Railpace, Covering Northeastern Railroads
Railpace NewsMagazine, like Trains and Railfan & Railroad, is geared towards railfans with a wide range of subjects to interest readers. There are topics concerning the latest in news, articles highlighting historic subjects, preservation efforts, noteworthy locomotives, and much more. The various angles, of course, are meant to attract a broad audience. However, Railpace is unique in that it focuses exclusively on railroads of the Northeast with a slogan, "The Northeast's Own Rail Newsmagazine." Perhaps more than any other, this region offered the greatest and most interesting types of rail operations. Historically, it was highly diversified, ranging from anthracite coal carriers to local streetcar systems. For instance, according to Dr. George Hilton and John Due's authoritative piece, "The Electric Interurban Railways In America," the state of Massachusetts enjoyed the densest coverage, per capita, of electrified interurbans and streetcars in the country. At its peak it contained some 3,056 miles (1917), earning it the distinction as the only state to have more electrified railroads than traditional, steam-powered lines. The Northeast was also once a mecca of manufacturing, served by names like the Boston & Maine; Maine Central; New York, New Haven & Hartford; Rutland; Central Vermont; Lehigh Valley; and New York, Ontario & Western. These, and many others, have long since disappeared as manufacturing dried up and other transportation modes took root. All in all, if you enjoy Northeastern railroading and a more “down home” periodical you shouldn’t be disappointed with Railpace.
Compared to Trains, Railpace is a relatively young magazine. The industry's leading publication has been in print since November, 1940 (when its first issue went on sale at just $0.25!); there was also a preview copy released earlier that year. Since its inception, Trains has been produced by Kalmbach Publishing Company, the vision of Al C. Kalmbach, and thoroughly covered the United States rail industry since that time. Over the last 70+ years Trains has always been based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, witnessing railroading's highest of highs (peak traffic periods during World War II) and lowest of lows (the tumultuous 1960s and 1970s). For instance, if you enjoy rail history, try and find older volumes on the magazine which predate, say the 1980s (they can usually be found at antique stores, or the easiest method, eBay). The first issue of Railpace was released in May, 1982 (at just $2.00!) with a featured piece covering the Lehigh & Hudson River Railway entitled, "The Bridge Line: The L&HR Story."
In a microcosm, this story highlighted everything Railpace is about, Northeastern railroading. The L&HR was, at its zenith, only 85.8 miles in length connecting Phillipsburg, New Jersey/Easton, Pennsylvania with Maybrook, New York. Its main line ran at roughly a diagonal through the Garden State's northwestern corner. Its original purpose was to handle anthracite coal, a once vital commodity used predominantly for heating fuel. The product was primarily found in northeastern Pennsylvania and carried by the following railroads; Central Railroad of New Jersey; Delaware & Hudson; Delaware, Lackawanna & Western; Lehigh & New England Lehigh Valley; New York, Ontario & Western; and Reading. As demand for anthracite as an in-door heating source ebbed, the L&HR looked for other business. For several years it did relatively well as a bridge line until finally declaring bankruptcy during the early 1970's. It went on to join the newly formed Conrail a few years later. Today, few traces of the road remain intact. "The Bridge Line: The L&HR Story" was written by Greg Liakakos. Interestingly, the nearby L&NE was also covered in the same volume, "The L&NE Story: The New Century," by Greg Buchala and Frederick Deibert.
The volume concluded by highlighting the Jersey Central. In the initial issue, editor Tom Nemeth wrote an editorial entitled "Welcome Aboard....." describing exactly what Railpace was all about: "It is our pleasure to welcome you to the premier edition of RAILPACE NEWSMAGAZINE. We have assembled some terrific talent to bring you, monthly, an exciting combination of historical features, technical, and prototype-modeling articles, and contemporary rail news. We feature the railroads that serve and have served the northeastern quadrant of the United States, and we endeavor to promote the activities and accomplishments of organized railroad historical societies in the area.
With your interest, enthusiasm and contributions, we can make RAILPACE NEWSMAGAZINE a publication to be proud of.
