The East Broad Top Railroad is the only original narrow-gauge system east of the Mississippi River, and is widely considered to be one of the most intact early industrial sites in the United States.
THE EBT FOundation
Preserving
Protecting
Educating
Entertaining
Creating Economic Opportunity
Saving one of America’s most endangered historic sites, dating from an era when our country transitioned from an agrarian society to an industrial economy
The Significance of the East Broad Top Railroad
The East Broad Top Railroad National Historic Landmark in Orbisonia, Pennsylvania, (hereafter referred to as the EBT) is the oldest surviving narrow-gauge railroad east of the Rocky Mountains. It has been described as an “incomparable national treasure, comprising a site, a set of historic buildings and facilities, a community and a spirit that are – taken together – unique in this country. . . Nowhere in North America does such a complete and original industrial historic site exist.” The EBT was designated as a national historic landmark in 1964 and is nationally significant in the fields of commerce and transportation. The EBT is the best remaining example in the nation of a regional narrow-gauge railroad system. The EBT system probably offers the only opportunity in the nation to tell a comprehensive railroad industry story. The railroad is also a nationally significant, historic industrial workplace where relics from the technological age of steam can still be seen, heard, and smelled.
- United States Department of the Interior National Park Service
Study of Alternatives for the Preservation of the East Broad Top Railroad
December 1990
Featured OPPORTUNITIES
Your support for our commitment to bring the East Broad Top to a robust rebirth will ensure the ultimate success in realizing the potential of one of America’s most endangered, important historical treasures.






Dean Justin Schwartz, PhD
College of Engineering
Penn Sate
Robert (Bob) Casey
United States Senator
John Joyce
United States Congressman
Robert F. Holzweiss, PhD
President, Railway and Locomotive Historical Society
Planning a Visit?
Visit the railroad’s website for information regarding train rides, shop tours, special events, and to book tickets!