The corporate history of the Niles and New Lisbon Railroad is convoluted and complex. The 1850’s and 60’s saw struggles by three interdependent Ohio corporations to construct the rail line. At the same time, two large rail systems (the Erie Railway and the Atlantic & Great Western) vied for control of the railroad line as those systems fought for regional dominance. Beginning in 1872, control of the Niles & New Lisbon passed through a succession of large rail companies suffering bankruptcy and reorganization. Finally, with the 1896 lease of the Nypano Railroad to the Erie Railroad, control of the Niles and New Lisbon passed to the Erie, where it remained for most of the 20th century.

5th Annual Report of the Commissioner of Railroads and Telegraphs of the State of Ohio, Year Ending June 30, 1871, Niles & New Lisbon Railway, Pages 184-189

In 1867 Ohio began producing annual reports summarizing corporate, financial, engineering and operational information for each railroad company in the state. These reports contain a wealth of detailed information, especially for small, independent railroads, like the Niles & New Lisbon Railway. 

While researching the Erie RR Lisbon Branch a couple years ago, a reference was found in an 1865 New Lisbon newspaper regarding a locomotive called the “John Young,” the first locomotive used on the line. The following information has been pieced together regarding this engine.

Niles & New Lisbon Railroad trains began transporting US mail in August 1870, picking up and distributing mail to each town along the line.

From the 1870's to mid 20th century, Niles & New Lisbon Railroad offered express service for less-than-carload shipments.  

The Niles & New Lisbon, the Pittsburgh, Ft. Wayne & Chicago and two private railroads stayed busy switching coal, ore, limestone, coke and iron at Leetonia's iron industries.

Mel Straley grew up in Austintown, Ohio, just a stone's throw from the Erie Railroad crossing at South Turner Road.  Thanks to Mel and his son, Bob, for these images.

Mr. Bud Puskarich is well known for his NE Ohio railroad photos.  He has kindly allowed posting of his Lisbon Branch images from the 1970's and early 1980's.    

Over some 40 years, the N&NL carried tens of thousands of happy passengers to a day of picnicking, boating, swimming and fun at Shelton's Grove.

The Niles & New Lisbon Railroad served dozens of mines along its 35-mile route.  Chris Schmuck's Area Coal Mines and Railroads website provides a comprehensive mapping of those operations.

Trackside water tanks, to replenish water supply on steam locomotives, were a fixture on the Niles & New Lisbon Railroad.  

From time to time new topics will be added to this Additional Information page.  Check back periodically to see what's new.

From time to time new topics will be added to this Additional Information page.  Check back periodically to see what's new.  

From time to time new topics will be added to this Additional Information page.  Check back periodically to see what's new.