Good Evening Gents!
The staff New Years Eve Party begins at 8 PM (Central) and is OPEN to all regular patrons of "Our" Place! So, Lars, all of that grimacing for naught! <grin>
Been one of those frustrating experiences again, as I've lost not one, but three Posts AFTER hitting the "send" button. Lotsa Pix gone-zo . . . . narrative, no sweat, but it did take time to assemble the photos. <groan> This is really getting O-L-D, as I am!
Much appreciation to the Larsman for that spate of book covers - really covered the bases well. And of course, a special THANX for the RDC book. It's "in" my modest library of hard covered RR books and I use it quite a bit for reference purposes. Always enjoy looking at that cover!
Given that this will be my FINAL Post on this Thread - I'm going to "lock" it. Therefore, please hold any follow-ups and new stuff ‘til the AM at the new "Our" Place. THANX!
Some random Pix from my archives to wind down the year . . . .
The "official" watering hole and eatery at the 2006 Rendezvous in Toronto!
The 2006 Rendezvous in Toronto "awards" ceremony!
Northbound Alaska RR Denali Star at Anchorage
Mt. McKinley from the southbound Alaska RR Denali Star
The TrainWreck Saloon, Rock Hill, Missouri
Tom
THIS THREAD IS CLOSED!
Join us at:
http://www.trains.com/trccs/forums/992193/ShowPost.aspx#992193
G'day Cap'n Tom & fellow travelers waiting for the bar to reopen!
New Years Eve and the Tavern by the Tracks is CLOSED! Now, does THAT make any sense at all The Bar by the Ballast, the Saloon by the Siding, our favorite of watering holes is CLOSED on New Years Eve!! Good Grief Charlie Brown!
Well, I happen to KNOW there's a staff party tonight and while it has been a rather "hush, hush" affair, if you play your cards "right," I KNOW who has the keys and just MAY let you in!
Makes no sense that the bar is CLOSED on New Years Eve!! <groan> <double moan 'n groan> Well things WILL BE DIFFERENT on the new thread!
My Jints are "in" as a .500 team as the "Tiki-man" was "the man" against the 'Skins from DC. Not really looking for much out of them in the playoffs, however, at least they are at the top of the "ho hum heap"! <grin>
Great sea going movies at the Emporium this week - excellent selections!
Good to see some contributions from Doug (as ALWAYS) and our Proprietor on this final day of 2006. I've got a few that have been "on deck" for a few weeks and I'll share 'em with youse guys in a minute or so.
Hey Doug, that diagram looks razactly like the thingamajig what connects to the fratchit what makes the jamalanga go 'round 'n 'round. Is that the answer Figured, not!
Well is surely isn't something I've come across in the world of ships, so my thinking is that Cap'n Tom is probably as close as any of us are going to get. Could very well be traction oriented. But in my world, if there's no rudder or propellers (screws), well, it just doesn't count. <grin>
Nice signals, Eric and I've taken an interest in that subject since it was launched here some weeks ago. Have been reading up on 'em and there's quite a bit out there to become thoroughly engrossed with.
Now for some book covers to end the year with!
and especially for Cap'n Tom . . .
Happy New Year to the guys who have made "Our" Place the best cyber bar 'n grill this side of the tracks! Best to you and yours for 2007! See youse guys on the NEW THREAD!
Until the next time!
Manager Lars
Special for Doug - Well, if your diagram was before the RDC, how about just plain traction wheels Can't tell ya much more than that, as I'm hardly "into" that aspect of steel wheels on steel rails - but looks like it "could be."
I used to LOVE cigars - but, alas, no more . . . <grin>
Even though the bar at "Our" Place is
CLOSED on SUNDAYS -
We do observe Sunday Photo Posting Day!Now playing at the Mentor Village Emporium Theatre!
. . . Sunday, December 31st thru January 6th: Sink the Bismarck (1960) Starring: Kenneth More, Dana Wynter, Carl Möhner, Laurence Naismith and Karel Stepanek - and - The Enemy Below (1957) Starring: Robert Mitchum, Curd Jürgens, David Hedison, Theodore Bikel and Russell Collins. SHORT: The Three Stooges - Mutts to You (1938).
Sink the Bismarck (1960)
PLOT SUMMARY:
A true WW2 story: the British Navy must find and destroy a powerful German warship. Chronicles the breakout of the Bismark during the early days of World War Two. Seen both from the point of view of the many naval vessels on both sides and from the central headquarters of the British where the search for the super battleship was controlled.
from: amazon.com
The Enemy Below (1957)
During World War II, the USS Haynes, an American destroyer escort discovers a German U-boat in the South Atlantic. A deadly duel between the two ships ensues, and Captain Murrell must draw upon all his experience to defeat the equally experienced German commander.
SHORT: Mutts to You (1938)PLOT SUMMARY: Featuring Moe, Larry & Curly
The Stooges run a dog washing place and they have a rather weird way of washing a dog. After they wash their most recent customer they decide to go out to lunch and as Curly is pushing their broken down car, they see a baby left on a doorstep, they pick up the baby and take it to their apartment. They have a little trouble because the landlord doesn't want babies in his apartments, and they discover that the parents are looking for the baby. The Stooges try to return the baby, but the cops catch them. Fortunately, the parents arrive on time and vouch for the Stooges.
from: threestooges.netEnjoy! Tom
Good morning again folks. Got your message loud and clear on holding-off on posting until the new thread is created Tom. You'll do that as soon as the ball drops in NYC, right? (just kidding). The rocks I'm moving are well behind my property line. They're even behind the utility easement. See the picture below
The pile of rocks next to the large tree on the left is the one I created. The sodded land is mine. My plan is to make everything behind it look just like my yard, and plunk a garden in the middle of it. The scrub tree closest to the electric deer is right about in the middle of that garden, and will be removed. This is also where all the rocks and stuff are, and you can see how far I've gotten. See the big rocks close to the middle size tree? There are several more that are also too big for me to move. I don't know what (if anything) I'll be doing about them. Anyhow, it's raining today, so I'll just do indoor stuff today, like put up racks in our laundry room.
Nice try on identifying the gears & wheels picture .... but no cigar. This drawing came way before anyone ever thought of a RDC.
