How Old Is Lirr

The Long Island Rail Road is one of the oldest and most famous rail networks in the US, having been in operation since 1834. As owner MTA launches multi-billion-dollar modernisation works, we take a look at this iconic service’s history and major milestones of the past 185 years.

When was LIRR built?

Long Island Rail Road Company, American railroad on Long Island, N.Y., and one of the few in the world still operating under its original name. Incorporated in 1834, it opened its main line to Greenport, at the eastern end of Long Island, in 1844.

Who invented the LIRR?

In 1875–76 a wealthy Whitestone, New York robber baron named Conrad Poppenhusen acquired all the railroads. Poppenhusen, and his later successor Austin Corbin, were able to reorganize them under the umbrella of the LIRR thus forming the extensive network of lines that make up the railroad today.