Track 61, a hidden gem beneath the bustling streets of New York City, holds a mysterious past that intertwines with the city’s history and notable figures. This abandoned train track, nestled beneath Grand Central Terminal, has been shrouded in myths and legends, serving as a silent witness to clandestine movements and presidential escapades.
History and Significance
Track 61, part of the Grand Central Terminal complex, was originally constructed as a storage track and powerhouse for the New York Central Railroad. Despite its primary function, Track 61 gained notoriety for its discreet access to the Waldorf Astoria Hotel, making it an ideal spot for covert entries and exits. Over the years, this hidden track witnessed the presence of influential figures like General John J. Pershing, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, and General Douglas MacArthur, each leaving their mark on its storied legacy.
What Are Some Interesting Facts About Track 61
Some interesting facts about Track 61, the abandoned NYC train track under Grand Central, include:
Track 61 is not part of the NYC Subway but is a storage track abutting a private railroad platform on the Metro-North Railroad in Manhattan, located beneath the Waldorf Astoria New York hotel.
It was originally built as a powerhouse and storage area for the New York Central Railroad cars, not as a passenger station, and shares a platform with track 63.
Track 61 gained fame as a private transport stop for U.S. presidents, with notable figures like General John J. Pershing, Franklin D. Roosevelt, and General Douglas MacArthur reportedly using it for various purposes.
The track was prepared as an escape route for President George W. Bush during U.N. General Assembly meetings, showcasing its continued relevance in modern times.
Despite plans to convert it into a platform for Amtrak trains in 1978, Track 61 remains unused but occasionally in use as of May 2014.
The long-held rumor that an abandoned train car under Grand Central/Waldorf Astoria was used to transport President Franklin Delano Roosevelt was debunked, revealing that the car was actually New York Central Baggage Car 002.
The track, along with the hidden train car, remains under the Waldorf Astoria and is sometimes visible from trains leaving Grand Central Terminal, adding to its mystique and historical significance.
These facts shed light on the intriguing history and legends surrounding Track 61, highlighting its role in presidential escapades and its enigmatic presence beneath the bustling streets of New York City.
Presidential Connections
One of the most intriguing aspects of Track 61 is its association with U.S. presidents. Franklin D. Roosevelt’s alleged use of the track during World War II, including the transportation of his railcar directly into the Waldorf’s garage, added to the mystique surrounding this clandestine location. Moreover, reports suggest that Track 61 was prepared as an escape route for President George W. Bush during U.N. General Assembly meetings, highlighting its continued relevance in modern times.
Public Events and Transformations
While primarily a hidden passageway, Track 61 also hosted public events like the exhibition of American Locomotive Company’s new diesel locomotive and a charity-benefit dinner, showcasing its versatility beyond its secretive nature. Despite plans to convert it into a platform for Amtrak trains in 1978, Track 61 remains a relic of the past, occasionally in use even today.
What Other Abandoned Subway Stations Are There in New York City
Other abandoned subway stations in New York City include:
City Hall Station: Originally part of the Interborough Rapid Transit Company (IRT) line, this station was the southern terminus of the line and featured impressive Beaux-Arts architectural elements. It closed to regular passenger service in 1945.
Worth Street Station: Located in Lower Manhattan, this abandoned subway station was part of the original subway line and is visible from the 6 line. It was decommissioned in 1962 to accommodate the northward expansion of the Brooklyn Bridge station.
18th Street Station: Near Gramercy Park, this mysterious abandoned station has been a subject of debate due to its elusive nature. Rumored to be part of a plan to extend the A line to Queens, it remains inaccessible with minimal visual documentation.
South 4th St – The Underbelly Project: Situated beneath Williamsburg’s South 4th Street, this six-track station was intended to be a major transfer point but was left unfinished due to World War II. In 2009, street artists transformed it into an illegal art gallery, showcasing large murals on its barren walls.
Sedgwick Ave Station: Located near the Harlem River in the Bronx, this station opened in 1918 as an extension of the 9th Ave El, NYC’s first elevated line. It stands as a reminder of the city’s evolving transit landscape and historical significance.
These abandoned subway stations offer a glimpse into New York City’s rich history and the evolution of its transportation infrastructure, each holding its own unique stories and mysteries waiting to be explored.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Track 61 stands as a testament to New York City’s enigmatic charm, blending history, secrecy, and presidential intrigue into its underground existence. As a silent witness to the city’s evolution, this abandoned train track continues to captivate imaginations and preserve the tales of its illustrious visitors. Explore the depths of Track 61 to uncover a hidden world beneath the bustling streets of Grand Central, where history and mystery converge in a unique urban setting.