I am planning a new layout based on the Conrail's kaledoscope years (1976-82). I want to base it in the Harrisburg PA area. I want to center it on the former Reading yard at Rutherford, since it also hosted lots of foreign power Conrail used it until they closed it in 1981. It has now been completely ripped out and replaced with a Norfolk Southern intermodal facility. I hve some pictures of the yard when it was in operation and after it was closed and used for storage. But these on cover only small bits and pieces. And much is missing espececially information on the roundhouse and turntable. Also need some information on opertaions, asssuming it was run like any other yard. Any help or guidance would be greatly appreciated. Ideally a late Reading or early Conrail yard diagram.
Here is a 1969 topo map:
https://ngmdb.usgs.gov/ht-bin/tv_browse.pl?id=53e57cd96574ab43c798f79123909875
Good luck. I am only a few miles from that facility and have tried to find information several times. Unfortunately I have only found superficial information. Back in the 70's I paid little attention to it as I drove past.
Rick
Have you asked the Reading Co. Technical and Historical Society?
you may also be interested in Historic Aerials (looks like you'll have to navigate to the yard)
greg - Philadelphia & Reading / Reading
How can I do it? I can't find anyone to contact at their archives.
Thanks this doies help some. I now know where the turntable and roundhouse where.
rossvetI am planning a new layout based on the Conrail's kaledoscope years (1976-82). I want to base it in the Harrisburg PA area.
This guy has a whole series of anthracite road videos that are narrated by an old railroader. They're promos for other videos he sells but the vids are worth watching. Maybe they'll help you. He covers the P-C/Conrail years pretty well but I don't know how close to H-burg he gets.
I've spent hours watching these, mostly playing in the background while working on the layout. I enjoy Mike Bednar's commentary.
Hope that helps, Ed