<The Chaleur at Gaspé, Québec - personal foto>
G'day Gents!
Hard to believe, but it's that day again - the day BEFORE Friday has arrived! Join us with a fresh mugga Joe, a <light> or <traditional> breakfast from our Menu Board ‘n of course a few pastries from The Mentor Village Bakery case!
Comments from the Proprietor
Perhaps I should schedule another trip - seems we had more daylite attentiveness to the bar when I was away! Hmmmmmmmm.
Wolfman sez he may not be in today OR tomorrow . . .
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Customer Acknowledgments (since my last narrative):
Wednesday - May 7th <all times Central daylite>:
Page 23 - CM3 Shane <coalminer3> at 9:01 AM: "In" with a thought for the day - comments - quarters ‘n a ROUND!
Page 23 - Rob <trolleyboy> at 9:15 PM: Not quite the way we like things 'round here, but as our saying goes, "We takes what we gets!" Great to see ya 'n appreciate the support.
So you got the "911" on the return, eh At least the "myth" didn't manifest itself on your run . . . <uh oh> Only 40 miles to the car - that's progress!?!? Should you ever come down this way, it's only about 22 miles from the airport - walk shouldn't be too bad. <grin>
Raining like the Dickens since yesterday <Wed> - have the "diaper patrol" operating - trickling has begun. Some progress made with the Can-Am City Subway System <CACSS> . . . so all's not lost.
Thursday - May 8th <all times Central daylite>:
Page 23 - Eric <EricX2000> at 1:52 AM: A quickie from our Nocturnal WORKING Swede! Dropped off an AeroTrain foto . . .
Reminder: Ruth has the bar from 9 AM until Leon the Night Man comes in at 5 PM ‘til closing.
TODAY is Fish ‘ Chips Nite
Friday is Pizza ‘n Beer Nite! - and - Steak ‘n Fries Nite!
Saturday is Steak ‘n All The Trimmings Nite!
Dinner begins at 5 PM so come early ‘n often!
Cindy is our Saturday bartender!
Boris, serve ‘em all of the "spiked" OJ they can handle!
Tom
Good Morning Barkeep and all Present; coffee, please; round for the house and $ for the jukebox. Gas went up 14 cents/gal yesterday afternoon - it's now at $3.89 here. I hope this will post as it took forever for the forum to load this morning.
Rob stopped by with comments and Eric was in for just a quick visit as well.
Mike - Thanks for the GG1 picture - enlarge it and you get a good idea of colors and details. The green on the picture was a close match to what I remember, but sometimes in certain lights it appeared almost black.
Here's a rerun of something I posted, IIRC on the first incarnation of this site. Rob's picture of the GT at Dearborn brought it to mind.
So we will try for the Monon today.
The Chicago, Indianapolis and Louisville (after 1954, better known as the Monon) looked like a big letter X One side of the X operated between Hammond, IN and Indianapolis, and the other leg ran between Michigan City, IN and Louisville. The legs of the X crossed at Monon, IN.
Branches ran from Orleans to French Lick (aka home of Larry Bird)
Another branch ran between Wallace Jct. and Victoria, IN.
I was living in L&N land when they swallowed up the Monon. It didn't take too long to see Monon equipment show up, mostly cabeese at first and later, some locomotives. These always seemed to pass through Nashville in the dark hours, so I was never able to get any really good pictures.
Monon used several different liveries on their locomotives. These were a tasteful black and gold (for Purdue University), and red/white/gray (for Indiana University). The Purdue Boilermakers got their nickname because the Monon shops were in Lafayette, IN; home of Purdue.
You can see vestiges of the Monon today when you ride Amtrak's Cardinal. Before the line in Lafayette was relocated the train ran down the middle of the street in Lafayette and passed right by the old shop buildings. I always enjoyed that part of the trip.
The Monon got out of the passenger business fairly quickly, but they were running scheduled freights in the late ‘60s.
We'll start with southbound traffic
Train 71 departed Hammond at 900 p.m. with a 10:40 p.m. arrival in Monon. It departed Monon at 1050p.m., arrived in Lafayette at 1135 p.m. and Louisville at 630a.m.
Train 91 left Monon at 330 a.m. and reached Indianapolis at 700 a.m.
Train 73 left Lafayette at 835 a.m. arriving Louisville at 430p.m.
Train 57 departed Michigan City at 1000 p.m., Monon at 101 a.m. and reached Lafayette at 200a.m.
Train 56 left Lafayette at 400a.m., Monon at 600a.m., arriving Michigan City at 930 a.m.
Train 70 departed Louisville at 6:00p.m., Indianapolis at 1000 p.m., Monon at 355a.m., with a 615a.m. arrival at Hammond.
Train 72 left Louisville at 900a.m. with a 420 p.m. arrival at Lafayette.
Train 90 departed Indianapolis at 1000p.m., and arrived in Monon at 300a.m.
The Monon carefully noted that "Freight schedule shown indicates the service that may be expected, but not guaranteed."
Work safe
Ruth, g'wan 'n take off the remainder of the day . . . it's that slooooooooow.
MORE from Day One: Thursday - May 1st, 2008
NOTES: Boarded GO train #90 at 3:29 PM <Union Station> - underway at 3:33 PM - arrived Oakville at 4:10 PM.
Sat on lower level - starboard side - train was push-pull arranged - crowded, but no standees - very impressed with smoothness of ride - well maintained right-of-way.
(13) GO locomotives from window of GO train to Oakville <enhanced>
(14) GO locos - lucky shot! <enhanced>
(15) More GO trains! <enhanced>
(16) Rob looking like he got caught! Hmmmmm.
(17) Interior of lower level of "our" GO train
(18) Are we there yet, huh, huh <enhanced>
Good Aafternoon Barkeep and all Present; coffee, please; round for the house and $ for the jukebox. Thought I'd stop by quickly to help keep us "at the top of the page." Have been viewing OSPs pictures of the trek to the north. I am glad to see that Toronto is still standing. The GO trains look nice. I especially enjoyed the pictures of the different kinds of power. Both cars and power appear to be clean as well (what a concept!).
E-mails rec'd and answered.
Here's a little something from a B&O timecard (1950 era) Silver Spring looks a lot different today.
"When traveling to or from WASHINGTON and northwest suburbs
Save time...Save Trouble...
Use Silver Spring Station
Silver Spring is a regular stop for all B&O
Westbound and Eastbound trains
Information-Reservations-Baggage Checking-Taxi Service-Ample Parking
work safe
Two visits from CM3 Shane in one day - now THAT's a rarity, but MUCH appreciated! <KaChing> <KaChing> Too bad Ruth missed ya - but she's spending her hard earned cash over at the Mentor Mall 'n Grab Bag! <grin>
(19) VIA Rail poster at Union Station - The CANADIAN
(20) VIA Rail poster at Union Station - the discontinued ENTERPRISE
(21) VIA Rail poster at Union Station - The CHALEUR <summertime consist at Percé, Québec>
(22)"Our" southbound GO Train #90 departing Oakville with rear loco #524 <note the flag!>
(23) CN southbound freight at Oakville
(24) CN trailing loco at Oakville
(25) Oakville VIA Rail station <that's ROB!>
(26) Oakville GO station <"frightened" youngster!>
(27) Ahhhhhhh! "Home" again!!
(28) Rob at the St. George Arms!
(29) Moi at the same place!
(30) My kinda place!
Good evening Leon.Another slow one, but hey, at least we haven't been evicted from the front page Seeing the inside of the Arms makes me want a Guiness,I'll leave some for a round just in case Pete makes it in,I know that if Nick pops in he'll have a round or three with me.
Tom-Another Tom and Shane show oh well the pics and posts were good even if they were few in number.Tom got your email the other day , I'm just a tad tardy in replying Only 22 miles you say. That's hardly a challenge.
