The Schnackerlbahn: A Historic Journey Through the Steyrtal
The Steyrtalbahn holds a special place in Austria’s railway history as the country’s oldest narrow-gauge railway, boasting a track width of 760 mm. Its origins trace back to 1889 when it first opened, connecting Garsten to Grünburg and Molln to Klaus, with a branch line from Pergern through Sierning to Bad Hall. Today, the railway operates solely as a heritage line, run by a dedicated team of around 35 volunteers. To celebrate its 135th anniversary, a grand station festival will be held in Grünburg on Saturday, September 7th.
The Need for Railways in the Steyrtal
The late 19th century marked a period of rapid industrialization and urbanization in Austria, prompting the expansion of railway networks to facilitate transportation and trade. Following the successful establishment of railway lines in the Ennstal in 1874 and the Kremstal in 1881, the residents of Steyrtal recognized the necessity of a railway connection to remain economically competitive. One of the driving forces behind this initiative was Josef Werndl, an industrialist with arms factories in Steyr and Letten. Harald Süß from the ÖGEG Steyrtal-Museumsbahn recounts how Werndl’s influence played a pivotal role in the development of the railway.
The Birth of the Steyrtalbahn
In order to construct a cost-effective railway line through the narrow Steyrtal valley, the decision was made to opt for a narrow-gauge track of 760 mm, deemed the most economical choice. Within a remarkably short span of one year, the initial section from Garsten to Steyr to Grünburg was completed and inaugurated. By 1918, the railway had expanded to cover a total distance of 55 kilometers, connecting various towns and villages along its route. Despite facing economic hardships in the aftermath of World War I, the Steyrtalbahn persevered, adapting to the emerging competition from road transport.
Preserving History Through the Museumsbahn
By the 1970s, the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) had set its sights on the Steyrtalbahn due to its continued reliance on steam locomotives. Although there were plans to shut down the entire line, the „Austrian Society for Railway History“ (ÖGEG) managed to acquire a 17-kilometer stretch from Steyr Lokalbahn to Grünburg in 1984. This marked the beginning of a new chapter for the railway, with regular operations commencing in the summer of 1985, exclusively powered by steam locomotives. The dedicated team of approximately 35 volunteers who operate the Steyrtal-Museumsbahn are not only responsible for running the trains but also for maintaining the rolling stock and tracks.
Embracing Tourism and Heritage
Since its revival in 1985, the Steyrtal-Museumsbahn has become a significant attraction for railway enthusiasts, welcoming around 22,000 passengers annually. The railway’s commitment to preserving the heritage of steam travel has made it a cherished destination for both locals and tourists seeking a nostalgic journey through Austria’s picturesque landscapes. The blend of history, nature, and locomotive engineering on display has solidified the Steyrtalbahn’s status as a key player in the region’s tourism offerings.
Celebrating 135 Years of Steam in the Steyrtal
As the Steyrtalbahn commemorates its 135th anniversary milestone, a festive celebration is set to take place on Saturday, September 7th in Grünburg. The event will feature a station festival, offering visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich history of the railway. Additionally, a special Photo-Sonderzug (photo train) will be in operation, showcasing the iconic Lok 298.102 locomotive, along with historic post and luggage cars. The freshly restored four Haubendachwagen (hooded roof cars) and newly reconstructed Flachdachwagen (flat roof car) will also be part of this unique experience. For more information and group reservations for the Photo-Sonderzug, interested parties can contact Harald Süß at 0676-53 68 717 or via email at info@steyrtalbahn.at.
Preserving a Legacy: The Steyrtalbahn’s Enduring Impact
The Steyrtalbahn stands as a testament to the resilience of Austria’s railway heritage, showcasing the enduring appeal of steam travel in the modern era. Through the dedication of its volunteers and the support of railway enthusiasts, the railway continues to captivate audiences with its historical charm and scenic routes. As the Steyrtalbahn embarks on its next chapter, it remains a beacon of nostalgia and a living reminder of a bygone era of rail transportation.