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"Our" Place reborn! 3rd Year of adults 'n REAL Classic Trains in a special environment! Locked

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Posted by trolleyboy on Friday, April 27, 2007 8:34 PM

Good evening Leon. Just a samll strip loin for me tonight we're going with a lighter menu with the lower crowds of this evening. I made it back in , a tad later than I wanted but I is here.

CM3-I haven't been able to confirm or deny who had that "problem" witht the coal tower,for some reason CP's Orangeville sub sticks in my mind but I haven't found the proof.If I do I'll let you know.Glad you liked the commuter, piece and Jame's synopsis of the DMIR was bang on.It's a railroad I like always have. I have a soft spot for SD7's and 9's I just like them. Which is odd as they were not built for the Canadian market. They just screme "locomotive".Loved the stories of the old reliable and the New Haven thanks for sharing. Thumbs Up [tup] The L&N was one of those roads that in my mind did it right. Nice big engines pulling the daylights out of coal drags, classic stuff.I imagine that those UP Centenials would have had a sound of their own, likely shook your fillings loose as they went by as well.

 I just hope that Doug has horses that Boris won't easily spook, once he gets in his get up and rides the beer wagon it's a sight to behold.It takes the townsfolk all their resolve and apitence not to break out the linching ropes and torches.

Rob

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Posted by trolleyboy on Friday, April 27, 2007 8:42 PM

Howdy again Leon another Keith's here's another ad poster to continue on with the evening.

Rob

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Posted by trolleyboy on Friday, April 27, 2007 9:26 PM

Okay folks here's a little encore of a piece I first posted back on january 15th. A bit more light bedtime reading for those who were away playing on trains todaySmile,Wink, & Grin [swg]We have to keep up our reputation of filling thesepages with at least a bit of train info and fun afterall.

Enjoy  Rob

CLASSIC STEAM #38 THE LAKE SIMCOE JCT RAILWAY

 

  One of the main goals of the early railway builders in Ontario,was to tap the resorces of the Provinces hinterlands.Here was where the timber,minerals and the farmland resided. All vital to the new countries fledgling economy.The first lines were usually anchored to a lake port, and from there they wound their way inland to wherever their charter and their funding would take them.Often with many of the first lines this wasn't very far ,and many of the lines were simply built as portages.

 While the Toronto & Nippissing Railway ( never even got close to lake nippissing ) was being built and wound it's way from Toronto to coboconk,it lacked a neccessary portage conection.Accordingly a feeder line was proposed from a point on the TN to Lake Simcoe,which was at that time a key transportation route for Ontario's early settlers, and lumber companies.

  The Lake Simcoe Junction Railway,began ant Stouffville a booming town set amidst some of Ontario's finest farmland,and terminated at Sutton,with a spur extending to the warf at Jackson's point on Lake Simcoe.Watre tanks and a small coal facility were placed at Mount Albert,while two engine sheds were built in both Sutton and Stouffville.Eight stations and sidings were located along the line, with the buildings at Mount Albert and Sutton being built to the specs of the two stroy wood frame sattion at Stouffville. The rest were simple single stroyt buildings built in the style of the TN parent road.The station at Kirkfield still stands as does the TN station at Markham Ontario ( suburb of toronto ).

  train service on the LSJ was not frequent. Two daily train mixed trains called at each station for the first three yeasr of operation,by the fourth year this was reduced to one,however by 1910 a full passeneger train was operating in each direction on the line.By 1917 this was reduced once again to just the one mixed train as the interurban rr The Toronto and York radial (TTC forerunner ) was offering daily excursions to Lake Simcoe on the faster, quieter and cleaner electric interurban cars.With this heavily patronised competition the LSJ cut train service back from Jakson's Point to Sutton ( thus not evening reaching ake Simcoe ).firhter competion arrived in 1919 in the form of the Canadian Northern's new transcontinnetal line which ran from Toronto northeast of Lake simcoe along the eastern shore of the lake. this line actually ran parallell to the LSJ,with the lines almost adjacent to each other at Mount Albert !

  By 1928, the newly formed Canadian National had assumed control of both lines,and undertook a major line relocation project.They eliminated a section of the LSJ between stouffville and Zepher and moved the junction closer to Sutton to  apoint along the higher quality Canadian Northern Line built between Zepher and Sutton.In 1928 thee CNR eliminated all tthe passenger runs on the remaining chunks of the LSJ, regulating it to  a part time frieght only traffic.During the 30's - 50s' it was a major farm produce,livestock line feeding traffic to the CNR's eastern lines.Through the late 50's and into the 60's trains became less and less frequent with most of the produce going to trucks.1979 saw CN abandoned the line , along with alot of it's other mid Ontario small yeild lines.

Rob

 

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Posted by trolleyboy on Friday, April 27, 2007 9:51 PM

 Leon your not sleeping on my time are you Question [?] Well I can't blame you it's been a tad slow but we all figured that much today.Well here is another encore this time reproduced from the old thread.

CLASSIC STEAM #29 THE BAY OF QUINTE RY

This was first posted on page # 364 of the old thread.Please enjoy again !

  The Bay of Quinte RY of (BQ),despite it's history and many bits and pieces left behind is little more than a small footnote in Ontario's railway history.

   It all began with Edward Rathburn.One of the ambitious entrepreneurs that was spawned by the 19th centuries industrial revolution.Rathburn founded what would become one of the largest and most diversified empires in 19th centruy Canada.From it's large mills in Desoronto Ontario ( the northeastren shore of Lake Ontario ) the Rathburn company expanded in all directions.It's fleets carried lumber and other cargo southward to Oswago NY, while it's trains moved cargo east and west along the Grand Trunk.To the north lay Rathburn's vast timber reserves and his Bay Of Quinte RY.

  Like much of Rathburn's empire the railway began as a mishmash of existing lines and unused charters.After building his own link from Deseronto a short distance from Grand Trunks main line west of Napanee Ontario,Rathburn purchased  the Napanee Tamworth and Quebec Line, a railway that led north from Napanee.He extended this line northwest to Tweed and later Banockburn,as well as northeast to Syndenham.This gave the company the all-important access to it's timber limits.By 1903 the network of tracks had become known as The Bay of Quinte RR or BQ.

   The railway gained it's revenue from more than just Rathburn's timber ventures.a marble qaurry at Actinolite,a cement plant at Marlebank, and a pyrite mine at Queensborough all added their piece to the railways profits.In 1910 the expanding Canadian Northern added the BQ to it's national inventory of undervalued lines.The CnoR, was less interested in the timber, mines and quarries than it was in it's completeing of it's mainline from Toronto to Ottawa.The BQ was a valuble link in that route.

  Neglected by it's new owners, the cement plant , mines and mills closed one by one,by 1930 only one train operated north of Tweed each week.To no ones supprise the section between Tweed and Banockburn was abandonned in 1935, and from Tweed to Yarker in 1941.The CNR continued service from Napanee to Yarker and beyond to interchange with CPR at Smithville until 1986. Run brieflty as a shortline the Smithville branch was lifted in 1991.The BQ left a colourfull history and many old stone mills and plants along it's ROW many are still to be seen today.

Rob

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Posted by trolleyboy on Friday, April 27, 2007 10:35 PM

Okay Leon , one last Keith's for me then I'm shutting off the lights.Here is one more encore to wind out today's efforts. thsi will be a teaser for tuesday's Railroads of Canada theme day.Thumbs Up [tup] This was first posted on page 16 of this new bar.Catch everyone tomorrow.

Rob

CLASSIC STEAM #39 ONTARIO'S THIRD MAINLINE THE CANADIAN NORTHERN

Well we will tell the tale ( an abriviated version ) of the "third" national dream in Canada.The Stroy of Mackenzie and Mann and the rail empire that never quite made it.

 In 1895, another chapter in Canadian railway history began. In that year the famous Canadain partners,William MacKenzie and Donald Mann bought the failing Manitoba railway , The Lake Manitoba Railway & Canal Company.And with this purchase they began assembling a network of unused charters and undervalued lines that would eventually stretch from coast to coast.The key link in this chain of railways would be the connecting link running between Ottawa and Toronto.They didn't seem bothered by the fact that two other mainlines were already destined to run east from Toronto,the 50 year old Grand Trunk and the line proposed by the CPR.

  By the time the line was under construction, most of the towns along the line were well established. The GT had taken up the best station grounds close to the downtowns, and left the fledgling Canadian Northern ( CnoR ) the inferior alignments on the outskirts of the towns.The route ventured northeast from Toronto far to the north of Oshawa and Bowmanville and was unable to get a desirable run close to Lake Ontario until it reached Port Hope.from there the next amjor town was Desoronto, where the line followed closly that of the GT at times running parallell.

  Between Napanee and Sydenham ( north of Kingston ) the CnoR incorporated the existing Bay of Quinte RR ( BQ ) but from there they laid their own trackage into Ottawa.From Ottawa the route continued along the south shore of the Ottawa river to Hawksbury, where it crossed into Quebec sending spearate branches to Montreal and Quebec City.

 The Blind ambition of building this and the  third trancontinental mainline the Grand Trunk Pacific, however lead to the CnoR's downfall.The completion of three national mainlines, and three east of Toronto wiht all the extra branches to feed them essentially duplicated each others services.With the world on the verge of a world war, this had the makings of a financial disaster. By wars end two of these lines were bankrupt. The GT Pacific and the CnoR.With the government owned Intercolonial in the maritimes not being much more healthy.

  In an effort to save the  bleeding red of these essential services ( for movuing goods and people and to avaoid a national financial crash ) Tjhe federal government decided to rationalize the redundant netwok of trakage that spiderwebbed it's way accross Ontario and much of the country.In this way the Federal government assumed control of the GTP, the CnoR & the Intercolinial forming the Canadian National Railways ( much to the dismay of the CPR )

  Under the new CNR banner, the lines that at one point were heated rivals were now suddenly redundant.This was espeacially eveident in the extra trackage east of Toronto.The CNR did not need two mainlines running side by side serving the same communities etc. So the more profitable line was retained.So in 1936 the least profitable line was abandonned, MacKenzie & Mann's CnoR. The line only ran for two decades, yet track remained in place until the 1940's when the metal was torn up for the war effort. Some trackage of this eastern portion of the CnoR still remains in use today in Oshawa and Coburg, but only as stub ended industrial spurs feeding the old GT mainline.

