WNYRHS
In August 1980, the Western New York Railway Historical Society, Inc.(WNYRHS) was founded to ensure that what remains of our Railway Heritage is preserved for present and future generations. With hundreds of members, we have become the largest independent Rail Historical Society in New York State.
The Western New York area has a rich and proud railway heritage spanning over 150 years. Numerous trunk lines, short lines, interurban, and city street railways crisscrossed the region, and Buffalo, because of its geographic location on the Great Lakes, grew to become the nation's second-largest railroad center. With this growth came many railroad-related industries. These industries contributed significantly to the development of railroad technology throughout the world.
WNY Train & Toy Shows
This train show is held twice annually in November and February. It is our largest fundraising event and consistently features over 400 tables of vendors’ goods and interactive activities for kids.
Our Depots
The WNYRHS is proud to own and maintain two depots, one in Orchard Park and the other in Williamsville. Both depots are open to the public, available for rental, and host several events throughout the year.
Our Next Event
Pet Fair
Displays and booths, free admission.
May 30, 2026, 10:00pm-3:00pm
Williamsville Lehigh Valley Depot
Who We Are
Since our establishment, we have obtained and maintained two train depots, one in Williamsville and one in Orchard Park. We have a museum in Buffalo, The Heritage DiscoveRY center, where you can explore the rich railroad, marine, and industrial heritage of the region.
We host several fundraising events throughout the year, including car shows, pet fairs, and theater presentations. Our biggest event is the Western New York Train and Toy Show, which is held each November and February at the Hamburg Fairgrounds.
Board of Trustees
Officers
President: Caryl Youngers
Vice President: Marty Visciano
Secretary: Paul Mayer
Treasurer: Joe Kocsis, Jr.
Trustees
Stephen Bakowski
Rebecca Dombrowski
Joe Kocsis
Stephen Kocsis
Devan Lawton
Mark Lewandowski
Greg Lund
Paul Mayer
Don Owens
Adam Puchalski
Tracy Schottin
Jeff Sweet
Amy Toale
Marty Visciano
Caryl Youngers
Get in Touch
We would love to hear from you!
For general information, please contact us: wnyrhs@gmail.com or 716.821.9360
For information regarding our train show (including how to become a vendor) at the Hamburg Fairgrounds please contact us: wnytrainshow@gmail.com or 716.771.4421
Additionally, you may submit inquiries via the form.
@wnyrhs @wnyrhstrainshow