And now, for more Sunday pix. Here are some photos I thought were interesting, from The Search For Steam by Joe G. Collias:
A study in grime. Making sharply visible every part of the undercarriage, an accumulation of finely ground sand covers drivers, rods and piping alike on M-1 No. 1966 at DeCoursey, Ky. Swirled upwards by the motion of the wheels and rods, accumulations such as this were common to the work-a-day appearance of these robust locomotives and indicate the grades and tonnage to which they were assigned. Replenishing this sand supply was wholly as important as fueling and watering, as the locomotive sits patiently under the DeCoursey coal dock while the hostler's helper fills the cavernous dome with the white stuff. The grimy tonnage mover is beginning to show the ravages of poor maintenance and hard work in this 1956 scene and is not long from joining the rows of dead brethren near-by awaiting the cutting torch.
Amid the still-brown countryside in the early spring of 1953, PS-2 No. 1231 of the Southern was the only green thing in sight as she climbed the 4% grade west of New Albany, Ind., on the Louisville-St. Louis line. The engine crew will soon slam shut the cab windows for the trip through the mile-long Duncan Tunnel at the top of the grade. At the time of this exposure the Louisville-to-Princeton, Ind., train rated an asterisk in the Southern's passenger timetable as the only exception to an all diesel-powered schedule. Alas, by the end of this same spring, No. 1231 and her sister, No. 1317 had disappeared, and so ended the last regular run of the Southern's green-and-gold steamers.
Emerging almost reptilelike from its lair, the Baltimore and Ohio's President-class Pacific No. 5301 eases abruptly around the sharp curve in front of the New Albany, Ind., depot and out onto the public street prior to climbing the approach to the Ohio River bridge. No. 5301 is making one of the last steam runs on the Cincinnati-Louisville passenger service in 1956.
Chalk up one more for the photographer. Rarely photographed in action, and never in so excellent a pose, one of the only two Northern types ever to grace the rails of the Canadian Pacific puts on a near perfect show of smoke and steam as it heads a drag freight east over the pool-table terrain between Brandon and Winnipeg, Manitoba, in the summer of 1957.
"Mtys" west in the Far North. This length of wooden reefers, with their ice hatches pointed skyward, is more reminiscent of scenes along the U.P.'s right of way during the green-fruit season. Canadian National 4-8-2 No. 6002 has just been converted from coal to oil-burning in the Stratford, Ont., shops and shows proof of the event in an outpouring of thick, black clouds of smoke, as oil-burners are wont to do, as she heads for an assignment in the western provinces, bringing 80 empty, red C.N. reefers and a few assorted boxcars with her. Recorded near Searle, Manitoba, in July, 1958.
Just as she was celebrating her 80th birthday, our friend received a jury-duty notice.
She called to remind the people at the clerk's office that she was exempt because of her age.
"You need to come in and fill out the exemption forms," they said.
"I've already done that," she replied.
"I did it last year."
"You have to do it every year," she was told.
"Why?" came the response.
"Do you think I'm going to get younger?"
Even though the bar at "Our" Place
is CLOSED on Sundays -
We do observe Sunday Photo Posting Day!
G'day Gents!
Welcome aboard and enjoy the Sunday breakfast - brunch - lunch 'til 2 PM!
The LAST day at the old Thread - but not for "Our" Place. We will continue on as usual, just opening a new Thread. Same name and so forth.
There just wasn't time to check with those of you who have been instrumental in keeping this cyber bar ‘n grill moving forward over these many months insofar as a name change is concerned. I'm specifically addressing the guys who enjoy and understand the atmosphere of an adult bar ‘n grill - participate in the banter at the bar - and of course provide the interaction through the Posting of relevant Classic Trains information. Many, many THANX to you all! A 5- Salute to the regulars at "Our" Place!
The plan I will "officially" close this Thread, very early Monday morning, with an appropriate Post and will "lock" it as a reminder to PLEASE use the NEW Thread for follow up and new commentary. It won't be hard to find! My request of you is, PLEASE do not "jump the gun." Wait for the new Thread to appear and life will go on for those of us at "Our" Place!
A couple of acknowledgments are in order: First, THANX to Doug for joining me in keeping the ENCORE! Saturday "alive." Much appreciated!
In this morning's Post you mentioned rocks and debris on your property. Isn't that something you could take up with the developer??? The property we live on was developed about 35 years ago and some of the neighbors are still finding evidence of "stuff" coming up through the surface - things like broken slabs of concrete; pieces of "this ‘n that", bricks, plumbing remnants, and so forth. Tells you a lot about the mindset of those engaged in the "trade," eh Just cover it up with dirt and no one will know - yeah, right!
That diagram you Posted reminds me a bit of the gearing for the RDC traction motors mounted in the trucks. Just a WAG on my part . . .
Second: Always good to have Eric on board with an inclusive and informative Post! No - I'm unaware of CPs first diesel electric loco, but my guess is that our Canadian connection, Rob, surely does. Let's see what he comes up with!
Good choice regarding the RDC "hunt." I think you'll find the Protos to your liking. Mine were purchased through LifeLikes Canadian "arm" - that's the only way I could ge the road names I wanted. There are plenty of U.S. heralds out there to choose from. If you need some help, let me know!
Many THANX for the signal Pix - most interesting, fer sure, fer sure!
Oh, and I DO remember the 1955 World Series between the Yankees and Dodgers - watched ‘em all on the "tube" - black ‘n white of course - and delighted in Da Bums victory!
Finally, I see that "silent" Mike has dropped off some URLs - they aren't loading for me. I'll try ‘em later . . .
We'll be putting away the Christmas decorations during the day. So if you have something you wish to "say," just slip your comments ‘n Pix through the mail slots in either set of front doors! <grin>
Reminder: Ruth comes in tomorrow at 9 AM and stays until Leon the Night Man takes the bar at 5 PM ‘til closing. Plan to spend a bit o' the New Years day with us at the NEW Thread!
Boris, serve ‘em the last of the EGG NOG they can handle!
Good morning Tom and friends! I'll have some freshly baked rolls from the Mentor Bakery please, and mountain-grown coffee (the richest kind) to wash them down. As we all know, today is the last day for "Our Place", and we'll be moving onto a shiny new thread with the start of the new year. Nice to see Eric this am with his signal pix. Really liked the first one. Never seen anything like it. No, I do not remember the 1955 Subway Series, ‘cuz I was not born until 1956. Had I known the game would be that good, I might have arrived sooner. Actually, my dad tells me that the only reason I'm on the planet at all is that there was a re-run of "Gunsmoke" one night.
