E. Bronx Forum to present ‘The Old Put’

The East Bronx History Forum will feature “The Old Put” at their June 17th meeting at the Huntington Free Library. It’s been many years since most of us have traveled from the Bronx on the old Putman Railroad and longer still since we’ve seen a steam engine in operation. Passenger service on the Putnam line ended in 1958 and the last freight train to Carmel rolled into that station in 1970.

Joe Schiavone, a retired teacher, is the author of “The Old Put” and has some marvelous tales to tell. While still a teenager he was aboard the last run on the line on May 29, 1958. Generally there would be about 150 passengers but on this special day over 450 people boarded the train for this final journey. Joe recalls all the emotions displayed by the passengers with one singing Danny Boy and another playing his banjo. It was a sad day for those faithful passengers who used the train daily as well as for railroad buffs everywhere. Joe will help us recall those days with old photographs and stories and he’ll do it like no one else can. He was there.

The forum will meet on Wednesday, June 17, at 7:30 p.m. at the Huntington Free Library located at 9 Westchester Square adjacent to the Apple Bank for Savings south of Benson Street.

The #6 Pelham Bay line stops at Westchester Square which is also a hub for numerous bus lines. The librarian may be reached at (718) 829-7770.

The event is open to the public and there is no admission fee.