Hudson Valley Interurbans

Maps and Details on the Interurbans Systems in New York

Although the Hudson Valley was dominated by the famous New York Central mainline that whizzed freight and passengers between Chicago and New York City, a few small local trolley lines provided more localized transport as well.

Newburgh, back in the early 1900s, was considered one of the leading summer resorts. Vacationers from New York City and beyond came to Newburgh by train and boat. The trolley was a safe and convenient way for vacationers to tour the area. The trolleys operated from 6 a.m.-11 p.m. daily, and a trip to Walden took about 40 minutes. Eight round-trips from Newburgh to Walden were made each day.

The Peekskill Trolley's 13 mile system was an important part of the area’s industrial growth by providing inexpensive transport for factory workers in nearby communities. Extension lines reached into Mohegan Lane, Putnam Valley, Buchanan, Verplanck and Annsville.

New Paltz was an important transfer point to get to the Catskills and the mountain houses. The New Paltz, Highland & Poughkeepsie trolley regularly carried visitors on their way to the Mohonk Mountain House or Lake Minnewaska, both of which offered their own carriages to pick up passengers at the terminus in New Paltz.

Hudson Valley Area Map

Pan and zoom in and out on the map below for a detailed understanding of the various trolley companies in service in 1924.

Interurban Timelines - Predecessors/Mergers/End of Life

Further Details

• The Peekskill Trolley
• Peekskill Lighting and Railroad Company
• Newburgh Electric Railway Company
• What Ever Happened to the Newburgh Trolley?

Source/Credits

The Electric Interurban Railways in America by George Woodman Hilton, ‎John Fitzgerald

David Rumsey Historical Map Collection

• 1924 New York State
  (eastern Section)
• 1924 New York State
  (western and northern sections)

 back to interactive New York State map