Brooklyn · Museum
Waterfront Museum
Pier 44, 290 Conover Street · Brooklyn, New York City
A restored railroad barge explains how freight moved through New York Harbor before container shipping.
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NYFE Summary
Railroad barges once carried freight between New Jersey rail terminals and ships around New York Harbor. Lehigh Valley No. 79 was built for this work in 1914. After it was left on mudflats, David Sharps bought it in 1985. Volunteers helped return it to the water and turn it into a museum.
Visitors can see the captain’s living quarters, tools used by waterfront workers, and harbor gongs and bells. Guides explain how the barge was rescued and restored. The vessel also serves as a stage for performances.
NYFE summary from the official history and visitor sources linked below.
Plan a visit
Check the operator’s current opening, admission and access information before travelling. Historic status does not guarantee public access to every interior.
Official visitor information ↗