Deep Dive: The Manhattan Elevateds

Before subways traveled beneath Manhattan, the city’s first rapid transit system soared above it. Elevated rail lines, or “els,” initially opened atop Ninth Avenue in 1868 before quickly expanding to Sixth, Second, and then Third Avenues. While the els eased congestion and fueled the city’s geographic expansion, they came at a price: darkened streets, relentless clatter, and declining property values. By the 1930s, Manhattan’s els were on borrowed time. Their tracks were dismantled starting in 1938, as subway lines replaced most of their routes. The borough’s last elevated line was taken down in 1955, 70 years ago.

Although Manhattan’s once-robust elevated network has faded from memory, in this deep dive talk, transit historian Andy Sparberg conjures a very different time when trains thundered above the streets.

As always everyone is welcome to join. This program provides a deep dive, thus is best suited for those who have some knowledge of New York City transit.