Arcade & Attica Railroad

ncorporated in 1917, the Arcade & Attica Railroad remains an active freight hauler but also holds a distinction as the last operator of steam passenger excursions in the state of New York. Freight service operates from an interchange with regional Buffalo & Pittsburgh at Arcade Junction, New York, 15 miles to North Java. But the shortline primarily runs excursion trains between Arcade and Curriers, a ride of 7 miles and the source of most of the company's revenue. Originating pike Tonawanda Valley Railroad was organized in 1880 and ran a 3' gauge line between Attica and Curriers, and another railroad soon extended that line to namesake Arcade. The following decades saw expansion, contraction, and reorganizations under various names, until the present Arcade & Attica was organized in 1917 to purchase and operate the property. The northernmost 17 miles, from Attica south, were abandoned in 1957. Regular passenger service ended earlier in 1951, but excursion service began by 1962 with the purchase of second-hand steam locomotives. An enginehouse for steam and diesel work is maintained in Arcade. The company remains independent.