Remembering the New York, Ontario & Western Railway: Oswego to Sidney & Branches

The New York & Oswego Midland Railroad was born out of a necessity to connect the port of Oswego (on Lake Ontario) with the great port of New York City by the most direct route. It was conceived as an “airline” railroad – and rival to the New York Central Railroad. Its route, however, ending up meandering from one small community to the next so that forever after its operation was of minor competitive harm to the Central Road. This was the railroad that was inherited by the New York, Ontario & Western Railway when a group of investors purchased the Midland at a foreclosure sale in 1879. For 78 years, the O & W could never shake itself from the inferior route of its predecessor, yet, along the way, residents of its communities fell in love with its quintessential charm. The O & W was their railroad and they supported it as best they could.

This is the story of the O & W’s trials, tribulations, and success on its lines north of Sidney, New York. Because of its dedication to service, it is still beloved after nearly 70 years.