-- Tom Nemeth --
Editor"
Since that first edition of so long ago, Railpace continues to remain the product of Mr. Tom Nemeth. However, lead photographers, writers, and others involved in the magazine have changed throughout the years; some have passed while others have moved on. Some of these names include Kermit Geary Sr., Homer Hill, Pete Roehm, and Gerry Williams. Perhaps most notable of the early contributors was Mr. Jim Shaughnessy, a legendary photographer who has captured thousands of scenes trackside, particularly in the Northeast, since the 1950's. His works have been featured in books, magazines, and other print media for decades and will certainly continue to be for years to come. He was particularly fond of the Delaware & Hudson. The D&H was a unique railroad, operating from the Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania area to Montreal, Quebec while passing through New York and parts of Vermont. It remains our country’s oldest surviving transportation company and has been a corporate entity in three different centuries. Launched as a canal/rail operation in the 1820's to serve anthracite coal, it would later transition to an all-rail corridor and eventually amassed a network of 756 miles by 1956. As demand for anthracite declined it struggled in the postwar years and was eventually purchased by a private investor who later sold the property to Canadian Pacific. In 2015 part of its original main line was acquired by Norfolk Southern.
Shaughnessy captured the D&H during its glory days of the mid-20th century, and continued to do so until the company's corporate image disappeared with its 1981 acquisition by Guilford Transportation. Today, Railpace remains a top-notch publication that still focuses on a core group of writers/photographers, all of whom do an excellent job covering Northeastern railroads; names like Dale Woodland, Andy Kirk, and Lee Gregory. In particular is Mr. Woodland who has written a number of books over the years such as "Railroads Of The Ohio Valley, 1947-1960: Book Two, Huntington, West Virginia to Cincinnati, Ohio"; "The Reading: In The Conrail Era, Book One"; "Reading Diesels, Volume 1: The First Generation"; and "Reading Diesels, Volume 2: The Second Generation." The Reading was another fabled Northeastern systme, which typified the so-called anthracite railroad. After the Delaware & Hudson Canal Company proved just how high demand had soared for this clean burning coal, the state Pennsylvania authorized construction of the Philadelphia & Reading Railroad on April 4, 1833. This newfangled technology could run in every type of weather as the Baltimore & Ohio, Mohawk & Hudson, South Carolina Canal & Rail Road, and others were all proving. In addition, it could overcome the obstacles of winter operations.
The P&R proved an interesting operation; it would eventually blossom into a powerful system that carried a virtual monopoly on anthracite. This vast wealth enabled it to gain control of most its surrounding competitors. However, it was largely devoid of a main line except for a small spine west of Philadelphia, linking to Harrisburg, the state capital. Alas, the financial Panic of 1893 brought down the empire whereupon it was reorganized as the Reading Company. The railroad never again held such power and during the 20th century was largely relegated to playing a regional role. Following Penn Central's collapse the Reading fell into bankruptcy in 1971. With a reeling situation in the Northeast, Conrail was formed to clean up the mess. The Reading was included in the new government-sponsored operation, which ultimately retained many of its principle lines. If you live outside the Northeast, or far away from a local hobby shop, picking up a copy of Railpace can be somewhat difficult as it is not as readily available as other magazines like Trains, Railfan & Railroad, or The Railroad Press. However, the magazine now offers digital copies allowing you to grab the latest edition immediately! To learn more and/or subscribe please click here to visit their website.
