The Pittsburgh & Lake Erie Railroad (P&LE), also known as the “Little Giant”, was a historic American railroad company that operated in the northeastern United States. It was founded in 1875 and played a significant role in the industrial and economic development of the region, particularly in the transport of coal from the mines of western Pennsylvania to the factories and markets of the East Coast. The line was also a hauler of commodities such as coke, iron ore, limestone, and steel.
In 1887, the P&LE became a subsidiary of the larger New York Central Railroad. This arrangement led to improved and expanded freight and passenger service.
Throughout its history, the P&LE faced numerous challenges, including bankruptcy and mergers, but it continued to operate until 1996 when it sold its lines to the Three Rivers Railway (CSX Transportation) and what was left of the company changed its name to Pittsburgh and Lake Erie Properties.
Today, much of the Pittsburgh & Lake Erie’s trackage remains in use as part of the CSX network and is still used for freight transportation.
