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In the midst of the Appalachians in the South-Western part of the US state of
Pennsylvania is Raystown country, lonely country full of natural beauty and
historically interesting sites around Raystown Lake, some 50 Km long. The quiet
attractions of this area include the numerous historical "covered
bridges" which became world famous long before the film, "The Bridges
of Madison County".
A
“covered bridge” in Raystown Country
Unique
Gem
The
"East Broad Top Railroad", a narrow-gauge steam railroad in the former
coal and iron ore mining area of this region, is a unique gem for lovers of
historical railroads and American industrial history.
The line once linked the
mines of Orbisonia to the main Pennsylvania railroad line in Mount Union.
Unlike other lines of this type, its historical structures, coaches and
locomotives remained almost completely preserved after it was finally closed in
1956.
Built in 1901: a Baldwin
4-6-0 narrow gauge loco
The Headquarters
of East Broad Top RR: Orbisonia Station
The scrap
merchant who bought it at that time hoped it would be taken back into
commission
because there were still 22 million tons of coal waiting to be taken
away
from
the mine at Orbisonia.
In the meantime, the coal was taken away by truck and the
line became overgrown with trees. Only recently it has been partly restored by
enthusiasts and made into a preserved line. It is possible to experience a
unique historical railway atmosphere live here. How long
this line will stay open is debatable, because it can hardly operate at a profit
so far from the tourist track.
Evening at Raystown Lake
Recommended Lodging in the area: "Raystown Lodge", overlooking Raystown lake.
Charming "Bed and breakfast" places are available around Raystown Lake
as well.
Powerboat-Fun on Raystown Lake
You can reach Raystown Country via Interstate 70 (Pennsylvania
Turnpike), Exit 13, take route 522 north and route 994 west.
Just a couple of hours away - the boardwalks of the Delaware Atlantic Coast.
Disclaimer
© Dr. Martin Hoppe 2001-2002
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