In 1880, the first steam engine signaled an era of progress and prosperity for Cuyahoga Valley. The railway was primarily built to transport coal; but also served the farmers, merchants and factories.

In 1894 financial difficulties led to the Valley Railway's acquisition. The Baltimore and Ohio Railroad bought the CT&V in 1915 and continued to provide freight and passenger service between Akron and Cleveland. However, the popularity of the automobile caused a decline in passenger traffic on the line. Passenger service ended in 1963. The last freight train operated by the Chessie System ran in 1985.

Today, the historic rails are owned by the National Park Service as part of its goal to preserve the significant cultural resources in the Cuyahoga Valley. The organization operates the excursion train through the Cuyahoga Valley National Park in cooperation with the National Park Service.  Adapted from: