So, there’s this old subway station hidden beneath the Waldorf-Astoria hotel, rumored to have been used to discreetly transport presidents. Unlike your run-of-the-mill deserted train stops you might stumble upon in New York City, this one—dubbed Track 61—has quite the reputation. Rumor has it, it’s still operational, serving as a secret getaway route for presidents when they’re in town.
Back In The Day
Back in the day when Grand Central Terminal was being built, Track 61 was right in the mix. But it wasn’t exactly deserted like people might think. You see, it was originally designed as a powerhouse and a storage spot for those train cars not in use by the New York Central Railroad. So, it’s not your typical subway station. In fact, Track 61 is owned by the New York Central Railroad, which is now part of Metro-North—not the NYC Subway system like most folks assume.
Sure, the station isn’t exactly a sight for sore eyes, what with all the neglect and grime piled up. But nestled within that forgotten powerhouse, there’s an old train car parked for good, like a relic of the past. Despite its gritty appearance, this industrial nook of tracks has somehow gained quite a reputation as the go-to spot for whisking US presidents around on the down-low.
Connection To The President
Back in the day, they say Franklin D. Roosevelt was one of the first to utilize Track 61. Legend has it that his car was brought right to the station and then hoisted straight into the Waldorf’s garage. Rumor has it, Roosevelt even used the station as a discreet way to come and go, keeping his battle with polio under wraps. Track 61 likely witnessed its fair share of presidents sneaking about over the years. It’s said that plans were even made for a swift exit route for George W. Bush while he was conducting meetings at the Waldorf.
Track 61 has supposedly witnessed a parade of characters, from high-ranking military officials to A-list celebrities, skulking about in secrecy. But with all the secrecy shrouding it, it’s hard to confirm any of these tales. Nonetheless, there’s one unmistakable clue that something important is happening down there: that unmarked brass door at street level of the Waldorf, leading directly to the station. It’s a quiet acknowledgment that someone significant is still making moves through that track.