Lamoille Valley

Company History: The 96 miles of track across the top of Vermont has been operated by a number of railroads throughout its history. Up until 1925 it was part of the Boston & Maine. Then it operated as the St. Johnsbury and Lake Champlain. Bankruptcy in 1944 led to a reorganization and a name change to the St. Johnsbury and Lamoille County. Orange and cream GE 70 tonners plied the rails until 1967, when Samuel Pinsley purchased the line on the verge of abandonment. Pinsley family red GP9s and RS3s operated the deteriorating railroad until 1972.

The Lamoille Valley Railroad Company took over operations from the Vermont Northern starting January 1, 1978. The LVRC was given a 10 year lease from the State of Vermont and the money to rebuild the entire 96 mile rail line. In addition, operating subsidies were provided in an effort get the line up and running. Motive power again came from the Delaware & Hudson. Four RS3s were repainted into a yellow with green stripe and lettering scheme. In addition, 100 50' IPD boxcars were leased, painted into the same yellow and green scheme, assuring cars for local shippers.

In 1989, when the B&M (Guilford) sold off its lines in northern New Hampshire (Woodsville to Berlin and Groveton), this trackage plus the Twin State RR and LVRC were acquired by CSF Acquisitions and the entire operation became the New Hampshire & Vermont Railroad. The LVRC ceased as a separate railroad entity, although the line west of St. Johnsbury still retained this name and passenger excursions continued for a few more years. No freight customers existed west of St. J.

Finally the axe fell on the line when the Vermont legislature granted authority to turn the eastern end, Morrisville to St. J, into a snow trail. All rail and ties were pulled up. Fisher Bridge will remain in place. The western section, Morrisville to Sheldon, will be left as is in hopes of restoring rail service and supporting business and the local economy.

From The Northeast Kingdom Railroad

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