Susquehanna Railroad Co. - 1838 dated Obselete Note - Broken Banknote

Good Condition with a missing corner.

The New York, Susquehanna and Western Railway, commonly known as the “Susquehanna” or “Susie-Q,” was established in 1881 through the amalgamation of several smaller railroads. Its primary objective was to transport anthracite coal from Pennsylvania to the port of New Jersey. Initially, the railroad operated as a subsidiary of the Erie Railroad. However, in 1940, after emerging from a bankruptcy reorganization, it began winding down its coal operations in favor of other freight and passenger services. Passenger services, including a bus connection to New York City via the Lincoln Tunnel, continued until they were completely discontinued in 1966 due to financial losses and declining ridership. Subsequently, the railroad focused solely on freight operations but faced persistent financial challenges that ultimately led to a second bankruptcy in 1976.

In 1980, the New York, Susquehanna and Western Railway was acquired by the Delaware Otsego Corporation, which resulted in a substantial reorganization and expansion of its operations. Today, the NYS&W operates as a Class II freight railway, spanning over 400 miles of track across New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. It is renowned for its larger size, increased tonnage, and enhanced profitability compared to any previous period in its history. The railroad serves a diverse clientele of over 85 customers, transporting a wide range of commodities, including feed ingredients, lumber, plastics, motor vehicles, chemicals, and aggregates. The NYS&W headquarters are located in Cooperstown, New York, and detailed information about the railway’s services and routes can be found on its official website.