New York Subway First Section Opens

The first section of the New York City Subway opened on June 28, 1904, revolutionizing urban transit in the United States. Built by the Interborough Rapid Transit Company under August Belmont, the line used electric multiple-unit trains designed by Frank Sprague. Overcoming challenges like tunneling under Manhattan's bedrock, it carried 150,000 passengers on opening day. This innovation alleviated street congestion and spurred suburban growth. Its significance lies in setting standards for rapid transit systems globally, with the original stations still in use today.