Program

Historic Transportation

Subject

Site, Transportation

Location

1 Cheviot Rd, Germantown, NY 12526, USA

Lat/Long

42.125972, -73.904778

Grant Recipient

Germantown History Department

By 1851, the entire length of the Hudson River Railroad was completed and in operation connecting New York City and Albany over approximately 143 miles. The railroad traveled along the east bank of the Hudson River, passing through East Camp Landing located in the town of Germantown in Columbia County.

With the coming of the railroad, East Camp Landing developed into a small hub of commerce and travel. Providing passenger and freight service, the railroad made it possible to quickly ship local agricultural products, including delicate fruit such as cherries, peaches, and grapes to New York City and other markets. In addition to the railroad, water transportation remained important. East Camp Landing allowed local farmers access to the main channel of the Hudson River, with barges used to transport products to market. However, in the winter months, when the river would freeze over, the railroad made it so passenger and freight service through the area could continue.

In 1886, East Camp was renamed Cheviot. In 1911, a new deep-water dock was built and put into operation at Cheviot Landing. Jutting out into the Hudson River, the new dock could accommodate larger barges and steamers, thus contributing to the continued growth of the local economy. Early the next year, the March 22, 1912 Columbia Republican reported that multiple steamship lines were making daily stops at the new dock at Cheviot Landing. It also noted that a large warehouse was erected on the new dock to be used for freight and as a waiting room for passengers.

With improved modes of overland transportation, eventually the dock at Cheviot Landing fell into disuse. As of 2026, remnants of the dock are still visible at low tide. The former Hudson River Railroad is now operated by Amtrak, offering intercity passenger service along the line.