Lawrence Briggs, New York Division
Lawrence Briggs, 86 years of age and an old-time engineer on the Erie, died at his home in Piermont, NY on August 11 (1909). When the Erie was but a kid he was running a work train and acting as both Conductor and Engineer. Mr. Seymour, who was then Superintendent, gave him a running order one day on which he worked, though he was anything but satisfied with it, for reasons that it conflicted with other orders and was not legible. Mr. Briggs took it to the office at Piermont on the following day and asked Mr. Seymour to read it. This was more than Mr. Seymour could do after it was "cold." He then asked the old man how he made out on it, and Mr. Briggs replied that he protected himself as best he could and managed to get through all right. Mr. Seymour then said to him, "I guess I'll take that order," and did so. The next day he sent Mr. Briggs a letter thanking him for his good judgment and congratulating him on being able to get over the route under the circumstances with a blind order.

From the May, 1930 issue of Erie Railroad Magazine:
Retired conductor Eugene Bateman of Port Jervis recently related an episode in his career that occurred in 1875:

"I have had several thrilling experiences during my railroad career, one of which occurred on March 17, 1875, while employed as a brakeman on the Eastern Division, now known as the New York Division."

"I was a member of Conductor Tom Coyne's crew with Engineer Larry Briggs, engine 234, and we were ordered from Jersey City to handle a special train to Port Jervis. The train consisted of three cars including a car of dynamite for Port Jervis and was to be used to blast the ice which had blocked up in the Delaware River, endangering life and property.

"Erie officers, anxious to relieve the situation, issued orders for us to run special from Jersey City to Port Jervis with right of track over all trains. We made two stops for water, and arrived at Port Jervis 12 o'clock noon when the river was very high, causing no little alarm.

"The train was met by local officials and scores of people who were anxious about raising the blockade of ice. Prompt action by the Erie in this instance caused the people Port Jervis to sing its praises."