(erielack) 6 foot gauge

["Gary R. Kazin" <gkazin_@_yahoo.com>]

New York State, in issuing the Erie's charter, specifically required its
gauge to be different from other railroads so that it COULD NOT
interchange cars with them.  It also reqired the railroad to be built
entirely within the state, a requirement which was later amended when it
was found that the railroad had to be built partly in Pennsylvania due to
geographic considerations.  The Erie's promoters had BIG plans, so they
went to the largest gauge that was then in use.

Later, other lines which were built in the Erie's area were built to 6
foot gauge to be able to interchange with it, including the DLW. 
Ultimately everyone converted to 56.5"...

- --- Hhaines_@_aol.com wrote:
> Then why did Erie start with a 6-foot gauge?

=====
Gary R. Kazin
DL&W Milepost R35.7
Rockaway, New Jersey

New Jersey Transit - THE WAY TO GO!!!

(I have no affiliation with New Jersey Transit.)

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