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About Us

About Us

Founded in 2013, Northern Central Railway of York is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, educational, and charitable organization located in New Freedom, Pennsylvania. The historic attraction, with a replica 1860s steam locomotive and a GP9 diesel engine, hosts excursions that educate, entertain, and enlighten individuals of all ages. Every weekend, guests can partake in great adventures that make time travel possible. They can meet cowboys, presidents, and princesses, enjoy a locally brewed craft beer, learn about local history, and create family memories and traditions at NCR.

Our Founders

Bill Simpson Photo

William (Bill) H. Simpson

Image Reed Anderson

D. Reed Anderson

From Dream to Steam:

The Northern Central Railway of York's Remarkable Journey

The Northern Central Railway of York (NCR) isn’t just a tourist attraction; it’s a living, breathing piece of history, a testament to the dedication and passion of those who brought it to life. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a beloved local treasure, the NCR’s journey is a story worth telling.

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Northern Central Railway of York © 2025 - All rights reserved.

William (Bill) H. Simpson

Bill Simpson, a lifelong train enthusiast from Ithaca, New York, was influenced by his father’s passion for trains, leading to memorable travels across the U.S., Canada, and Europe in the 1940s and 1950s. After graduating from the United States Air Force Academy in 1963, he served as an officer in the Air Force until 1971. Notably, he was the first cadet to take a leave of absence to attend law school, earning his degree from Harvard Law School in 1966 before returning to serve in the JAG Corps in Germany.


In 1971, Bill began his professional career in York, Pennsylvania, at Susquehanna Pfaltzgraff Company, eventually becoming President of Manufacturing and CEO until 2006. A dedicated community leader, he served on multiple non-profit boards and was actively involved with the Air Force Academy Association of Graduates and the USAFA Endowment.


Though Bill passed away in 2012 without seeing his beloved steam engine in operation, he would be proud of the ongoing efforts by his family, the Anderson family, and numerous employees and volunteers dedicated to the project since its inception.

D. Reed Anderson

Reed Anderson, a native of Southern York County, graduated from Kennard-Dale High School, Penn State University, and the Dickinson School of Law. He married his high school best friend, Connie Quesenberry, and they raised their family in New Park, PA, near his family’s farm. After law school, Reed served two years in the U.S. Army, including a tour in Vietnam. He then joined the law firm Stock and Leader in York, where he practiced for 51 years, serving countless clients in southeastern York County. Reed was deeply committed to his community, contributing to many non-profit boards and initiatives.


His passion for trains and history led to the founding of Steam into History. Reed’s love for trains began in childhood, watching freight trains with his family. His father, John Hope Anderson, Sr., was President of the Stewartstown Railroad, and as member of the Pa House of Representatives was instrumental in restoring the Northern Central rails after Hurricane Agnes. Reed also had a deep interest in American and Civil War history, often surrounded by books on the subject. He passed away in 2021, leaving a legacy of friendship and vision alongside fellow community member Bill Simpson, with whom he shared the dream of starting an excursion railroad.