Erie Lackawanna, The Friendly Service Route, 1964 to 1976

The Erie-Lackawanna offered commuters an “on-time” ride. Shippers received excellent service, not to mention an alternative to Penn Central. And, until 1970, long distance passengers were afforded views of some of the best scenery east of the Rockies. A mix of old and newer diesel models, colorfully painted and clean more often than not, helped make the line a favorite among camera fans.
Chronologically following our program “before the hyphen”. This volume covers 1964-1976. Watch and ride “Phoebe Snow”, “Owl”, and “Lake Cities”. Visit busy Marion, Ohio. Triple meets converge on the Bergen tunnels. And nearly the entire freight roster rolls by: Fs and FAs; GP and RS units; C-425s U33C and SD-45 models. M of W gandy dancers pound spikes, and crews hustle to complete a bridge installation before the monday morning rush.

The E-L has now been gone for more years than she existed, but most of the east end at least still serves an important transportation function. These scenes will rekindle memories for some and serve to educate those of the 21st Century.