History

The Jamestown and Chautauqua Railway was one of a succession of companies operating along the eastern side of Chautauqua Lake between Jamestown and Mayville. The original line, the Chautauqua Lake Railway lasted until October 17, 1894 when the company was reorganized as the Jamestown and Lake Erie Railway.  On January 1, 1899 the Jamestown and Lake Erie Railway was reorganized as the Jamestown and Chautauqua Railway. 

The Jamestown and Chautauqua Railway lasted until February 1907 when the Buffalo & Lake Erie Traction Company, an interurban line, bought up all the stock. The line went into receivership and was purchased by the Broadhead interests, owners of the Jamestown Street Railway and Chautauqua Traction Company.  On December 8, 1913 the Jamestown, Westfield & Northwestern Railroad took over the line and began electrifying the main line. Passenger operations ended November 30, 1947 following the death leading members of the Broadhead family. The line began diesel powered freight service which continued until January 21, 1950.

A pass from the first year of operation on the Jamestown and Chautauqua Railway.

Major WNY Facilities

References