Harvest Season and the Legacy of the Pickering Valley Railroad
As we embrace the harvest season, it's a fitting time to reflect on how vital infrastructure like railroads once were in shaping local agricultural success. In Chester County, Pennsylvania, the Pickering Valley Railroad, established in 1871, played a crucial role in connecting the rural heartlands with urban markets.
The Pickering Valley Railroad stretched eleven miles from Phoenixville to Byers, with thirteen stations along the route. Operated by the Reading Company, this railroad wasn't just a marvel of 19th century engineering—it was a lifeline for local farmers and businesses. It enabled the efficient transport of agricultural products, iron ore, and graphite from local farms and mines to Phoenixville, where goods were then dispatched to Philadelphia. In fact, the local graphite industry was almost entirely grown and sustained from rail transportation.
One key figure in this transformation was John Oberholtzer. After an injury redirected his career, Oberholtzer saw potential in the area for becoming a vital center for farm produce and innovative agricultural methods. In 1872, he built a store on the site (now Rt. 401, just below the Mill’s entrance), naming it “Oberholtzer and Hartman.” Here, he sold grains, coal, lumber, and feed, serving as a hub for local farmers.
Recognizing the need for better transport, Oberholtzer and other local businessmen successfully lobbied for a spur line of the Reading Railroad to be built through the village. The result was the Pickering Valley Railroad, which not only facilitated the movement of goods but also played a significant role in the community. The railroad even dissected the Mill’s property—evidence of which can still be seen in the remnants of the railroad bed and bridge.
In 1872, a station named Cambria was established at Oberholtzer’s store, alongside a post office. However, due to confusion with another Cambria near Johnstown, PA, the name was changed to Anselma in 1886, reportedly chosen by Sara Oberholtzer.
The Pickering Valley Railroad was instrumental in the success of local enterprises such as the Pikeland Creamery, located across from Oberholtzer’s store. Additionally, the Supplee Milk Company leased a milk-loading station at Anselma, making it one of the largest dairy shipping points on the railroad.
Passenger service on the railroad continued until 1934, but by 1948, it had become unprofitable and was abandoned by its successor, Conrail. Despite its closure, the legacy of the Pickering Valley Railroad lives on in the rich history of our agricultural community and the way it helped shape our local economy. As we gather this harvest season, it's a reminder of the vital connections that once helped sustain our community and keep our agricultural traditions thriving.