Middleboro to Myricks old line

[mxdata]

Would any of the contributors happen to know when the tracks were removed from the old rail embankment that runs quite directly between Middleboro and Myricks? This line ran on the north side of Route 79, crossing Route 18 where the station building still stands, and crossed the present day Route 140 near where the northbound entrance ramp from 79 tapers in. There are many decades of tree growth on the embankment. Thanks in advance for your help.

[RRBUFF]

From information found in Lost Railroads Of New England by Karr,the line from Middleboro to Myricks 5.8 miles was abandoned by the New Haven RR in 1937,the rails were removed in 1940

[GP40MC1118]

1937 on the abandonment, but didn't know the rails weren't lifted until 1940.

You can still trace this line with some success:

At Myricks, if came off on the north side of RT79.
The first crossing is Padelford Road and is still pretty evident. Take Padelford off RT 79 and just down the road prior to a right hand turn is the crossing. If you look towards Middleboro, you can see a granite milepost still standing along a farmer's field.

Off County Road, it crossed right at the north edge of the town dump before crossing the present day RT140.

I have traced the remainder of the line to RT18. It has been severely compromised around the area of the new golf course off RT79 (former gravel pit). Just before Crooked Lane, it crossed RT 79 - You'll see a line of pine trees on your right. The house(s) on your left are built on the ROW.

Dave

[mxdata]

Thanks very much for your very excellent posts and information!

[paulrail]

Anyone know why this line was taken out of service? Was it due to a lack of customers?

Were there any railroad stations on this line? My copy of Karr's book has been out on loan to a friend.

Paul

[mxdata]

There is a building which appeared to have been a station at the point where the line crosses Route 18 in Lakeville. I believe it is part of a private residence now.