Every day I drive past the old Lehigh Valley grade that loops around Seneca Falls on its way to Lehigh Jct. and the NYC Auburn Road. Does anyone know when that route was last used, and what customers were served in Waterloo and Seneca Falls by the LV?
I believe the line between Seneca Falls and Waterloo was pulled up in 36'.(or atleast a section of it was) I think the line up from Ithaca to Auburn was still in service, but it didnt connect completely to the LV main.
Another question- I made earlier mention that my grandparents lived near the Freight Main in Seneca County. I recall alot of crossings that had just the white "X" style railroad crossing signs, no lights or gates. How fast did the trains run through this area, and how frequently? And was this a double track road to the end? were they both used?
The Cross Bucks you speak of might've been used in the 30s-50s, since the line does have cross bucks, lights, and a gate.(on the remaining portion of the freight main south of geneva) As for double track, yes, it was, up into the late 60s, when traffic dwindled, so they single tracked the line(except in portions for passing sidings) I've seen videos on old 16mm film after attending Guil-Mack's house, and Lehigh Collection. Very fascinating to see videos of the freight main still active, and massive Century 628s crossing the concrete overpass.
We dont mind the questions, i always love to offer my opinon, but some seem to think that mine doesnt matter sometime
Anyway, glad to see you as a fellow lehigher.
Any more questions, feel free to ask.
Cheers.
Sean
[/code]