Who We Are
The Friends of the Ohio River & Western Railroad Historical Society is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving, interpreting, and sharing the history of the OR&W — Ohio’s most iconic narrow‑gauge railroads.
Our members include historians, preservationists, modelers, railroad enthusiasts, and community supporters who share a passion for keeping the story of the OR&W alive.
Our Mission
Our mission is to preserve the physical, photographic, and written history of the Ohio River & Western Railroad, and to educate the public about its role in shaping the communities it served.
What We Do
- Preserve surviving OR&W rolling stock, structures, and artifacts
- Document and stabilize historic equipment
- Create interpretive signage and educational materials
- Maintain an archive of photographs, maps, and documents
- Share OR&W history through events, publications, and online resources
Why the OR&W Matters
From 1877 to 1931, the Ohio River & Western Railroad connected rural communities across Muskingum, Noble, Monroe, and Belmont Counties. It carried passengers, freight, mail, and the lifeblood of local industry.
Today, only fragments of the OR&W remain — and preserving them is essential to understanding the region’s industrial and cultural heritage.
How You Can Help
The Friends of the OR&W Historical Society relies on volunteers, donors, and community partners to continue our preservation work. Whether you contribute financially, volunteer your time, or share historical materials, your support makes a difference.