The train made it happen in the Hudson Valley. We don’t think much about it, but railroads were a significant boost to the area’s commerce and accessibility. Before trains, goods and people moved to and through the Hudson Valley by wagon, stagecoach, or Hudson River sloop. What a difference the train made! Train service to the Hudson Valley began in 1840, connecting New York City with Westchester.

The differences among transportation modes are evident when comparing them by the metrics of the time. A sloop in good condition could make the trip between New York and Albany in as little as 24 hours, though it could take several days in bad weather or with little wind. Stagecoaches covered 60-70 miles per day (most often half that distance), but they had to change horses frequently, as each team was limited to 15 miles per day at about five miles per hour. Trains averaged 20 miles per hour but could reach 30 miles per hour on level ground. To passengers back then, it must have felt like riding a lightning bolt.

Train service in the Hudson Valley began with the New York and Harlem Railroad (NY&H), established in 1832. In 1840, the charter was amended to allow the railroad to extend service into Westchester County. Again, it was extended in 1845 to connect with Albany and later in 1852 to Chatham, New York.

The service continued to evolve, and Commodore Vanderbilt acquired the line in 1870. The New York Central and Hudson River Railroad Company leased it in 1871. The line eventually became part of the Metro-North Railroad and is now known as the Harlem Line. Today, we are witnessing a resurgence in train ridership, a testament to the lasting importance of trains in the Hudson Valley.

Lines are expanding service, and many businesses and residents are strategically locating within walking distance of a Hudson Valley train station, further fueling this revival.

The Sojourner