Historical Society: Albany and Susquehanna Railroad

The Albany and Susquehanna Railroad: The War for its Control

In 1852 a railroad was proposed to run from Albany to Binghamton to help bring farm products to Albany and NYC, and to bring cheaper coal to Albany. The line was completed in January 1869. “Robber Baron,” James Fisk of the Erie RR tried to get control of the line to connect it to his Erie RR, by controlling the board of directors of the Albany and Susquehanna road. A principal player in cahoots with Fisk was Col. Walter S. Church, a key player in the Anti-Rent wars. In August 1869, a “war” between conflicting boards of directors broke out. This soon spread to violence on the railroad line itself. This is the story of the railroad (better known as the D&H), which is now part of the Helderberg Hudson Rail Trail that runs for Albany to Voorheesville, the struggle for its control, and the outcome.

Presented by Jill Knapp.