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Coal Company Operations in the Wyoming Valley
Part 1: Hudson Coal Company

The Hudson Coal Company had several coal mines and collieries in the Lackawanna and Wyoming valley’s. Owned at one time by the Delaware and Hudson RR and most of the coal from these facilities was transported by the D&H. The Marvine just below Scranton and the Loree in Larksville were among the newest and largest producers for Hudson Coal Co. These photos were all taken at the Loree breaker in Larksville, Pa. (near Plymouth) in 1954. At a time when steam power was rapidly disappearing on the mainline railroads, several coal company operations in the area would continue to be a steam sanctuary for several more years. All operations were narrow-guage and most of the locomotives were locally built by Vulcan in Wilkes-Barre.
All photos by John Endler / ARHS collection

Shown in these photos The Hudson Coal Company rostered both 0-6-0T’s and 0-4-0T type of steam locomotives and at least in 1954 at the Loree Breaker several were active on any given day. Compared to most other coal operations in the valley the Hudson Coal Company seemed to take pride in these locomotives in that they were nicely painted complete with pinstriping and generally seem well cared for.

In the center photo and employee chooses an interesting place to ride.

In the bottom photo locomotive #63 is shown towing a coal company train across the D&H Plymouth branch.

All photos by John Endler, ARHS collection