The Village of Webster Historic Preservation Commission has designated the Hojack Trail as its historic site of the month for September, recognizing the significant role the former railroad line played in the village’s development. The trail, which runs through the northern part of Webster, has become a key part of the community’s recreation offerings while preserving a vital piece of local history.
Stretching nearly five miles, the Hojack Trail offers a scenic path for walking, biking, and running, with connections to other local trails like the Vosburg Hollow Nature Trail, the John Ungar & Michael A. Johnson Trails, and the Bird Sanctuary Trail. The trail is mostly flat, with only a slight grade, making it accessible to residents and visitors of all ages. The trailhead is located on State Route 250, where a billboard, maintained by the Historic Preservation Commission, marks the entrance.
A Piece of Webster’s Railroad History
The Hojack Trail follows the path of the former Hojack Line, part of the Lake Ontario Shore Railroad and later the Rome, Watertown & Ogdensburg Railroad (R.W. & O.). Known locally as the “Rotten Wood and Old Rusty Rails,” the railroad played a pivotal role in the economic growth of Webster, transporting goods from the village to markets across New York State.
In the 19th century, Webster’s farmers and merchants were seeking efficient ways to transport their products, especially apples, which became a major industry for the area. After years of advocacy from local leaders, including businessmen like Timothy and William Corning, Dr. Oliver Reynolds, and prominent town supervisor H. Nelson Curtice, the Lake Ontario Shore Railroad was established. Construction began in 1871, and by 1875, the railroad extended west to Kendall, passing through Webster and connecting the village to Rochester and beyond.
The name “Hojack” is said to have originated from a local incident. A farmer, attempting to cross the tracks with his mule-drawn wagon, shouted “Ho-Jack” at his stubborn mule when it refused to move. The nickname stuck, and the line became affectionately known as the Hojack Line.
Tragic and Triumphant Moments
The history of the Hojack Line includes moments of triumph and tragedy. On August 10, 1889, a devastating train crash at Pierce Station near Forest Lawn killed several passengers when a westbound flyer collided with a commuter train. This accident prompted advancements in railroad safety, including the installation of automatic brakes on passenger trains, an innovation that likely saved many lives in future years.
Despite these challenges, the Hojack Line remained vital to Webster’s industries. At its height, the line transported apples from Webster’s many orchards, earning the town the nickname “Dried Apple Capital of the World.” The Webster Basket Factory, one of the largest of its kind, also relied on the railroad to ship products across the country.
The Trail Today
Today, the Hojack Trail preserves the memory of this once-bustling rail line. The trail, managed by the Village of Webster, includes parking areas at 595 Vosburg Road, Drumm Road, Van Alstyne Road, and Orchard Road West. Restroom facilities are available seasonally at North Ponds Park and the Van Alstyne Road trailhead, and recent improvements have added benches for resting along the route.
The trail also serves as a connector to several other recreational areas, including the Charles E. Sexton Memorial Park and the Vosburg Hollow Nature Trail. Its flat terrain makes it an ideal destination for walking, biking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing in the winter months.
The Hojack Trail’s designation as the historic site of the month highlights the community’s commitment to preserving its unique history while promoting outdoor recreation. Visitors to the trail can explore both Webster’s natural beauty and its industrial heritage, making it a cherished local landmark.
A Legacy of Innovation
The rail line that once served as the backbone of Webster’s economy has evolved into a peaceful trail for residents and visitors. However, its legacy remains evident in the town’s continued growth and development. The story of the Hojack Line, from its origins as the Lake Ontario Shore Railroad to its transformation into a community trail, is a testament to Webster’s resilience and ingenuity.
For those interested in learning more about the history of the Hojack Trail, the Webster Museum offers photographs and documents chronicling the railroad’s impact on the community. From the days when passenger trains carried workers to Rochester to the modern era of walking and biking, the Hojack Trail remains a symbol of Webster’s proud heritage.
As part of the month-long recognition, the Historic Preservation Commission encourages residents to visit the trail and reflect on the village’s history. The story of the Hojack Line is more than just a chapter in Webster’s past—it’s a living legacy that continues to shape the community today.
Visiting the Hojack Trail
The Hojack Trail is open year-round, offering visitors the chance to experience Webster’s history firsthand. Parking is available at several access points, including 595 Vosburg Road and Van Alstyne Road, as well as North Avenue, just north of Railroad Street. Leashed pets are welcome on the trail, making it a popular destination for walkers, joggers, bicyclists, families, and pet owners.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a scenic place to walk or bike, the Hojack Trail provides a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. As Webster continues to grow and change, the trail stands as a reminder of the village’s roots in transportation, industry, and community spirit.