Hello Folks
While reviewing trackside details in my two East Broad Top books, I note in many photos there seem to be no tie plates, and this appears to be the case for both mainline and yard trackage (with the exception of dual gauge).
Three questions come to mind: (1) was this standard practice with the EBT, (2) is - or was - this standard practice for narrow gauge operators generally or (3) am I missing something important here?
Back in the common carrier days on the EBT (pre-1956) it was common practice to not use tie plates, in fact, rarely would you find a creosoted tie on the property. Most were rough hewn from connecting lines such as the McKelvy Lumber Company.
Ironically, the Pennsy had a creosote plant near Mount Union (where the EBT joined with the Pennsy) but rather than spend the money on the process, the railroad opted for cheaper nontreated wood for ties, and no tie plates.