History of Harriman

Harriman is a village located in Orange County, New York, United States. The area was originally inhabited by the Lenape people, a Native American tribe, until European settlers arrived in the early 18th century. The village was named after Edward Henry Harriman, a prominent businessman and railroad executive who played a key role in developing the village and the surrounding area.

In the late 19th century, Harriman became a center for manufacturing and transportation, thanks in large part to its location along the Erie Railroad. The village was incorporated in 1914, and by the mid-20th century, it had become a popular residential community for commuters working in nearby cities.

Today, Harriman is home to a variety of businesses, including retail stores and restaurants. It is also located near several recreational areas, such as Harriman State Park, which offers hiking trails, camping facilities, and other outdoor activities.

One notable event in the history of Harriman was the 1950 Harriman train collision, in which two trains collided head-on, killing 32 people and injuring more than 150 others. The accident is still remembered as one of the worst train disasters in American history.