I can't believe the piles of stones I've uncovered so far behind my property. If something was truly buried back there, it must have been a dinosaur. There must be a 150 year accumulation of stones and trash, and it's going to be pretty obvious to whomever buys the lot next to me (that's where I'm moving the stones) exactly where all the stones came from. I'll get some pix when the project is completed.
Liked your SR stuff yesterday Tom. I still have an awful lot of SR stuff to share myself, on the new thread of course. Do we have a name for the new thread yet?
Here's a historic picture for y'all. Can anyone tell me what it is, and why it's so significant?
I'll give you the answer tomorrow, on the new thread!
A lawyer, who was quite wealthy, had a summer cabin to which he retreated for several weeks of the year. Each summer, the lawyer would invite a different friend of his to spend a week or two up at this place, which happened to be in a backwoods section of Maine. On one particular occasion, he invited a Czechoslovakian friend to stay with him, and the friend, eager to get something free from a lawyer, agreed.
Early one morning the lawyer and his Czech friend went out to pick berries for their morning breakfast. As they went around the berry patch, along came two huge bears - a male and a female. The lawyer, seeing the two bears, immediately dashed for cover. His friend, though, wasn't so lucky, and the male bear reached him and swallowed him whole.
The lawyer ran back to his Mercedes, tore into town as fast as he could, and got the local sheriff. The sheriff grabbed his rifle and dashed back to the berry patch with the lawyer. Sure enough, the two bears were still there.
"He's in THAT one!" cried the lawyer, pointing to the male, while visions of lawsuits from his friend's family danced in his head. He just had to save his friend.
The sheriff looked at the bears, and without batting an eye, leveled his gun, took careful aim and SHOT THE FEMALE.
"Why did you do that?" exclaimed the lawyer, "I said he was in the other!"
"Exactly," replied the sheriff, "would YOU believe a lawyer who told you that the Czech was in the male?"
Good morning Captain Tom and all present!!
Surprise, Boris! I am kind of late this morning and I don't want any... ooops! You have? Okay, I'll have just a cup of your freshly brewed coffee! Thank you!
Seems to have a very quiet Saturday at Our Place today, I mean yesterday! Since this is probably my last post before we start the new thread I will post just a few pictures for this Photo Posting Sunday.
Tom – I am planning to build a layout when I retire next December and I would like to have at least one RDC running on it. I will check LifeLike Protos! December seems to be a month when a lot of things happened in the Canadian RR history over the years! Do you know which was CP’s first diesel electric locomotive? Interesting to learn that SR was ahead with their push-button yards already in the fifties! I wonder what size those computers were? Certainly not a desktop. I like those little ads, short but they give a lot of information.Doug – I hope that you did not find any body behind your lot! I think you are right, that the pile of rocks were put there by the farmer. Do you really remember that baseball game? Did you see it on TV?
And now a few pictures of some old signals
As you can see the last signal was not meant for trains. But it is old!
Happy New Year!!!
Eric
Here's the FINAL ENCORE! Saturday Post on this Thread not only for 2006, but forever! We begin a new Thread on January 1st . . . .
PASSENGER TRAIN NOSTALGIA #76
first Posted on Page 276Here's something to enjoy regarding the Southern Railway (SOU) in a 1955 advertisement from my private collection: PERFECT PLANT SITE . . . . . (for someone else) . . . . . PLANT SITE SPECIFICATIONS ARE highly individualized. That's why it does not disturb our Industrial Development people in the least to have you turn thumbs down on a "picture-book" site such as this one. They recognize that many factors enter into plant location studies. And they know, too, that chances are they do have just what you are looking for. As one of the largest, and most experienced industrial development agencies in the South, the Southern's Industrial Development Department has complete and detailed information on hundreds of available sites of every size, kind and description. This comprehensive "one-source" service for so many industry location possibilities throughout the Southland is set up to serve you - competently, completely and of course in strict confidence. Let us hear from you so we can help you. Look Ahead - Look South!" Harry A. DeButts President . . . . . SOUTHERN RAILWAY SYSTEM . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Washington, D.C. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Southern Serves the South . . . . . That's it for me today - Enjoy! Tom
Ah yes, Da Bums from Brooklyn in 1955 were perhaps the team I'll always relate to. It was the last year of my youth. The finale of the carefree weeks and months, for soon thereafter it was welcome to the world of the working man and so forth. Some of you may remember the transition vividly! <grin>
Sandy Amoros made a spectacular catch, but he wasn't the only hero on that day. But, this is a Classic Trains Forum - so, we'll just let it go at that! Thanx, Doug!
Time for an ENCORE! Saturday Post . . .
PASSENGER TRAIN NOSTALGIA #75
first Posted on Page 276Here's something to enjoy regarding the Southern Railway (SOU) in a 1956 advertisement from my private collection: Gone with the wind! WHEN A FREIGHT CAR rolls down the "hump" at our new $14 million Citico Yard at Chattanooga, Tennessee, even its wind resistance is automatically measured. While the car is rolling, a radar device instantly picks up and evaluates all the factors that affect its rollability - weight, speed, size, wind, weather and others., Then the magic brain of an electronic computer regulates the retarder brake in the track under the moving car so that it will couple safely and gently to another car standing far down in the yard below. This is a new kind of railroading. You'll see itr at work in countless ways on the Southern today - at Citico, and in our other multi-million dollar push-button yards at Knoxville, Tenn. and Birmingham, Ala. And still another ultra-modern electronic yard to cost $15 million is now under construction at Atlanta, Ga. Yesteryear railroading is "gone with the wind" on the Southern. Today's modern railroading means dependable, ever improving transportation for the fast-growing area we serve. Look Ahead - Look South!" Harry A. DeButts President . . . . . . SOUTHERN RAILWAY SYSTEM . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Washington, D.C. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Southern Serves the South . . . . . Enjoy! Tom
Good morning Tom and friends. I'll have a light breakfast please. Glad to hear the posting contest is still on, and I pretty much figured we wouldldn't see CM3 yesterday for his birthday, or I would have posted more material. As it was, I spent my time getting in trouble with my bride by moving a rock pile behind my lot, as I don't feel it's very attractive. I want to use most of that land for a garden, and spruce-up everything around it. Anyhow, the problem is that I feel it's just a rock pile that the farmer created. My bride thinks it could be a grave. Well, I haven't seen a body yet, and really don't think I will when I finish today.