Recent Articles
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Amtrak Timetables (May, 1972)
May 26, 26 12:19 AM
Presented here is Amtrak's complete timetable listing from the May, 1972 edition of "The Official Guide Of The Railways." -
Pennsylvania Independence Day Train Rides
May 25, 26 11:58 AM
Pennsylvania’s rich railroad heritage comes alive every Independence Day, but 2026—the nation’s semiquincentennial—offers extra patriotic flair. -
Ohio 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 25, 26 11:40 AM
For those enamored with tales of the Old West, Ohio's railroad experiences offer a unique blend of history, adventure, and natural beauty. -
New York 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 25, 26 11:37 AM
Join us as we explore wild west train rides in New York, bringing history to life and offering a memorable escape to another era. -
Kentucky "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 25, 26 11:34 AM
Kentucky offers a variety of historic and scenic train excursions that provide an unforgettable way to honor and spend quality time with fathers. -
Kansas "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 25, 26 11:33 AM
In this guide, we'll explore some of the best train rides available for Father's Day in Kansas. -
Vermont Independence Day Train Rides
May 25, 26 11:21 AM
On Independence Day, elements come together to offer a unique experience in Vermont: train rides that combine scenic beauty with patriotic celebrations. -
Georgia Independence Day Train Rides
May 24, 26 12:26 PM
As the 4th of July approaches in 2026, the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway in Blue Ridge, Georgia, invites you to celebrate America in true patriotic style aboard its Firecracker Special. -
Illinois Independence Day Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:58 AM
As America gears up for the 4th of July in 2026, the Illinois Railway Museum (IRM) in Union, Illinois, offers the perfect blend of patriotic festivities, family-friendly excitement, and living railroa… -
Alabama Independence Day Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:55 AM
For those seeking a unique way to celebrate the Fourth of July, Alabama offers a distinctive experience: honoring veterans and active military personnel on Independence Day by train. -
Ohio Independence Day Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:47 AM
In this guide, we will explore some of the best Independence Day train ride experiences available in Ohio. -
Alabama 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:45 AM
Although Alabama isn't the traditional setting for Wild West tales, the state provides its own flavor of historic rail adventures that draw enthusiasts year-round. -
Missouri 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:29 AM
In Missouri, a state rich in history and natural beauty, you can experience the thrill of a bygone era through the scenic and immersive Wild West train rides. -
Indiana 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:27 AM
Indiana offers a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of the Wild West through its captivating train rides. -
Independence Day Train Rides (2026): A Complete Guide
May 24, 26 11:25 AM
Americans celebrate Independence Day with fireworks, barbecues, and parades, but there's another unique way to experience the spirit of freedom: train rides. -
Illinois 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:23 AM
If you're in Illinois and searching for something distinctive, consider taking your dad on a train ride through the picturesque landscapes of the Prairie State. -
Florida 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:21 AM
For those looking for something a little different this year, why not consider celebrating dad on Father's Day by train? -
South Dakota 'Beer Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:51 PM
While the 1880 Train's regular runs are a treat in any season, the Oktoberfest Express adds an extra layer of fun: German-inspired food, seasonal beer, and live polka set against the sound and spectac… -
Michigan 'Beer Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:49 PM
If you’re looking for a pure slice of autumn in West Michigan, the Coopersville & Marne Railway (C&M) has a themed excursion that fits the season perfectly: the Oktoberfest Exp… -
Indiana 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:47 PM
This piece explores the allure of murder mystery trains and why they are becoming a must-try experience for enthusiasts and casual travelers alike. -
Maryland 'Ice Cream' Tasting Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:46 PM
Among WMSR's shorter outings, one event punches well above its “simple fun” weight class: the Ice Cream Train. -
Colorado 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:43 PM
With its rugged mountains, rich railroading history, and picturesque landscapes, Colorado sets the perfect stage for a memorable Father's Day outing aboard a vintage train. -
California 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:41 PM
Celebrate and honor dad by train on a scenic rail experience! Find out which locations in California host these unique trips. -
Kentucky 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:40 PM
Kentucky, often celebrated for its rolling pastures, thoroughbred horses, and bourbon legacy, has been cultivating another gem in its storied landscapes; enjoying wine by rail. -
Florida 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 11:56 AM
Wine by train not only showcases the beauty of Florida's lesser-known regions but also celebrate the growing importance of local wineries and vineyards. -
Southern 2-8-2 4501 Debuts In "Virginia Green"
May 23, 26 11:54 AM
