Local leaders celebrate with the Erie Depot Museum volunteers
From a joint statement,
The group’s first stop was at the Hornell Erie Depot Museum to present copies of a Legislative Resolution they sponsored commemorating the 175th Anniversary of the inaugural trip of the Erie Railroad through Hornell (see the attached photo of the legislators with board members and volunteers of the Hornell Erie Depot Museum).
The resolution (J2277/K1505) was unanimously approved by the state Senate and Assembly in June during the closing weeks of the State Legislature’s 2026 legislative session.
The resolution reads, in part, “The observance of this 175th Anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect upon the enduring contributions of railroad workers, civic leaders, historians, preservationists, and community members whose efforts have preserved Hornell’s unique transportation heritage for future generations.”
In a joint statement, O’Mara, Palmesano, and Sempolinski said, “We appreciate and welcome these opportunities to help celebrate and showcase the city of Hornell’s rich and varied history. It’s a chance to highlight the city’s long and storied history as a railroad town, which remains such a foundation of Hornell’s culture and economy to this very day with Alstom Manufacturing standing as one of the nation’s centers of modern, high-speed railcar manufacturing and refurbishing. The Erie Depot Museum does a remarkable job of preserving, honoring, and celebrating this history and we are proud this year to help celebrate the 175th Anniversary of the inaugural trip of the Erie Railroad through the city.”
Mayor John Buckley said, “The arrival of the Erie Railroad in Hornell 175 years ago was a defining moment in our community’s history. It helped transform Hornell from a small agricultural community into a major railroad center, shaping our local economy and identity for generations. That legacy remains an important part of who we are today and it’s fitting that we take this opportunity to recognize and celebrate the people, innovation, and hard work that helped put Hornell on the map. We are proud of our railroad heritage and grateful for the lasting impact it continues to have on our community.”