Anyhow, that was . Sorry. Great CN history on this "encore" day. I guess it's an "encore" if it happened in the past, such as:
SUBWAY SERIES XII, NEW YORK YANKEES VS. BROOKLYN DODGERS, SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 1955: The 1955 series could be called "The year that next year finally came," although it didn't look much like it after the Yanks raced to a two-game (6-5, 4-2) lead at the Stadium. But when the Dodgers returned to Brooklyn, the Bums' bats exploded for 8-3 and 8-5 triumphs. The third straight game at Ebberts Field also belonged to the Dodgers, 5-3, but the Bombers stopped the bleeding in Game Six with a 5-1 decision at the Stadium. Game Seven, also in the Bronx, belonged to Johnny Podres, pitching for Brooklyn. His five-hitter was enough for the two Dodgers runs and bedlam in Brooklyn. Waiting 'til next year no longer was necessary!
If you like reading about baseball history, try The Bill James Historical Baseball Abstract
Good Morning Gents!
Here's something that I totally FORGOT to Post this past week . . . too many things going on I suppose - so, MEA CULPA - original material on a Saturday! <grimmace>
Significant events in Canadian RR History
during the month of December.
Caveat: Much of the information appearing was gathered from internet sources, with credit to "Colin Churcher's Railway Pages" at http://www.railways.incanada.net/
* 1853, December 31st - The Great Western Railway opens its main line between Hamilton and London. The Great Western went on to build, lease or buy other railways throughout Southern Ontario, and it can be claimed to be the first Canadian system. Other sections opened as indicated:
1853, November 10 - Hamilton to the Suspension Bridge at Niagara Falls. 1854, January 27 - London to Windsor. 1854, August 21 - Galt branch.
* 1854, December 25th - Opening of the Bytown and Prescott Railway between Prescott and Bytown (now Ottawa), 54 miles. First rail service to what is now Canada's Capital. Bytown was renamed Ottawa in 1855 and the railway became the Ottawa and Prescott Railway Company, now part of Canadian Pacific.
* 1855, December 3rd - The Great Western Railway "branch" between Hamilton and Toronto is opened to traffic.
* 1859, December 12th - First train operated over the Victoria Railway Bridge, Montreal. The first passenger train crossed the structure on December 17, 1859 and it was formally opened by the Prince of Wales, later to become King Edward VII, on August 25, 1860. The original structure was a single-track iron tubular bridge. The tube, when first constructed, was entirely enclosed and there were ventilation problems. Later a slit 20" wide was cut in the tube the full length of the bridge to permit the emission of smoke.
* 1859, December 27th - The Grand Trunk Railway completes its line between Toronto and Sarnia and establishes a ferry service across the St. Clair River to Fort Gratiot (Port Huron).
* 1860, December 31st - The Brockville and Ottawa Railway opens a tunnel l/3 of a mile under the town of Brockville. This was the first railway tunnel in Canada.
* 1879, December 29th - The locomotive J.G. Haggart is taken over the ice of the Red River into Winnipeg by the contractor Joseph Whitehead to start construction westwards across the Prairies in the spring of 1880.
* 1898, December 13th - First passenger train over the newly reconstructed Victoria Railway Bridge, Montreal. The original 1859 tube had been replaced by a double track steel bridge.
* 1912, December 14th - Canadian Pacific leases the Quebec Central Railway Company, Quebec along with the following companies:
Dominion Atlantic Railway Company, Nova Scotia, on January 3. Esquimalt and Nanaimo Railway Company, Vancouver Island, on July 1.
* 1914, December - The Greater Winnipeg Water District Railway is opened to service the aqueduct between Winnipeg, Man and Shoal Lake, Ont.
* 1916, December 9th - Canadian Pacific inaugurates the 5-mile Connaught Tunnel which eliminated the old route over Rogers Pass and shortened the line through the Selkirk Mountains by 4 1/2 miles.
* 1916, December 19th - an order in council gives authority for the shipment of rails and fastenings from Canadian railways to France for war service. Under this and a subsequent order, some 800 miles were taken up from sidings and divisional yards of the eastern division of the National Transcontinental Railway (98.2 miles from between Moncton and Diamond Jct.; 11.8 miles east of Levis; 206.6 miles from between Quebec and Winnipeg) and a further 300 miles from the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway, partly from the portion of line running through the Yellowhead Pass which closely paralleled the Canadian Northern Railway.
* 1918, December 20th - The use of the collective title "Canadian National Railways" is authorized by order in council P.C. 3122.
* 1936, December 6th - Canadian National opens its line between Senneterre and Val D'Or, Quebec.
* 1937, December - Canadian Pacific takes delivery of its first diesel electric locomotive, a switching unit numbered 7000.
* 1938, December 3rd - Canadian national opens its line between Val D'Or and Rouyn Noranda, Quebec.
1952, December 1st - Canadian Pacific launches an intermodal freight system by carrying truck trailers on railway flat cars between Toronto and Montreal.
* 1954, December - Canadian Pacific opens a branch line from Havelock to Nephton, ON to serve the American Nepheline Co. mine.
* 1964, December - Canadian National opens a new freight and passenger terminal in Saskatoon which permits redevelopment of the city centre.
* 1968, December - Turbo train is placed in limited service between Montreal and Toronto, but because of technical problems the service is suspended on January 7, 1969.
* 1979, December - The Grange Commission report on the Mississaugua, Ont. accident is published. CP Rail no. 54 suffers a hot axle box and derails 24 cars containing dangerous commodities, in. Almost a quarter of a million people were evacuated for periods of up to five days.
* 1986, December - The Report of the Commission of Inquiry into the Hinton Train Collision, the Foisy Report is published.
* 1988, December 12th - First revenue train runs through the CP Rail 9.1 mile Mount MacDonald Tunnel. This is the longest rail tunnel in the Americas.
* 1989, December 31st - The last part of the railway on Prince Edward Island, operated by CN Rail, is abandoned.
