Lebanon owes much of its commercial development to the Chenango Branch railroad. The largest local commerce involvement with the railroad was the milk and dairy industry allowing local farmers to gain access to the lucrative New York City markets where these products were shipped. With access to 'down state' markets, the local dairy farming industry became more viable and valuable helping sustain economic growth in this otherwise relatively isolated portion of New York State.

The dairy operation at Lebanon began in 1890 some 17 years after the Chenango Branch began operation and continued under various ownership until after the Chenango Branch ceased operation to Lebanon in 1937. It was reported that almost 100 local dairy operators delivered products to the Lebanon creamery for processing and shipment along the Chenango Branch railroad.

The image above shows the old Lebanon creamery prior to burning to the ground.