Morris Co. Is Putting Together A Collection Listing Railroaders

MORRIS COUNTY, NJ — Morris County’s Office of Planning and Preservation is compiling a list of so-called Railroaders — those whose jobs were related to trains, from conductors to ticket agents and engineers — using historical documents and photos.

The collection is available online and includes news clippings and biographical data from the very early days through modern times.

"This list attempts to pay homage to the locals who made the railroad possible in Morris County — those who built it and those who worked it,” said Jan Williams, a historian with the Office of Planning and Preservation. "The ‘Iron Horse’ changed the national landscape in the 1880s, both economically and physically."

The project recognizes the importance of documenting an aspect of life so important in Morris County and nationwide.

“Railroads have shaped the development of the county and have proven to be of economic importance for generations of Morris County residents. From supplying our industrial facilities in the 1900s to providing a present day transportation source to the offices of Manhattan, the railroads were and are a key accessory to the employment of many,” Joseph Barilla, Director of Planning and Preservation.

The collection will continue growing and anyone who wants to contribute welcome to contact Jan Williams at jwilliams@co.morris.nj.us.