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The Everett Railroad: Operating The Former PRR and H&BTM

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

United States. 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.

The line was named the Everett Railroad after the town of Everett, which was an important hub for the railroad during its early years.

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

In April 1954, the Everett Railroad came into being, stepping in to manage a section of the Huntingdon & Broad Top Mountain near Everett, which had been left behind in May that same year.

Stretching north from where the Pennsylvania Railroad's Mt. Dallas Branch ended at Mount Dallas, this line, close to PA Route 26, had its construction roots back between 1859 and 1863, initially by the Bedford Railroad, later becoming part of the H&BT in 1864.

However, by October 1982, Conrail halted its service on the then-called Mt. Dallas Secondary, effectively cutting off the Everett Railroad from further connectivity, which led to its abandonment.

The saga took a turn in May 1984, with a revival as it picked up a stretch of Conrail's Bedford Secondary between Brooks Mill and Sproul. This link, finished in 1910 by the Bedford and Hollidaysburg Railroad—another precursor to the Pennsylvania Railroad—had once joined the Mt. Dallas Secondary near Bedford until 1982.

Meanwhile, in mid-1982, a different course was charted for another line, the Morrison's Cove Secondary, traveling from Roaring Spring to Curryville and including a small branch to Martinsburg. Local shippers banded together to create the Morrison's Cove Railroad, initially partnering with the Allegheny Southern Railway from September 1982 until the close of 1984. But come January 1, 1985, the Everett Railroad took over operations of this line, which the Pennsylvania Railroad itself had built back in 1871.

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 and Roaring Spring Railroad (H&RS), 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 over a 23-mile line running between Roaring Spring and Martinsburg, Pennsylvania. 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 railroad, the Everett Railroad 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 Railroad 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 Railroad 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 the steam locomotive No. 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

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 Railroad 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 Everett Railroad is a journey worth taking.