Konnarock Virginia Depot With Locomotive Real Photo Postcard
The postcard captures a steam locomotive and passenger cars belonging to the Elizabeth Dam Railroad (ELIZ'BETH DAM R.R.), likely around 1915, as indicated by a handwritten annotation. Chartered in 1891, this short line railroad primarily operated in the Elizabeth, Pennsylvania area, connecting coal mines and other local industries to the vital Monongahela River transportation network. The locomotive appears to be a 4-4-0 "American" type, a ubiquitous design for both passenger and light freight service during that era.
Such regional railroads were essential for economic development in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, facilitating the movement of raw materials like coal and providing passenger links for local communities in areas where road infrastructure was still rudimentary. The scene, showing passengers disembarking and horse-drawn vehicles awaiting, illustrates the critical role these smaller rail lines played in local commerce and daily life, bridging gaps between industrial centers, rural areas, and larger transportation hubs.
Such regional railroads were essential for economic development in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, facilitating the movement of raw materials like coal and providing passenger links for local communities in areas where road infrastructure was still rudimentary. The scene, showing passengers disembarking and horse-drawn vehicles awaiting, illustrates the critical role these smaller rail lines played in local commerce and daily life, bridging gaps between industrial centers, rural areas, and larger transportation hubs.