* 1994, December 1st - the Société des chemins de fer du Québec commences operation over the former CN line from Limoilou to Clermont, Québec.
* 1996, December 1st - Chemin de fer Baie des Chaleurs, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Quebec Railway Corporation, commences operation over the former CN line beween Matapedia and Chandler, Que.
* 1997, December - Operation is sub-contracted to the Chemin de fer Baie des Chaleurs which commenced operation of the line between Matape
Hard to believe that today is the final ENCORE! Saturday of 2006 - time flies, eh
Let's get right to it, check out The Mentor Village Bakery case, draw a cuppa Joe and order a <light> or <traditional> breakfast from our Menu Board - great way to begin the day!
Well, the holiday absences continue on, so my advice is to "go" with the ENCORE! Posts and save the new stuff for 2007!
A few acknowledgments are in order:
Doug at 10:03 AM yesterday: That's quite an alphabet of things to know for old guys - especially CM3 who "officially" has earned the title of O-L-D! <grin>
I'm far more astounded at the idiots who are talking about the Lambs (aka: Rams) having a shot at the playoffs as we enter the final weekend of the regular NFL season. That's utterly preposterous to my way of thinking. They are awful and it would be a sham and a shame to see ‘em as a wild card. Packers Haven't really been following them other than through the standings. The cream at the top should take care of business, no matter who gets through the first round. But, as is said - on any given Sunday . . . GO BEARS!
Cubs They've really thrown a bunch of money around and apparently are quite serious about making a run for the brass ring. After this past season, I'm remaining quiet on any predictions. In the beginning, I figured the Cardinals would do fine - then came two 8 game losing streaks in the 2nd half of the season along with a 7 game streak near the end of the season. Never, ever thought they'd get to the playoffs much less the series. What do I know <grin>
I too received a couple of fine RR books for Christmas - one on the PRR Broadway Limited and the other about the NYC 20th Century Limited. Should be great to read as I've gone through the Pix (twice). CM3 had mentioned he has these and thoroughly enjoyed ‘em. A most reliable endorsement as far as I'm concerned.
Back to baseball - as a "born ‘n bred" Brooklyn Dodger fan, I enjoyed that info you provided regarding the ‘subway' reference. I recall many a World Series in New York City between the Yankees and Dodgers. Da Bums only won it one time, and that was in 1955 when the Boys of Summer finally did it.
And there IS a connection to classic trains with this discussion - for the team from Brooklyn was once known as the Trolley Dodgers - the reference to the obvious streetcars of the day. <grin>
Doug at 1:10 PM yesterday: Back with another "tribute" to CM3. We can only hope that he'll find this stuff once the New Year and New "Our" Place arrives on Monday.
Don't expect CM3 amongst us ‘til Wednesday - at least that's my guess. Since the official day of mourning for President Ford will be Tuesday, all the "feds" have the day off. No mail delivery, and so forth.
Lars at 3:21 PM yesterday: One of those days (daze) eh We've had an interesting time of it both via Email and here on the Forum. But, all's well that ends well (I suppose)! <The Kingston Trio; circa 1950s>
A fine looking B&O dome car and what a great place for an "Our" Place Rendezvous on the Rails! I'd do that in a heartbeat - in a New York minute, as the saying goes!
Doug at 7:46 PM yesterday: Back for a 3rd time! Regarding the "contest" - it's still on. I'll just add the final page count for the "old" Thread to the "new" and when they total 10,000 - a winner may result. Pretty much will be 1,000 as you called it . . . .
I can answer that question regarding the B&O dome - that's a real car; a beauty, eh
Rob at 9:36 PM & 9:43 PM yesterday: Good to see ya on this final Friday of 2007! That formatting issue is ridiculous, as is the missing tool bar. Wonder if this business of closing down certain Threads that are chock full o' graphics and Pix will make any difference to the participants at large My uneducated guess is "no." It appears to come ‘n go with my ‘puter(s) and only repeated attempts yields the positive results hoped for. Rather annoying to say the least!
The "Nearside car" - yes, I recall reading that one! Good choice for an ENCORE! fer sure, fer sure.
Mike at 11:05 PM yesterday: A tad late for our resident URLMeisterMonsterMike, but here nonetheless in spite of the Forums Gremlins. Wondered where you've been, but in spite of the difficulties getting through to us, you made it!
Eric at 2:21 AM yesterday: I'm going to have to dig out that GG1 power requirement info that had been Posted somewhere on these Pages. It was quite a revealing bit of info, at least for those with a technical "bent." I came away with whatever the current power sources are as incompatible due to phasing issues. Anyway, something to do on a "rainy day." <grin>
Should you decide upon a purchase of a model RDC, my recommendation is to look at the LifeLike Proto 1000s for HO. They are much, much more prototypical than anything else I've seen in the market. I have a "bunch" of Athearns in one of my display cases and the comparison with the LifeLike Protos is amazing in terms of how much more detailed the Protos are. A search at Walthers website will give you a good start, although they do NOT carry Athearn anymore. Also, the larger scales have some rather nice looking models as well - seen ‘em in O & G scales, nice!
As always, your participation is looked forward to!
Reminder: Ruth comes in at 9 AM and stays until Leon the Night Man takes the bar at 5 PM ‘til closing.
Good morning Captain Tom and Gentlemen!!
Saturday morning and the last weekend of 2006! Oh, thanks Boris! I haven't seen you for a long time, I hope you are okay! Good!
Start on a new thread? I guess that is okay, especially when the old thread will be saved. I guess post number 9000 will happen... right now! Yeah!!! Did I win? Oh, was it #10,000?
Tom – As far as I know the problem with GG1 is that the main transformer is built for some kind of transformer oil that is outlawed today (environmental issues). The power supply should not be a problem at all. AEM-7 uses more power, not to mention Acela with 2 power units. Hope you found out about 7 5/8”. If not you better ask Doug, he is the mathematician that figured that number out.I think the RDC is interesting from many perspectives and I will probably buy a model of one. I like CM3’s short story about the Lexington Branch.Doug – I printed out that check list so I know what I should check for. I already have A in my hands. That wise man knew how to get things done! Which is what you expect from a wise man.Sometimes it is an advantage that the hearing isn’t so good! Imagine all the fun that old man would have missed if he had heard what the doctor actually said.Lars – That is a nice looking Dome car! But for whatever reason the link did not work. Rob – Another reason to go to Toronto, to see that Brill trolley bus! To me an old single truck streetcar is what the comes to my mind I when I talk about streetcars.Interesting info on the Nearsides! I am looking forward to the Peter Witt story! Mike – Nice pictures as always! But I could not get to the Boston & Albany steam picture. How about that futuristic train, was that just a fantasy or a projet that died before it happened? I think the engineer is on the phone!
