The Ninth Avenue Elevated Curve At 110th Street c. 1880

The Ninth Avenue Elevated train tracks took a dramatic “S” turn at 110th Street to continue along Eighth Avenue. This part of the El system were very elevated, at certain points rising 100 feet above street level. Because of its phenomenal height the “S” curve was thought to be a possible magnet for despondent people and was distastefully nicknamed “suicide curve.”

When constructed in 1879 this curve in the tracks was considered a marvelous feat of engineering. The reason the tracks were so far above the street was because of the drop in street level at that point.

This stereoview is from Kilburn Brothers of Littleton, New Hampshire and on this winter day around 1880, a group of people decided to pose in front of the newly completed El curve.

What is most notable is the lack of buildings on the upper west side. Compare this photo with another taken 25 years later and the difference is striking.

Here is a closer look at two of our fashionably dressed subjects.

The Ninth Avenue Elevated and its famous “S” curve was demolished in 1940.