Pennsylvania Railroad

1857 PRR

1893 PRR

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JEdgarThomson

PRR Phila NY Coach Ticket c1955

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Pennsylvania Railroad (PRR), also known as the "Pennsy," was once the largest railroad by traffic and revenue in the United States. Established in 1846, the PRR played a crucial role in the development of the United States' transportation infrastructure, contributing significantly to the nation's industrial growth. The railroad served as a vital link between the Eastern Seaboard and the Midwest, operating a vast network of rail lines that facilitated the efficient movement of passengers and freight.

History

The Pennsylvania Railroad was chartered in 1846 to construct a line from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, bridging the gap between the Atlantic Ocean and the Great Lakes. The PRR completed its main line to Pittsburgh in 1852, marking the beginning of its expansion into one of the most extensive railroad networks in the world.

Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the PRR acquired numerous smaller railroads, expanding its reach into major cities such as Philadelphia, New York City, and Chicago. The railroad's innovative practices in management, engineering, and marketing set new standards for the rail industry.

Innovations

The PRR was known for its pioneering engineering feats, including the construction of the Horseshoe Curve near Altoona, Pennsylvania, a marvel of engineering that allowed trains to navigate the steep Allegheny Mountains. The railroad also constructed the Pennsylvania Station in New York City, an iconic Beaux-Arts masterpiece that served as the PRR's crown jewel.

In addition to its engineering achievements, the PRR was a leader in the development of standardized time for railroad operations, which contributed to the establishment of standardized time zones in the United States.

Decline and Legacy

The mid-20th century saw a decline in the railroad industry due to the rise of automobile and air travel. The PRR faced financial difficulties, leading to its merger with its rival, the New York Central Railroad, in 1968 to form the Penn Central Transportation Company. However, the merger did not solve the financial issues, and the Penn Central declared bankruptcy in 1970, marking the largest corporate bankruptcy in U.S. history at the time.

Despite its decline, the legacy of the Pennsylvania Railroad lives on. Many of its former lines are still in use today by freight and passenger trains, including those operated by Amtrak and various regional railroads. The PRR's contributions to the rail industry and its role in the development of the United States' transportation infrastructure are remembered and celebrated by historians and rail enthusiasts alike.

See Also

• Rail transport in the United States
• History of rail transport in the United States
• List of Pennsylvania Railroad predecessor railroads
• Penn Central Transportation Company