By Kate Bartlett
The New York & Lake Erie Railroad has been in operation since 1978, offering some of the most unique railroad features in the area. What was once a freight train line is now operating as a passenger train railroad for events and unique experiences with 92 events this year alone.
(1983) and Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987). President Fillmore and
Daniel Webster have both taken rides on this railroad.
This branch of the New York and Lake Erie Railroad was founded 47 years ago operating as a freight train line with stops in Gowanda, Cattaraugus, Waterboro near Kennedy and Salamanca. Over the years, portions of the railroad were sold off as it became less operational. The Little Valley to Salamanca line became the Pat McGee Trail while other areas fell into disrepair. “The railroad went through many transitions,” explains Mel Shaw, Customer Relations Specialist for the Railroad. “It was once very busy, then slowed, and now has entered into a period of preservation of sorts.”
The New York and Lake Erie Railroad offers some of the most unique features of its kind in the area. It holds the steepest grade in the mainline railroad east of the Mississippi and passes through a stone tunnel 97 feet long that was built in the 1860’s. It was featured in 2 movies: The Natural (1983) and Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987). President Fillmore and Daniel Webster have both taken rides on this railroad.
The Gowanda to South Dayton line of the New York and Lake Erie Railroad remains in operation as a passenger train with 92 events annually. The railroad runs various seasonal events including Easter, Christmas, Mother’s Day and their upcoming Murder Mystery train ride starting March 8th and run-ning through November.
The Murder Mystery runs shows from March 8-November November 1, Matriarch Mayhem and Ma-ma Mia Mayhem are a couple of the examples, both performed by the comedy club “In All Serious-ness.” This 5-hour catered event kicks off with dinner at 5pm at the Gowanda Moose (menu to be announced closer to the event). Trains depart at approximately 6:30pm for a 2 hour round trip from Gowanda to South Dayton and back, with dessert at 8:30 back at the Moose. “It’s a unique and engaging experience,” says Mel. “It’s definitely something everyone should try at least once.”
For more information follow on Facebook or visit www.nylerailroad.com or call 716-532-5242.