The Delaware County Historical Association will welcome Mark Kennaugh, well-known aficionado and historian of the O&W on Saturday afternoon August 9 at 2pm. Mark will deliver an informative Powerpoint presentation concerning the history of the O&W Railway’s Walton – Delhi branch, covering in particular the section from Hamden to Delhi.
The Ontario and Western, originally known as the New York and Oswego Midland, was completed in 1873, connecting Weehawken, NJ to Oswego, NY. The line ran through Hancock, Walton and Sidney in southern and western Delaware County with a branch line connecting Walton and Delhi. The line provided an immediate boost to the county and the towns it passed through, particularly its agriculture sector. Over the years the line earned numerous nicknames, including the “Old and Weary,” “Old Woman” and “Off and Walk.” Unfortunately, the O&W was not able to survive the competition of the automobile and the last passenger train traveled along its route in 1953. The railroad then operated as freight only until the abandonment of the entire line in 1957.
Mark Kennaugh is a member of the O&W Railway Historical Society. His presentation will take place at the Delaware County Historical Association, located on State Rt. 10 approximately 2.5 miles north of the village of Delhi. For more information on the above event please contact the Delaware County Historical Association at (607) 746-3849, or e-mail: dcha@delhi.net (on the web at: www.dcha-ny.org ).
Those planning to attend are invited to bring any historic items or artifacts they may have that highlight the history of the O&W Railroad. Refreshments served. Free and open to the public.
