Coal to Culture: Functions of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park Railroad

Description

The Cuyahoga Valley National Park Railroad began transporting freight and passengers from Canton to Cleveland in 1880. Approximately 1 million tons of freight was moved via the railroad every year. 

Although the railroad has struggled to stay in existence, today the train still runs a route in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park that is used for leisure and education.

The scenic railroad  offers various excursions and events for adults and children to enjoy the natural beauty of the park.  The Railroad also offers numerous educational programs for schools. 

Questions arise as to the purpose of the railroad and its lack of use to carry passengers and freight from Canton to Cleveland. Our society expects products and technology on demand. 

 

Credits

Polly Bowman, Ann Hagedorn, Kim Johnson

Sections

Past

Present

The Cuyahoga Valley National Park Railroad is being used in a different way than its original purpose. The primary purpose of the railroad is for leisure and education. The scenic railroad  offers various excursions and events for adults and children to enjoy the natural beauty of the park.  The Railroad also offers numerous educational programs for schools. Questions arise as to the purpose of the railroad and its lack of use to carry passengers and freight from Canton to Cleveland.