High View or Bloomingburg was a busy station on the eastern side of the Catskill resort area served by the O&W. The stucco mission-style station built around the turn of the century was and remains as one of the most beautiful stations on the railroad. The graceful arches over the waiting room doors led into two separate waiting rooms with dark woodwork and a fancy brick fireplace.
After the railroad closed, the station was a home for farm animals and poultry until purchased by Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Darmetko several years ago. The station is currently undergoing restoration as a private home. Unfortunately, the doors, windows and interior woodwork, including the ticket counter braces carved into the silhoutte of the O&W herald, were almost completely stripped away and burned in the fireplace by vandals. The fireplace, while suffering some damage to its decorate relief brickwork, has survived. The property, including the tunnel approach, is private property and posted as such. However, respectful O&W fans can ask the owners for permission to photograph the building and tunnel. Please respect their privacy and follow the old adage: "Take nothing but memories, leave nothing but footprints."
Engine 71 leads a southbound passenger train out of the High View tunnel. The station is just ahead to the left of the engine. The scaffolding apparatus, which was mounted on flanged wheels, was used to inspect and repair the roof of the tunnel, which was prone to falling down.
A similar but later view shows another train exiting the tunnel.
The south portal and approach to the High View tunnel in April, 1998. The Darmetkos say the tunnel is full of water most of the year but joked they may buy a flat bottom boat and charge a quarter to ride through. Wonder if they will have to post a tariff for that?
On September 10, 1953, Edmond Weber took this photo of the High View station at the end of passenger service on the O&W. The station did not change much over the next ten to fifteen years.
Today, the exterior of the station has been repaired and repainted, including refurbishing 
the tile roof and painting the O&W herald cast into the walls. All door and window hardware was gone so modifications were made for modern versions while maintaining harmony with the character of the building.
