The East Broad Top Railroad
What is the EBT?
The East Broad Top Railroad is a treasure of American history — a family-friendly destination, a National Historic Landmark, a hub for community volunteers, and a remarkable preservation effort. Established in 1872, it remains the only operational narrow-gauge common carrier railroad east of the Rocky Mountains. As a living testament to America’s industrial past, the railroad offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore its pivotal role in shaping regional commerce, transportation, and technological innovation.
History Of the Railroad
2020- Present
The Foundation Era
Since being acquired by the East Broad Top Foundation in 2020, the East Broad Top Railroad has undergone major restoration of its track, facilities, and equipment. Steam service returned in 2023 with Locomotive No. 16, which was briefly sidelined in 2024 for repairs before resuming operations. Work is ongoing to reopen the track south of Rockhill Furnace, and the railroad has regained national attention as both a historic landmark and a growing attraction for the region.
1956 - 2020
The Kovalchick Era
In 1971, the East Broad Top Railroad formally rescinded its plans for abandonment, preserving its legacy. Friends of the EBT (FEBT) was established in 1982 and soon began restoration efforts, including leasing the Robertsdale station and starting work in Rockhill in 2002. Although regular train operations paused after the 2011 season, FEBT volunteers continued vital restoration projects. In 2020, the EBT Foundation purchased the railroad, securing its future as a historic and cultural treasure.
1927-1956
End of An Era
In 1927, the East Broad Top Railroad built the M-1, a one-of-a-kind gas-electric railcar for narrow-gauge lines, combining passenger, freight, and mail service. Railfan trips began in 1936, and the last branch line was added in 1942. Regular passenger service ended in 1953, and with coal traffic dwindling, the railroad filed for abandonment in 1955. Operations officially ceased in 1956, but the Kovalchick Salvage Company acquired the railroad, preserving its assets rather than scrapping them.
1906-1925
Common Carrier Era
In 1906, the East Broad Top Railroad built its station in Rockhill Furnace. To avoid confusion with another destination called “Rockhill,” the station is eventually named “Orbisonia,” after the larger town on the other side of Blacklog Creek. Key advancements followed, including the arrival of Mikado locomotives starting in 1911, the construction of steel hopper cars in 1913, and the Timber Transfer crane in 1924, which enabled innovative railcar transfers. By 1925, the addition of a coal-cleaning plant and dual-gauge yard in Mount Union enhanced the railroad’s capacity to process and transport coal efficiently.
1900-1903
Innovation & Modernization
In 1900, the first fire-brick plant opened in Mount Union, shifting the East Broad Top Railroad’s focus to transporting coal and ganister rock for fire-brick production after the Rockhill Iron Furnace became uncompetitive. In 1903, Robert Seibert became the EBT’s president and initiated a major modernization campaign, upgrading tracks, bridges, locomotives, rolling stock, and repair facilities, shaping the railroad into what it is today.
1856-1900
Birth of A Legend
The East Broad Top Railroad was chartered in 1856 but began construction in 1872 after delays, including the Civil War. Built as a 3-foot narrow-gauge line to save costs, the railroad reached Rockhill Furnace in 1873, initiating passenger service, and extended to Robertsdale in 1874, tapping into the region’s rich coal seams. By 1876, the Rockhill Iron Furnace was modernized, dramatically increasing production capacity and solidifying the railroad’s role in the industrial growth of the region.
Why is it significant?
Community Impact
The EBT Foundation is dedicated to revitalizing communities in Central Pennsylvania by leveraging heritage, education, and collaboration. Through tourism initiatives, educational programs, and strong local partnerships, the Foundation works to bring renewed vitality to the region. By preserving and operating one of America’s most intact narrow-gauge railroads, the Foundation honors local history while attracting visitors who support nearby small businesses, restaurants, and lodging. In addition, the railroad serves as a living classroom for students, a partner to other historic and cultural organizations, and a catalyst for strengthening the towns the train has long connected.
Generational Impact
The East Broad Top Railroad holds significant generational importance, serving as a living link between past and present. Nearly everyone in the surrounding communities has a family connection to the railroad, whether through relatives who worked there or cherished visits and volunteer traditions. By preserving original equipment, restoring infrastructure, and digitizing archives, the EBT ensures that the skills and history of earlier generations are maintained, inspiring future visitors. It stands not just as a historic railroad but as a shared legacy.
Historical Impact
The East Broad Top Railroad, built in the 1870s to haul coal and freight through the mountains of central Pennsylvania, is the oldest surviving narrow-gauge railroad east of the Mississippi and one of the best-preserved examples of 19th-century American industrial railroading. Beyond its role in fueling local industry and communities, the EBT offers a rare intact snapshot of the nation’s transition from the steam era, with original locomotives, shops, and infrastructure largely unchanged since its working days. Its preservation provides an invaluable link to the history of transportation, labor, and rural industry, making it a nationally significant piece of living history.
Development Impact
Restoring the East Broad Top Railroad (EBT) serves as a powerful economic engine for Central Pennsylvania, transforming a National Historic Landmark into a top heritage destination. As we bring this historic railroad back to life, we open the door for visitors to discover nearby cultural sites like the Swigart Antique Automobile Museum, Isett Heritage Museum, and Railroaders Memorial Museum. This effort also supports the outdoor economy around Raystown Lake and the Standing Stone Trail. Supporting the EBT means investing in a lively regional community, helping our industrial history continue to support local businesses and neighborhoods for years to come.
