Strasburg Rail Road's History: How 2 People Saved The Rail Road

August 3, 2022 If you Google Strasburg, Pennsylvania, it’s impossible not to find a mention of its railroad. Since the borough’s founding in 1816, Strasburg has earned its nickname of “train town,” so clearly its railroad plays an important role in the history of Strasburg, PA.Though it’s in its 192th year of service, Strasburg Rail Road’s survival was tested many times in the past. Learn how Strasburg Rail Road’s history has shaped the town into the thriving historic destination it’s come to be today.The Borough Of StrasburgBefore the Borough of Strasburg was officially established, it was occupied by French settlers. French hunter and fur trader, Pierre Bezailion, set up camp in the area in 1693. During that time, he initiated trade along an ancient Native American trail known as “the Old Conestoga Road” with local Delaware Indians.In its early years, the town was nothing but a cluster of small log houses. As trade and travel prospered during the 1700s, Strasburg became a halfway sta...