Rust Belt Railfan is a railfanning YouTube channel based out of Southeastern Ohio. I initially got into the railfanning hobby in 2022 and it got to the point where in 2024 I decided to start uploading my catches to YouTube, and thus the Rust Belt Railfan YouTube channel was created. In 2026, I decided to start sharing my catches on Instagram as well. I have three main goals which are listed below.

Archiving catches. Every train that passes is a moment that will never happen again in quite the same way. Power consists change, paint schemes fade, railroads merge, and operations evolve. By recording and organizing these moments, I aim to create a reliable archive that railfans can return to and re-live the catches of the past.

Documenting America’s railroads. From busy mainlines to quiet branch lines, I strive to capture a wide range of operations across the region. Class 1, shortlines, heritage, and everything in between—this channel is about showcasing the true character of railroading in the United States and in the Rust Belt, especially.

Preserving today for tomorrow. What we see today will one day be history. My goal is to ensure that future generations can look back and experience the sights and sounds of modern railroading as they exist right now—authentic and real.

I hope you enjoy my YouTube content and what my website has to offer. If you would also like to suggest a video topic, have any questions, or suggestions about anything else besides YouTube, you may contact me via the form below or at the email RustBeltRailfanOfficial@gmail.com.