24 October 2002

Blue Links: Piermont

In the 19th century the New York and Erie Railroad built a depot at Taulmans Landing on the west shore of the Hudson River.

Just to the north, Sparkill Creek marked the first opening in the steep Palisades Cliffs lining the bank of the river, making this landing the first place people or goods could move easily to points west out of New York City. Soon the railroad constructed a giant pier to help connect the trains to the deep river channel, and by 1840 the town was known as "Piermont." In the 20th century Piermont became a major embarkation point for soldiers for World War II. In October 1944, more than 85,000 soldiers passed through here on their way to Europe.

When the fireboat John J. Harvey visited in August we were glad to see cleats and bollards (left) on the pier that were plenty strong for us to tie up overnight. The boat is a little longer than the pier (right) but it was still safe to tie up overnight.

The sultry summer night we visited Piermont it was clear that the pier is a focal point of recreation in the community. We appreciate the hospitality of the Town to host us over night, as were the dozen residents who joined us for the ride the next day to Yonkers and Manhattan. We hope to return next year!

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