A quick search for other documentation on this speed record claim (Google search for "'Empire State Express' record") comes up with this link: GREAT SPEED Off THE CENTRAL.; Empire State Express Engine Travels at the Rate of 112 1-2 Miles an Hour. (New York Times; May 12, 1893).  I've added the ref to the article, and I'll see if I can find any further documentation in my reference library.  (Speak)