NYO&W Railway Ceases Operations

July 2, 1966, saw the final trains of the New York, Ontario and Western Railway, known for its scenic routes through the Catskills. Financial struggles from truck competition and declining coal traffic led to bankruptcy. The line had used 4-8-2 Mountain locomotives and served dairy and passenger markets. Its closure symbolized mid-century rail rationalization and inspired railfan preservation efforts, with segments later converted to trails.