Rob

  

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Posted by CMSTPP on Friday, April 27, 2007 11:02 PM

G-day Captain [4:-)] Tom and all present!

Leon- Just a coffee for me, thanksThumbs Up [tup]

Alright, I will need to save my acknowledgements for tomorrow but I will be here. And things are looking good around here. I am impressed with the number of posts on a friday, especially from Rob. Just wanted to drop off my GE picture. It' didn't turn out as well as I thought it would but it gives you an idea. It definitely looks better on paper. It's not yet finished but getting really close.Smile [:)]

Well, here is the front half od the GE evolution series locomotive.

And the back half.

Enjoy!

Happy railroadingLaugh [(-D]

James

The Milwaukee Road From Miles City, Montana, to Avery, Idaho. The Mighty Milwaukee's Rocky Mountain Division. Visit: http://www.sd45.com/milwaukeeroad/index.htm
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Posted by EricX2000 on Saturday, April 28, 2007 12:50 AM

Good morning Captain Tom and Gentlemen!!

Leon, time for my favorite, Rumpsteak Café de Paris! Fries!

I can see Rob has been here almost all day today! A lot of good reading! Friday in Phoenix was on the warm side, 97° F. The summer is coming soon! The test runs on our new (under construction) light rail system begun this week! That is a good sign.

James –  Thanks for the interesting story about the Duluth, Missabe and iron Range Railway!!Thumbs Up [tup] 50 years since the passenger service ceased 46 years ago but still running (at least parts of it) today! I guess the solid lines on the map indicate railroads still in service.

Nice picture(s) of the GE-locomotive.Thumbs Up [tup] I have one question though, why is the horn  facing backwards? Question [?]

Rob –  Thanks for the info on remaining tracks of the commuter lines!Thumbs Up [tup] When we were in Toronto with the X2000 in 1993 we did two demo runs to Guelch Junction and back. Could that be on those tracks?Question [?]

Nice ads!Thumbs Up [tup] The top one is obviously from 1941 and it seems like the other one is from the same period of time, the 40’s. Correct?

The Super Continental, April 24th 1955! No steam power, all diesel. I guess that shortened the traveling time so they could call it Super. Thumbs Up [tup]

I like your short stories about Classic Steam, like these on The Lake Simcoe Jct Railway and The Bay of Quinte Railway! I am saving many of them. I still remember the last one of today’s stories about the Canadian Northern! Thumbs Up [tup]Thumbs Up [tup]

CM3 –  Route 128? I’ve been there a number of times by train. If I recall right it's located on a pretty long straight stretch of the railroad and there is an overpass (Route 128) on the Boston side of the station.

Poor baggage man, didn’t like the company, I guess.Wink [;)]

FL9 is kind of a different engine with its 5 axles and diesel-electric or electric operation! As far as I know some of them have been rebuilt and are still in service.



1993.  

 

Eric 

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"Our" Place reborn! An adult bar 'n grill for the discussion of Classic Trains!
Posted by siberianmo on Saturday, April 28, 2007 10:29 AM

Courtesy: http://www.viarail.ca/

ENCORE! Saturday -‘n - Photo Posting Day!

 

The bar is CLOSED on Sundays!

 

G'day Gents!

Back from one of our finest rail journeys thus far, with anticipation building for the next two up in "Oh Canada!" Smile,Wink, & Grin [swg] Pete ‘n I had a fine day and there'll be bits ‘n pieces along with some Pix in the next few days. Amtrak is Amtrak, or "it is what it is," and there just isn't much we can do to paint the picture otherwise. However, the idea was to have fun, relax and pass the time, which we did. Pete found an old friend in the café car on our return trip - someone named Samuel Adams. <grin>

Given the work going on between St. Louis ‘n Kansas City by Union Pacific, Amtrak was able to keep us rather close, schedule wise. My notes indicate we arrived in KCity a mere 12 minutes later than scheduled, even though we were 33 minutes late getting to Pete in Jefferson City. On the return, we arrived in JCity 27 minutes behind time and at Kirkwood (my station) 32 minutes late overall. Really not bad, not bad at all.

The train (same for both directions) had a single GE P42 locomotive and Horizon equipment - very, very dirty on the outside with windows that hadn't seen a washing ‘n scrubbing since Moby Dick was a Minnow (go ahead and steal THAT ONE, Rob! <grin>). There were 3 coaches and one café car (where Business Class is - including us.) The order: Cafe car - three coaches; simple enough.

My biggest complaint was about the condition of the windows, absolutely no excuse for that. We had a rather nice day, weather wise, and the scenery along the route is pleasant to view, but NOT through filthy windows. <grimace>

I noted that there is quite a bit of material since my last Post and yesterday was chock full o' interesting stuff. Noted too a drought of nearly 12 hours. Wow!! [wow] See, it DOES make a difference when just ONE of our "foundation blocks" is missing - but when two are gone, Lars ‘n Pete, well . . . ‘nuf said.

Many thanx to those of you who kept the place operating, I'm sure Ruth ‘n Leon enjoyed the company! I haven't detected any signs of destruction in the pool room, so my guess is the monthly Friday Nite Pool Challenge amongst the Track Gangs went off well. <phew>

Truly haven't the time to do full justice to all the guys who provided such fine material - suffice it to say, THANX again! Thumbs Up [tup]

 

Customer ACKNOWLEDGMENTS (since my last narrative):

 

Rob at 8:22 PM ‘n 9:07 PM Thursday: A bit of chat, an Encore! Post and a brew or two, makes for a nice evening, fer sure, fer sure! Thanx! Thumbs Up [tup]

Eric at 1:13 AM yesterday: Well, you MAY have missed something way, way back on the original Thread. Count Robulla  comes from our 1st Halloween, if I recollect and also in connection with the trolleyMANs late, late night visits back then. So, the name was given and "anointed," so to speak. <grin>

Nice looking UP loco, however these days (daze) I'm not thinking very positively about that RR. <groan> They do what they do, but the ramifications at times make life difficult if areas they aren't concerned about - passenger rail travel for example! <exasperated>

Appreciate the visit and yes, the countdown continues . . . Thumbs Up [tup]

 

James at 7:40 AM yesterday: You said you'd be here to help out and you did! I'm sure the guys appreciate being able to check in to see that the place is runnin' just fine. Thumbs Up [tup]

I never heard of the DM&IR, but now I have! Thumbs Up [tup] Thumbs Up [tup] Regional roads really are great to read about, especially those with such an integral tie to the economic health of a given area. Thanx! Thumbs Up [tup] Thumbs Up [tup] Thumbs Up [tup]

 

Rob at 8:48 AM ‘n 8:53 yesterday: Figured our Chief Chef  Chef [C=:-)] would come through in the clutch and thankfully your job schedule permitted not one, but TWO submissions on Friday morning!

Informative Post, great looking GT ‘n CN ads - what more could we ask for, eh Question [?] A RIDE ABOARD THOSE TRAINS, that's what!! <grin>

Many thanx for taking the time before work to help out ‘round here! Thumbs Up [tup]

 

CM3 Shane at 9:14 AM yesterday: Stories, chit-chat and inclusiveness all mark another fine visit from our WVA Connection! Recalled the L&N "laffer' from the past . . . Thumbs Up [tup]

The "128" mentioned brings back memories of long ago . . .

Your mention of horses, the bar, and beer wagons brings to mind that during our Rendezvous, we will pay a visit to the home of the Clydesdales at a place called Grant's Farm (yes, "that" Grant - U.S. Grant, 18th President of the U.S. (2 terms) and General of the U.S. Army during the civil war. Anyway, in these parts, beer wagons, Clydesdales and the "Budweiser song" make for feeling gooooooood. Doug will undoubtedly love those horses . . . Thumbs Up [tup]

Thanx for the visit, quarters ‘n round! Thumbs Up [tup]

 

Rob at 8:34 PM ‘n 8:42 PM ‘n 9:26 PM ‘n 9:51 PM ‘n 10:35 PM yesterday: And here comes trolleyMAN, the Chief Chief Chef [C=:-)] to save the day after nearly a 12 hour drought! Wow!! [wow] A 5-Post Nite for our Ontario Connection earns a 5-

Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
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Posted by wanswheel on Saturday, April 28, 2007 11:35 AM

Hi Tom and everyone, a round for the house

Well I never heard of the Duluth, Kimosabe & Iron Age either, and what the heck is Taconite?

CM3 thanks for excellent commentary. Ford Falcon, it was in 1960 that the Big 3 signed the Compact of Downsizement. GM's back-motored Corvair was the nadir of mobile safety, and then there was Chrysler's valiant attempt to ramble, nashurally. (See your DeSoto-Plymouth dealer and tell them Groucho sent ya)

St. Clair Tunnel or Sania Tunnel

http://memory.loc.gov/pnp/habshaer/mi/mi0300/mi0363/data/005.gif

http://memory.loc.gov/pnp/habshaer/mi/mi0300/mi0363/photos/339795pv.jpg

http://memory.loc.gov/pnp/habshaer/mi/mi0300/mi0363/photos/339794pv.jpg

http://memory.loc.gov/pnp/habshaer/mi/mi0300/mi0363/photos/339781pv.jpg

http://memory.loc.gov/pnp/habshaer/mi/mi0300/mi0363/photos/339786pv.jpg

http://www.imagescn.technomuses.ca/_images/common/photos/original/CN000166.jpg

http://67.15.20.45/images/c/CN9303_oct_1991_sarnia_on.jpg.82009.jpg

http://www.trainweb.org/westminsterstn/pics/sartun4f.jpg

CN Turbo

http://216.94.16.48/_images/common/photos/original/CN000556.jpg

http://216.94.16.48/_images/common/photos/original/CN000564.jpg

Taconite

http://www.mnhs.org/library/tips/history_topics/24taconite.html

http://collections.mnhs.org/visualresources/VRDbimages/pf008/pf008833.jpg

http://67.15.20.45/images/6/650-2.jpg.74722.jpg

New Haven FL9s

http://67.15.20.45/images/images2/n/NH_2026_r.jpg.30055.jpg

http://67.15.20.45/images/images2/n/NH_2042.jpg.70124.jpg

New Haven H16-44

http://67.15.20.45/images/images2/n/NH_0594_Southhampton.jpg.59511.jpg

Union Pacific 4-8-4, and James that was a neat video, cool soundtrack too

http://67.15.20.45/images/6/6-28-97_Salt_Lake_City.jpg.19282.jpg

Ulysses S. Grant

http://aok.lib.umbc.edu/speccoll/imcatimages/78-121-204.jpg

Robert E. Lee

http://iarchives.nysed.gov/images/extscaled/generalrobertleefull.jpg

Supercontinental

Photo courtesy Canada Science & Technology Museum

Mike

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"Our" Place reborn! 3rd Year of adults 'n REAL Classic Trains in a special environment!
Posted by siberianmo on Saturday, April 28, 2007 12:57 PM

ENCORE! Saturday - 'n ' Photo Posting Day!


The Bar is CLOSED on Sundays!

  

Here's something to ponder with regard to our appreciation and fascination with Classic Trains. Check these hotel ads (from The Official Guide of the Railways - 1956) [located on the inside, back cover]

Initially Posted on Page 141 of the original Thread

 

OKLAHOMA BILTMORE

in the heart of
Oklahoma City

600 Outside Rooms with Bath
600 Free Radios


MARTIN J. REINHART, President
H.P "Johnnie" JOHNSON, Mgr.

"Where courtesy creates its own welcome"

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Where Downtown SAN ANTONIO meets the River

The PLAZA HOTEL
. . . . . . . . . . . Air-Conditioned
. . . . . . . . . . . . .

SAN ANTONIO
. . . . . . . . . . . The Venice of Texas . . . . . . . . .

500 Rooms . . . . . . . . . . . TOM L. POWELL, Mgr.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

IN SAN FRANCISCO . . .

KARL C. WEBER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 500 Rooms
President and . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . from $5.00 - Single
General Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . from $7.00 - Double

HOTEL WHITCOMB
Market Street at Eighth


AT THE CIVIC CENTER

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

HOTEL LAFAYETTE

LAFAYETTE SQUARE BUFFALO, N.Y.

Buffalo's Most Centrally Located Hotel

400 ROOMS WITH PRIVATE BATH
. . . . . . . . . . From $2.75 Single . . . . . . . . . .

Delicious Meals at Moderate Cost


KENNETH A. KELLY, President and Manager

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

IN ATLANTIC CITY IT'S . . .

HOTEL DENNIS

Boardwalk at Michigan Avenue
AMERICAN and EUROPEAN PLANS


Walter J. Buzby, Inc.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

PHILADELPHIA'S VERY BEST!
1200 Rooms - 1200 Baths
The finest of food and entertainment

The BENJAMIN FRANKLIN

A GREAT NAME . . . . . A GREAT HOTEL


JOSEPH F. CONLAN, General Manager. . . . . . . . . WAlnut 2-8600

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

THE CONRAD HILTON

C H I C A G O

World;'s Largest and Friendliest Hotel

3000 ROOMS COMPLETELY REFURBISHED


- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

MARK TWAIN HOTEL
. . . . . . . . . . ELMIRA, NEW YORK . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . Elmira's Finest Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . .

250 OUTSIDE ROOMS WITH BATH
Television and Air Conditioning - Four Restaurants
W. C. EMERSON, President and Managing Director


- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

IN NEW ORLEANS

The ST. CHARLES
. . . . . . . . A DINKLER HOTEL . . . . . . . .
Completely Air-Conditioned

J. J. ("Mike") O'Leary, V.P. & Mgr.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

HOTEL ROBERT TREAT
. . . . . . . . . . "A KNOTT HOTEL . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . NEWARK 1, N.J.

SINGLE - $5.25 Up . . . . . . . . . . DOUBLE - $8.50 Up
STANLEY J. AKUS, Mgr. . . . .ALBERT W. STENDER, Pres.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

One of the world's distinguished hotels

The WINDSOR

. . . . . . . . MONTREAL, CANADA
. . . . . . . .

MAXIME RAYMOND Q. C.
President & Managing Director

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -


Enjoy! Thumbs Up [tup]

Tom Captain [4:-)] Pirate [oX)]

Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
  • Member since
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"Our" Place reborn! 3rd Year of adults 'n REAL Classic Trains in a special environment!
Posted by siberianmo on Saturday, April 28, 2007 3:40 PM

ENCORE! Saturday - 'n ' Photo Posting Day!


The Bar is CLOSED on Sundays!

 

Here are some Pix from a trip to KCity with Pete back in Sep of 2005 . . .

Interior of Great Northern Observation #1292 at KCity's Union Station (Pete)


Interior of Great Northern Observation #1292 at KCity's Union Station (Tom)



Interior of Milwaukee Road Diner at KCity's Union Station



Galley in Milwaukee Road Diner at KCity's Union Station



Eastbound Amtrak train #306 at KCity's Union Station



Amfleet Café Car #48177 at KCity's Union Station



Ooooooops!



Goodbye Tom! Pete at Jefferson City, MO

 

Enjoy (again!) Thumbs Up [tup]

Tom Captain [4:-)] Pirate [oX)]

Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
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"Our" Place reborn! 3rd Year of adults 'n REAL Classic Trains in a special environment!
Posted by siberianmo on Saturday, April 28, 2007 4:06 PM

ENCORE! Saturday ‘n Photo Posting Day!

at "Our" Place!

We are CLOSED on SUNDAYs!


Starting Sunday at the Mentor Village Emporium Theatre!

 

. . . April 29th thru May 5th: Fear Strikes Out (1957) Starring: Anthony Perkins, Karl Malden, Norma Moore, Adam Williams & Perry Wilson - and - Forest Gump (1994) Starring: Tom Hanks, Robin Wright Penn, Gary Sinise, Mykelti Williamson & Sally Field. SHORT: The Three Stooges - From Nurse To Worse (1940).

 

Fear Strikes Out (1957)

PLOT SUMMARY:

From its early scenes of a young Jimmy Piersall literally suffering his father's abusive determination that the boy should play baseball, Robert Mulligan's 1957 Fear Strikes Out becomes more about mental health than love of the game. But this is a compelling drama about the real-life Piersall's gradual breakdown one season before a national audience, the legacy of his domineering dad's overbearing ways. (Karl Malden plays Piersall's father.) Mulligan (To Kill a Mockingbird) brings his usual, civilized mix of poignancy and dramatic urgency to the proceedings, keeping any viewer (sports fan or not) involved. Perkins looks out of place on the field and is meant to appear that way; his fragility and intensity underscore the sad tale of Piersall's woes. --Tom Keogh

from: amazon.com

 

Forest Gump (1994)

PLOT SUMMARY:

The movie begins with a feather falling to the feet of Forrest Gump (Tom Hanks) sitting at a bus stop in Savannah, Georgia. Forrest tells the story of his life to a woman seated next to him (the listeners at the bus stop change regularly throughout his narration).

Much of Forrest's philosophy comes from his mother (Sally Field). Forrest often recalls her favorite sayings, "Mama always says, 'Life is like a box of chocolates, You never know what you gonna get.'" and "Stupid is as stupid does." Both sayings became popular catchphrases following the movie's release.

A classic film in all respects!

from: amazon.com

 

SHORT: From Nurse To Worse (1940)


PLOT SUMMARY: Featuring Moe, Larry & Curly

The Stooges' friend Jerry informs them of a great money-making scan: buy insurance, go to the insurance doctor and claim insanity, and be paid $500 a month for the rest of their lives. Eager for easy money, they take a policy out on Curly, and then proceed to bring him into the insurance doctor, Dr. D. Lerious's office with Curly masquerading as a dog. Curly's performance is so convincing that the alarmed doctor demands that Curly be prepared for "cerebrum decapitation." After giving the doctor and a hospital guard the runaround, the Stooges escape, just barely, and vent their revenge on Jerry.

from: threestooges.net

Enjoy! Thumbs Up [tup]

Tom Captain [4:-)] Pirate [oX)]

Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
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Posted by pwolfe on Saturday, April 28, 2007 8:02 PM

Hi Tom and all.

A pint of Bathams Bitter to start today please LEON.Thumbs Up [tup]

Lots to read at the bar after Tom and my great trip to Kansas City on AmtrakThumbs Up [tup]. I will not say too much about our day, as Tom will have some photos of a lot of what we saw, but I must say the model shop and the KCS cars are well worth seeingYeah!! [yeah]. As well as my first sight of one of the UP diesels painted in heritage colors. On the way back we passed the UP heritage train although a pair of newer diesels not a heritage locomotive hauled it.

ROB Great job yesterday at the barApprove [^]Thumbs Up [tup], H&H has got the mushy peas down to an artApprove [^], only problem is they make a big pot and as I am the only one who will touch them (apart from TEX) I have to eat the lot accompanied with the unfortunate effects laterShock [:O]. The only good thing is if the track gang won't leave at closing time we only have to release TEX and the bar is cleared in secondsWow!! [wow]. At least it is one night of the week.Smile [:)]

What a great place that apartment in St Catharines must have been to live in when steam was working the trainsYeah!! [yeah]. As I write this I am playing a CD of LMS recordings in the days of steam,I brought over from England. The two tracks playing are on the Lickey Incline and the whistles from the train loco and the helpers can be heard. I guess 0-6-0 tank locos were used as all the weight of the locos could be used for adhesion, and the bank was only two miles long.

There is a connection with North America to the Lickey Incline. The early helpers were supplied by the Norris Locomotive Company of the USA. There is a carving on two gravestones in Bromsgrove Churchyard of the locomotives on the graves of two railwaymen who unfortunately were killed when a boiler exploded on the incline, although the loco that exploded was not one of the Norris engines. For a bit more on the story here is a link

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bromsgrove_railway_works

I did not know about Bromsgrove's connection to the ‘Saddle Tank'.

Many thanks for the new Classic Juice and the Classic Steam encoresThumbs Up [tup] all really great readsYeah!! [yeah] and great Canadian National ads.Approve [^]Thumbs Up [tup]

I have yet to see a CN or CP diesel through here yet although there have been a few hire locomotives and CSX diesels through on the UP line here lately.

DOUG Great to see you in at this busy time for youThumbs Up [tup]. I am sure you will find a fine horse and it will be very lucky to have you as the owner.Thumbs Up [tup]

Thanks for the jokeSmile [:)]

JAMES Great set of the videos in the links you postedYeah!! [yeah]Thumbs Up [tup], you can get a sense of what theDD40X sounds likeWow!! [wow], I think the engineer was enjoying the attention 6936 was getting from the chasers. Loved the videos of 844.Approve [^]Thumbs Up [tup]

The loco with the bell, Great Western Railway ‘King' class 6000 King George V is at Swindon Museum on part of the now closed works where the loco was built. Quite a famous loco already, 6000, was the locomotive which was used to haul the first special train after the BR steam ban, in 1971, after all steam was banned from the main line after steam finished on BR in 1968.

Many thanks the Duluth Missabe and Iron Range Railroad, a great post on an iron ore lineApprove [^]Thumbs Up [tup]. I wonder if any of the2-8-84 ‘Yellowstones' was saved for a museumQuestion [?]. The map helped a lot as well.Thumbs Up [tup]

Thanks for sharing your GE drawing it looks great to me when enlarged.Yeah!! [yeah]

CM3 I must have been a great experience to see the DD40Xs in service judging by the video in James's link.

Very much enjoyed the recollections of the RTE 128 station and the baggage handlers at Nashville, many thanks for sharing.Thumbs Up [tup]

Is the Mentor Septic Beer Co another of Vito the Hit's companiesShock [:O]

ERIC Thanks for the photo of 6915, I believe we will see one of the class at the St Louis Museum of Transportation.Approve [^]

Those FL9s sound an interesting loco; I guess the 5-axle design was for weight distribution.Question [?]

The Lickey still uses helpers today for heavy freight trains, a select few of the GM class 66 locos. In steam and early diesel days the speed restriction at Bromsgrove at the bottom of the bank was 30 MPH, today it is 80MPH so the passenger trains have a far better run at it. There have been a few steam specials up the bank in recent years and I was fortunate enough to travel on one, which was double headedApprove [^]. The two Alans were on one last year which featured the ex LMS Jubilee class loco 5690 Leander which made a fantastic climb of the bank,Yeah!! [yeah] as this loco was based at Bristol Barrow Road for many years, it would have climbed the Lickey many many times in its BR career, working the South West

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Posted by CMSTPP on Saturday, April 28, 2007 10:51 PM

G-day Captain [4:-)] Tom and all present!

Leon- I'm glad to see tonight. Could I get a coffee and a beef sandwich. Thanks!Thumbs Up [tup]

Pete- 2.65%!!! Now that's a hill.Wink [;)] We have a hill here in Duluth that the Ore trains have to fight, and it's 2.2%. I can't imagine how hard those steam engines worked on that line. That's pretty cool. Wikipedia always seems to give some really good explanation.Thumbs Up [tup] The Lickey Incline is a good article. I also enjoyed the pictures Thanks for the URL. Also, thanks for the URL to all of those pictures. Some of those steamers are really working hard on that hill. Some pretty cool stuff.Smile [:)] Listening to some of those steam engines working must have been quite an experience.Approve [^]

Glad you liked the video clips.  I think that steam locomotive is probably the most impressive even though the DD40X was a pretty cool locomotive. Also thanks for the little history on the orgin of the locomotive that owned that bell. If the bell is that impressive then the locomotive must be as equally impressive if not more. Thanks!Thumbs Up [tup] And to answer your question about, if any 2-8-8-2 survive.. Yes. There are two that I know of that still survive. One in Two Harbors, Minnesota, and the other in Duluth at the lake Superior railroad museum. The one in Duluth was completely restored and is open to the public. It has been jacked up half an inch above the rail to allow a couple of motors to turn the wheels and show you how the drivers work on the locomotive. There's also a narration that goes along with the wheel show. Visit: http://www.lsrm.org/ to see the big locomotive. Just go to the exhibits and equipment and look at the steam locomotives.

Rob- OHHH!!! I missed last nights fish fry!!! And did that menu look good too..Oops [oops] oh well.

Sounds like we are going to have another steam engine running soon. Do you have pics of that Royal Hudson steamerQuestion [?] And it's great to learn that it made it's first few power tests.Thumbs Up [tup]

Neat piece on the Toronto's first commuter line. I thought it was to bad that the belt line lasted only for two years. They had quite an operation going on there. Well, at least you can still see some of the line being used today as a spur. Thanks for that article.Approve [^] Glad you liked the DM&IR article. I don't see much for CN power on that line. I have though seen a couple of the CN paint #400 series SD45T-2. They look alright but they need to be in the maroon and gold really look nice. But I'm surprised that the CN seems to be using some of the DM&IR power on some of there trains except the all rail ore trains.

I see you have been busy with your classical juice articles. The Lake Simcoe junction railway seemed like a cool little railroad. To bad the CN had to take it over and then finally abandoned it in 1979. But a cool article none-the-less.Thumbs Up [tup]

The Bay of Quinte railway. That railroad has completely disappeared just like the Milwaukee road. To bad the owners neglected all of the plants that helped make that railroad what it was. I think if they had stayed the railroad would have lived longer than the 1930s.Disapprove [V] Excellent little railroad to model. To bad the only parts of the railroad left is used for industrial spurs. Well, at least you can still see some of the track.Thumbs Up [tup]

Thanks for all of the interesting articles.Wink [;)]Thumbs Up [tup]

Doug- Well, as I said before, it might be the caffeine getting to my head, but that last joke was a funny one.Laugh [(-D] The dog one wasn't as good but I still got a chuckle out of it.Thumbs Up [tup]

Eric- Well a good guess on my part about the X40. Do you know what is wrong with them because I know Alstom to be a good companyQuestion [?]  And thanks for the picture of the DD40X. they are quite a large diesel locomotive and two 3300 HP engines in them make them even better.Thumbs Up [tup] I see there is a stairway leading up to the cab, I wonder what the control stand looks likeQuestion [?] I would love to run that one down the tracks. Glad you liked the DM&IR info. I thought some of you might not know about this shorter railroad dedicated to the movement of iron ore. But I have seen some pictures of DM&IR locos down in the southern part of the states.. So the word gets around.

The horn facing backwards???..... I don't know? That would be a question for the GE people. There drawing shows the horn backwards. I would say so that it isn't too loud for some people... of course you want it to be load for the crossings.. wouldn't you?Confused [%-)]

CM3- Thanks for the citation to Davis's book. I will have to see if I can find a the library or even on E-bay. Of course I have a couple of friends who are huge DM&IR fans and would probably love to have that book. Thanks again.Thumbs Up [tup]

Tom- I'm surprised you didn't know about the DM&IR.. Oh well, I taught you about a new railroad.Cool [8D] It is a pretty cool railroad and listening to some of those locomotives bringing the ore trains down the hill in Duluth is also quite a sight. It's even better when there bringing them up the hill. Approve [^]

Only a thank you for making it page 100 on the other thread... That works for me, as long as we are having some fun, and anyone else who cares to join in are having fun als

The Milwaukee Road From Miles City, Montana, to Avery, Idaho. The Mighty Milwaukee's Rocky Mountain Division. Visit: http://www.sd45.com/milwaukeeroad/index.htm
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Posted by trolleyboy on Saturday, April 28, 2007 10:58 PM

Good evening Leon. I'll grab a Keith's while I sit and wind down after a fairly busy day for me.Nice to see most of the gang back to where they are supposed to be today, It twas a bit lonely in the saloon by the siding yesterday.

Eric-Yup that trackage you tested on would have been part of that old Guelph trackage,mind you if you went upto Guelph junction then youn were on the CP rail trackage (now Ontario Southland's )Sounds like you guys are getting close to a fully functional lite-rail transit system 5xThumbs Up [tup] for that fer sure fer sure !

James-That drawing is quite good Thumbs Up [tup] more talent than I have certainly in that arena !

Tom-Nice smattering of encores and photo's today.Thumbs Up [tup] appreciated as always. I still think that the one hotel was run by one of your ancestors.I did what I could yesterday, at least it gives people something to read if their board.I suspect we shall servive the rest of the May blahs,the gaps may be a tad long at times but we'll cope. Thumbs Up [tup]Sounds like you folks had a fairly decent train trip lateness and UP interuptions aside,a good train ride with a good friend sounds like a win-win to me fer sure Thumbs Up [tup]

Pete-I figured that you would like the mushy peas. they will be a staple on thursdays just for you and Tex. besides they are a good catalyst to get the rowdies out of the pool room with.Thanbks for the additional info on the whys and the how's of usin gthose tank loco's as helpers. We have a tape recording of CNR 6218 ( Northern type loco ) when it was still running steam excursions in the Toronto to Niagara falls during the 70's. It's a good mood setter when one's in a train mood.Your right about the Suoper continental the diesels made all the difference on it's time table. of coarse it was  the CNR's premier transcontinental run , challenging the CPR's Canadain for those cross country run. Some argue that today's VIA Canadian is the best of both worlds CPR's beautifull equipmnet on the less fun Surper Continental CNR routing. Mind you I think most people would prefer the slightly longer but more scenic CPR routing for train. I would imagine that it will just be a matter of time before you se some runthrough CN/CP power where you are. All three railroads run power in and out of Chicago and rent time on locomotives off each other. it's nothing to see CSX, NS and UP and BNSF power on CN and CP trains in Ontario. I have seen several photo's of CN and CP power as far south as Texas on the BNSF and all over the eastern seaboard on NS and CSX. The UP pools power quite a bit with CP so you may end up seeing for of their red diesels.

Rob

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Posted by trolleyboy on Saturday, April 28, 2007 11:13 PM

Evening again folks Leon another round if you please.Looks like i had some company while I was typing.

James-Glad that you liked the articles. If nothing else they are something that can be disscussed.You will find that most of the light branchlines in ontario wree lifted. There was a huge railroad building boom in Ontario from the mid 1870's to the 1920's. too many small companies overbuilding in the same areas, eventually CN and CP formed most of their systems off these samll failed or failing lines.Eventually many of them wree folded as they served too small of comunities or businesses to compete economically. An overly simplistic answer I know but delving into railway money practices is a long tedious and ultimatly boring disscussion. I prefer the basic history and how the railways built the country.

Seeing the DM&IR power outside the ore patch is unusual. CN usually leaves them where they are unles major shopping is required that  can't be handled on site.I think yiou will find the generic family paint jobs will roll out to all the power eventually. Satndard CNNA paint jobs with the rqailway initials under the cab. Right now they are busy re-painting all te Illinois Central and BC Rail power that was aquired in the last two takeovers.That and the painbt shops are busy with the 400 SD70M's currently being delivered by GMD in London.

Mike-sorry missed mentioning your contributions to the day earlier my bad allow me to buy your steak dinner this evening.Smile [:)]

Rob 

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Posted by trolleyboy on Saturday, April 28, 2007 11:24 PM

Okay leon on elast one and I'll help you get the place cleaned up and ready for the close down tomorrow. Here's a few pictures that I posted over at the other htread for everyone to take a peak at.Thes are all shots of passenger and frieght trains through my favourite train watching spot. Bayview junction in Burlington Ontario. It's long been a railfan favourite as the CN Grimsby, Dundas, and Oakville subs all cross and the CP's hamilton sub aalso comes down the escarpment here as well.

The quiet for the moment junction.

CN freight comming down the Oakville sub into the junction

VIA train 94 on the Oakville sub it will continue through the junction and head east around the lake and onto the Grimsby sub with this St Catharines and Niagara Falls bound train.

A westbound CP train exersising trackage rights on CN's Oakville sub.Thsi train is bound for the Ford assembly plant in Oakville Ontario.

Rob

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Posted by trolleyboy on Saturday, April 28, 2007 11:34 PM

okay a few more shots from bayview before I head out for the night.

Go transit commuter train has come off the CP's hamilton sub and is now making it's way back to toronto Union on the oakville sub.

A track level shot of CN train comming off the Dundas sub and approaaching the jct toronto bound.

CP train comming down the Hamilton sub approaching the CN's oakville sub and bayview jct.

What's that odd thing at the end of a CN train Question [?]

Rob 

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Posted by pwolfe on Sunday, April 29, 2007 12:12 AM

Hi Tom and all.

I know its late LEON but I will have a pint between the chandelling and posting some pics.Thumbs Up [tup].

MIKE I got your links to load and it was well worth itThumbs Up [tup].Great pics of the ST Clair tunnel and the FP9s Thanks for the info on TaconiteThumbs Up [tup].

JAMES Good to see you inThumbs Up [tup]. Glad you liked the info and link to the Lickey inclineThumbs Up [tup]. As you say Wikipedia is good, I learnt that the first saddle tank, a type that there must have been very many built and used in the UK was first built at the foot of the Incline at Bromsgrove. Yes it was a marvellous sight and sound at the Lickey, A memory that isover 40 years old now Shock [:O].

Glad two of the Yellowstones have been savedApprove [^]Thumbs Up [tup] they look very impressive locomotivesYeah!! [yeah]. That looks a great museum and great web site in the link you gave, many thanksThumbs Up [tup] I see the museum has some examples of the saddle tank type. 

I have had another look at those video links tonight and they really are greatThumbs Up [tup]

Now for this weeks photos, I have shown them before but not for a while now.  

A pic of Jubilee class 4-6-0 Leander,at Worcester Shrub Hill station.Later in the day she would tackle the Lickey Incline

I guess the nearest surviving example to the Midland Railway's 0-10-0 Lickey Banker 'Big Bertha', the loco in the pic is a Midland Railway 2-8-0 built for the Somerset and Dorset Rly.

This is a N7 class 0-6-2 tank loco of th type that used to work the intense commuter traffic into and out of London's Liverpool Street staion of the former Great Eastern Railway 

An example of the many Saddle Tank locos that were built for industrial service.

All the pics are by Alan, they should enlarge.

ROB just seen you in at the bar have a Keith's on me.We have had Norfolk Southern through here so hopefully we may get a CP soon.

I think you are right that the great majority of passengers today would rather have the longer journey time and the more scenic CPR route, if given the choice.

Reading your reply to James, are the new diesels being painted by CN rather than at the GMD worksQuestion [?]. I believe the GMD locomotives supplied to the UK arrive in their finished paintwork.

Many thanks for the photos from Bayview JunctionThumbs Up [tup]. It looks a very interesting place to view the trains with the variety of locos,and consists from the different companiesYeah!! [yeah]. Thats is a great photo of the 2 CP  locos on a bridge passing under the  large iron span of the other bridge.Wow!! [wow].

Its not very often you see a caboose on a train now. 

Great news on the Mushy PeasThumbs Up [tup], for me at leastBig Smile [:D].

Well LEON a quick beer then I will give ROB a hand to tidy the bar so it is nice and neat for RUTH on MondayThumbs Up [tup] 

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"Our" Place reborn! 3rd Year of adults 'n REAL Classic Trains in a special environment!
Posted by siberianmo on Monday, April 30, 2007 6:09 AM

Courtesy: http://www.viarail.ca/

 

 

A smile to begin the week!

I can't remember leaving, so I guess we didn't go.

(A Yogi-ism!)

 

G'day Gents!

Monday has rolled ‘round once again, this time it's the last day of the month. Time flies, gentlemen! So, best to order up a <light> or <traditional> breakfast, hot mugga Joe and some pastries from The Mentor Village Bakery. Thumbs Up [tup]

Had a wonderful weekend outside, getting this ‘n that taken care of. Weather has been rather nice, but there's a warm-up on top of us with temps in the upper 80s (F) yesterday and 90 expected today. <ugh> Petrol up at "collusion corner" is now $2.89 (rounded).

Getting close to Rendezvous time, so I best concentrate on what needs to be squared away in the Can-Am Trainroom for the critical eyes of the visitors !<grin> Just a matter of a few weeks now, Gents! Thumbs Up [tup]

A really sloooooooooow day until the log jam broke when our Bar Chandler made it in. Then, things picked up nicely. Thanx to all! Thumbs Up [tup]

Reminder! Tomorrow's Theme for the Day is Canadian Railways.

Customer ACKNOWLEDGMENTS (since my last narrative):

Mike at 11:35 AM Saturday: URLs in what turned out to be the ONLY daylight Post of the day (aside from mine)! Thumbs Up [tup]

 

Pete at 8:02 PM yesterday: Ya know, for a guy who professes rudimentary typing skills, at best, I'd think not. Seems that some of the lessons over at Madam Throttlebottom's Typing School ‘n Mud Wrestling Hut may have rubbed off on you! <grin>

Nice informative, inclusive and most needed "boost" - came at just the right time, as things were getting a bit too dreary for a Saturday evening. Even Leon had to unlace his new combat boots, just to do something while waiting for "action." <huh??> You see, he's "into" toe-wiggling, big time. Something he seems to think is a "skill" - wiggles ‘em left to right, one at a time, then back again - both feet of course. Really not something guaranteed to draw a crowd, but Boris gets a kick out of it! <go figger!> Smile,Wink, & Grin [swg]

Yes, we did have one of our better rail trips and aside from those filthy windows, all went extremely well. Glad we managed to squeeze in the trip with all that's coming up.

Those 2005 Pix could just as easily been "used" for our trip on Friday. Aside from the Amtrak passenger cars, all was pretty much the same. However, we did have a great 4 hour layover in KCity and being able to check out that Kansas City Southern consist, along with the other cars in the "yard" was indeed a rare gift. Thumbs Up [tup][ Thumbs Up [tup] Thumbs Up [tup]

I'm pleased that you enjoyed speaking with the model train store owner in Crown Center. He's quite a nice fellow and surely knows his business. Well I'd think he should, after 45 years of doing it! Anyway, being able to view those Brit O-gauge passenger trains was something else, fer sure, fer sure. Never saw ‘em there in the past, but surely great timing for our visit, eh Question [?]

For the rest of the guys who are reading this, the model train store is located in "prime" territory within KCity's Crown Center shopping atrium. Crown Center is the corporate home of Hallmark Cards, for those who may not know. They built a wonderful upscale area in between downtown KCity and Country Club Plaza - pretty much on a straight north-south line. Surely a great place to visit and a one of a kind model train stores, fer sure, fer sure. Bring money! Smile,Wink, & Grin [swg] Pix to follow, but in due course . . .

Those hotels in the ad all catered to the passenger rail traveler and were situated either within walking distance or a short cab ride. I can recall staying at a couple of ‘em with my mother when we'd meet up with my father's ships back in the 40s. Memories . . .

 

James at 10:51 PM yesterday: A late arrival but an appreciated one at that. Thumbs Up [tup]

Good to see you engaging with the guys and picking up on the information . . . Super fine effort with your inclusive ‘n informative Post! Thumbs Up [tup] Thumbs Up [tup] Thumbs Up [tup]

 

Rob at 10:58 PM ‘n 11:13 PM ‘n 11:24 PM ‘n 11:34 PM: Wow!! [wow] Pix, chat, more Pix, etc. and so forth! Thumbs Up [tup] Thumbs Up [tup] Way to go trolleyMAN! Smile,Wink, & Grin [swg]

Saturday night SHOULD be a "winner" ‘round here, and for about a 4 hour period, the joint was rockin', thanx in large measure to the fine stuff put forth, including yours. Really liked the van (caboose) but not the graffiti . . <ugh>

Some Pages back, perhaps on the original Thread, I mentioned seeing a caboose in eastern Canada, actually two of ‘em I think. They were in operation, one with CN and the other with a small outfit in New Brunswick. Also saw one in western Canada on one of our cross-Canada trips. Good to see ‘em, any time, but especially when you know they are "working." Thumbs Up [tup]

Viewing trains at the "Oakville sub" ‘n "Hamilton sub" appears to be the place to be! Especially enjoyed the VIA Rail and GO Transit shots! ALWAYS look good. We shudda squeezed that in for our Rendezvous! Perhaps we'll have to do it again . . . <grin> Yeah, right - and Rob will "own" Air Canada and provide free air travel. HEY! That's a grand idea . . .

