Lehigh Valley Railroad Barge # 79
Photo Credit: Frank Zimmerman
Lehigh Valley Railroad Barge # 79 Tentative Tour Schedule:
Please check back for schedule updates.
Due to berthing and depth constraints, not all vessels will be at all tour stops. Expected vessels can change without notice.
Length: 90'
Beam: 30’
Draft: 3’
Capacity: 149 dockside
Passengers: 12 while underway
Lehigh Valley Railroad Barge #79 is the only surviving wooden example of its kind remaining afloat. Currently it houses the Waterfront Museum and serves as a “floating classroom and showboat barge”. Barge #79 was rescued from Edgewater, NJ in 1985; after nine years of mud removal, caulking and repairs, the barge was returned virtually to her original 1914 condition. Visitors learn first hand the history of the tug and barge “Lighterage Era” (1860-1960) and how food and commercial goods were transported prior to the construction of today’s bridges and tunnels. One can view the current exhibition, many artifacts on the walls and ceiling including rope cannons, tools, ships’ bells, etc. Also on view are documentaries from the growing archive of past Museum media collaborations. Barge #79 is also available to host performances by visiting artists and can provide exhibition lights, house lights, stage lights, sound equipment, and projection screening capability.
For more information on Lehigh Valley Railroad Barge # 79:
Contact info: David Sharps: 718.624.4719, dsharps@waterfrontmusuem.org
http://www.waterfrontmuseum.org