Extending the Rail

Extending the Rail. Three Notch Trail. The federal government purchased the Washington, Brandywine and Point Lookout Railroad, then known as the Farmers' Railroad, in 1942. During world war two, the Navy extended the railroad from Forest Hall to the Patuxent River Naval Air Station to transport supplies needed for the new naval base at Cedar Point. The railroad then became known as the U.S. Naval Air Station Railroad, Patuxent River, Maryland., Maintenance of the rail bed and rails became problematic and the Navy’s final run was made on June 30, 1954. Over 200 people were in attendance to witness this event. The railroad was declared excess government property in 1966 and St. Mary’s County purchased the railroad right-of-way in 1970. , Rail History 1942, The Navy ran the train under the jurisdiction of the Public Works Department. The main load was gasoline, coal, ammunition, and plane parts. Thirty-two civilians, including long-time general manager William Chesley, were employed by the Navy. A guard, posted at the base perimeter, allowed the train to pass onto the Naval Air Station.