Hi Tom and all.
A pint of Batham's please RUTH and a round please.
It has been a busy evening and morning at the bar with a lot of great reading material and pics.
JAMES Thanks for the kind words on the pics.It sounds as that is going to be a very accurate model of Chicago's Union Station.Enjoyed part 3 of the Northern Pacific, it was very interesting to read of the battles the various companies had in trying to get to Chicago. I guess if the Union Pacific had gotten hold of the CB&Q all those years ago there would not have been the BNSF today.
MIKE Very much enjoyed reading about the exploits of Josiah Perham and Gregory Smith and the NP. It was a shame that J. Perham's dream did not come off.He derseves a lot of credit in persuading the railroads to run excursion trains. It is said the the Great Exhibition in London, England in 1851 was the first time masses of people used the railway to visit an event in the UK. Although James Cook, who founded the very popular travel agency, was the first person in England to run an Excursion train.
Many thanks for the links, great photos of the NP under construction as well as the last spike cermony and some really good color pics .Minnetonka looks an interesting engine.
ERIC I have not seen a remote controlled electric switcher before.I guess the Ub was a quite an old class of locomotive before being converted to a UeThanks for the photo.
I am afraid I don't know anything about the Janesville & Southeastern RR but I have a pic of the emblem that was on the E7.
.
Alan is travelling to the steam railways of Europe after visiting nearly all the preserved lines in the UK.I will pass on your thanks for the pics..
So I was pretty close with the State in your picture having said New Mexico. My home town is about 12 miles southeast of Coventry, it was mainly known for its 2 large electrical manufactures and as a major railway junction.The town has a Public School(which has a different meaning, I believe, to a public school in the U.S.) which was the birthplace of Rugby Football which was named after the town.
That is a great photo from the Air Force Base last Saturday, did you notice the letters on the tail of the middle aircraft.
DOUG You will have to tell me about those Purple Martins, do they eat mosquitos. As you say they are about now and seem particularly mean. I was bitten at the weekend and I have little immunity to them and it comes up in a big lump,although I have some ointment the Doc gave me.I think they like English blood and tell there pals where to find some.At least the one who bit me was after I had been to Pats Place so hopefully it got a hangover.
Many thanks for the latest installment on the D&H with those great old photos, liked the list of the Subsiduaries. I see the gravity railroad lasted to about 1900. I wonder if any of the stationary engine houses has survived.
The IRM certainly has a large collection of RR cars .
CM3 The 567 certainly was a successful design for EMD from Switchers to the all of the F units.If I can recall right, some of the other locomotive manufactures had terrible trouble with their diesel engines at the same time the 567 series was doing so well.I suppose EMD great success today in the world market in diesel locomotives can be traced back to the 567.
Thanks for the info on the Governor Smith CV # 29 she was a longed lived locomotive before she was sold on.
LARS So my exam is this Thursday. I will get some practise in .
Have to say I agree with what you say about Dave, good words indeed.
Great book covers on the two RRs that has been talked about at the bar.Although I have said it before those D&H colors seem to suit all types of diesel locomotives. That is a great looking viaduct the D&H train is passing under in the last cover
G-day Tom and all present!
Leon- could I get a "really" big cup of coffee along with a turkey sandwich please. Thanks.
Tom- Umm... Maybe it's the coffee. I don't know how I mistook the air force for you..... Boggling.. I'm trying to make you older... But I will make sure it is changed.
So, correction is in need. Happy 60th B-day to the Air Force!!
Onward with the acknowledgements
Thanks for the Passenger Nostalgia on the New York Central and the interesting looking NYC Xplorer. That is an odd looking passenger train. I haven't seen anything like it before. It looks similar to a train I saw in a picture from Australia. Its shape is similar to the one you have depicted. So I'm wondering if they didn't take a portion of the design from an Australian made locomotive and used it in the design of the Xplorer when Pullman built it. Any ideas
Mike- Interesting story on Josiah Perham and Gregory Smith. They were some die hard railroaders, but it seems Perham didn't have what it took to keep his railroad out of debt. But I'm sure the Civil War contributed in his debt. To bad he had to die a poor man, but he certainly didn't have to worry about his debt anymore. Also some great pics to go along with it. A couple of my favorite photos are of the Northern Pacific Minnetonka, which is stored in the Depot in Duluth, and the Duluth shots. The other Northern Pacific shots were pretty cool. Thanks for all of the photos.
Eric- Glad you liked the Northern Pacific article. There was quite a bit information to take in, but all-in-all, it was a good piece of history and I learned some from it myself.
BTW: It's so hard to know where some of your photos come from. Most of the land is so similar down in the south that it's hard to tell. But the picture was a good one. Next time I'll try to guess a little better than I did. Also, I really liked that little Class Ue electric. What a cool looking center cab unit. It reminds me of the Milwaukee road's steeple cab which is similar to that locomotive. Pretty cool.
Doug- I am enjoying your articles very much. They are quite entertaining. This next article you posted looks really good. I really like the switch tower as your first picture. So it has intrigued me already. Ah, after reading your article, I have to say it is another excellent piece to the Delaware and Hudson history. Amazing how the railroad took over the boating industry so quickly on the coal. Very cool. Thanks for sharing.
CM3- Well I am one of the mechanical people. I like to get down and see what's up. The 567 was one of those engines that just has that distinctive sound, especially the 645 prime mover found in the SD45. 20 cylinders and a hunger for diesel fuel. This engine put out 3600 HP and was even known to break it's own crank shaft. The Wisconsin Central was smart when they got there SD45s. They lowered the RPMs so the diesel engine wouldn't work the crank shaft as hard meaning fewer breaks. So the locomotive put out less HP, about 3000. They were also more efficient than they were before. Oops, got off track, Thanks for the info on what locomotive had what primer mover. Interesting to see.
Lars- Ya, you're right. I need to take it slow. Otherwise little bloopers appear. But I am now taking it slower and getting things right now.....until my next blooper. So, I'm glad you liked the model pics. The picture with me in it, I am to the left with a short sleeved blue tee-shirt. I'm sorry things got mixed up. I hope you now understand. Thanks for letting me know.
BTW: Thanks for all the book covers again. One book caught my eye right off the bat. The first book, The Vista Dome North Coast Limited. That is an excellent book. It's in my archive of books. It has all the information you need to know. I don't think he left anything out of it. I can't believe the information the man packed into that book. I certainly recommend this book to anyone interested in modeling or just enjoying passenger trains.
Pete- Glad you liked the pictures of Fred's layout. I just can't imagine how he did all of that. It's really amazing. Anyway, I'm glad you liked the NP part 3. Like I said, I even learned some about the railroad. It was definitely an interesting subject.
Happy railroading
James
Good evening Leon and crew. I'll have a nightcap, your choice, and buy a round for the house. Can't believe I typed CN, when I was thinking Canadian on Tom's Canadian history post. I've obviously killed too many brain cells, but haven't lost the knack to make people groan, right CM3? That last H&D article wasn't quite the last one, as there is still one more to go. I'll probably put it up Thursday on Fish N' Chip night. Good to see manager Lars pop in and drop off NP and H&D bookcovers. James is sure filling the thread with NP material these days!
Nifty NYC pix from the captain to compliment their ad. I'd be way off topic to discuss Purple Martins with Peter, but let's just say they're the largest of the swallow family, supposedy eat up to 2,000 mosquitos a day, live in colonies and can be found about anywhere in North America provided they are given the right type of housing. Griggsville Illinois is the Purple Martin capital of the world, and you can keep track of all things Purple Martin by joining the Nature Society. I'll post a picture of my Martin house on Saturday.
For now, I'd like to get an early jump on a pike piece for tomorrow, as I took a lot of pictures while at a train show in Rockford last Sunday. I thought tonight I'd share pix of the Badger, which I'm sure you all remember from a post or two on the original thread. Here, someone has taken incredible time and money to scratch build a model. Notice the different layers, and by the way, the trains pull in and out of the holding area automatically
Have a great night!
Good morning, Captain Tom and all!!
Leon, Tuesday, let's have a Sugar Cured Ham Sandwich on Rye! Yes, the ham must be col! Coffee please!
Again a lot to read, here at the bar!! We had a windy day in the Valley today, gusts up to 50 m.p.h. The gas prices are now breaking the $3.00 barrier!
Doug – Mosquitos!? In March? Wow, you bought a house in the wrong place! Thanks for the answers to my questions! Whatever will happen to the bar, we need a Rendezvous next year too and visit the IRM! More Delaware & Hudson! This time a lot about signaling, which is something I am very interested in! I wonder if Caboose #10 is still around? Airbrake instruction car! That is something I tried when training to become an engineer! All those pipes under the removed floor simulate a long train so brake application and release times will be more realistic. Ticonderoga Railroad Co. I am sure they are no longer around, but maybe their tracks are still being used. I can’t reacall I saw that General Office building in Albany. But I did not look around that much. Thanks for all the pictures from that train show! That is an amazing model of a train ferry! Everything, inside out, is there!!James – N&P #3! And first of all a picture from Bozeman Pass! Beautiful country! Interesting to read about the struggle for shares and power!
It is hard to tell where those photos are coming from. That is the reason I am asking! And you are also right that many areas in different states in the southwest look very much the same. I never operated Class Ue but Class Ub many, many times. Ue was a reabuilt Ub. The inside of the cab below.
Class Ue.
Tom – I’ll do my best to convince you about my reasons to win whatever “Route 66-thing” you have. Ohio Xplorer Cleveland - Cincinnati! Was that a new train in 1956? Cleveland-Cincinnati is not very far, did they extend the service to other cities later? That train certainly looked different! Kind of a “low-rider”!CM3 – I am afraid I have to correct you, it is not a F18 in my picture, it is a F-15E. But what the heck, they have nothing to do with railroads! At least not when flying. I just learned that the D&H building in Albany still stands! Thanks! Do you know what it is used for now?Thanks for the 567 info! I have copied it for future use!Lars – Off topic, but I think P-51 Mustang is a very good looking airplane! Beautiful!Thanks for those book covers! I like the picture on the top one, The Vista Dome North Coast Limited! Just wish I was on the train instead of sitting here. Pete – You are right, Class Ub was built in the 30’s and most of them rebuilt to remote controlled Ue’s in the late 80’s and early 90’s. Ub (and Ue) was an extremely good locomotive for switching. Small but could pull almost anything you hooked it up to. Yes, I saw the letters on the tail of the F-15, SJ. Which is the initials for the Swedish State Railways! My visit to Coventry was mainly to see the bombed Cathedral from WW II.
Eric
Hello Tom and all in
Please can I have a light breakfast, fruit juice and coffee. Thanks.
Afraid I've had too much trouble trying to catch up on past posts that I've ended up not posting anything - so struck me that it perhaps made more sense to cut to the now, post some stuff and try and link in, rather than spend time on catch up. So sorry that this does not really focus too much on other posts but I hope you'll forgive that.
I've certainly seen some good stuff (eg Doug - I really was interested in the sage of the University / Coal Haulier stuff a while back - hard to understand how road haulage could ever compete with a bulk commodity like coal which is ideally suited to rail - makes you wonder what the heck was going on. Also Eric - liked the pic of that Mustang - I think you people call them P51s? To my mind the Mustang never LOOKED as good as the Spitfire, but they probably were as good. I think I read some were fitted with Rolls Royce engines too).
Pete - Tom - fate of the chugger cars - good question. I think the truth on this is mixed up with the way the railway here was privatised - which was done so badly it beggars belief - and we still have a mess 10-15 years later. This put a block on the level of investment for roll out of projects. I'm certain that if this had all happened back in the 1970s the high speed TGV style line from London would have been ready for the tunnel opening date and the sleepers would be ready for that date too. Instead the high sped line will now open this November to great fanfare - but in reality 15 years behind the date it should have been ready.
This allowed the budget airlines to get a toe hold in the market - and the privatisation destroyed the system BR had whereby you could book continental train tickets right through to your continental destination - unbelievably you still can't do this with Eurostar - it is only easy to book through to Paris or Brussels. Beyond that you have to engage with a specialist agent - this is absolutely crazy. You also can't book a through ticket from any UK station - just from London - this was never the way with BR - even though there was no tunnel in those days! We have lost so much - talk about throwing the baby out with the bathwater.
When the chugger project got put on ice (and I've posted detailed stuff about that on the old thread) the cars were laid up in store. There was talk about them being used to update the UK internal sleeper fleet (To Scotland and Cornwall) but by that time BR had destroyed most of this market by throwing away their advantages - and the privatised operators did not want to invest in the new cars for a service they would have liked to have been shot of anyway (so this means when the UK internal fleet reach the end of their day - probably in 10 - 15 years time max - I think that will be the end of sleeper services in the UK I fear). So the sale to VIA went through, the UK govt must have been very pleased to get shot of the cars.
I know Pete and Tom will be using these soon and although we know Tom's view (keep calm sir!) - I will be interested to hear what Pete has to say on these cars. My view - they are good cars - just on the wrong continent!!!
Ironic thing about all of this is that the whole mood about travel on cheap airlines is changing - as it becomes more mass market those with some sense of discernment - and / or concern about the environment - are switching to rail. I know friends who have an ambivalent attitude to rail travel who are now doing their summer holiday in Europe by train because they are a) fed up with the poor service on the ‘cheap airlines' and b) fed up with the aggressive security hassle at airports these days.
OK - these people are ‘pioneers' - but the interesting thing is that the ‘travel' pages of the newspaper supplements are now carrying articles about taking holidays by train on an almost weekly basis. Meanwhile the UK govt has sold the infrastructure to make the service thoroughly enjoyable from here in the UK! This is the argument for ‘slow travel' and I for one believe this is the way the future will go for many people. It's like the organic food movement - there are actually enough people out there with the money to pay for the product - they are not always interested in the ‘cheapest' of everything.
Anyway- just a report back on couple of trips:
1) Great Central Steam railway - this was a cold February day when service was pretty quiet. Interesting thing was though that the repair shed was very busy so it was easy to chat to guys working on various locomotives - a Black 5, a King Arthur, and (I think) the Britannia - Pete will give a run down on these designs from his own personal knowledge I feel sure. It was good to see and nice to talk to these guys putting in the seat to get the stuff rolling. I particularly enjoyed chatting to a guy fixing up a Black 5 from scrap yard condition - so after the event I sent them a modest financial contribution - they were kind enough to join me up as a ‘supporter' in exchange - I got an interesting newsletter about the loco.
The engine in steam that day was the GCR Class 8K 2-8-0 built way back in 1911. See
http://www.gcrailway.co.uk/locos/e63601.htm
It is painted up in plain 1950s black paint scheme - I wonder what it would have looked like in 1911. It would be nice to see the original paint scheme one day. This has been restored from scrap condition too.
2) Not long after that I had to make a work trip to Derby - quite a lot of older diesels from the 1950s and 1960s parked up outside the old BR Research HQ - classes 31, 33, 37, 47 and 45 plus the high speed track recording train - which is converted from a High Speed Passenger Diesel Train.
Other news - the govt have announced they are to pursue the funding of 1,000 new passengers cars to be introduced by 2014 - good to hear, but we have quite a few stories of fare increases which no doubt help to pay for this stuff. Many of these will of course replace existing older cars, but some are to cater for expansion and tackle over crowding on routes. Back in the late 80s and 90s the govt of the day would not give BR the funds to build cars for decent length trains so we have a lot of problems with over crowding now.
Also - as some will now know my e-mail is up and running and hopefully people will have got an off ether communication form me - more or less just to say ‘hello'.
Best wishes
DL
Good morning Tom and gang. I'll take a light breakfast for the road please. Looks like a good start to the rainy day with a visit from Eric and DL. BTW, I liked that aircraft photo too. I think we're allowed to appreciate things other than trains. As for the 3rd Rendezvous that is frequently mentioned, I'm still treating it as a "go" no matter what, and am always looking for the things we can do when it happens!
Thought I'd drop a few Marx pictures from the show, as this was a manufacturer we discussed on the original thread.
This little guy was $30
This guy was the nost expensive of all the cars. $40
Have a great day!
Courtesy: http://www.viarail.ca/
Wednesday's Witticism
You can never trust a man who can look a pretty woman in the eye.
G'day Gents!
Mid-week in mid-continent USA and petrol has jumped to $2.49 (rounded) - temps still in the mid-70s (F) - and life goes on.
Supposed to remain 20 degrees above "normal' ‘round here ‘til the weekend, then some rain arrives with things returning to where they should be at this time of year. Can't believe the height of the green, green grass - flowers popping up - "things" in bloom - bugs buzzin' and so on. Ahhhhhhh, spring.
Hey guys, responses aren't required for that Email I sent out - but thanx to those of you who have. I'm not planning on any follow-ups regarding that subject.
Hey Shane! I see where WVA pulled out a squeeker in the final second to reach the finals of the NIT. Way to go!
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS (since my last narrative):
CM3 at 8:40 AM yesterday: Ah, the Boston Braves - I recall a baseball card featuring Sid Gordon! <who??> Somewhere in my "stack of stuff" - or better put, boxes of "treasures," are scorecards and yearbooks from Ebbetts Field (Dodgers), the Polo Grounds (Giants) and Yankee Stadium (guess who?) with the great 1950s teams. Memories are made of this! (Dean Martin - mid 50s) . . . .
Nice rundown on those EMD switchers . . . .
Glad you liked the monthly Cdn significant events list . . .
Thanx for the visit, quarters ‘n round. [yeahh]
Lars at 11:03 AM yesterday: Didn't expect to see ya and I feel "responsible" for shaking you loose. Nevertheless, without your Post, it would've been quite a drought once again, as no one showed up ‘til Pete's late afternoon visit.
Many thanx for the Email(s).
Yes, that was a fine Post from Dave and surely provided a "shot in the arm" insofar as rekindling the motivation to keep going . . . "Play to those who care!" should be the mantra.
Nice of you to research out a few book covers to supplement the D&H ‘n NP "stuff" . . .
Thanx for the visit and round - and we'll see ya on Thursday!
Pete at 6:54 PM yesterday: Another fine inclusive ‘n informative Post from "eagle eye" Pete! Numbers on the tail of the aircraft!! Who else but Wolfman wudda caught THAT
I'll have to see if I can find "Mirror, Mirror" on the web to listen to. The title rings a bell, but I can't place the tune; zither - fascinating!
Appreciate the visit ‘n round!
James at 9:08 PM yesterday: Regarding the Xplorer - I think the reverse of what you opined is true - Aussies followed our lead. Glad you found the Post of interest.
Gotta watch that caffeine, it will "get ya" everytime!
Thanx for a most interesting ‘n inclusive Post!
Doug at 9:38 PM yesterday: Another night time appearance from the barn weevil!
Purple Martins and ship models???? WHAT in the world . . .
Eric at 1:08 AM today: A continuing ray of hope for this joint as our Resident Desert Swede comes through one more time with a fine inclusive ‘n informative Post. Not to say that the guys who are participating aren't doing their "bit," for all of you surely ARE, but it's the "style" and manner in which the interaction takes place that "grabs" my attention.
Whatever "works" for the individual surely will fit right in ‘round here. Many thanx for a fine inclusive ‘n informative exchange of info on our favorite subject - classic trains!
I will dig up some additional info on the Xtrain and provide a follow-up as there has been a bit of interest with it. Good questions . . .
You, Sir, are far ‘n away leading the pack of Rendezvous attendees with your "pitch" for the Route 66 "thing"!
Wood paneling inside a cab?????
Many thanx for the visit and business!
DL at 5:03 AM today: Another reason for hope ‘round here as you provided one ‘hulluva' Post for the gang.
Was hoping you'd come through with the amplifying info on the Chunnel Chuggers and you didn't disappoint.
Yes, Pete ‘n I will be "stuck" aboard the Renaissance equipment (no domes) for our round trip to Halifax from Montreal, however, we'll have the Budd streamliners for the Gaspe trip - with a dome at that!
I'm hoping that this latest court ruling will force VIA Rail to lay up those cars and put the Budd stuff back on the line. Oh if wishes were horses,
PASSENGER TRAIN NOSTALGIA #29 Initially Posted on Page 171 of the original Thread
Here's something to ponder with regard to our appreciation and fascination with Classic Trains. Check out this advertisement regarding the Canadian Pacific from 1950:
18 vacation delights seeing EAST-to-West Canada
Value-minded travelers go Canadian Pacific! Want your vacation sunny and salty? With family fun?
1. It's waiting in down-east Nova Scotia at the Digby Pines, a picturesque hotel and cottage colony. 2. Your comfort's in the good care of Canadian Pacific. 3. Like "another world" city? See Old Québec. 4. Ride in a Calèche. 5. Shop winding streets. 6. Visit Ste. Anne de Beaupré, 7. Or Isle d'Orléans! 8. Relax gaily at Canadian Pacific's great Château Frontenac! 9. Onward! By Canadian Pacific train, notred for food and service. 10. Stop in gay Montréal, queenly Ottawa or colorful Toronto. 11. But stay and Play in Ontario's lake-and-woods country! 12.Westward! Along the scene north shore of Lake Superior and across rolling prairies. 13. Then through the sky-high Canadian Rockies try Canadian Pacific Diesel train! 14 Stop at Banff Springs and Lake Louise and see unparalleled beauty! 15. Roll on by Canadian Pacific through Evergreen scenery. 16. Visit Victoria and reel in roses! 17. Stay there the Empress set in famous gardens! 18. Golf, swimming, sailing, fishing . . . take your choice! Ask your travel agent about a world of service: To Europe by White Empress ships. Two Canadian Pacific air routes; to the Far East, or New Zealand and Australia. Across Canada, 19 fine hotels and resorts.
Canadian Pacific
See your local agent or Canadian Pacific in principal cities in U.S. and Canada
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
CP FP7A #1418 (courtesy: www.trainweb.org)
Royal CP exiting the Spiral Tunnels. Mt. Stephen in background.
CP "The Canadian" (foto credit: CP)
Enjoy! Tom
Hi Tom and everyone, a round for the house
D&H PA4 Albany 1968
http://67.15.20.45/images/d/DH68419216w.jpg.50855.jpg
http://67.15.20.45/images/d/DH680419242w.jpg.40092.jpg
D&H 4-6-6-4 and Pennsy switcher Schenectady, NY 1948
http://67.15.20.45/images/d/DandH1502.jpg.93886.jpg
D&H 2-8-0 Schenectady, NY 1948
http://67.15.20.45/images/d/DandH1121.jpg.25833.jpg
http://67.15.20.45/images/images2/u/UP934eastTr118_EllisKS_1968_08_rpnet1024.jpg.88729.jpg
http://67.15.20.45/images/v/Vulcan_Foundry.jpg.81834.jpg
CP FP9 Alberta 2003
http://67.15.20.45/images/c/cp1400morants140903.jpg.JPG.77164.jpg
X2000 Ralingsås 2006
Lehigh Valley EMC SW Jersey City 1950
http://67.15.20.45/images/images2/l/LV108JerseyCityNJcarfloats1050rp.jpg.65610.jpg
Mike
Good Morning Barkeep and All Present; coffee, please; round for the house and $ for the jukebox. Gas went up another ten cents yesterday to $2.80. Also, most of the state is on life support after that basketball game last night that Tom mentioned. I can't take much more!
Lars stopped by with comments and book covers; I'll have to see if I can find a copy of NP Diesel Era. BTW, if folks haven't enlarged the cover for D&H in Color Vol. 2 do so and look at the consist that's on the bridge! Hot !@#$
Pete - Comment re different engines were well taken, especially re Alco; we won't even get into Baldwin and F-M here. Let me call your attention to a book that will be out soon; J. Parker Lamb, Evolution of the North American Diesel Locomotive. I pre-ordered mine from Amazon and am looking forward to its release later this year. Starucca Viaduct was discussed a few posts back when the first of the D&H articles appeared.
James - we'll do some 645 material soon. The SD45s were, IMHO, about the best looking of the EMD C-C freight units; especially when they operated long hood first - truly bestial! GP30 takes the prize for the B-B units.
Barndad stopped by with all sorts of pictures. Those interested in finding out more about the "Badger" should go to the C&O Historical Society's site and look around. Although I don't do Marx, the B&LE and DL&W cars might well have found a good home at my place - excellent!
Eric - I guessed it might have been an F18, oh well, I have seen all of them fly at one time or another. The sound of the P51 is something else, along with that of a P38.
DL provided a good post and travelogs. The gcrailway website has some good material - the link worked fine.
Mike sent pictures, Mike sent pictures!
The D&H 18 is at the old Albany station. Check out the NYC Flexivan in the background (the ancestor to today's container cars). D&H 17 is also at Albany. NYC 4041, an E8 is in the "cigar band" livery.
Sweet mercy - a D&H Challenger. The PRR switcher is a brand new Alco, blt. At Schenectady and doubtless en route to it's new home. Check out the 3-dome tank car and the o/b wooden boxcar right behind the PRR engine. The yellow warning sign in the front of the picture is to let flanger/plow operators know there is a potential "catching" hazard ahead - probably a switch.
The 2-8-0 picture is a good one for all sorts of trackside details - take a look at the D&H signal on the rt. Hand side of the photo.
I can't begin to say enough about the UP train in Kansas; almost forty years ago in a world that has all but vanished.
The LV pup at Jersey City is a good shot as you can look at it and figure out how the trackage for the car floats worked. The Morning Sun books on the Valley have some more pictures in greater detail. Carl Condit's books on the Port of New York (sadly out of print and prohibitibely expensive when you can find them) have a lot of good material on rr operations in NY harobor.
I will leave comments on the other shot to our Canadian and UK wizards.
OSP - Sid Gordon? Born in Brooklyn, lifetime .283 average; played every infield position except SS, and also played the OF.
I can beat that on the Braves side of things as I have a Vern Bickford card; Vern was the pride of Hellier, Kentucky.
Last, good night "Piano Legs" Hickman, wherever you are. With a name like that, he deserves a spot on the Mentor nine. Man they, don't even have names like that anymore.
The Aerotrain pictures were good. The first one, a NYC publicity shot was made near Breakneck - Lovely four track main line with a cantilever signal. The last one is interesting because, there is a B&O CPL signal over the fourth car - maybe taken near Chicago?
Well, I gotta get out of here.
Work safe
OPTIONAL Toy 'n Model Trains Day!
Initially Posted on Page 332 of the original Thread
Used with permission from: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Formatting differences made necessary due to Forums requirements.
Louis Marx and Company (courtesy: Marx Toy Museum) Louis Marx and Company was an American toy manufacturer from 1919 to 1978. Its boxes were imprinted with the slogan, "One of the many Marx toys, have you all of them?" The Marx logo was the letters "MAR" in a circle with a large X through it, resembling a railroad crossing sign. Because of this, Marx toys are sometimes misidentified as "Mar" toys. Marx's toys included tinplate buildings, toy soldiers, toy dinosaurs, mechanical toys, toy guns, action figures, dolls, doll houses, toy cars, and HO scale and O scale toy trains. Marx's less-expensive toys were extremely common in dime stores, and its larger, costlier toys were staples for catalog retailers such as Sears and Montgomery Ward, especially around Christmas. Although the company is now largely forgotten except by toy collectors, several of its toys remain well known. Rock'em Sock'em Robots, introduced in the 1960s, remained popular for years and has been reintroduced by several different companies. Its last hurrah was the Big Wheel ride-on pedal toy, which was introduced in 1969 and became one of the most popular toys of the 1970s. Founded in 1919 in New York City by Louis Marx and his brother David Marx, the company's basic policies were "Give the customer more toy for less money," and "Quality is not negotiable," which made the company highly successful. Initially the company had no product designs and no manufacturing capacity, so Marx raised money by positioning itself as a middle man, studying available products, finding ways to make them cheaper, and then closing a sale. Funds raised from these effort proved sufficient to purchase tooling for two obsolete tin toys-called the Alabama Minstrel Dancer and Zippo the Climbing Monkey-from toymaker Ferdinand Strauss, one of Louis Marx's former employers. With subtle changes, Marx was able to turn these toys into hits, selling more than 8 million of each within two years. Marx then bought the company it had subcontracted to manufacture the toys. By 1922, both Louis and David Marx were millionaires. Initially Marx produced few original toys, but was able to predict what toys would be hits and manufacture them less expensively than the competition. The yo-yo is an example: Although Marx is sometimes wrongly credited with inventing the toy, Marx was quick to market its own version, and during the 1920s sold an estimated 100 million of them. A Marx train set made in the late 1940s or early 1950s. (GNU Free Documentation) Unlike most companies, Marx's revenues grew during the Great Depression. By 1937, the company had more than $3.2 million in assets ($42.6 Mil. in 2005 dollars), with debt of just over $500,000. Marx was the largest toy manufacturer in the world by the 1950s. In a 1955 article, Time Magazine proclaimed Louis Marx "the Toy King," and that year, the company had about $50 million in sales. Marx was the initial inductee in the Toy Hall of Fame, and his plaque proclaimed him "The Henry Ford of the toy industry." At its peak, Louis Marx and Company operated three manufacturing plants in the United States: Erie, Pennsylvania, Girard, Pennsylvania, and Glen Dale, West Virginia. The Erie plant was the oldest and largest, while the Girard plant, acquired in 1934 with the purchase of Girard Model Works, produced toy trains, and the Glen Dale plant produced toy cars. Additionally, Marx operated numerous plants overseas. "Donald the Demon" figurine In 1963, they began making a series of plastic figurines called the Nutty Mads which included some almost psychedelic creations such as Donald the Demon: a half duck half madman, driving a miniature car. In 1972, Marx sold his company to the Quaker Oats Company for $54 million ($246 Mil. in 2005 dollars) and retired at the age of 76. Quaker owned the Fisher-Price brand, but struggled with Marx. Quaker had hoped Marx and Fisher-Price would have synergy, but the companies' sales patterns were too different. Marx has also been faulted for largely ignoring the trend towards electronic toys in the early 1970s. In late 1975, Quaker closed the plants in Erie and Girard, and in early 1976, Quaker sold its struggling Marx division to the British conglomerate Dunbee-Combex-Marx, who had bought the former Marx UK subsidiary in 1967. A downturn in the British economy in conjunction with high interest rates caused Dunbee-Combex-Marx to struggle, and these unfavorable market conditions caused a number of Briti***oy manufacturers, including Dunbee-Combex-Marx, to collapse. By 1978 the Marx brand disappeared, and Dunbee-Combex-Marx filed for bankruptcy and was liquidated in 1980. The Marx assets were then liquidated, with many of the patents and molds going to Mego Corporation, another famous maker of dime store toys, and a large number of them going to Canadian toy maker Aurora. The rights to some of Marx's toys are now owned by other companies, and some of its former products are still in production. Marx Toys, Inc., owns the rights to many Marx action figures. Marx Trains, Inc. produces lithographed tin trains, both of original design and based on former Louis Marx designs. K-Line produces plastic O scale train cars and scenery using former Marx molds, which it markets under its own brand name. Model Power produces HO scale trains from old Marx molds. Rights to the original Marx Big Wheel are owned by KidsWheels, Inc., and Rock 'Em Sock 'Em Robots is owned by Mattel. Marx's toy soldiers and other plastic figures are in production today in China for the North American market and are mostly targeted at collectors, although they sometimes appear on the general consumer market, particularly at dollar stores. The Marx name itself has changed hands several times as well. Despite the similar names, neither of the Marx-branded companies of today have any connection to the original Louis Marx and Company. The original Marx toys are highly regarded by collectors. Used with permission from: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Formatting differences made necessary due to Forums requirements.
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Two URLs to peruse http://www.thortrains.net/marstart.html http://www.tr
Good evening Tom and gang. I'll have a bottomless draught and buy a round for everyone present. Thanks for posting the Marx ENCORE, Tom. Glad I don't buy my gas in CM3's neck of the woods, though I suppose $2.80 is just around the corner for us too.
Here are some more pix from Sunday's show. DOes anyone have any of these?
Hi Tom and all .
A large Bathams XXX please LEONSorry folks I have just spent well over 2 hours doing my post only to have lost it.I will start again in word and see you all tomorrowPete
Leon- Lets skip the coffee and go on to a turkey sandwich. Thanks!
I thought I would drop off some layout pics.
here is my U25B. At the moment it's on it's 90 day inspection and sitting aside getting the checks. So far it has passed all the tests. It is one of Bowsers newer locomotives. Very nicely detailed.
Another shot of the locomotives at the engine house. Most are U-boats. Love the U-boats And a GP38-2 on the end waiting for anything that pops up.
Last picture is of my passenger units. The DL109s are probably the largest of the passenger units. They are the first locomotives on the left. the Milwaukee Road only bought two of these Alco made units. They really didn't go over big with the Milwaukee. the F-units and the Erie built locomotives were the Milwaukees primary power.
Enjoy!
Good morning Captain Tom and Gentlemen!!
– Leon, how are you doing? Working late every night, are you never tired? Well, I would like some Steak and Bisquits, please! Yeah, I know but I like them!
Some toy train posts this Wednesday and also some stuff from Canada! Pete had bad luck and that is no fun at all. His post is floating around in cyber space! Grab it if you see it.
DL – I agree that the Spitfire is a very good looking airplane, but I still like the P-51 Mustang a little bit better. Probably beacuase I like those straight, thin, wings. It is the same about cars, I am not big on these rounded cars you see today, I want more straight lines. I have been to the RAF museum in Hendon and I have a lot of pictures from it. But I am afraid this is not the right place for that kind of pictures. Doug – Rain in Chicagoland!? Hope it stopped before anything bad happened to your basement. Or have they fixed that problem now? I have heard about Marx trains but I don’t think I have seen any of their locomotives or cars. A toy train indeed!Nice pictures from the Sunday show! What kind of building is that supposed to be? (the top one). What kind of show was it? Toy trains?Tom – Wood paneling in the cab? I guess that was because the operator is outside most of the time! I wonder why VIA is calling their Budd cars HEP? HEP for me means Head End Power, nothing else. HEP is necessary for the cars when in service, not only for the Bud cars but all passenger cars. 18 places and things to do and see in Canada 1950! I think I would pick the sky-high Rockies! Nice pictures, I love the second one from the top! Beautiful country! I think the third picture is created in a computer! The shadows are falling in slightly different directions or there are no shadows at all. But it certainly looks very nice!! Some more info on the Marx trains! 1919 to 1978! Interesting to see how things went downhill after Marx retired.
Thanks Tom!Mike – A bunch of very nice pictures! Nice looking Alcos and steam engines! Some very British diesels with their typical sign in the front showing the train number (??). And a picture of the X2000 outside Alingsås (roughly about 35 miles norteast of Gothenburg). I have been running the X2000 hundreds of times over that line. Too bad they changed the paint scheme! It looks so bad now. CM3 – I know you kind of guessed it was a F-18, I just wanted to show how much I know! That P-51 sounded very good! I got pretty close to it after it landed. Pete – I’ll buy you two more large Bathams after what happened to you! Losing something like that makes me... well, kind of upset. James – Some very nice pictures from your (?) layout! I like the top one the best! I have to do some research about those DL109s! I have seen pictures of them before and they have their own style.
Almost 17 1/2 years ago. I looked a tiny little bit younger then. Not much though, basically the same.
Good morning Tom and gang! I'll have the usual light breakfast please. I really misbehaved and had several slices of pizza last night. I've been eating pretty clean in 2007 till now. I'm trying to get down to Eric's weight 17 1/2 years ago. Couldn't help but notice almost everyone in the picture was wearing tennis shoes. Hard to believe that steel toe protection was not required to work around trains. Don't know if you know this, but I put in quite a few volunteer hours at a classic airpower museum. The newest F class fighter I saw was a F4 Phantom. As for the Lionel building, I'd say it was a hobby shop. I have no idea how old it is.
The show I attended was mostly for toy trains, with a little memorbelia and some books. There's going to be another show soon that's all memorbelia at the College of DuPage, about an hour from here. All I know is that I can't afford anything from either type of show. Here's a few more pix you may find of interest:
The little workman on top of the house was hammering faster than anyone I've ever seen!
This was pretty neat. The small scale train for the kids works!
Bummer on losing your post Peter. I almost never write anything directly to the editor here. Thanks for the pix James. Looks like you have your own space to be creative, and plenty of it!
Have a great day everyone!
Joe had asked Bob to help him out with the deck after work, so Bob just went straight over to Joe's place. When they got to the door, Joe went straight to his wife, gave her a hug and told her how beautiful she was and how much he had missed her at work. When it was time for supper, he complimented his wife on her cooking, kissed her and told her how much he loved her.
Once they were working on the deck, Bob told Joe that he was surprised that he fussed so much over his wife. Joe said that he'd started this about 6 months ago, it had revived their marriage, and things couldn't be better.
Bob thought he'd give it a go. When he got home, he gave his wife a massive hug, kissed her and told her that he loved her. His wife burst into tears.
Bob was confused and asked why she was crying. She said, "This is the worst day of my life. First, little Billy fell off his bike and twisted his ankle. Then, the washing machine broke and flooded the basement. And now, you come home drunk!"
Thursday always heralds good things to follow - Friday ‘n the weekend!
Begin the countdown with a cuppa Joe, pastries from The Mentor Village Bakery and a <light> or <traditional> breakfast from our Menu Board!
Received an Email from BK and sorry to report that there is a rather personal and serious situation unfolding on the home front that will keep him off-line for awhile. We respect the privacy of all who participate here and fully understand that once put into the Ether - the "world" knows. So, let's just wish BK ‘n Lydia the best!
With no word from Rob, tonight is Pete's "big night" as he faces the "inquisition" for elevation to Bar Chandler. <ooooooooooh ahhhhhhhhhh>
For those who give a Rat's Patoot - Saturday, March 31st is the B'day for our very own Manager - Lars!
Mike at 7:43 AM yesterday: A suprising early AM Post from "silent Mike." A little something for everyone . . .
CM3 at 9:21 AM yesterday: Hope the power grid is geared up for the demand in "juice" as the TVs throughout WVA are tuned into "the" game - NIT Championship. GO Mountaineers!
Boston Braves, eh Well; I don't have a single baseball card in my possession, as they and my Lionel trains have been reduced to fond memories. Funny how I can still "see" some of those cards. That Sid Gordon card, for whatever the reason, "lives" in my mind's eye. Yeah, "they" don't seem to refer to the players with the nicknames of yore. Then again, with the "sensitivities, contacts, agents, et al - who knows that would come of that sort of thing in today's way of doing things. <ugh>
I logged more than a few hours traveling between Staten Island and Manhattan aboard the ferries. Used to see those barges "loaded" with freight cars all the time - I doubt there was one trip where at least several weren't spotted. Of course, foggy trips don't count!
Many thanx for the supplemental info on the Xplorer . . . I can think of only one other customer with an "eye" for the details that come naturally to you - that's our very own Wolfman! Hmmmmm, best not to forget our Resident Desert Swede as well. The three of you are absolutely "Da best" at what you do!
Appreciate the round, quarters ‘n visit!
Doug at 5:18 PM yesterday: The drought continues, however, your Post is very much appreciated! Figured the Marx "thing" could be enhanced a bit with that Encore - glad you liked it.
Marx was always kinda looked upon as the "dime store" trains back in "my day." The kids were in two camps - Lionel (me) or American Flyer (some buddies). Talk about heated discussions - those debates were something else. Ranked right up there with who "the best centerfielder" was - Duke - Mickey or Willie. Ahhhh, let it rage on.
Nope - never had any of those structures on my Lionel layout. Nice!
Pete at 9:28 PM yesterday: We feel your pain, Mate! BUT - after all of these months on the Forums, one should NEVER prepare a Post directly on the Thread. Use your word processor program - save it often - then copy ‘n paste it to the Thread. But then, you already know that. <groan>
James at 10:08 PM yesterday: Layout Pix on Toy ‘n Model Trains Day! Details as well. Oh yes, I'll add you to the B'day Watch List once you answer my Email!!
Eric at 1:26 PM today: Several years ago, when VIA Rail began using the term "HEP" in reference to the Budd cars, I sent a letter to their CEO. In fact, a few friends of mine who also noticed it wrote letters too. VIA suspended use of the term, but didn't use Budd - no they used "stainless steel." For whatever the reason, they've resumed the use and it is indicative of an ignorance factor prevalent amongst a few in that organization who will never acknowledge an error. Perhaps the SAME people responsible for the purchase of those Renaissance (Chunnel Chugger) cars.
Nice Pix - would love to see a few full size versions!
Some Xplorer train info - check out:
http://yardlimit.railfan.net/baldwindiesels/rp210/index.html
http://members.aol.com/dam1941/nyctolwestpassenger.html
Doug at 5:35 AM today: More toy train Pix!
Regarding the prices at those "shows" - UGH! It all comes down to demand, doesn't it? I mean if no one would pony up those exorbitant prices for USED toy trains (for the most part) ‘they' wouldn't be able to remain in business. Kinda sums up my feeling for eBay and the like. Maybe when that auction thing first began it was far more "honorable" than what it has evolved to. <barf>
Keep on pushing and you'll reach the weight level you're looking for. I've dropped 20 pounds in about 7 months, but with no effort on my. If you're interested in the "secret,&qu
We've had a good week or so of D&H material, and here's a bit more. Why??? Because it's "next up" in the Fallen Flags "series"!
The Passenger Railroad Fallen Flags of "Our" Place #10
Delaware & Hudson (D&H)
A form of this was initially Posted on Page 119 of the original Thread
source: Classic American Railroads
Here's another Passenger RR Fallen Flag for the gang from Classic American Railroads:
Caveat: The information provided is NOT all inclusive and is reflective only of the periods mentioned.
Delaware and Hudson (D&H)
Headquarters: Albany, NY Route mileage in 1950: 765 - 2000: 1,381 Locomotives in 1963: Diesels - 153 Rolling stock in 1963: Freight cars - 9,394 Passenger cars - 55 Principal lines in 1950: Albany-Troy-Mechanicville, NY - Montreal, QC (Napierville Junction Railway trackage Rouses Point, NY-Montreal) Binghamton-Oswego, NY (Erie trackage) Nineveh, NY-Wilkes Barre, PA Hudson-Buttonwood Yard, PA Delanson-Mechanicville, NY Schenectady-Balston Spa, NY Saratoga Springs-Tahawus, NY (U.S. Government trackage North Creek-Tahawus) Troy-Castleton, VT (B&M trackage Troy-Eagle Bridge, NY) Whitehall, NY-Rutland, VT Plattsburg-Lyon Mountain, NY Plattsburg-Ausable Forks, NY Fort Ticonderoga-Ticonderoga, NY Oneonta-Cooperstown, NY Cobleskill-Cherry Valley, NY Using CONRAIL trackage in 1976: Oswego-Buffalo & Niagara Falls, NY Wilkes Barre-Harrisburg,PA-Washington, DC Scranton-Allentown, PA-Newark, NJ Allentown-Philadelphia Passenger trains of note: Laurentian (New York-Albany-Montreal) Montreal Limited (New York-Albany-Montreal) Of note: All cars south of Albany handled by NYC.
D&H ALCO PA1 #19, Windsor Station, Montreal, Canada (foto credit: Gary Overfield) D&H ALCO PA1 #18 (copyright: Corel Corp.)
Good Morning Barkeep and All Present; coffee, please; round for the house, and $ for the jukebox. Spring has vanished for now as we have had a 25-30 degree drop in temperature here last night after a series of violent thunderstorms rolled through - always have been partial to purple-colored lightning.
Barndad sent more pictures from "da show." I enlarged some of them and spent some time checking out the Plasticville structures.
I had seen the diner before, but the newsstand I don't remember. Madison Hardware was, of course, the center of the Lionel universe in NY City. That was a fascinating piece in your picture.
I had the house under construction and, in fact, bought several of them which I bashed into other stuff; that kit had a lot of detail parts which could be cabbaged into other items.
James sent along some pictures - I liked the FM units in the middle.
Eric and James - DL109s - remember them well. Other roads that had them included the GM&O, SOU, MILW (as shown by James), ATSF, and, of course, the New Haven, which had the most. Those of us who work with N scale have been blessed as there have been several DL109 models over the years. I have a set of them in green and gold and use them on freights. Maybe someday the manufacturing gods will come up with proper New Haven passenger cars other than car sides and core kits (Let go Tex, I'm done).
Pete - Hang in there.
OSP - Thanks for the kind words - most of the State is on life support after the other night's contest. I don't even fool with NBA, but I do follow the college game. More D&H material - always food to see it. Blow up the picture at Windsor and see the dome car at the end of the train. The second picture was, I think, taken at Portland, ME - don't hold me to this, but that is an MEC engine in the background. The roundhouse is giving me fits, because I know I have seen it before...............
I'll probably be offline until Monday p.m. Have to take the young man to Charleston for National Geographic State Competition tomorrow. Hopefully, they won't do a lot on So. American rivers - that got him last year, after he ran the table on a series of questions relating to former Soviet Republics (you know, all them ‘stans.) The we have to do a class on Monday which I'd better get ready for now.
Ruth my deAH, time for a "jolt" in the coffee mug and a couple of crullers from the bakery case. Slow start for me this day . . .
Some pretty diverse ‘stuff' been provided by the guys of late. We've pretty much run the table, huh??? Just check out these past couple of pages! Toy ‘n Model Trains Day turned out to be an "event"!!
Since Tom brought it up, I'll be pretty much tied up on Saturday with the family. Every year they try to come up with something to "surprise" me. Yeah right, like another b'day is a surprise! Of course, the alternative stinks, huh?? Best to be on the surface than below it, I figger.
Hey Shane! Hope your team knocks the socks off South Carolina. I had hoped Air Force wudda gotten in. I ALWAYS root for the service academies - ALWAYS. I think those guys are the true student athletes. ‘nuf said!
Got a kick outta that banter ‘tween you ‘n Da Boss on Sid Gordon, etc. Honestly don't recall a one - nary a one. Then again, the Boston Braves were pretty much a "name" only team for me - being such a young guy and all.
Hey Tom! Duke - Mick ‘n Willie - what a threesome in the outfield, huh? At the time they played, it would've been pretty much impossible to find any better. Willie was a magician - Mick had it all and the Duke could bring the roar to the crowd in Bums Park. Loved ‘em all. Thanks!
A fine return to the bar from DL across the pond. Good to have you back and hope the comms link stays strong!
Eric, don't quite understand how you do it, but those nighttime posts are something else. Typing while hanging upside down from a limb surely must take some ‘doing.'
Were YOU really THAT young once upon a time!
Are you READY, Pete?? Tonight IS the night of nights. I expect you'll "know" B4 things get rowdy - as this "event" is drawing lots of attention. Appears that even the guys from the Second Class Saloon are going to swing by. I heard the Track and Motorcycle Gangs said they'd be in too. What in the world kinda "friends" have you developed ‘round here???
Sorry ‘bout that post of yours. But seems to me you may be your own worst enemy! <grin>
Never get tired of the D&H - one heckuva livery, for sure!
Sooooooooooo, check these out:
Sooooooooooo, check these out for something "different":
Until the next time!
Lars
Hello all
Tom, I'll have a pint.
Pete - nothing worse than writing anything and then losing it - you never want to re-write it!
Eric - I do like the P51 - but I agree with your point about the car design I reckon there's room here for the occasion Hendon photo - I've not been there for 20 years!
Pete - my e-mail circular reply to Tom's recent message got caught on your spam interceptor - which I could not then get released, not imprtnat but maybe I should try sending you a message via the site and see if that gets through - any thoughts?
Anyway - thought people would like to read this extract from the local paper:
NEW LEASE OF LIFE FOR 1920S CITY TRAM
11:00 - 29 March 2007
A 1920s city tram that spent 70 years as a home could run again.When Nottingham's original trams were retired in 1936, conductor Mabel Brewin bought one and moved it with her to Lincolnshire, where it became part of her bungalow. The lower deck of the open-topped tram carriage housed a bedroom, washbasin and toilet and was occupied until only a few years ago.
Now the tram is to be separated from the bungalow at Hagworthingham and taken to the National Tramway Museum at Crich, Derbyshire, to be renovated.Mrs Brewin's great-nephew, 70-year-old Jeff Holt, lives in Mapperley.He said: "The first time I went to see her home was in the summer of 1945, when I was nine."The tram was originally a double-decker with an open top."Only the lower deck half was in use."There was a lean-to shed built on to the side of the tram."Mr Holt last saw the bungalow in the 1970s, around 20 years after his great-aunt's death.He is delighted the tram might be restored and could run again.The Crich museum said a tip-off from a local postman had alerted them to the tram house about six years ago. They had approached the property's new owner on hearing it had been sold, who donated the carriage on the basis that the museum collected it. The tram will be lifted off its foundations by crane, loaded on to a flat-bed truck and taken the 100 miles to Crich on Saturday.Glynn Wilton, museum curator, said: "We are delighted to have found this old Nottingham tram."It will fill an important gap in our collection."We have examples of trams from Derby, Sheffield, Chesterfield and many other towns but not Nottingham."The tram's main body is in good condition, and the museum believes it could be renovated to give visitors rides through the tramway village.The work could take around three years and cost more than £300,000, Mr Wilton added.The museum will store the carriage while raising sponsorship to carry out the work.
A pint of bitter and a around please RUTH.
Not a good day on the puter or rails yesterday after losing the post I had got ready and when I sent it did not appear. To make matters worse on the 10 o'clock news it said the Missouri House wants to cut off funding for Amtrak services in Missouri (although the bride says they usually do this but the Senate overturn it) but if the senate agrees to the cut the program said we will loose our rail service through here from July 1st. What makes it worse according the picture they showed the line has been electrified and the Amtrak service was worked by AE7sThe general media do have a blind spot when it comes to railways it is the same in the UK.
There has been really good posts since I last posted with DOUG's Great pictures from the Rockford train show with the fantastic model C&O Train Ferry Badger. I wonder how many hours it took to make. Those Marx freight cars look in good condition for their age, I don't think I have heard of the Bessemer line before. Love the Branford Diner car and the smaller scale train giving rides next to the larger scale. Unfortunately I missed the large train show in Kansas City by just a week when I was over there.
Looking forward to your photo of your purple martin house.
ERIC Thanks for the info on the Ub and the photo in the cab of the Ue. When the Ubs were rebuilt to a Ue were the original traction motors kept, do you know.
Seeing the ruins of the old Cathedral at Coventry is a moving experience. In my village near Rugby there was a guy who was a young man on the night of the big raid on Coventry and he said you could read a newspaper by the light from the fires in Coventry. We are about 10 miles as the crow flies from the city.
On a brighter note when the new Cathedral at Coventry was completed there was a ceremony and the Cathedral was opened by the Queen. After the ceremony the Queen traveled back by the Royal Train. I was fortunate to have seen the train at Rugby and I still have the memory. It was hauled by two immaculate ex LMS class 5 4-6-0s. I have found a picture in a Railway Magazine of the time showing the train at the then newly re-built Coventry station. The locomotives were Nos 44962 and 44942 the locos were from Birmingham area sheds of Saltley and Aston. Some of the Royal Train cars of the day are in the National Railway Museum at York including a twelve-wheeler.
Nowadays there is a great connection between Coventry Cathedral and the Cathedral in the German city of Dresden.
Yes the panels on the front of the locos are the 4-characture headcode panel. The first number indicated the class of train eg 1= Express passenger 2 = Stopping Passenger 8= Light Engine etc. The second box was a letter which donated the destination of the train, which on each region was different. For inter-regional workings each region had its own letter eg. S=Scottish M=Midland E= Eastern N= North Eastern O= southern and V= Western Regions. The last two numbers were the individual train numbers.
Locos on BR do not have headcode boxes today but the 4 character code is still used to identify trains in the signaling centers, with the code being entered before the train starts its journey and follows the train on the panel of the signaling centers as the train works the track circuits.
Thanks for the photo of the X2000 and you.
MIKE Thanks for a great set of color pics in your links and thanks for CM3 for the details on the pics, I was wondering what that sign was in the pic of the D&H 4-6-6-4.
I don't suppose in would be many years before the then new diesels were hauling the steam locomotives to the scrapyard.
For some details of the locos in the English Electric Vulcan Foundry link. I believe English Electric were the only British loco builder who produced their own prime mover.
With their TOPS class numbers From left to right. On the left is a class 73 Electro-Diesel for the Southern Region These locos could work on the SR's 750volt 3rd rail system and had a 600HP diesel engine for working away from the 3rd rail.
Next is a class 86 for the London Midland 25,000kv overhead West Coast Main Line electrified lines.
A 1,000HP single cab class 20 is next. These locos were usually worked in pairs with the cabs outward. A freight loco this would be heading for Toton depot in the East Midlands where it would mainly work coal traffic.
The EE 1,750 type 3 later class 37 would also work on coal but mainly in South Wales.
I am sorry but I do not know about the Industrial shunter (switcher) on the right.
On a personal note the class 20 D.8128 was the first of a second batch of class 20s EE built, the class was introduced in 1957, any way on a tour of steam sheds in the North West of England at Warrington amongst the steam locos was a brand new D.8128.
Thanks for bring back the memory Mike.
CM3 That does sound an interesting book thanks for the tip.
I seem to recall when the Irish Railways wanted to re-engine their class 001s they had to do a bit of negotiating with GM as GM did not supply just power units but only complete locos, perhaps you know if this was true or not. The Irish did get the engines and it was good business for GM as Irish Railway onl
Evening Tom and gang. Finish up your drinks from Peter, and have a round on me! I should take a picture of that Purple Martin house right now. I popped the box open tonight, and it's going to be a major assembly project.
Shhh ... don't tell anyone, but one of those Badger pix was X rated. Check out the quarters near the bow. I can't believe those guys did that!
Looks like some good D&H stuff from the Captain, and some healthy activity from CM3, DL and manager Lars ... who is having a surprise birthday on Saturday
Here is the last part of my D&H article. I won't be posting in the morning, because we have something strange going on at the horse barn, and I need to be there extra early tomorrow morning. See you at Pete's inquisition examination.
Delaware & Hudson - April 1947 Railroad Magazine
Vacation Special at Lake George, New York. Steamboat dock to left is hidden by train. Lake George Steamboat Co., purchased by Rensselaer & Saratoga in 1866, is now part of D&H transportation system.
These steel maulers grossed over forty-seven million from transportation in 1945. The all-time high take was that of 1944, when fifty-one million dollars worth of railroad service was sold, with a net of nearly six million left over after taxes and fixed charges.
Last year saw the expenditure of huge sums for improvements. Diesel switchers joined the roster for specialized jobs wherever their low-cost operation would outweigh the advantage of home-owned coal. Fifty-five miles of heavier rail was laid, three wye tracks were installed and many bridges rebuilt. More improvement projects, including the purchase of new units are now on the planning boards.
As B.D. Anthony summed it up, "The D&H may soon be dependent on freight hauling for its main income. Naturally, we are going to sell all the transportation we can, to and from our own lines. We must encourage new firms to locate on our right-of-way by showing them every consideration possible, to make them realize that if we are interested in their problems we will also be interested in giving them good rail service."
Spanning the swift-flowing Delaware and Lackawanna, Pa., this picturesque 600-foot suspension aqueduct, designed by John A. Roebling in 1849, now serves as an automobile toll bridge. It was one of four such structures erected under the supervision of the great engineer whose name is synonymous with cable-supported bridges, along the route of the Delaware & Hudson Coal Canal. The other and lesser aqueducts were the Lackawaxen, Neversink and High Falls crossings.
Delaware aqueduct cable anchorages are strikingly like those used on today's great suspension bridges.
Mr. Anthony did not mean that the Hudson Coal Company is not making money. It is. Mountains of coal are transferred to the Erie via Pennsylvania Division Junctions, to New York Central and to Boston & Albany. The hoppers and gondolas roll every day from the mines to Rouses Point and Mechanicsville for interchange lines. But in the opinion of D&H management, to rest on this profitable business, which may have an uncertain future, would be a dangerous gamble. The men at the helm of the company want to keep it the Durable & Husky.
Included in Official List No. 16, a record of equipment and officials, are the Greenwich & Johnsonville Railway Company and the Napierville Junction Railway Company, A Canadian link. The two roads are the last of a multitude of rail lines and comp[anies making up the present D&H, and both retain their original form. The G7J has seventeen miles of track and connects with the parent road at Greenwich Junctions, N.Y. It uses D&H equipment.
The Napierville Junction line is a forty-two-mile Montreal link, which interchanges freight with the Canadian Pacific. Canadian National, the Rutland and Central of Vermont. It has two locomotives and two cabooses and boasts seven telephone calls all on its own in the timecard. The engines are a fast freight E-3-A class numbered 914 and Number 1089, an E-5 superheater Consolidation. At Delson, P.I., the CP connects with the NJ for freight-interchange and shares the passenger station.
The modern Delaware & Hudson aside from the NJ tamper-proof Montreal connection and the pee-wee G&J which contributes freight from the portion of New York State northeast of Troy, forms a valuable link in the nation's rail lines. From Canada to south of Albany and from Albany to southwest of Binghamton, N.J. and Wilkes-Bare, Pa., runs the main line, along which travels most of the profitable traffic. The eight minor branches include the Lake Placid and Ausable Forks extensions, and the tracks which bring the minerals and milk out of Vermont. At the center of New York State, there is enough business and industry to keep several freight agents happy. Nor will many angles to keep the entire road busy be overlooked as the battle for traffic broadens into still other fields. It appears that the D&H is going to continue "Durable & Husky", with a long, profitable pull ahead.
The Laurentian, southbound with engine 313 on the smoky end, roars into Westport. Vacationers move faster than the white-shorted agent.
After Coach Holmgren dies and enters the Pearly Gates, God takes him on tour. He shows Mr. Holmgren a little two-room house with a faded Green Bay Packers banner hanging from the front porch.
"This is your house, coach. Most people don't get their own houses up here," God says.
Coach Holmgren looks at the house, then turns around and looks at the one sitting on top of the hill. It's a huge three-story mansion with white marble columns and little patios under all the windows. Chicago Bear flags line both sides of the sidewalk and a huge Bears banner hangs between the marble columns.
"Thanks for the house, God, but let me ask you a question. I get this little two-room house with a faded banner and George Hallas gets a huge mansion with Chicago Bear banners and flags flying all over the place. Why is that?"
God looks at Holmgren seriously for a moment. "That's not George's house," God says "That's my house."
No, thank you Leon, just a cup of strong coffee! Okay, if you have a cheese Danish I'll have that too. Good stuff!
Early Friday morning! A few more hours and the wekend will be here! A lot more info on D&H today! Not around any more though.
Doug – The people with (tennis)shoes you see in the picture are all engineers and were only interested to see when the power unit was coupled to a car for the very first time. My weight on the picture was about 170 lbs, today it is 167-168 lbs after a number of years above 210 lbs. I am sure you can make it!More nice pictures from the show! On the top pictue I can see a little bit of an electric trolley bus! I have two myself, but they are both red! Interesting article about D&H! Do you know if that former suspension aqueduct is still around? Never seen a suspension aqueduct before! Tom – Thanks for the Xplorer information! Obviously they were not long lived either one of them. Checking the links you provided it seems like they were very unreliable.
You would like to see a full size version of the picture? Doesn’t it enlarge when you click on it? VIA Rail still use the term HEP instead of Budd cars? Maybe Rob knows why? It doesn’t make sense at all. I have bought some RR-books at eBay lately and I must say I did not pay much for either one of them. The latest one is “Rights of Trains” by Peter Josserand from 1957. It is about the Standard Code for all railroads. Received it a few days ago. More info on D&H! What year did D&H go out of business? I did a little bit of research and found that after merging into the Guilford System 1984 was let go in 1988 and bought by CP in 1990! I love those pictures of the two ALCOs! Especially the bottom one, beautiful livery!CM3 – I have a few N-scale trains. Maybe I should build a N-scale layout for the time being? Does not take that much space. Wish your young man Good Luck!!! Amazonas is a river down there!Lars – I admit it takes some time to get used to hanging upside down when typing. But it is okay as long as the limb doesn’t break! What do you mean, young? I am still just 27+. Okay, 27++, but that is it! Something different? The only thing that looks different to me on those book covers is the name of one of the authors of the bottom book, Robert A. Liljestrand. A very Swedish name. But I don’t think that is what you mean. DL – I’ll check my pictures from Hendon and see what I can do. I haven’t been there for 28 years, 1979!Nice story about that old tram! Lets hope they will be able to restore it to running condition!Pete – Now you made me curious! What line has been electrified? AEM-7 in MIssouri? I must have been asleep for a long time! Or did they use a picture from the North East Corridor? The Ub kept the original traction motor when they were rebuilt to Ue. There is only one traction motor on those switchers.Thanks for the info on those headcode panels! So they do not have any kind of panels or signs today? I agree about seeing the old Cathedral of Coventry. It is moving! I understand that Coventry and Dresden have a great connection today. Very similar events in both cities during WW II.
Good Luck to you this exciting day!! Be prepared to talk about Ruth and ships! That will make Manager Lars happy!
Hello Tom
Lets have a large pancake breakfast this morning - get me set up for the weekend.
Hope all's well.
Glad you got your post up this time Pete.
I enjoyed Mike's Vulcan Foundry link of course, so thanks for the run down on the designs - I could not recognise the switcher, I wondered if it was an 04, 03 or such like.
Anyway - what I was going to say about it is that these designs are almost all still in service one way or another, apart from the 25KV Electric, and they are only just out of service. The EE designs must have been some of the consistently good quality products that got bought under the modernisation plan.
