GALLERY: The historic whistlestop tour through Western New York brings thousands to the Erie Depot
By Andrew Harris, photos by JC’s Photography
The volunteers and curators of the Erie Depot Museum, a full refurbished train station with meetings rooms and railroad history inside, have had trouble drawing a crowd to enjoy Hornell’s railroad heritage.
Not on Thursday June 11th, 2026!! The depot was ground zero for a stop by the Union Pacific Railway’s oldest and largest operational steam engine. Planning was done by the museum, the City of Hornell, and small business advocate Hornell Partners for Growth for a big day.
The weather cooperated, all ages converged all along the railroad tracks to get a picture, a wave from the conductor, or maybe a whistle blow up close and personal. Businesses closed down, Hornell kids had a half day of school, and families made a day of what will be a great memory for many!
JC’s Photography was “track side” and got some great pictures:
