The Geneva Historical Society’s 2013 spring lecture series kicks off Monday, March 18, with “Dr. Ward’s Most Remarkable Survey of Rail Transportation in Ontario County, New York.” Robert Ward, Jr., Ph.D., has spent the last twelve years researching the answer to a simple question, “What railroads were there in Ontario County?” He has discovered along the way that every one of the sixteen towns in the county has had some form of proposed or operating rail transportation. His research has revealed over one-hundred railroads with a documented presence in Ontario County, including names both familiar and unexpected, dating back to 1827.

The presentation includes historic and current photos that will provide a quick review of the history of rail transportation in the county, followed by time for questions. Dr. Ward encourages audience members to share their knowledge of area railroads in order to supplement and confirm his research findings.

Dr. Robert Ward is a life-long resident of Ontario County. Since retiring as a college professor, he has extensively researched the history of railroads in both Ontario and Yates counties, sharing and expanding his work in presentations throughout the area.

This lecture is held in conjunction with our exhibit How Railroads Shaped Geneva which is on display through April 6, 2013.