Old interlocking tower in Lynchburg, built in 1924:
"In 1924, C&O Ry built a two story, brick interlocking tower in Lynchburg, Virginia beside the diamond of the N&W Ry crossing. The N&W double tracked "Old Mainline" tracks were from Island yard and points east, and to Union Station and points west in the opposite direction. The C&O tracks were from Richmond to the east and Clifton Forge to the west. The 1924 brick structure replaced an old wood building, also constructed by the C&O. To both railroads, it was known as ND cabin/tower. The Southern Railway also passed nearby but it crossed the N&W a few hundred yards to the west at "X" tower and for several decades all three railroads had passenger trains using Union Station, as well as streetcars of the Lynchburg Traction & Light Company. Both ND and NC towers were replaced about 1950 by the one story "NC" tower which was located across the N&W tracks, in front of Union Station. NC controlled movements on the nearby tracks of N&W, C&O and Southern Railways.
Having an original diagram book for railroad signs published by the C&O, I was able to make an accurate replica of the ND sign which was attached to the side of the brick building. Originally, there were two signs on either side of the southwest corner, at second floor level. On the eastern side, hung a sign, "N&W Crossing" which lasted into the 21st century!
The replica sign was finished and hung March 19, 2009. The picture of ND Cabin was made in February 2009."
Found that interesting history and a photo of the building before it was "tagged" HERE. Lots of great railroad histories on that blog!
Linking with Monday Murals
Very interesting, USA railroads always fascinate me!
ReplyDeleteWhile the building itself looks like it has fallen on hard times, the brickwork still looks fresh, a testimony, perhaps, to the masons who did the work.
ReplyDeleteLucky that derailment didn't wipe out the tower! There is a similar tower in Doswell Va where the RF&P and C&O crossed.
ReplyDeleteIt's kind of sad that it has been tagged because it's a lovely little tower!
ReplyDeletei know, jerks!
DeleteInteresting info and I do like the tower. Sad.
ReplyDeleteI like the old buildings like this. There was a similar building just outside of Terrell. I was told it was where the trains would stop and get water. I never got down to take a picture of it and last year it was torn down. Dang it.
ReplyDeleteThat is interesting history!
ReplyDeleteAn interesting old building. Jim's comment made me realize that there are a few old buildings around here that I need to take photos of before they are torn down. Great image and enjoyed my history lesson. Thanks Tanya :)
ReplyDeletei agree, as above - sad it's been tagged!
ReplyDeleteThe masonry still looks sound... one hopes some use might still be found for it. The tagger needs a good swift kick in the butt.
ReplyDeleteYes the red brick buildings were so attractive.. I agree with all above taggers are a scurge :)
ReplyDeleteI wouldn't have guessed it is that old. The brick looks newer for some reason.
ReplyDeleteI guess the taggers just can't stand to see a beautiful old building like that and not tag it. It's too bad!
ReplyDeleteNice composition.
ReplyDeleteI agree this tag adds nothing to this little tower. Pity, really. Probably could be taken off with some serious work. Thanks for contributing to this week's Monday Mural.
ReplyDeletei love trains & train history rocks!! so cool. ( :
ReplyDeleteToo bad about the tagging, but love the history behind the place. Thanks for taking the time to research! :)
ReplyDelete