Signal, switch, and crossing towers that controlled sections of mainline track, junctions, yard and terminal approaches, as well as busy grade crossings played a central role in the daily operations of railroads. Here are some towers that not only performed their duties well, they looked sharp, too. First up is a classic Pennsylvania Railroad signal tower in Marietta, PA. Note the semaphore and operating rods in the background.
The terrific little CPR crossing tower in London, Ontario was also a signal tower that used a semaphore to hold trains. What great architectural detail for such a small structure!
This NY Central tower was located along the Hudson River on the Central's mainline. Again, note the semaphore in the background.
Here is an excellent view of the circa 1910 Delaware & Hudson yard at Oneonta, NY and the yard tower there.
The signal tower in the Erie's Binghamton, NY yards has my vote for the smallest.
Finally, here is a view of the Boston & Albany's Westfield, MA station with adjacent signal tower that controlled rail traffic at this busy crossing. Note the sloped switcher tender to the left of the card.
