Writer/researcher looking for 19th century cog rail/short line expert

[Anonymous]

Hello--I am a writer working on a project/article and I need an expert to identify what may be train-related objects, cars, or otherwise train equipment, from a historical 19th century photograph.  Since this piece will be published, I would like the expert to have some semblance of 'credentials' to back up, well, credibility, with any conclusions reached.  Also, an agreement to allow me to use your real name and credentials within the article.  Ideally too, I would like this person to take the ID-ing to a 'forensic' level if needed--to go all the way--to "prove" the object in the photograph is or is not related to a train.  The photograph is of fairly poor resolution, etc.  What I would like is somewhat of a 'commitment' of sorts, that you aren't going to just glance at the photo and say "There's no way to tell what it is."  I have already been that route.  I believe there are features on the object that are identifiable, and also within its surrounding environment.  Even if the object is not identifiable, I would like an arugument made with details for a case one way or another--could it be a train, or not.  There is a bit of discretion involved within the project also, until publication.  The expert should be extremely familiar with late 19th century steam/cog/short line rail aesthetics.

Please feel free to respond to this post, or email me directly at [e-mail]

Thanks.