Hi, during the height of railroads on the NJ / NY waterfront, can anybody approximate the total number of railroad owned water vessels? (i.e. ferries, carfloats, lighters, tugs, etc) It can be broken down by railroad if convenient, but a general total number is all I'm really after. Thanks to all for any help.
There books on this subject....but not on the tip of my tongue. Bing or Google the subject and see what's available. Short of going through the rosters of each railroad, it would be difficult to guess. Probably except for the likes of Hoboken Shore, BEDT, NYMTA, and other waterfront switching lines, they all did;:LIRR, NH, NYC, NYSW, DLW, Erie, PRR, LV, CNJ, B&O, EL and PC. For starters.
RIDEWITHMEHENRY is the name for our almost monthly day of riding trains and transit in either the NYCity or Philadelphia areas including all commuter lines, Amtrak, subways, light rail and trolleys, bus and ferries when warranted. No fees, just let us know you want to join the ride and pay your fares. Ask to be on our email list or find us on FB as RIDEWITHMEHENRY (all caps) to get descriptions of each outing.
I did try the internet and discovered an answer by accident. It looks like there were 3,400 employees and about 1,600 vessels (not counting ferries) between 8 class 1s and about 6 terminal companies This counts between NJ, Manhattan and Brooklyn.
I read in one book (don't remember which one though) that the PRR had more floating vessels than the US navy did. In actuality it was the largest naval fleet owned by a single company than most countries had vessels. From simple lake barges to luxury ocean liners.
Pete
I pray every day I break even, Cause I can really use the money!
I started with nothing and still have most of it left!
The B&O had a naval presence in both New York and Baltimore harbors
Never too old to have a happy childhood!
How 'bout Philadelphia, too? I know at least PRR did.
Login, or register today to interact in our online community, comment on articles, receive our newsletter, manage your account online and more!
Get the Classic Trains twice-monthly newsletter