Many thanx for the visits, material and enthusiasm rekindled for this joint . . . Thumbs Up [tup]

 

Pete at 12:12 AM Sunday: What in the world??? Another visit from the Wolfman OR has he been "lurking" ‘round the place all along??? Hm

Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
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"Our" Place reborn! 3rd Year of adults 'n REAL Classic Trains in a special environment!
Posted by LoveDomes on Monday, April 30, 2007 9:28 AM

Ahoy Cap'n Tom ‘n fellow travelers at the bar!

Love that Yogi-ism! Smile,Wink, & Grin [swg]

Ruth, my precious, how especially warming it is to see your smiling face once again! It was a long absence and it's good to be back. Time for a mug-o-Joe with a "BK splash" and I'll check out the pastries over in the Mentor Village Bakery case.Thumbs Up [tup] Ah, I see the critters have lined up, which can only mean it's time for treats! Ok, a bucket of ice cubes for Frostbite, a tray of seeds for Awk, a saucer of brine for Tex, a LARGE bone for Juneau and of course a LARGE jar of pickled pig's feet for Boris (he's been good in my absence, so I've heard). A round for the gang and the change is yours. Man oh many, a fifty goes faaaaaast these days, huh???

The report from the Keys is quite simple. We now own a place to call home near Marathon. I'll refrain from any further details here in the ether, other than to say we're near the water (what place isn't???). We're  on the Gulf side, plenty of room for the things we like to do and actually not all that different from where we live now, except it's all on one level - which the Mrs. really likes. No attic or basement (really?? <grin>), but we'll get used to the "different" arrangement that will make amassing "stuff" more difficult. That ain't all so bad, huh?

Got back Sunday afternoon and haven't had time to digest all that's been posted at the bar. Looks like quite a bit of material though, as I have scanned back through the pages to where my last visit was. Certainly trolleyMAN Rob was a busy, busy guy there with some 20 Fingers imitations. Not trying to run up the "numbers" are ya?? <grin> Just kidding.

Eric is still the bar's night owl, Shane's working hard (or is that working hard at working??) Tom ‘n Pete made their Amtrak trip to Kansas City (again) and Doug's still engaged with those "hosses"! so what's changed, huh??? Smile,Wink, & Grin [swg] Again, I haven't had the time to catch-up, but I will! Countdown to the rendezvous is now within "reach" and it's gonna be a grand event, for sure! Thumbs Up [tup] Thumbs Up [tup] Thumbs Up [tup]

I did note that tomorrow is Canadian Passenger Railways Day here at the bar, so I best get a move on to find something to post. Of course book covers are always a great "bail out" for me! Smile,Wink, & Grin [swg]

Lemme get over to the manager's table to sort through the admin crap that has piled up in my absence. I see the newly anointed Assistant hasn't done a Censored [censored] thing! <geesh>

Ruth, one more . . .

Until the next time! Thumbs Up [tup]

Lars

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"Our" Place reborn! 3rd Year of adults 'n REAL Classic Trains in a special environment!
Posted by siberianmo on Monday, April 30, 2007 12:39 PM

G'day Gents!

The Theme for the Day on TUESDAY is Canadian Passenger Railways . . . Here's a jump start to what may wind up being the THEME for the WEEK!

Significant events in Canadian RR History

during the month of April

Initially Posted on Page 298 of the original Thread


Caveat: Much of the information appearing was gathered from internet sources, with credit to "Colin Churcher's Railway Pages" at http://www.railways.incanada.net/


*April 26th, 1875: The first scheduled train makes its inaugural run from Charlottetown to Georgetown on the Prince Edward Island Railway.


*April 1885: Second Northwest (Riel) Rebellion. Van Horne moves troops to the west through northern Ontario entirely over Canadian soil. This efficient military movement demonstrated the advantages to Canada of a completed transcontinental railway and prompted the government to grant temporary aid to the CP to enable completion of the line.


*April 7th, 1914: Grand Trunk Pacific Railway main line is completed between Winnipeg, Melville, Edmonton, Jasper and Prince Rupert. The last spike was driven at a location 93 miles west of Prince George, BC.


*April 2nd, 1933: CN & CP pool certain passenger services as a result of the Canadian National Canadian Pacific Act, 1933.


*April 21st, 1933: London, Midland and Scottish Railway (UK) 4-6-0 steam locomotive Royal Scot arrives in Montreal with eight passenger cars en route to the Century of Progress Exhibition in Chicago.


*April 1st, 1949: Newfoundland becomes the tenth province of Canada and the Newfoundland Railway becomes part of the Canadian National system. This narrow gauge system had been operated by the island government since 1923.


*April 1953: Canadian National inaugurates its Museum Train with three steam locomotives and six cars.


*April 25th, 1955: Canadian Pacific inaugurates its new stainless steel, scenic-domed transcontinental passenger train "The Canadian" between Montreal/Toronto and Vancouver.


* April 25th, 1960: Locomotive number 6043 makes the last scheduled run of a steam locomotive on Canadian National on train 76 between The Pas and Winnipeg.


* April 21st, 1970: Canadian Pacific unveils Canada's first double-deck passenger train comprising nine air-conditioned cars built by Canadian Vickers Limited at a cost of $2.8 million. The cars went into operation April 27 on the Montreal Lakeshore suburban service.


* April 30th, 1970: The first CP coal unit train, with 88 cars and carrying more than 9,000 tons of coking coal destined to Japan, arrives at Roberts Bank superport after a 700-mile run from Sparwood, B.C.


* April 1st, 1972: Pacific Great Eastern Railway makes a name change to British Columbia Railway.


* April 22nd, 1976: The turbo train achieves the Canadian rail speed record of 140.6 mph.


* April 18th, 1977: The Hall Commission Report on Grain Handling and Transportation is published. This recommends limited branch line abandonment on the prairies.


* April 30th, 1985: CN and CP take over the Canada Southern (Michigan Central/New York Central/Penn Central/Conrail) line through southern Ontario.


* April 13th, 1992: The Goderich Exeter Railway begins operations over the former CN line between Stratford Junction and Goderich and from Clinton Junction to Centralia in Ontario.


* April 1st, 1996: Last train travels the full distance of the former Canada Southern route between Detroit and Buffalo.


Enjoy! Thumbs Up [tup]

Tom Captain [4:-)] Pirate [oX)]

Did you miss the previous three "Significant events in Canadian RR History"Question [?]


(1) January, page 6:
(2) February, page 21:
(3) March, page 37:


waving flags credit to:www.3DFlags.com

Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
  • Member since
    February 2004
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"Our" Place reborn! 3rd Year of adults 'n REAL Classic Trains in a special environment!
Posted by siberianmo on Monday, April 30, 2007 2:09 PM

G'day Gents!

Some random Pix from Friday's trip to KCity with Pete . . .

The trip begins at Kirkwood for me . . .

 

Kansas City Mule arriving

 

 

Wolfman boarded at Jefferson City

 

 

Eastbound St. Louis Mule boarding - Kansas City Southern to far left in "yard"

 

 

Some mighty fine trains at THE model train store in Crown Center, KCity

 

 

WW1 Memorial in background at Crown Center, KCity

 

 

KCity's Union Station

 

More to come during the week and of course on Photo Posting Saturday!

 

Enjoy! Thumbs Up [tup]

Tom Captain [4:-)] Pirate [oX)]

Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
  • Member since
    February 2005
  • From: mid mo
  • 1,054 posts
Posted by pwolfe on Monday, April 30, 2007 4:25 PM

Hi Tom and all.

A pint of Holden's mild this warm Mid-Mo afternoon please RUTH and a round to celebrate Lars return.Approve [^]Thumbs Up [tup]

LARS Real glad you had a safe trip and your search for a house in the Keys was successfulThumbs Up [tup]. The mascots have been pining during the time you have been away and we have hardly got a smile out of RUTHSad [:(]. BORIS did offer to go through the paperwork but we managed to talk him out of itShock [:O] His good behavior is down to a discovery I made while in his shed, I will tell you more about it later after you have caught up on the postsYeah!! [yeah].

TOM I think the typing improvement is down to the spell checker not meSigh [sigh]. The only problem with the typing class is that Molly Throttlebottom keeps BORIS and I in detention for ‘private tuition,Smile,Wink, & Grin [swg] but they set up the mud wrestling ring and Molly is often called on to referee so what we learnt is soon forgotten when the wrestling startsBig Smile [:D].

YES Saturday turned in to a busy and good night after a slow start,Thumbs Up [tup] it puzzles me as well as to why BORIS is so fascinated by LEONS foot dance.Confused [%-)]

The bride is thinking us of taking the same Amtrak trip as we did. If we can fit it in, I will be sure to go to the Model shop and show her the green Sir Nigel Gresley O gaugeYeah!! [yeah]. How great would the model train look in the basement on an elevated trackWow!! [wow]. The bride has not been to the Hallmark museum, but I told her the 4 hours seem to fly by when we were in KC.

Great set of photos from our day thereApprove [^]Thumbs Up [tup]. The model shop cabinet as came out very well and great pic from the bridge when we realized we would be able to have a good look at the KCS Heritage train. Thumbs Up [tup]

 Getting to understand me well I will have to go back to England and get my accent topped up.Big Smile [:D]

Many thanks for the Canadian RR History for April.Approve [^]Thumbs Up [tup]

I see the last CN scheduled stem train was one month after the last British Railways steam loco was built. The last BR scheduled steam train was in August 1968.

I wonder if they regretted that trains no longer run between Buffalo and Detroit on the Canadian Southern with the recent upturn in traffic in North America.Question [?]

Talking with ROB about unusual locomotives in the local area yesterday there was this loco in Jeff City I had not seen this Railroad before.

It is an IOWA CHICAGO & EASTERN the loco is named ‘City of Marquette'. I am sure someone will know about the Railroad and the locomotive.Yeah!! [yeah]

Well RUTH the Holden's is going down a treatApprove [^] so I had better have another.Thumbs Up [tup]

Pete.

  • Member since
    December 2002
  • From: Phoenix, AZ
  • 683 posts
Posted by EricX2000 on Tuesday, May 1, 2007 12:56 AM

Good morning Captain Tom and all present!!

