For a couple of years I’d read about and seen photos of the abandoned subway station here in NYC under City Hall…and after an arduous process with securing tickets through the New York Transit Museum, I finally got to see this hidden beauty.
A subway station still filled with the orginal components from 1904…brass chandeliers, stained glass, vaulted ceilings, and the amazing tile work by Guastavino…the same work that can be seen today in the ceilings of the Grand Central Station, the Cathedral of St. John the Divine and Ellis Island’s Registry Room.
Why was something so beautiful abandoned? Well, unfortunately once the subway opened, it was clear it would not accommodate the ever increasing number of riders. So longer trains would be needed and because of longer trains…there was no way they could safely maneuver the tight curve of this particular station.
glass blocks allowing natural light from above to fill the underground station…
totally loved this leaded glass skylight…
While the station is considered abandoned, it isn’t technically as the 6 train still uses it…so if you want to see it without taking a tour…stay on the 6 as it returns to the uptown track from the end of the line…if you get off at the Brooklyn Bridge stop you’ll miss it. Just stay on and as it loops around to go back uptown, you’ll catch a glimpse of this old abandoned area.
A phenomenal tour led by historian John Simko…an individual who is filled with knowledge and passion about a piece of NYC history that even people living here have never heard about, much less experienced.
So fortunate to be able to dig deep into my city…
this piece of NY history is amazing. Glad you shared with us. I’ve been to Ellis Island and Grand Central. My grandmother worked for the NY railroad as a switchboard operator many years ago. They lived in Brooklyn. I loved being reminded of the other sites, while marveling at this one. Thanks.
Thanks so much Pat! I think it’s amazing too…and was thrilled to have the opportunity to take the tour…something I’d wanted to do for so long now. Loved hearing about your grandmother too. Mine was the reason I fell in love with NYC as a young child. Appreciate the visit!
ps it says comment posted at 9:40 but its only 5:40 here in Mass.???
I know…have no clue how to fix it…so I need to ask my guru!
What a gorgeous underground gem, you worked hard for this, I know! It’s amazing that it’s still there intact and can be visited … thanks once again for sharing.
So welcome! I enjoy sharing these little gems! Thanks always!!
Wow, so interesting and such beautiful B&W shots capturing the history.
So glad you were able to experience this.
Ironically, I just read an article a few days ago about retired subway cars and how they are discarded in the Atlantic ocean. It’s for the eco system and marine life.
This is not the article I read but I pulled this up.
http://www.cbsnews.com/pictures/nyc-subway-cars-dumped-into-atlantic-ocean/
Thanks so much for sharing.
XO
Thanks Lisa and now I’m off to look at these two links. Sounds fascinating! xo
This was the actual artical I read. I like the last to photos.
http://www.viralforest.com/subway-cars-dumped-coral-reef/
WOWZER!!! That is AWESOME! Thanks so much for sharing and yes…those last two images are amazing!
Leave it to you to not only find out about these gems, Robin, but to wiggle your way to them, against all odds. We’re the beneficiaries, of course, so thank you.
Well you know how much I love to share what I learn about my city! 🙂 Thank you!!!
I really like how you captured the intricate deatails of this station. So beautiful in b/w.
Thanks! Yep, b&w was a must…totally different feel in color. Appreciate your visits!!
Beautiful images and a nice history lesson
Thanks Bill! Always enjoy when you drop in!
Adding this to my list of things to see if I ever get back to NY to see my son. You’re site is so much better than a tour book of recommended places to see. 🙂
You made me smile! Thank you Maery!!
How very interesting. Yes, lucky you for scoring the tickets, and even better for us that you share what you learn with us!! Love and miss you. XoXo
Thank you!! xoxo more!
Robin, What a fascinating story and your photos feel like a travel back in time. The station, with its beautiful architecture and haunting feel, stand as a tribute to human ingenuity. I love that you are up for any adventure – and not easily deterred from your mission!
It took lots of patience, but I persevered, ha ha! Thanks Donna…every day is an adventure here even if you’re just walking the streets! More fun to come…I’ve got a couple of good ones coming up!
What a ride that would be, I love the fact of the curve being too tight!
Amazing pictures! Robinm thank you so much for showing us around to all those very cool locations. It’s the next best thing to experiencing this all by myself!
I am glad this isn’t abandoned…we just throw away so much beauty…and your pictures are wonderful…thanks for sharing this treasure!
So cool!