On page 43 of the current CT magazine there's a picture of the original articulated Green Diamond trainset which brought back fond memories. I grew up along the IC south of Chicago and saw this train literally hundreds of times in the latter 1930's and up until after WW2 when it was replaced by a non-articulated streamliner in the familiar brown, yellow and orange IC colors. Since it's been about 65 years since I last saw the green trainset it's not surprising that I don't remember the windows along the sides of its power unit. The CT magazine photo shows what appears to be seven passenger windows and I suppose there were a like number on the opposite side of the power unit. Was there actually passenger seating behind the cab? If so those riders would be separated from the diner and observation/lounge by the RPO/baggage/express car which I suppose they could pass through to reach those amenities. This seems to me to be a rather awkward arrangement and hopefully someone can explain this situation.
Some of you may not be aware that when the original Green Diamond was replaced on the Chi-StL route the IC renamed it the Miss-Lou and placed it in service between Jackson, MS and New Orleans where it soldiered on for a few more years until the end of its useful life.
Mark
There was no passenger seating in the locomotive. The space is fully occupied by the diesel engine.
There are plans in the May 1990 Model Railroader. Article starts on page 84.
I tried to sell my two cents worth, but no one would give me a plug nickel for it.
I don't have a leg to stand on.
Ah, the "Green Diamond", otherwise known as "The Tomato Worm". Got to be one of the ugliest diesels ever built! So ugly it's classic! Wish someone would do an "O" gauge version!
Diesel Era magazine did a spread on the Blomberg designed Green Diamond a few years back.
As far as overall appearance, the Art Deco influence was pretty strong at this time and can be seen in the "Green Diamond", the early UP Streamliners and the original paint job and design of ATSF 1 and 1A.
The "Green Diamond" Art Deco? I wasn't sure about that so I asked my resident expert Lady Firestorm about it, she knows these things. She said "Yes, it's Art Deco. It's LOUSY Art Deco, but it is Art Deco."
Login, or register today to interact in our online community, comment on articles, receive our newsletter, manage your account online and more!
Get the Classic Trains twice-monthly newsletter