The Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal, also known as the Communipaw Terminal or Jersey City Terminal, was a major transportation hub in Jersey City, New Jersey. Built in 1889, this iconic structure served as a terminus for several major railroads, including the Central Railroad of New Jersey, Reading Railroad, Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, and Lehigh Valley Railroad.
The Architectural Gem of Liberty State Park
The Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal was designed in the Richardsonian Romanesque style, a distinctive architectural style that blended elements of Romanesque and Renaissance Revival. The terminal’s grand facade, featuring arched entrances and towers, made it a true architectural gem. With more than a dozen platforms and several ferry slips, the terminal was a bustling hub of activity, connecting travelers to destinations across the region.
The Decline and Rebirth of the Terminal
Following the closure of the terminal in 1967, the area fell into disrepair and became a desolate dump site. However, in 1957, a local civic leader named Morris Pesin recognized the potential of the waterfront area and spearheaded the movement to transform it into a public park. Pesin, along with other environmentalists and historians, including Audrey Zapp, Theodore Conrad, and J. Owen Grundy, worked tirelessly to secure state and federal funding to purchase the waterfront properties and create what is now known as Liberty State Park.
Preserving the Past, Shaping the Future
In 1968, the state and federal government acquired the former terminal site and its surrounding areas, paving the way for the creation of Liberty State Park. The park officially opened on Flag Day, June 14th, 1976, as New Jersey’s bicentennial gift to the nation. Today, the park is a testament to the preservation of the Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal, with visitors able to explore the exterior of the building and learn about its rich history.
Attractions and Amenities at Liberty State Park
Liberty State Park is home to a variety of attractions and amenities, including:
- Liberty Walkway: A scenic walkway that offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty.
- Liberty Science Center: An interactive science museum that educates and inspires visitors of all ages.
- Liberation Sculpture: A powerful sculpture commemorating the liberation of the Nazi concentration camps.
- The Sail of Columbus Monument: A monument honoring the legacy of Christopher Columbus.
- The Nature Interpretive Center: A facility that showcases the park’s diverse natural habitats and wildlife.
- The Richard J. Sullivan Natural Area: A protected natural area that provides a haven for local flora and fauna.
- The Empty Sky Memorial: A memorial dedicated to the victims of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
- Picnic areas, pavilions, and dining options, including the Liberty House and Maritime Parc restaurants.
Exploring the Liberty State Park Old Train Station
Visitors to Liberty State Park can explore the exterior of the historic Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal, which is open daily from 7:30 am to 4:30 pm. The terminal offers a self-guided tour, allowing visitors to learn about its rich history and architectural significance. Admission to the park and the terminal is free, making it an accessible and affordable destination for history enthusiasts and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
References:
– Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal Historic Site – NJ.gov. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/historic/crrnj.html
– Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal – Wikipedia. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Central_Railroad_of_New_Jersey_Terminal
– All Aboard: The History of Liberty State Park + The Central Railroad … – Hoboken Girl. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.hobokengirl.com/liberty-state-park-central-rail-road-jersey-city-history/
– Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal, Liberty State Park – Journey through Jersey. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.journeythroughjersey.com/sites/central-railroad-of-new-jersey-terminal-liberty-s/
– A look at the historic rail terminal in Liberty State Park | Video – NJ Spotlight News. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.njspotlightnews.org/video/look-historic-rail-terminal-liberty-state-park/.