Southern Railway 2-8-2 #4501 debuted in its return to Virginia Green at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum today, May 23, 2026. -
NS Unveils First America250 Locomotive: 1776, "The Bell"
May 22, 26 11:15 PM
On May 22, 2026 Norfolk Southern unveiled its first in the America250 heritage locomotives series, 1776, "The Bell". -
Reading & Northern Issues Safety Directive Ahead Of 4014 Visit
May 22, 26 12:01 PM
With thousands of tickets sold for its upcoming series of Semiquincentennial Steam Celebration excursions, Reading & Northern Railroad is also anticipating thousands more trackside spectators to bear… -
Ohio 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:36 AM
The murder mystery dinner train rides in Ohio provide an immersive experience that combines fine dining, an engaging narrative, and the beauty of Ohio's landscapes. -
Tennessee 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:31 AM
Amidst the rolling hills and scenic landscapes of Tennessee, an exhilarating and interactive experience awaits those with a taste for mystery and intrigue. -
Alabama 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:29 AM
Alabama, with its rich railway heritage and scenic countryside, is a wonderful way to experience by train. One location even hosts a special trip for Father's Day! -
North Carolina 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:26 AM
Celebrating dad on a scenic train in North Carolina can be found at the New Hope Valley Railway which hosts a special event for the day. -
Texas 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:25 AM
This article invites you on a metaphorical journey through some of these unique wine tasting train experiences in Texas. -
New York 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:22 AM
This article will delve into the history, offerings, and appeal of wine tasting trains in New York, guiding you through a unique experience that combines the romance of the rails with the sophisticati… -
The Spirit of America: George H.W. Bush’s 1992 Campaign Train
May 22, 26 11:11 AM
In the fading days of summer 1992, President George H. W. Bush embarked on a classic American political tradition: the whistle-stop tour. -
Burlington Northern Timetables (May, 1972)
May 21, 26 11:56 PM
Presented here is the Burlington Northern's condensed freight timetables from the May, 1972 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways." -
Whiskey Tasting Train Rides (2026)
May 21, 26 11:12 PM
These rides across the United States offer a sensory journey through lush landscapes and historical corridors, often pairing scenic vistas with curated whiskey tastings. -
Father's Day Train Ride Locations (2026)
May 21, 26 10:54 PM
Celebrate dad by train! Several heritage railroads and museums host trips honoring dads. Learn more about which locations offer such excursions. -
The Chessie Safety Express: Steam-Powered Advocacy for Railroad Safety
May 21, 26 10:44 PM
In the fall of 1980, a gleaming Chesapeake & Ohio (C&O) 4-8-4 steam locomotive named No. 614 thundered across the rails of the Chessie System, pulling a colorful consist of passenger cars filled with… -
Frankfort and Cincinnati Railroad: "The Kentucky Midland Route"
May 21, 26 06:08 PM
The Frankfort & Cincinnati was a small shortline located in north-central Kentucky that was known as "The Whiskey Route" for the many distilleries it served. The F&C shutdown in 1985. -
North Carolina 'Whiskey Tasting' Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:43 PM
One of the GSMR's most distinctive special events is Spirits on the Rail, a bourbon-focused dining experience built around curated drinks and a chef-prepared multi-course meal. -
Connecticut 'Whiskey Tasting' Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:42 PM
While the Naugatuck Railroad runs a variety of trips throughout the year, one event has quickly become a “circle it on the calendar” outing for fans of great food and spirited tastings: the BBQ & Bour… -
Kansas "Dinner" Train Rides From Abilene
May 21, 26 12:37 PM
If you’re looking for a heritage railroad that feels authentically Kansas—equal parts prairie scenery, small-town history, and hands-on railroading—the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad delivers. -
Vermont "Dinner" Train Rides At Burlington
May 21, 26 12:34 PM
There is one location in Vermont hosting a dedicated dinner train experience at the Green Mountain Railroad. -
New Jersey "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:24 PM
There are a few locations in New Jersey celebrating dads with a train ride. Learn more about these unique trips here! -
Massachusetts "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:16 PM
The Cape Cod Central is the one location in the state hosting an event just for dads, a special brunch train. Learn more here! -
Historic Steam Locomotive Heads To Charleston For America250 Exhibit
May 21, 26 11:58 AM
A rare piece of West Virginia industrial history, an 0-4-0F fireless steam locomotive by H.K. Porter in 1945, is being installed near the West Virginia State Capitol Complex in Charleston as part of a… -
Connecticut 'Dinner' Train Rides At Essex
May 20, 26 11:55 AM
Connecticut's rail heritage can be traced back to the industry's earliest days and a few organizations preserve this rich history by offering train rides. The Essex Steam Train also hosts dinner-theme… -
Arkansas 'Dinner 'Train Rides On The A&M
May 20, 26 11:54 AM
If you want a railroad experience that feels equal parts “working short line” and “time machine,” the Arkansas & Missouri Railroad delivers in a way few modern operations can. -
Illinois 'Dinner' Train Rides At The MRM
May 20, 26 11:52 AM
The Monticello Railway Museum (MRM) is one of those places that quietly does a lot: it preserves a sizable collection, maintains its own operating railroad, and—most importantly for visitors—puts hist…
