We just updated our WebSite “NY Central Shops At Harmon”
1913 saw the completion of electrification of Grand Central Terminal and the lower stretches of the Hudson and Harlem Divisions. Harmon, which is 33 miles from Grand Central Terminal, became the transfer point where electric locomotives were exchanged for steam and later diesel on through New York Central passenger trains. It also became the starting point for electric commuter service into the city.
Harmon was a New York Central-created community and came into existence because it was a logical point to be the outer limit of the electric zone. There was plenty of room as this was a requirement for an interchange point. Not only was there room for sidings and yards, but also for repair facilities. The steam engines that pulled the Great Steel Fleet to Chicago rested here. As the small, but powerful, electrics pulled in from Grand Central Terminal, the steamers quickly hooked on and took off up the Hudson.
The shops handled all servicing, inspection and repairs for all electric locomotives and MU equipment. They also handled servicing, inspection and minor repairs on steam (later diesel) in the area.
There were no third rails inside the shops. Instead, there were long 600-volt cables on reels hung from the ceiling. These were called โbugsโ and were clipped to a third rail shoe when power was needed.
Harmon was basically a commuter passenger station and never developed into a transfer point. Stays were short as it only took a minute or two to change power.
Yes! A fascinating place.
PenneyVanderbilt 
Reblogged this on KCJones.
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