Fallen Flags

The Pennsylvania Railroad (PRR), founded in 1846, grew from a regional transportation venture into the largest corporation of its era, ultimately leading to its ill-fated merger with the New York Central Railroad in 1968. This comprehensive history explores its strategic rise, dominance, and eventual collapse into the Penn Central Transportation Company. From Early Growth to […]

Bridging Horizons: The Erie Railroad’s Path of Innovation The Erie Railroad, one of the earliest and most influential railroads in the United States, was established to link the Atlantic seaboard with the interior of the country. Formed in the early 19th century, its history illustrates the pivotal role of rail transport in shaping American industry,

The transformation of the Delaware & Hudson Canal Company into the Delaware & Hudson Railroad is a compelling story of industrial evolution, reflecting the shift from water-based to rail-based transportation in the 19th century. This transformation was driven by technological advances, economic pressures, and the changing landscape of American industry. Origins of the Delaware &

The rhythmic clack of iron wheels against steel rails, the billowing plumes of smoke, the whistle echoing through valleys – these are the evocative sounds of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad (B&O), the first common carrier railroad in the United States. Born in 1830, the B&O’s story is one of innovation, transformation, and deep involvement

In railroading, a fallen flag is the term for a railroad company that has ceased to operate, either through bankruptcy, merger, acquisition, or a combination of all of these. If you were to ask any rail fan, they will all have a favorite fallen flag, sometimes more than one.