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The 1909 Milk Train: How Chatham’s Union Station Fed New York City

The 1909 Milk Train: How Chatham’s Union Station Fed New York City

  • Charles "Chuck" Bartolo
  • 03/2/12

In 1841, Chatham became a major pivot point for railroad traffic throughout the region. With the completion of the current station in 1887—appropriately dubbed "Union Station"—its importance grew for over a century. Along the way, the railroad revealed something even more significant: the beauty and fertility of our land, a reputation the Hudson Valley enjoys to this very day.

There was a sense of magic in 1909 when the first "milk train" steamed out of Union Station. Hauling 20 tanker cars of unsurpassed, fresh local milk to serve the needs of New York City, it was a daily tribute to our farmers and the richness of our soil—a tradition that continued for decades.

A Modern Sanctuary Today, that same land offers a secure and private lifestyle that is increasingly rare. In Columbia County, ancient farmsteads share the horizon with dramatic contemporary homes. We are seeing a renaissance as small organic farms spring up on acreage that remains beautiful, unspoiled, and surprisingly affordable.

Whether you are looking for a pristine building site or a historic home with deep roots, Columbia County land carries a very special "spin." It is a place where history informs the future. We invite you to review the sheer value of our current listings—you may just find the perfect place to create a "magical moment" of your own.

Our thanks for input & Photo from the Chatham Historical Society. Call (518)392-9236.

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