Leon, I'll have an early breakfast tis time, coffee and a fat cheese danish! I know it's an old one but I'll take it anyway. Who is singing in the back? Ruth? What is she doing here at this time?  Yes, I heard, he is back. Really?

Missed Saturday and Monday morning but now I am back. A lot of stuff to read and pictures to look at!!  

Tom –  You may dislike UP but I better not! My wife grew up next to an UP track in Nebraska, do I have to say any more? I want a happy home!Wink [;)]

Too bad I didn’t make it to KC to see that streamliner! I am glad my memory didn’t fail me about Route 128.Smile [:)]

I checked the hotel ads but couldn’t find any hotel where I have stayed.

Nice pictures from Kansas City!Thumbs Up [tup] Are those cars on display there or was it a temporary thing? I like that observation car! I guess the beer bottles and cans are inside the Amtrak car.Wow!! [wow]

One of my favorite movies, Forest Gump, at the Mentor Village Emporium Theatre!!Thumbs Up [tup] Very good choice! I have to admit I know nothing about Fear Strikes Out or the Stooges’ short but I trust you!Smile [:)]

Honoray Brit? When I lived in the old country I started to get mail from UK where I was adressed as a British citizen living abroad! I have no clue how my name ended up there?Question [?]

Interesting info about Canadian railroads in the month of April!Thumbs Up [tup]

Thanks for the pictures from your and Pete’s trip last weekend to KC!Thumbs Up [tup]Thumbs Up [tup] That Amtrak loco looks kind of dented. They really should fix that, does not look nice.Sigh [sigh]

Interesting to see the satellite antenna on the roof of the locomotive from KC. Looks very similar to what you can see on most 18-wheelers today.

How much time did you spend at the model train store?Smile,Wink, & Grin [swg]

Mike –  What about Valiant? I actually have had a number (4) of them and they all worked flawlessly.Wink [;)] They were very common as police cars in the old country in the late 60’s and early 70’s.

Interesting pictures of the St. Clair Tunnel!Thumbs Up [tup] Ventilation and everything. Obviously a generator outside the tunnel for the fans in case of power outage.

I like the pictures of the FL9s! Smile [:)]

Pete –  Yes, I have seen the DD40X at the St Louis Museum of Transportation’s website. I am goig to have a close look at it in a few weeks!Smile [:)]
The 5 axle design was for weight distribution on the FL9s.

Thanks for the info about the helpers of today in UK!Thumbs Up [tup]

Glad you show those UK pictures again, i must have missed them the first time.Thumbs Up [tup] Very British locomotives! Thank you and thank you to Alan!Thumbs Up [tup]

James –  The X40’s have a number of different problems. One is the doors. Many times they don’t work and have to be shut off, causing delays and other problems. Grumpy [|(]
The inside of the cab with the control stand are shown in the pictures below.

 

 

Having the horn facing backwards is likely because the sound level inside the cab gets very loud if it is aimed forward and in the long run could cause hearing problems for the crew. My hearing is damaged thanks too much noise from the horn.Smile [:)]

Rob –  Thanks for the info on the track to Guelph Junction!Thumbs Up [tup] I will add that to my notes from that time!

I am very much looking forward to see the light rail in service.Yeah!! [yeah] But that is not supposed to happen until December next year.

Very interesting pictures from Ontario!Thumbs Up [tup] I wonder if the Ford plant in Oakville is where my car (Mercury Grand Marquis) was built? It certainly was built in Canada and came all the way to Phoenix by train!Smile [:)]

Nice to see a caboose in use!

Lars –  Congratulations to your new home near Marathon!!! Hope we will see some pictures of the castle soon! Glad everything went well!

 

Eric

 

  • Member since
    February 2004
  • From: Chesterfield, Missouri, USA
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"Our" Place reborn! 3rd Year of adults 'n REAL Classic Trains in a special environment!
Posted by siberianmo on Tuesday, May 1, 2007 6:45 AM

<from my personal collection>

G'day Gents!

The fifth month of the year and it seems just like yesterday . . . May is upon us! Petrol has jumped to $3 (rounded) and we set a record for heat here in mid-continent USA yesterday - 93 (F). <groan>

Today's Theme for the Day is Canadian Passenger Railways. TrolleyMAN Rob "called" it - we'll wait a bit to see if he starts it!

Customer ACKNOWLEDGMENTS (since my last narrative):

Lars at 9:28 AM yesterday: The return of our Manager, now a resident of two states! Geez, how lucky to pay taxes in both places! <grin> Glad all went well for you and I expect this phase of your life will be quite different for the both of you. Good luck, fer sure, fer sure! Thumbs Up [tup]

Mets are doing fine - Cards are not. Tragic situation involving pitcher Josh Hancock.

Thanx for the Email . . .

Pete at 4:25 PM yesterday: Good to see ya in your "slot" once again.

Did I read your words correctly - YOU ‘n BORIS are mud wrestling??? Molly is watching???? <good grief> I don't wanna know . . . <grin>

Boris ‘n Shed, "found something" - tell us more! Yeah!! [yeah]

Regarding the Hallmark museum: from past experiences, Saturday is the worst day to visit because of the crowds. Don't recall if they are open on Sunday, but a web search would answer that . . . And why not take advantage of the changed Amtrak schedule while you can?? Getting four hours for a turn around isn't all that bad, as we fortunately found out. Thumbs Up [tup]

Your guess is as good as anyone else's when it comes to wondering if "they" have regrets when it comes to discontinuing rail routes, tearing up rights-of-way and so forth. My guess is "they" simply took the money and haven't looked back . . .

Nice loco and in a name ‘n livery not seen by me before! Thumbs Up [tup]

Many thanx for the visit!

 

Eric at 12:56 AM today: An 8-hour period of QUIET and poor Leon was unlacing ‘n lacing his shiny jump boots in anticipation of better things ahead . . .<groan>

Great to see ya back ‘n enjoyed the inclusive Post - as always! Thumbs Up [tup] Thumbs Up [tup] Thumbs Up [tup]

KCity's Union Station over the years has always (since refurbishing) had at least a few "static" displays of passenger cars ‘n locos out in the area where the west bound platforms used to be. We were very, very fortunate to have seen the great looking ‘n long consist of Kansas City Southern equipment - all nicely matched - something I hadn't viewed in about 10 years.

The model railroad shop in Crown Center has been in its present location for 15 years (according to the owner) and is by far one of the most unique I've ever seen. The Pix I took simply don't do justice to all of it. Anyway, we spent about 45 minutes in there, most of it speaking with the owner and "wishing" we could depart with this ‘n that . . . Really a great place to visit and there's nothing like it ‘round here that I'm aware of. In fact, given a preference, I'd take KCity over St. Louis in a "heart beat." Thumbs Up [tup]

Beer bottles??? What beer bottles???

Amtrak's equipment is showing signs of neglect. I don't recall EVER traveling aboard such filthy stuff (not inside). And yes, the loco was in dire need of some cosmetic work along with a thorough cleansing. We noted that the eastbound at KCity was also in similar condition, so one could deduce it's a "thing" these days (daze). <groan>

Great cab shots ‘n "talk" - thanx! Thumbs Up [tup] Thumbs Up [tup]

Thanx for the Email . . .

 

Reminder: Ruth has the bar from 9 AM until Leon the Night Man comes in at 5 PM ‘til closing.

Cindy is now our Saturday bartender! Yeah!! [yeah]

Boris, serve ‘em all of the "spiked" OJ they can handle! Thumbs Up [tup]

Tom Captain [4:-)] Pirate [oX)]

Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
  • Member since
    August 2005
  • From: Along the old Milwaukee Road.
  • 1,152 posts
Posted by CMSTPP on Tuesday, May 1, 2007 8:15 AM

G-day Captain [4:-)] Tom and all present!

Ruth- Good morning to you. Could I get an OJ and a pastry please. Thanks!Thumbs Up [tup]

Well, I might be the first to post some pictures here but we'll see what happens after I post. I will have more pictures and acknowledgements this afternoon.Wink [;)]

How about a little more modern passenger train even though it is the oldest running train, The Ocean. This is nice Via rail train heading into the mist.

Picture from: www.answers.com/topic/ocean-passenger-train

Here's another nice photo but with a good looking steam locomotive. The  Canadian Pacific 2816 steam locomotive which I believe first ran again, after a while of not running, in 1994.

Picture from: www.trainsontv.com/blog/

Enjoy!

Happy railroadingLaugh [(-D]

James

The Milwaukee Road From Miles City, Montana, to Avery, Idaho. The Mighty Milwaukee's Rocky Mountain Division. Visit: http://www.sd45.com/milwaukeeroad/index.htm
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"Our" Place reborn! 3rd Year of adults 'n REAL Classic Trains in a special environment!
Posted by LoveDomes on Tuesday, May 1, 2007 8:42 AM

Ahoy Cap'n Tom 'n fellow travelers at the bar!

Ruth my deAH, a mugga Joe with a "jolt" and a #3 from the menu board if you please.

What a strange day yesterday turned out to be with only the Cap'n, the Manager and the Bar Chandler making an appearance during daylight. Then of course the Nocturnal One in Phoenix kicked off the morning for us. Smile,Wink, & Grin [swg]

No comments on baseball or any sports for that matter, since my thoughts and body have been away from it all. BUT, it was a sad thing that happened to that young man and a real, real tragic way to throw away his life IF the stories that are coming out are true.

Hang in there, mate, the Red Birds will fly once again! Thumbs Up [tup]

I was going to provide a bunch of book covers for the CANADIAN Railways theme, but will hold off 'til we see what the trolleyMAN has to offer. After all, as the Cap'n indicated, he asked for this!! Thumbs Up [tup]

James popped in and out in what appears to me to be a hit and run posting. Rather strange, given all of the fine inclusive stuff he's been putting out to do that. Almost makes us look like those "other" threads. Anyway, at least he showed up.