No pictures this morning. I'll save them for Sunday.
trolleyboy wrote:I'm back again with a bit of rail information.since BK so expertly wove us the story of Pullman , I thought that I would try to do likewise ( most likely not quite as eloquantly ) The Nearside Car A Classic Juice tech story Since the beginning of public transportation, fare collection and how it was handled has always been a determining factor of car design.When horse cars were first introduced the driver handled the horses and the conductor collected the fares from the passengers as they entered the rear of the car and exited at the front. This is ( was known) as pay as you enter. ( PAYE ) This continued into the electrification of the street railways.The conductor would signakl the stop and starts for the motorman via bell signals.Howerevr because passengers entered at the rear of the car the motorman did not always have a clear view of them and accidents were unfortunatly common as the motorman would start off and passengers would grab for a handrail etc miss and fall. This resulted in injuries sometimes deaths and lawsuits against the company. To combat these problems and lawsuits, an English born Thomas E. Mitten ( who was the acting chairman of the executive commitee of Philladelphia Rapid Transit, initiated and oversaw the design of a new type of car.This car was ultimatly named the "Nearside" car.Passengers boarded and departed through the front doors on these cars, this gave the motorman much better control. The conductor sat behind the motorman and called out street names and destinations as well as still collecting the fairs and issuing the transfers.Passengers could still exit the car via the back doors if they wished In the days before the Nearsides the car would pull through the intersection to line up the back doors for the passengers to board. So they stopped on the farside of the intersection. Mitten's design called for the passengers to enter at the front, so the cars stopped on the "near" side of the intersection, hence the name. For political reasons trhe first cars of this design were built by J. G . Brill of Philladelphia. Both cars were sent to Buffalo and tested there for assesment as Buffalo's street railway was once served by Mitten as General manager. The first prototypes #6000 and 6001 were built in 1912. The standard specs for these cars was as follows 45' 6" in length over the anticlimbers.width of 8' 5" ,top of the rail to top of the roof 12' 0". The original design called for the use of Brill's maximum traction truck 33" driving ( powered ) wheels and the second axel with 22" non powered. IN typical Brill fashion the cars had a high arched roof for summer time ventilation. The Brill records show that slightly more than 2000 of these casr were built. Used by Buffalo,Chicago,Philladelphia,Atlantic City ,and Lincoln Nebraska. One of these cars was made for Canada for the British Columbia Electric Railway ( BCE ) in Vancouver. It was number 501 and was to be the prototype no more were ordered however. Philly not supprisingly had the largest fleet numbering 1500 cars The Nearside was the first of two major fare collection induced design changes for streetcars. the next happening in 1920 by peter Witt of Cleveland. That story will come later. Rob
Evening Tom and friends. I'll have a bottomless draught please, and buy a round for the house. I'll be sure to tip extra big tonight so we have money to relocate on Jan 1. Anyone want to guess when we hit 1,000 posts? Lars, was that last picture a model or prototype? Just wondering.
A 92 year-old man went to the doctor to get a physical. A few days later the doctor saw the man walking down the street with a gorgeous young lady on his arm. At his follow up visit the doctor talked to the man and said, "You're really doing great, aren't you?" The man replied, "Just doing what you said Doctor, 'Get a hot mamma and be cheerful'." The Doctor said, "I didn't say that. I said you got a heart murmur. Be careful."
G'day Cap'n Tom & fellow travelers at the bar!
A most interesting day in spite of the relative quiet 'round the place. Ruth, a tankard of Keiths finest Ale if you please, and slide the snack tray down my way, wudja please
So, we are to have a new beginning, huh Glad the clafification came through both here and with the e-mails. Initially my reaction was quite different from the way things have apparently finished. Good show, Cap'n Tom - I like the way you've guided us through this.
So, what we have submitted to "Our" Place will remain available to us all. That's good, just as long as that 'search' feature works better than my recent experiences. Appears it has been "tweeked" so that one can now at least get to the appropriate page of the post that has been looked for. That's an improvement, big time!
I expect to be about the decks for the weekend, but rather unsure of the timing. Have the family descending upon us tomorrow and we have a Norwegian "thing" about the New Year. Too much to get into here, but a great family tradition for us.
A to our friend CM3 I'm NOT Shane! 60 I noted on the last B'day List that Tom provided. Welcome aboard, mate, always room for one more!
Let's take a ride aboard one of these one day!
B&O #5551 Sky Dome (from: www.trainweb.com/photo credit: unknown)
Lars
Special for David Voss, Kalmbach Publishing
Thanx for the clarification. Makes sense to me and I presume, the rest of the guys who "hang out" here.
A new "Our" Place will begin on Jan 1st as requested now that I know nothing from our illustrious past will be forever zapped into infinity.
Tom (siberianmo)
siberianmo wrote:Special for David Voss, Kalmbach PublishingIn viewing the comments made regarding your request to close certain Threads on the Forums, I believe the intent is more along the lines of reducing the enormous amount of memory these Threads occupy on your system. If that is the idea, then we have no problem with opening a new Thread.One request though, I would like to provide the guys at "Our" Place with a bit of time to retrieve those Posts they feel are special to them, before they disappear forever into the Ether. Unlike many of the other Threads you've notified, we DO indeed go back through our Pages - frequently.I expect that you'll see us begin anew in a week or so.Tom (siberianmo)
In viewing the comments made regarding your request to close certain Threads on the Forums, I believe the intent is more along the lines of reducing the enormous amount of memory these Threads occupy on your system. If that is the idea, then we have no problem with opening a new Thread.
One request though, I would like to provide the guys at "Our" Place with a bit of time to retrieve those Posts they feel are special to them, before they disappear forever into the Ether. Unlike many of the other Threads you've notified, we DO indeed go back through our Pages - frequently.
I expect that you'll see us begin anew in a week or so.
