First Train on Attica and Buffalo Railroad

On June 18, 1846, the first revenue train operated over the newly completed Attica and Buffalo Railroad, connecting the village of Attica with the growing city of Buffalo. This 31-mile line helped knit together western New York’s agricultural and commercial centers and later became part of the New York Central system. The railroad used wood-burning 4-4-0 locomotives typical of the era and faced engineering challenges crossing the Tonawanda Creek valley. Its opening accelerated settlement and trade, foreshadowing the dense rail network that would soon crisscross the state.