While you might not know it at first glance, the rolling hills of Upstate New York hide a rich and fascinating history of trains and railroads! After all, the ‘iron horse’ played a pivotal role in shaping the communities, economies, and landscapes of the entire Hudson Valley region.

Journey along as we explore the tracks of time and uncover the enduring legacy of trains in Washington County!

Pictured: An authentic Delaware & Hudson Railroad railcar housed at the Skenesborough Museum in Whitehall, NY

While Washington County, NY enjoyed increased trade due to its proximity to major markets and the Champlain Canal (completed in 1823), the arrival of local railroads two decades later completely changed the game. Even previously isolated towns became connected, opening up new and faster routes for both trade and travel.

One of the earliest railroads in New York was the Saratoga and Washington Railroad, opened in 1848 to connect Saratoga Springs to Whitehall, NY. Additionally, the Greenwich and Johnsonville Railway (G&J) connected those two towns to the south. Eventually, both of those lines were incorporated into the Delaware & Hudson (D&H) Railroad.

Steadily, D&H grew into a major railroad company by acquiring or building tracks throughout the Upper Hudson Valley, including those in Fort Edward and Glens Falls. Want to experience the charm of Washington County’s railroads in their heyday? View the online collection of photos by Jim Shaughnessy, renowned railfan and train photographer.

In our modern era, near the banks of the Battenkill in Greenwich you’ll still find the infrastructure for the Batten Kill Railroad, a relatively new line that began in the 1980’s after Ronald E. Crowd bought a branch line being sold off by D&H.

Pictured: The Station House Bed & Breakfast, accommodations within a renovated former D&H train station

Nowadays, most of the local railcards no longer run passenger lines, only cargo. Yet this area is now served by Amtrak, whose Adirondack line travels daily from New York City to Montreal. Along the way, it stops in two Washington County towns: Fort Edward and Whitehall. Amtrak’s Ethan Allen Express also stops in Fort Edward.

Yet today, remnants of our rich railroad heritage can still be found in nearly every corner of the county.

In Fort Edward, visitors will find a charmingly historic Delaware and Hudson Railroad depot, built in 1900. Modern routes run out of a concrete platform adjacent to the original D&H depot, allowing it to be preserved and admired for future generations. Plus, this depot is also now home to Evergreen Bicycle Works, partially due to its close proximity to the Empire State Trail!

On the other side of the county, you’ll find several other train depots that have withstood the test of time, in one form or another! Stop by Salem, NY to visit the 1852 Rail Yard historic marker, which illuminates the town’s railroad history. Then, visit Cambridge, NY for a pint or a bite at the historic Cambridge Depot. Inspired by local Victorian architecture, this beautiful D&H Passenger Depot served thousands of visitors (including Mark Twain and Susan B. Anthony!) until passenger train service to Cambridge ended in 1933.

Of course, that’s not all there is to see in Washington County, NY when it comes to trains! Below, you’ll find several other ways to experience the unique allure of the railways.

Live Like a Victorian At The Station House Bed & Breakfast

Stay in the heart of the ‘Colored Slate Capital of the World’ when you rent one of the historic rooms at the Station House Bed & Breakfast in Granville, NY! This charming rental operates out of a 150+ year old D&H Railroad Station and has been completely renovated back to its Victorian splendor. To top it all off, each of the Station House’s five rooms offer their own distinct charm, historic furnishings and amenities.

Experience the History of Local Trains in the Great Outdoors

If you’re looking for more outdoor adventures related to trains, Washington County’s got you covered for that, too. Also in Granville you’ll find the Slate Valley Rail Trail, a popular trail for year-round recreation that follows the bed of a former D&H rail line stretching between Washington County and our Vermont neighbors.

For a different perspective, explore Hudson Crossing Park, situated on an island between the Champlain Canal and Hudson River! As you stroll along, you’ll see the cut-stone piers of the old trolley trestle that crossed the Hudson, carrying passengers from NY’s Capital region to Lake George. Fun fact: at its height, the Hudson Valley Railroad included more than 100 cars and 130 miles of track, employing more than 500 people!

Additionally, just south of the Northumberland Dam are several scenic spots in the park overlooking the remains of an old railroad bridge, a visual reminder of the long-lasting impact the Greenwich and Johnsonville Railway Company. Keep an eye out for interpretive signage throughout the park to tell you more about how trains and canals shaped our community during this era of “railroad fever.”

Pictured: The view from Hudson Crossing Park of the remnants of the old railroad bridge in early spring

As you can see, Washington County’s railroad history is a journey through time that connects the past to the present. By exploring its remaining landmarks and learning about their historical significance, travelers can experience one of the most unique facets of our county’s rich heritage.

If you’re looking for even more adventures on historic grounds, you’ll find many unforgettable experiences across Washington County, NY! Dive deeper into the past at our memorable museums, or relax and check out our scenic golf courses, world-class wineries, and unique artistic excursions.

Of course, you’ll also find welcoming places to stay, from unique historic stays to traditional bed & breakfasts. You may also want to check out our hiking, fishing, learning, and shopping opportunities. No matter what you choose, you’ll love exploring the incredible variety of experiences Washington County has to offer!