The earliest railroads did not have a locomotive- there were several that were built using gravity and mules to moves cars on a track. Among the earliest that actually used a locomotive was the Granite Railway in Quincy Mass (1826). It was 3 miles long, and used to move granite stone from a quarry.
In the South
farmers used them to move cotton.
The first American Railroad was built in the North, called the Baltimore and Ohio, or B&O Railroad.
1830.
northeast
The title "Father of the American Railroads" is often attributed to John Stevens, who was a pioneer in railway development in the United States during the early 19th century. He built the first steam locomotive in America in 1825 and advocated for the use of railroads to improve transportation. His innovations and vision laid the groundwork for the expansion of railroads across the country.
The first American railroads were built in the early 19th century, with the inaugural line being the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, which began construction in 1828. This railroad aimed to connect the ports of Baltimore, Maryland, with the Ohio River, facilitating trade and transportation. Other early railroads, such as the South Carolina Canal and Railroad Company, also emerged around this time, marking the beginning of the rail industry in the United States.
To build railroads. Apex
they were built around Newcastle, great Britain.
Scotland
farmers used them to move cotton.
Inside mines. Long before railroads were built.