News from here is that we're heading down south AGAIN. Only this time it's to make some purchases for outfitting our new digs and getting in some fun while we're at it. We've made all kinds of alterations to our May 'n June plans. Probably upset a relative or two, but such is life. Wondering aloud, why is it WE always are the ones to travel whereas they stay put???? Hmmmm. Life's grander when one doesn't get wrapped up in the minutia of it. Thumbs Up [tup]

Once I get the place equipped, of course I'll be able to communicate with youse guys from the Keys. That may be awhile, for there's no point in paying for the high-speed until we're in a situation to use it, if ya follow my drift. I think you do.

Nice pix from Da Bossman yesterday and looks like you 'n Pete had quite a bit to do on your fun time in Kansas City. I think many of us in the east tend to ignore the reality that there are some wonderful places to visit and enjoy right here in the good ole USA. I'd like to think that we aren't the "garden variety" New Yorkers who believe the world ends west of the Hudson River. <grin> Of course, having had the pleasure (not always) of traveling the world, once the exposure to other places and things, well, one gets ed-u-ma-kate-ed! Smile,Wink, & Grin [swg]

Wanted to make comment on that Forest Gump flick at the Emporium. It was indeed one of the best movies of the times and perhaps even a classic. Really had hoped for a sequel, but the Mrs. said she read where Tom Hanks had refused to do so because he didn't want to get himself stereotyed into a role, as happens to many actors. Anyway, it's really one of those movies not easily forgotten. Also the Jimmy Pearsall movie really goes back in time. Yikes - I recall when he was playing and the antics on the field were unbelievable. Of course back then, mental illness was something viewed, discussed and treated totally differently than in today's world, huh??? Great selections, Bossman, and THANKS for taking the time to put these things together for us. Quite frankly, I'm amazed that you are still doing so.

Interesting cab shots from Eric. They always fascinate me . . .

Pete is returning to Kansas City with his Mrs. this time, huh? Didn't get enough with Tom I suppose, or is it the beer tastes bettAH aboard the train?? <grin> I met that guy once or twice, Samuel Adams, and it's a strange thing how he just keeps hanging 'round! Smile,Wink, & Grin [swg]

Ok, I'll get back to the paperwork over at the manager's table and wait to see how things shape up 'round here with the "theme" . . .

A refill on the Joe please, Ruth - thanks! <blush>

Until the next time! Thumbs Up [tup]

Lars

  • Member since
    September 2005
  • From: Alberta's Canadian Rockies
  • 331 posts
Posted by BudKarr on Tuesday, May 1, 2007 11:37 AM

Good Morning Captain Tom and fellow sophisticates!

Ruth, time again for my weekly large mug of hot coffee with just a "splash" to make it interesting. The breakfast menu looks appealing and I just may order something in a bit. Put the twenty aside for a round on me when the gang trickles in. Thumbs Up [tup]

Good to see the place still "ticking" and very happy to note the return of the fellow from Ontario calling himself a "boy" when we all know better. I think trolleyMAN better suits him. Smile,Wink, & Grin [swg] Welcome back my friend and you came back with a flourish with those contributions on Friday past when Cap'n Tom and Sir Pete were enjoying themselves on the train. Let me add my Well Done! Thumbs Up [tup]

You may not believe this, but I am one of the few left on earth who has not viewed the motion picture Forest Gump! Further, I have no idea who that Boston Red Sox fellow was (or may still be). Puts me in the category of "not with it," I suppose. Lydia wants me to rent the DVD for the Gump movie, so next time I make the trip to the valley, I will do just that.

Wonderful photos from the gang throughout the past week. Especially enjoyed those from our leader and as always, keeps bringing us back to what this idea of his is all about. A photo is worth so much when one scrolls through the pages. Most effective way to bring the point home. Thumbs Up [tup] Also many kudos to the fellow calling himself coalminer, but we call Shane, for the continuation of insights to railroading only found here! Thumbs Up [tup]

Took note of my "bookend" becoming a "wealthy land grabber" down in the southernmost area of Florida. Undoubtedly your neighbors MUST be from Canada! <grin> Much good luck to you and your lady as you embark upon a new chapter in the life ahead. Sun, salt air and relaxation. Sounds just about right for a retired sailor. Thumbs Up [tup]

Horses and the man from Illinois seem to fit well. Much success to you in what you have taken on. Surely speaks well of and for you, Sir Doug! Thumbs Up [tup] However, it does appear that you have reduced your participation in rather dramatic fashion and left us with those terrible things you call jokes. Thumbs Down [tdn] <grin> Then I have no room to speak, as the frequency of my visits have very much deteriorated. <Alas>

Sir Pete and his wry sense of humor is indeed a plus for this group of ours and we are all the better for it. I have spent a fair amount of time in the UK and found myself "understanding" many of the dialects. Especially found the Scots to be the most intriguing of all where linguists are concerned. Smile,Wink, & Grin [swg]

I would definitely say that Sir Eric in Phoenix is as "regular" as one can be without "additives." Smile,Wink, & Grin [swg] A pleasure reading your thoughts and I expect you will find the gang attending the rendezvous with you to be EVERYTHING you thought, and perhaps even a little more! <grin>

I have taken note that Sir Rob is supposed to begin the contributions for the Canadian Passenger Railway theme. However, I do wish to drop this "oldie" of mine off from my very limited archives. It is something some of you have read over at the old site, but the newer arrivals may not have seen. My contribution, not really meant to "jump the gun."

Posted 12 Oct 2005, page 135 (on the old site)

Good evening and I will have one of those Moosehead Ales please.  I recall seeing that your food service is sandwiches on Monday thru Wednesday, so perhaps a hoagie - ham and swiss, butter and mustard should do it, on a hard roll.  (Note that my "bookend" now uses this as HIS hero sandwich!!) Oh yes - how are you barkeep?  It seems that your Anniversary celebration has fizzled, but I concur with your accolades for those who took the time to participate.

I am not one for the type of story you may be looking for, but here is something I recall from several years ago - too many in fact.

It was a dark and stormy night ..... no, actually it was a very clear and star filled night crossing the plains in Saskatchewan Province en route Vancouver.  I had boarded the train in Winnipeg, having completed my business there and decided to kill off my free weekend by taking CP Rail's "The Canadian" to the west coast.  The train in those days was in the livery of the CP "Pacman" logo and in that "action red" color.  Did not care for either very much, but the cars were what was important to me (and for you too Tom, as I understand it!).  My bedroom was in a Chateau series sleeping car and I wound up with a double at no extra fare.  I had requested to know what the fare was for a double room for single occupancy and the ticket agent simply booked one and that was that.  Nice gesture I thought.

During that era it did not seem as if the tourist trade had taken over the route the way it has since VIA Rail entered the picture.  Cutting back those trains to 3 departures per week has added to the crowded trains.  But I digress.

I spent a bit of time back in the Park car (Strathcona seems to ring a bell) and was having a rather spirited conversation with two RCMP officers who were on holiday, having come down from Churchill and also en route Vancouver.  Well, by the time the last call was sounded, we had pretty much emptied the inventory of the "spirits" we preferred.  That did not dampen the spirit for my new found companions, as they begged their leave, to indicate they would return shortly.  And that they did - with each holding an Imperial quart of Canadian Club and VO whiskey.  Where did it come from and how?  Why from the baggage car, where else?

It was a grand time in the lounge until the wee hours, as one of them furnished a guitar and the other a banjo.  Before too long a crowd gathered and the "song fest" began with all in attendance joining in.  The car attendant and train conductor re-opened the bar, as we were in need of ice and "chasers."  I could go on with this, but I think you get the message.

It was a grand time aboard "The Canadian," one perhaps never to be experienced again anywhere else.  Times and people are far, far different these days.

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Posted by trolleyboy on Tuesday, May 1, 2007 1:55 PM

Good afternoon Ruth, well better late than never I suppose.It's been one of those if it wasn't for bad luck there would be no luck whatsoever type weekends. I'll nab a Keith's and pop for a round there Ruth.This is the first computer "time" I've had since saturday. One of teh JO's down the street, not following the call before you dig protocalls managed to unearth and cut the underground bell lines sunday afternoon. Got the phones back monday around 6 the internt lines back an hour or so ago.Why the Censored [censored] peole out there follow the posted rules n regs. Sorry my SoapBox [soapbox] rant for the day. to top it off the stuff I had planed to post today was wipped out by me not properly saving it to the WP Banged Head [banghead] so looks like it will be a several day presentation,whicch is okay because the last few theme's have stretched to pieces for at least a week so why should the Canadian railway scene be any different than anything else.Question [?]Wink [;)]

 A couple acknowledgements first then I'll try to find part one of today's posts ( retyped from scratch Sigh [sigh] )

Tom-Great preemptive today in railway history thanks for sharing the april segmnet again Thumbs Up [tup] some intreesting shots from yourr ecent rail foray with Pete as well enjoyed them.

Lars-Congrats on your successfull trip to the swamp Florida. sounds like you guys found the right spot good for you. you'll be happy to know that you will be spared the large influx of 20 fingers like material from me. Do to my own Sign - With Stupid [#wstupid] failing to save moment, you will be spared the visual onslaught all in one day. Smile,Wink, & Grin [swg]

BK-Thanks for popping by, I enjoyed your bit on the Canadian the second time around. i'm gald someone was able to jump in today to get the ole ball rolling as it were. I have to say that it is good to be back in the saddle and contributing again,I'll keep teh homefires burning while everyone is "rendezvousing" as well.

Eric-Interesting inside shots sir. We so often see good outside shots but as modellers or members of the general public we don't often get to see the insides of the objects we love.

Pete-Thanks for the steam shots, they were things of beauty.As well as the sudden end to steam operations in Canada, one must mention that the CPR had taken delivery of several hundred steam locomotives not a decade before the fires were put out,the technonlogy changed that swiftly !Figured that you might like that oddunderbridge angle of the CN / CP crossings at bayview. The bridge the trains are ducking under is the Plain avenue roaad access between Burlington and hamilton ontario, four lane road bridge. sadly I can't duplicate that shot anymore. The shot was taken from a bank along tthe tracks in a public park which is now a housing developement. The trains still run there but you can't shoot them from that vantage point anymore.

James-Nice shot of the Ocean,. Tom espeacillay will like that one Thumbs Up [tup]

Now onto the first of teh meat for the day Thumbs Up [tup]

Rob

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