Northeast, beginning in the 1930s and completing the transition by the mid-1950s. -
Boston & Maine Steam Roster (Post 1900)
May 30, 26 02:52 PM
The Boston & Maine Railroad (B&M) operated one of New England’s most varied steam locomotive rosters from the late 19th century until the mid-1950s. -
Ohio 'Whiskey Tasting' Train Rides
May 30, 26 11:57 AM
LM&M's Bourbon Train stands out as one of the most distinctive ways to enjoy a relaxing evening out in southwest Ohio: a scenic heritage train ride paired with curated bourbon samples and onboard refr… -
Washington 'Whiskey Tasting' Train Rides
May 30, 26 11:56 AM
Climb aboard the Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad for a whiskey tasting adventure by train!" -
Texas 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 30, 26 11:54 AM
Here’s a comprehensive look into the world of murder mystery dinner trains in Texas. -
Arkansas 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 30, 26 11:51 AM
This article takes you through the experience of wine tasting train rides in Arkansas, highlighting their offerings, routes, and the delightful blend of history, scenery, and flavor that makes them so… -
California 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 30, 26 11:48 AM
This article explores the charm, routes, and offerings of these unique wine tasting trains that traverse California’s picturesque landscapes. -
Wisconsin 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 30, 26 11:44 AM
Wisconsin might not be the first state that comes to mind when one thinks of wine, but this scenic region is increasingly gaining recognition for its unique offerings in viticulture. -
Bessemer & Lake Erie Diesel Roster (All Time)
May 30, 26 11:40 AM
The Bessemer & Lake Erie Railroad (B&LE) transitioned to diesel power efficiently, completing full dieselization in 1953 thanks to its focused heavy-haul profile. -
Bessemer & Lake Erie Steam Roster (Post 1900)
May 30, 26 11:30 AM
The Bessemer & Lake Erie Railroad (B&LE), the vital iron ore and coal hauler linking Lake Erie docks at Conneaut, Ohio, to Pittsburgh-area steel mills, operated one of the most specialized steam fleet… -
Bangor & Aroostook Steam Roster (Post 1900)
May 29, 26 11:48 PM
The Bangor & Aroostook Railroad (BAR), Maine’s legendary potato and paper hauler stretching deep into the Aroostook County wilderness, relied on a compact yet hardworking steam fleet for much of its i… -
Bangor & Aroostook Diesel Roster (All Time)
May 29, 26 11:33 PM
BAR prioritized Electro-Motive Division (EMD) products for their reliability in harsh northern Maine winters and on light branch lines, resulting in a roster heavy on versatile road switchers. -
Western Pacific Timetables (August, 1952)
May 29, 26 10:09 PM
These timetables capture the Western Pacific in the final golden years of its passenger operations—offering travelers one last chance to enjoy the dramatic scenery of the Feather River Route in comfor… -
Maine 'Dinner Train' Rides At Portland
May 29, 26 12:04 PM
While this isn’t generally a “dinner train” railroad in the traditional sense—no multi-course meal served en route—Maine Narrow Gauge does offer several popular ride experiences where food and drink a…