Your mention of Coventry station caught my eye (the new one) I like the design style of this - much higher quality than a lot of other ‘modern' stations. I believe it is actually now a ‘listed building' which is the term we use for buildings given special protection because of their quality. I could not find a pic, but found this great BR poster of the Cathedral from 1957 which will be of interest.
http://www.scienceandsociety.co.uk/results.asp?image=10174061&wwwflag=2&imagepos=2
Channel Tunnel - I think to be precise it was Mrs Thatcher who liked the idea of a road tunnel - she was obsessed by the car and as a result starved rail of money. Of course for safety reasons if nothing else the idea of a road tunnel would be crazy. It would have had to have been closed by now under the present climate.
You asked about a Northern High Speed line - I am not hopeful. The Govt commissioned a report by the former head of British Airways (Rod Eddington) - surely he would not have been biased - on transport in general, and he did not go great guns.
In terms of commentary on the subject I put a lot of store by this columnist who is an expert on the public transport, he writes for Rail and I always read his column. He covered the subject here - but it makes gloomy reading:
http://www.christianwolmar.co.uk/articles/rail/556.shtml
However, the Scottish Parliament have said it must happen, so that is where the chief lobbying is coming from, but of course they will not pay much toward it so it will be London who decides. It was only the French that embarrassed the UK into building the London - Tunnel line, without that, that would not have happened.
The restoration work at St Pancras is looking good though - I expect you have seen pictures in the Railway Magazine?
I agree with you about the sheds at the GCR - in fact the day we went I was with my father and we spent the whole day just at Loughborough, around the station and sheds, generally poking about - all very interesting. The working conditions there are pretty cramped though - they need a bigger, better shed really.
The loco group I donated to is 73156 - it would be interesting to see what you know. I see it was located at one shed not too far from Rugby, I'll see if you find out which one! After the donation I have just got a letter from my local ‘rep' inviting me to come down and see what they are doing in more detail. I'm a bit too busy at the moment, but I will ring the chap up.
The Nottingham Tram survivor is a good one as there are no other local preserved trams. Crich will ‘do the business' if they can get the money - their standards are second to none. As you say, a must for any UK trip.
It reminded me that there were / are a few seaside houses made out of old railway carriages around the area on the south coast (near Portsmouth) where my grandparents lived. These had been holiday homes originally and some are quite well preserved if another building had got built up round them to protect them from the elements. The coaches (cars) are actually pre grouping of course (pre 1923 to you North Americans). I know occasionally preservation groups ‘rescue them' but I fear often they end up demolished. I recall one being demolished back in the 1970s when I was a child, to build a modern house on the site. My grandfather who was a keen amateur woodworker salvaged quite a bit of wood from it to make things out of - all superb mahogany of course. Most of these coaches would have been from the old London Brighton and South Coast Railway (LBSCR).
Mentioning of Motorcycle gang reminds me to ask if anyone has seen the film The World's Fastest Indian? I'm utterly confident that any Our Place regular will love this film - maybe an idea for a Mentor Village screening some time Tom?
Check this low down here:
http://www.tiscali.co.uk/entertainment/film/reviews/the_worlds_fastest_indian.html
Pete - I'll try and e-mail you, just to ‘establish the link'
Regards
*Idiot of the Week #9
My daughter went to a local Taco Bell and ordered a taco. She asked
the person behind the counter for "minimal lettuce." He said he was
sorry, but they only had iceberg.
Yep...From Kansas City, MO!
STAY ALERT!
They walk among us .. and they REPRODUCE ..!!!
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
End of the work week (for many) a day we call Friday!
Begin it with a hot mug of coffee, pastries from The Mentor Village Bakery and a Menu Board selection for a <light> or <traditional> breakfast!
Petrol was at $2.49 (rounded) yesterday and from what I've been listening to and reading, prices are to continue upwards. This time the "speculators" and cartel JOs have placed the blame on the situation in the Persian Gulf. Yeah, right . . . it's a simple thing called "get what you can while you can." Many of us refer to it as GOUGING! <boo hiss>
Still haven't had the week of rain predicted last weekend. Temps have been rather comfortable in the mid-70s (F). However, clouds have moved in and maybe some precip will finally reach this area.
News of the day: Pete is now "Oh-fish-ul-lee" the Bar Chandler for "Our" Place. Congrats to the Wolfman and who knows what's next - Manager, perhaps???? What hath God wrought - eh
Gonna be a "different" end of the week without Shane ‘round, but a Dad's gotta do what a Dad's gotta do!
CM3 at 8:50 AM yesterday: My guess is it's a "holiday' in WVA as the NIT championship goes to the Mountaineers! I think Lars meant to refer to Clemson, rather than South Carolina - but close enough, eh Found it on page 7 of the St. Louis Post-Disgrace (Dispatch) - that tournament simply gets no respect (Rodney Dangerfield).
Many thanx for the continuing Pix analysis - the round - the quarters and of course, your presence! We'll be looking forward to your return.
Best of efforts to your son!
Lars at 10:52 AM yesterday: The Manager didn't let us down and made a morning Post replete with some steam Pix!
I'm with ya on the service academy sports programs. The idea of collegiate sports today seems more to prepare the players for pro's rather than foster team play, sportsmanship, have fun, et al. Yeah, I know, I live in the tar pits.
I wouldn't have admitted it back then, but my vote would go to Willie as the best centerfield of that era. Mickey had too many injuries, the Duke was prone to slumps, but the "Say Hey Kid" was like a Timex, kept on tickin' . . . .
Thanx for the visit and of course, organizing the "event" for Pete's Bar Chandler "induction." By the looks of the Rat's Patoot and Pool rooms, I'd say a good time was had by all - except Pete, of course! That "dunk tank" has got to go!! <groan>
DL at 11:26 AM yesterday: Can't say often enough how nice it is to see ya back at the bar.
Thoroughly enjoyed the tram story. Only those with a deeply rooted appreciation for the lore and place in history of cars like that would endeavor to not only preserve the tram but try to get her back in operating condition. Nice story and wish ‘em the best . . . .
Pete at 5:14 PM yesterday: Congrats Mr. Bar Chandler! Glad to see that you survived your induction!
Before I forget - Calèche in French-Canadian "loose" translation means a horse drawn carriage.
Yes, that CP ad does contain terminology totally skewed in today's jargon. It's the way of the world when those without a clue somehow manage to overrule the morays, protocol and definitions of things. It's the PC element at it's "best." <boo hiss>
The Post-Disgrace had only a "blurb" buried within the larger Missouri House budget story regarding the Amtrak cuts. Yes, sorry to say this happens pretty much every year. One day we'll definitely lose the "Mules" - the intra-state trains funded by the legislature. Remains to be seen if the Ann Rutledge - inter-state - will remain running.
As to running a Pix of an "electric" for a story about mid-west operations, well chalk that up to one word - ignorance. And they pay these people too! <arrrrgggghhhh>
Pinkertons does ring a bell . . . .
New Haven colors were right up there - speaking of the black ‘n orange era. Really caught one's eye.
A fine, fine Post fr
2007 BIRTHDAY WATCH LIST
(rev. Mar 30th)
January 14th (Eric - 64)
OKRA (Dec 22 - Jan 20) Are tough on the outside but tender on the inside. Okras have tremendous influence. An older Okra can look back over his life and see the seeds of his influence everywhere. You can do something good each day if you try. You go well with most anyone.
March 13th (Doug - 51)
BOLL WEEVIL (Feb 20 - March 20) You have an overwhelming curiosity. You're unsatisfied with the surface of things, and you feel the need to bore deep into the interior of everything. Needless to say, you are very intense and driven as if you had some inner hunger. You love to stay busy and tend to work too much. Nobody in their right mind is going to marry you, so don't worry about it.
March 31st (Lars - 67)
MOON PIE (March 21 - April 20) You're the type that spends a lot of time on the front porch. A cinch to recognize the physical appearance of Moon Pies. Big and round are the key words here. You should marry anybody who you can get remotely interested in the idea. A Chitlin would be a good mate but it's not going to be easy. You always have a big smile and are happy. This might be the year to think about aerobics. Maybe not.
May 18th (Tom - 69)
POSSUM (April 21 - May 21) When confronted with life's difficulties, possums have a marked tendency to withdraw and develop a don't-bother-me-about- it attitude. Sometimes you become so withdrawn, people actually think you're dead. This strategy is probably not psychologically healthy but seems to work for you. You are a rare breed. Most folks love to watch you work and play. You are a night person and mind your own business. You should definitely marry an Armadillo.
May 27th (Dave - 48) <Leave of absence - Iraq>
CRAWFISH (May 22 - June 21) Crawfish is a water sign. If you work in an office, you're hanging around the water cooler. Crawfish prefer the beach to the mountains, the pool to the golf course, and the bathtub to the living room. You tend not to be particularly attractive physically but have a good heart.
August 11th (Pete - 56)
CATFISH (July 24 - Aug 23) Catfish are traditionalists in matters of the heart, although one's whiskers may cause problems for loved ones. You Catfish are never easy people to understand. You run fast. You work and play hard. Even though you prefer the muddy bottoms to the clear surface of life, you are liked by most. Above all else, Catfish should stay away from Moon Pies.
September 8th (Rob - 36)
GRITS (Aug 24 - Sept 23) Your highest aim is to be with others like yourself. You like to huddle together with a big crowd of other Grits. You love to travel though, so maybe you should think about joining a club. Where do you like to go? Anywhere they have cheese, gravy, bacon, butter, or eggs and a good time. If you can go somewhere where they have all these things, that serves you well. You are pure in heart.
September 29th (James - 19)
BOILED PEANUTS (Sept 24 - Oct 23) You have a passionate desire to help your fellow man. Unfortunately, those who know you best, your friends and loved ones, may find that your personality is much too salty, and their criticism will affect you deeply because you are really much softer than you appear. You should go right ahead and marry anybody you want to because in a certain way, yours is a charmed life. On the road of life, you can be sure that people will always pull over and stop for you.
October 18th (BK - 67)
December 29th (CM3 - 61)
Not on the list Send me an Email with your birth date (month-day-year) Corrections too!
Tom (Siberianmo)
Proprietor of "Our" Place, an adult eating & drinking establishment!
Ahoy Cap'n Tom 'n fellow travelers at the bar!
Many thanks Tom and all, for the well wishes - the B'day Watch List looks GREAT - nice work! A 5- Salute to you Sir!
