The Auburn and Syracuse Railroad was incorporated on May 1, 1834, to provide easy access between Syracuse, New York and the Erie Canal. Construction was begun in 1835, however, was delayed during the Panic of 1837. Although the economic downturn lingered until 1843, the railroad was completed by January 1838. In August 1850, the Auburn and Syracuse Railroad joined the Auburn and Rochester Railroad to form the Rochester and Syracuse Railroad, which later merged with the New York Central Railroad.