My reason for asking that you start a new "Our" Place for 2007 is strictly for performance reasons. While the forum software has been able to handle the large threads, I know it's affecting the overall performance. I'm sure we could keep it going for another few thousand posts or more, but at some point we have to close long threads like this. With 2007 only a few days away, I think it's the best time for it to be done -- a new year, a new thread.
This thread will still be here, albeit locked and for reference only. I have no intentions of deleting these posts. We'll make sure there is a post at the end with directions to the new thread. I would suggest that whoever starts the new "Our" Place posts a link to this one so it's easily found for people who do want to come back and reference this thread.
Good afternoon Tom and friends. My first reaction to David Voss' request was along the lines of "why do this to us?", and I e-mailed him for an explanation. He got right back to me, and I'm satisfied with his answer to me as well as his posted responses to others. There's nothing sinister going on. He's trying to improve forum performance for all of us, and how can we not support that?
And now, another age-related joke for CM3
A wise old gentleman retired and purchased a modest home near a junior high school. He spent the first few weeks of his retirement in peace and contentment.
Then a new school year began. The very next afternoon three young boys, full of youthful, after-school enthusiasm, came down his street, beating merrily on every trash can they encountered. The crashing percussion continued day after day, until finally the wise old man decided it was time to take some action.
The next afternoon, he walked out to meet the young percussionists as they banged their way down the street. Stopping them, he said, "You kids are a lot of fun. I like to see you express your exuberance like that. Used to do the same thing when I was your age. Will you do me a favor? I'll give you each a dollar if you'll promise to come around every day and do your thing."
The kids were elated and continued to do a bang-up job on the trash cans. After a few days, the old-timer greeted the kids again, but this time he had a sad smile on his face.
"This recession's really putting a big dent in my income," he told them. "From now on, I'll only be able to pay you 50 cents to beat on the cans."
The noisemakers were obviously displeased, but they did accept his offer and continued their afternoon ruckus.
A few days later, the wily retiree approached them again as they drummed their way down the street. "Look," he said, "I haven't received my Social Security check yet, so I'm not going to be able to give you more than 25 cents. Will that be okay?"
"A lousy quarter?" the drum leader exclaimed. "If you think we're going to waste our time, beating these cans around for a quarter, you're nuts! No way, mister. We quit!"
And the old man enjoyed peace and serenity for the rest of his days.
Something a bit different for this Friday in honor of CM3 and his BIRTHDAY! An ENCORE! Post . . . .
coalminer3 Posted on Page 2 on 04-15-2005, 3:05 PM
One of my favorite Berraisms - "Ninety percent of the game is half mental." Now, let's move on to RDCs. When I was growing up in the frozen north, the Boston and Maine had commuter trains pulled by a fantastic variety of steam locomotives. Then came the diesels and we saw locomotive hauled trains pulled by GP7s and RS3s (I am sure there are a few out there who'll remember the B&Ms maroon and gold color scheme.) The RDCs came after that, and IIRC, the B&M had the largest fleet of RDCs anywhere. As a sidebar, Boston and the RDC have a long history as some of the first RDCs ran on the Boston and Albany - they were called "Beeliners." The New Haven had an extensive fleet of RDCs as well including the "Roger Williams" which had RDC cab units; the "Roger" survived throught the Penn Central days and onto Amtrak. I had the good fortune to have a cab ride on this beast from Boston to Springfield and on to New Haven; an interesting trip. I believe it's been preserved and is undergoing restoration. The B&M had all models of RDCs; 1s, 2s,3s,4,s and 9s and they ran all over the system. I'm reaching back again, but IIRC, the RDC4s were the model with the RPO compartment. I rode on one of them on a trip from Vermont back to Boston. The RPO was long gone, but it was interesting to see what had once been there. The Lexington Branch of the B&M (which is now a !@#$ bicycle path) provided a most interesting RDC trip. The branch's track was questionable in spots, and the RDC gave the impression of being on boat rolling in a good sea. Once you got off the main line, a ride on the branch became more like a time machine as there were certain crossings that had to be flagged by the train crew and some really interesting stations including a depot with a wooden train shed (Lexington). Many of the buildings along the branch have been saved and are being used for other purposes. The station in Bedford, MA has a B&M RDC on display along with an ongoing project to reconstruct part of the B&B which was a 2' gauge operation. The RDC was a utilitarian machine, at least on the B&M; walkover seats, vinyl covered and a tile floor. They could get noisy now and then (sort of like a bus on steroids), but thay had good acceleration and rode pretty well once they got up to track speed. I hope this is enough to get you started on RDCs. BTW, the C&Os U25Bs ran out their last days, virtually going by the house - you always knew when they were coming; some stories, there, too, if anybody's interested... BTW, Siberiamo, appreciate the comments on WV. I'm at the opposite end of the state - blessed to be in former C&O, VGN, N&W, K&M and KGJ&E country. The terrain here is mostly vertical but we have good fishing. My vote goes to Place#1 - any Friday evening specials for the workin' folks? Place #1 looks like they'd cash a check as long as you bought a round. Now let's move the pool tables out front. work safe
A most to you and we look forward to a continuation of your fine contributions to "Our" Place in 2007!
Good morning Tom and friends, and an extra to CM3, size 7 5/8" today! I'll have a light breakfast and retreat to the caboose to bake a cake (hope it's not crummy).
Hey CM3 ... did you know:
Yep Tom. Looks like the censors don't catch everything. I was surprised by that too. I see the football Gods have moved the Bear game so everyone can enjoy it along with their other new years celebrations. Can't believe the PAckers could actually make the playoffs with a Jint and Bear loss. That would be awful.
You should hear the CUBS management talking about how great a team they will be in 2007. Seems like only a year ago they said the same thing about 2006. Hmmmm
I was going through a new book I got, titled The Subway and the City by Stan Fischler, celebrating 100 years of subway service in New York City. Excellent pictures, and among them, several from "Subway Series" years when the Brooklyn Dodgers played the Yankees, with the original series being the Giants Vs. the Yanks back in 1921, and the most recent being the Yanks Vs. the Mets in 2000. Must be pretty cool having both the World Series teams from the same town. Uh-oh ... this isn't rail-related ... so:
Only one baseball player ever carried the nickname "Subway." He was a Brooklynite named Samuel (Sam) Nahem who had become a heroic figure on Kings County sandlots in the early 1930s. Obstensibly because he travelled to and from various Metropolitan Area ballfields such as the Parade Grounds and Dexter Park on the BMT, IRT and IND lines. Nathem was dubbed "Subway Sam."In his one game with the Dodgers during the 1938 season, the Jewish hurler appeared promising. Not only did the righty pitch a complete game, but he went 2-for-5 at bat. Despite the solid start, Brooklyn inexplicably released him.