Ruth, what's this???? A PRESENT for ME!!!! <blush> and <golly gee> I wonder what it is????
And Boris, what is THAT you are hiding behind your back??? A present for the Manager! <double wow> What a great gift, personalized bibb overalls complete with red "hankie" from you 'n Leon - thanks!! (I think)
A fine turnout for Pete's ceremony last night. The dunk tank turned out to be the main attraction as the Wolfman couldn't believe that there was such a thing as a tank full o' suds - just for HIM! <grin> Thanks to the brewery over in Merry Olde that Pete loves so much and of course the Zeppelin service, we were able to get sufficient quantities of Bathams delivered to us in time to fill the tank! There he was, wet suit 'n all - swimming, diving and frolicking 'round like a stupified porpoise! <grin> Sorry gang, but we promised to refrain from providing any photo "evidence" here in the ether. You'll have to attend the RENDEZVOUS in St. Looooo to see 'em.
Back to the B'day Watch List for a sec . . . looks strange to see Rob's name followed by Legion of the Lost. Who wuddathunkit, huh And James at 19! Who wuddathunk we'd see the day when . . .
Regarding the former - we'll surely miss our Ontario Connection. Regarding the latter, the lad has proven to be an asset to the bar . . .
Much appreciation to the barn weevil, our resident desert Swede, the wolfman and DL from across the pond for keeping us afloat! Fine submissions and always captivating reading. (Yes, I've finally caught up . . . .) <phew>
I know Tom has decided to close up shop over on the "other thread," but youse guyz should check out the pix being posted . . . he's provided some fine stuff from last year's rendezvous. I'm going to continue providing pix, just one at a time, if for no reason other than to keep all of our efforts up on the page.
The weekend approaches, and I know things will be busy 'round my hacienda. So lemme just wish one and all a fine weekend. For the baseball fans out there, turn on the tube and settle in for the 1st of 162 games (multiplied by how many teams??) Good Grief Charlie Brown! Let's Go Mets (one more time)!!
Shane, I'm sure you're elated 'bout your state's basketball team doing so well. Yeah, South Carolina - Clemson - what's the diff, eh
Something to leave you with . . .
I'm afraid I cannot remember too much about last night's exam for the Chandlers post. I must have got the questions right as I was a bit hazy before the Dunk Tank, full of Bathams as well. I hope TEX as dried out and sobered up after falling in. So RUTH I will get the beers today to celebrate my elevation. Many thanks all for the congratulations.
DOUG Thanks for the final part of the D&H from1947, and its attempts to gain other freight traffic as well as the coal. Great part about the line with just 2 locomotives and 2 cabooses.
Like Eric I had not heard of a Suspension Aqueduct. I too wonder it is still standing today.
Loved the joke.
ERIC Yes as Tom said the news people used footage of an East Coast electric to show in a story about Missouri trains.
Those must be a very well made traction motor in the Ub, over 70 years old no doubt after a few rewinds but still the original main components. Do you know who built the traction motor?
The last BR locos to be built with the headcode panel was the English electric class 50s in 1967. The class 87 electric locos introduced in 1973 were built without the headcode panel, as were all locos afterwards. After the headcodes were phased out on locos, although still used in the working timetables, the panels showed 0000 later some locomotives had two white dots in the panel. As the locos went through works the headcode panels were blanked off and two lights fitted. One class, the D. 1000 Western diesel hydraulics although allocated the TOPS code of class 52 were due for early withdrawal at the time and were never renumbered in the TOPS system. Some of these locos carried the locos running number in the headcode panel instead of the 4 zeros.
Can I take a guess at your picture being on the East Coast from the cab of the X2000.
DL I think the diesel shunter in Mike's link is not for BR, but for use in a private factory, mine or quarry etc.
Yes the English Electric in my opinion were very good products in the first generation of British Railway diesels. It is a good job they were after some of the other diesels that were produced at the time. Even the class 31s were rebuilt with E.E prime movers fairly early on in their careers. The other successful classes for diesel electrics used a Sulzer diesel engine, like the 25s.26s, 27s, 33s, 45s, 46s and 47s. I think the diesel hydraulic locos were fairly successful like the Warships and the Westerns but BR decided to go for all diesel-electrics in the early 1970s.
Thanks for the poster of Coventry Cathedral. I agree Coventry station was one of the better modernized stations from the 1960s. It is hard to believe before it was rebuilt there were just 2 platforms. Coventry Halt as one of my mates still calls it to this day.
I'm not sure I agree with Mr. Woolmer, although I agree the line will probably not get built. I think though, if you are going to build a new line it as to be for High-speed trains not freight. If the high-speed line was built it would release a lot of capacity on existing lines for freight traffic. Up to 1966 there was a high-speed line linking London with the north it was called the Great Central.
Talking of the GC. There was a fairly large steam depot at Workington. This had to be demolished but instead of reducing it to rubble it was taken down and can be re-erected again, there is a plan to do this at Loughborough to the south of the existing shed there on some waste ground. I have a link about this.
http://www.titaniumdesign.co.uk/emap/permanent/steamModelrail/2007-05/steam/2/index.htm
It is about halfway down the page in ‘Loughborough news'.
73156 is a Standard class 5 the class was introduced in 1951 they do carry a lot of features that are similar to the LMS Black 5s. I had a look in an old book of mine and I have seen this loco when it was in BR service. It is an appropriate engine to have at the GCR as it was allocated to Neasden depot for a while, which was the London depot for the GCR and would of worked over the GC, which is where I probably saw her. Although as you say it was allocated to Leamington on the ex Great Western later on. About 20 miles from Rugby.
There is another Standard 5 running near you, this is No 73129, which is fitted with Caprotti valve gear. It is usually at Butterley on the Midland Railway Centre. The MRC also runs an occasional vintage train with 6- wheelers and you can travel in a coach like the old coach bodies, which went to make seaside homes. It was sad that LBSCR coach was demolished but I bet the wood made some great things by your Grandfather.
Here is a link to some pics of the Vintage Train at Butterley.
http://www.midlandrailwaycentre.co.uk/English/vintage.html
LARS I have just heard that I was so pleased with my promotion and the contents of the dunk tank that I volunteered to clean out BORIS's shed. Oh well I have got to find my wet-suit which disappeared and I suspect it could well be in the shed no doubt after the Bathams has been pressed out o
G-day Tom and all present!!
Leon- Could I get a coffee..... Ya, along with a sandwich, Thanks. And BTW, would you get a round for the fellas. Thanks again.
Well. What an interesting day today. Wet, cold.. Just the way I like it.... We have Ice storm warnings out at the moment here in Duluth.
Doug- The Badger is definitely an amazing model to behold. Each year when I go to the NMRA show in Milwaukee, The guy has it set up and he's running trains in and out of it. It's really cool to here the horn of the boat. Every hour or so he would blow the horn on the boat. Very nicely detailed too. I am still impressed.
I looked at the Marx train pics and I can't believe how much he wanted for them. That was unreal. $40 for a tin hopper is quite expensive. But hey, it's a hobby and I am sure they are very much a collectible. Some cool pics. Also saw some of the interesting buildings that you had posted. I really liked the Madison Hardware. I like how they have the model trains in the window. They certainly give that impression, but it looks as if they are able to run. Do the little trains run inside the building
I'm sorry Tom, but I have to compliment on a joke. That one were his wife thinks he's drunk for kissing her was funny. Thanks
Good continuing piece on the D&H. It was amazing to read about the suspension bridges. I was quite surprised that they were built in the 1850s. That is an old bridge. Thanks for the article.
Eric- Well, glad you liked the NP articles. They were interesting to say-the-least. When I saw the picture of Bozeman pass I instantly thought about what you said. So I posted the picture. It was good picture, glad you liked it. Oh and thanks for the cab interior of the Ue. It certainly wasn't what I was expecting. Usually when I look at a cab I look for more than one handle and a few gadgets and gizmos but there isn't really a lot inside that little loco. Thanks for the picture.
Regarding my models, that would be my layout. It's under construction at the moment so I sometimes refer to it as plywood central. But it works for what I want it to do. Also I'll see what info I can find for you on the DL109s. I know the Milwaukee Road only had two of them and they were not impressed with them.
The picture of you in it doesn't look to be 17 ½ years old. I think it looks pretty good. I was looking at it and it seems that there was an accident. I can't tell, but it looks like the train came undone. What happened
DL- I liked the picture of the GCR class 8K 2-8-0. I can't believe that it was built back in 1911 and is operated today. That is really cool. Thanks for sharing.
Good to hear that the 1920s city tram may run again. It's always fun to hear about old trams/ trains/ anything that rides the rails, that will be restored to operating condition and may once again run. Thanks for sharing.
Tom- So the Australians followed our design. That makes sense, most of there locomotives have that type of design to them. Thanks for the info. Also thanks for the passenger nostalgia. The Canadian Pacific F-units caught my eye. That beaver just fits right in and those F-units... What a wonderful piece of work they are.
Great little story on the Marx Company. I'm still surprised that they made those little monster figurines. I thought they were strictly trains but I guess not.
Delaware and Hudson on the Fallen Flags list... Sad.. But At least there are pictures of those wonderful looking Alco PA locomotives. They are an eye opener especially when there Alco made. Thanks for pics and info.
Ah, yes. The Birthday watch list.. And I'm on it!! Okay, Okay, I know I'm the youngest but I do have a passion for trains. Especially when I can work on them.
Mike- Who would deny the PA. I certainly wouldn't. I do like big Alco passenger power and that PA matches that description perfectly. Nice pictures of those. Also liked the pictures of the steam engines. That D&H 4-6-6-2 is a monster. That little Pennsy switcher be hide that large steamer looks really weird. That little thing is dwarfed. Thanks for sharing.
CM3- A GP30.. Hmm. I happen to know one. Well not personally, but I know where one is located and is in almost perfect condition. It's here in Duluth at the railway Museum. They're a real treat. Now when I said it was almost in perfect condition, it still has an oil leak. We have it down to a minimum but it still leaks. The gasket around the hatch on the engine leaks. So when you open up the side doors you can see these fine oil streaks going down the side of the engine. So we need a new gasket but outside of that, it's pristine. And even a brand new paint job a couple of years ago. In SOO line colors. Red/ white/ and black lettering. It's a nice looking locomotive. Below SOO GP30 #700 located in Lakeside, the suburbs of Duluth.
Glad you liked my model pics. I also like the FM Erie Built. I have taken the time and put the extra headlight below the other light and add the features the Milw
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