Hey all!
A quick heads up regarding this thread. I know it's been over 2 years and there is a lot of history here. It's great to see such an active discussion like this. These long discussion threads do impact forum performance over time and at some point we need for it to be continued in a new thread. Due to the size of this thread and the number of posts, I'm asking that you start a new one for 2007. With the new year approaching, it's as perfect time as ever to do this.
Thanks & Happy New Year!
David Voss
Friday at the Saloon by the Siding and time to get ready for our 2nd long weekend! Pull up a stool, pour a cuppa Joe, grab a couple of pastries from The Mentor Village Bakery case and check out our Menu Board for a <light> or <traditional> breakfast!
A to CM3! One of our long, long time customers and supporters of this adult bar ‘n grill who has provided so much pleasure to those of us in appreciation of everything "classic" when it comes to trains! A 5- Salute to you, Sir on YOUR day!
Many thanx to all who passed on those ‘well wishes.' The details were in Emails, but in general, all's well.
I see that we've had some customers, so at least let me make mention of the Posts:
Pete at 3:59 PM 26 Dec: Good to have you amongst us again - welcome back!
Not to worry, you'll be under proper guidance as you master the "technique" for operating the Can-AM HO layout! Now, the O-gauge Polar Express and S-Capades layouts require little, if any, "in depth" training! Derailments and uncouplings "happen" - not to worry.
Enjoyed your most-inclusive Post, as I'm sure the guys have and will!
Rob at 11:55 PM 26 Dec & 12:01 AM 27 Dec: Nice ENCORE! with the Cornwall Street Railway and of course your inclusive Post. Too bad about the continuing formatting issue. Seems to be a "thing" - comes ‘n goes. And we are to believe these are "improved' formats Hang in there!
Thanx for the personal Email.
Pete at 2:35 PM 27 Dec: Love the Pix of the Irish train set! Just MUST wind up on a layout. Just let me know if I may be of assistance. The FUN is in the building of it!
Eric at 10:05 PM 27 Dec: Bet that Brill trolleybus looked great when in full operating condition with a fresh paint job. Even if the GG1s were able to be operational, there'd be an enormous power source problem, from what I've been led to believe. Times and technology have changed that much.
Thanx for the "okay" to use that fine winter Pix of yours! It shall indeed become one of our Christmas "fixtures" - a gift from YOU!
Doug at 5:46 AM yesterday: That last one definitely put the Groan-o-Meter on the "blink." Outta commission! Amazed you got it by the "censor"!!
Appears as if your narratives are also experiencing formatting difficulties, eh
Lars at 10:48 AM yesterday: Many THANX for the mid-morning pick-us-up Post! At this time of year, with so many engaged in other activities, it's always a pleasure to KNOW there are some of you who consistently take the time and make the effort to keep us going!
Extremely interesting "findings" in your Emailings. Had no idea so much was going on, but then again, between you 'n BK, I shudda known better! <grin>
Rob at 4:09 PM & 4:13 PM yesterday: A double-header from Rob! An interesting way to look at the "cyber trains" - makes sense. I'd dearly love to have those trains from my childhood. The worth of ‘em to me certainly would have nothing to do with dollars, but moreso with the joy they brought to me as a kid.
The ENCORE! for the "safety car" makes for a great read and for some strange reason, I just don't recall seeing it. Must be age creeping in, eh <grin>
James at 4:38 PM yesterday: Figured it was either the holidays or the 'puter that had you "away." Amazing how we've come to depend on ‘puters for everything from pleasure to business from the professional to the personal and so forth. When there's a void, it's really a "strange" feeling to know that you can't connect . . .
Pete at 4:59 PM yesterday: What's this ANOTHER absence!! You two should seriously consider moving to the KCity area! <grin>
Received your Email and will be in contact after the long week end.
Interesting comment you made about the "Bobbies." With my academic and professional background in law enforcement, when that term comes to the fore, I think of Sir Robert Peel. Who's he Some of you may be thinking. He was the Home Secretary for the UK when he created the Metropolitan Police Force for the city of London in 1829. This was the beginning of what we today think of as the beginning of modern municipal policing. The "Bobbie" reference is of course what the po
Good Morning Captain Tom and Gentlemen!!
Just a cup of coffee, please. Thank you Leon, nice of you to let me in this early hour.
A quiet week, the last one of 2006. But I would like to start wishing our
Top Notch Reporter CM3 a Very Happy Birthday!!!
7 5/8"!!! Free drinks all day, Sir!!! For you and your friends! They are on me.
Tom – Hope everything went well yesterday and today and that you will have a speedy recovery!!!
Doug – I love that little story about little John’s Christmas!! It will be interseting to see if you can find out anything about those 16-wheelers. I found some facts myself today. The 8 wheel trucks were used on the first Pullman cars built by C.B&Q’s shops and used by C.B.&Q. The trucks were invented by C.F. Allen, master mechanic of the C.B.&Q shops at Aurora, IL. But New York Central ruled them as being too rigid and would not accept them on their road. C.B.&Q. had to re-equip them with conventional 6 wheel trucks.
Lars – Lets hope we will have many more years to celebrate Christmas at this bar and tavern!!Rob – About those Brill trolley buses, do you know if any of them still exists? Thanks for the story about the safety car! Interesting indeed! The pictures below show a Pacific Electric streetcar that, according to a sign on it was built by Brill. Later I have seen info that it is actually Birney Safety Car (single truck). Looking at pictures of Birney Safety Cars I think the one on my picture is a Birney! The other picture shows the control stand.
James – Looking forward to a picture of those dwarf semaphores! Pete – Yes, I would say a Signalman in UK is doing a a little bit different job than here. Yes, I also hope they will restore that Brill trolley bus to what it once was. Having worked as a conductor on electric trolley buses I like them a lot.
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