Those GO shots turned out really well so did the posters from Union Station, they turned out much better than the ones I took fairly busy day for you , hpefully the dripping wall isn't causing too much difficulty at the moment.
Shane-In with a helpfull twofer today great info as well. The Monon was an interesting road,and who could not like reading about the B&O.I must say that GO does tend to keep the equipment in good repair, and that's with the nearly million riders a day on all their lines as well. The jury is still out on those new units in the 600 class.Only a month old and they are having lots of teething problems. The cabs apparently leak worse than Tom's basement and they have had units shut down completely in rainy weather. So far they are running them with one of the old F59's kind of defeats the purpose. The thought is if they can't get the bugs out they are going to cancel the rest of the order
Eric-Nice to see the quick visit by the retired desert Swede. Oh well as long as they let you charge consultant fees your all set.Nice shot of the Aerotrain BTW.
Rob
Hi Tom and all,
The usual round of Tui`s for all the guys` please Leon!
Rob. A nice shot of you Tom took outside the St George Arms during your trip together, see they sell the Ozzie brew Fosters in there, pity they did`nt have some Tui in stock and you could have compared the brews from down under, looked as if you both had a great trip together. Enjoyed all your latest pics here and over on the other thread.
Eric. Good to read you used the NZ Railways buy back info in that Swedish train forum. Nice pics of the loco at Scotsdale AZ, and the Aerotrain, and interesting links to the Class B loco sites`. The snow has disappeared from the Ruahine Ranges overnight, hooray! [Sorry Tom]
CM3. You are so right with that quote about the "fix it". That was some interesting info on the Monon RR and the B&O time card quotes`.
Mike. Many thanks for those links to my old base at Ty Croes, very nostalgic I can tell you. It was a very "hush hush" place as we did user trials on all the new AA gun and rocket equipment, was involved in the trials of the US 75mm Skysweeper AA gun at the time. I got a big surprise to find that the place was a car race track nowadays as you noted, was watching the BBC TV car series "5th Gear" a while back and they were doing all the road tests there, some of the old buildings from BITD were still standing. As the old song goes "Thanks for the memories"
Tom. It`s great to have you back thats for sure! Really enjoying all the great pics of your expedition, nice shots of you and Rob outside the St George Arms and all the great shots of the trip and trains too, some definate "keepers" for sure, and another fine selection of pics of your Can Am RR with LOTS of SNOW around too. My BIL carries on the old Scots tradition of being "Canny" with his pennies! Sorry to read of those problems that could affect your layouts` in the basement with the remedial work, hope the next guy`s advice will have a better outcome than the 1st one did. Keep your chin up!
See ya, Allan
Good evening Captain Tom and Gentlemen!!
Leon, still on your feet? I'll have a #4 tonight. No, regular size. A cold Tui would be perfect, thanks.
Ah, finally done! Run out of paper but was lucky enough to find some more sheets so I could finish printing all the photos. Ordered more tonight and will get it Monday.
Tom – I knew you would be happy seeing all that snow. I hope you are showing pictures of it for Juneau. I love those photos from the CanAm Railways! Very nice! But I noticed there is no tractor trailer with a sleepercab!? What gives?Now I know what Lambert International Airport looks like!! I wonder what terminal American is using? Doesn’t matter, they know. An Expedia bus!? I bought my ticket through Expedia. That should give me a free ride! Walked 47 miles? That is pretty good for a retired sailor!! I bet the snaps helped you keep going!Oh, the manager! He seems to be in pretty good mood though! Nice photos from your trip. Do you (or maybe Rob) know what class that GO locomotive in the middle, #608, is? I can’t recall I have seen anything like it before. Interesting to see the old Canadian flag on the GO locomotive! Aha! St. George Arms!!! That was the goal for that trip, nothing else!! CM3 – I started building a model of a T44 many years ago. I just remember I still have the body. Maybe it is time to finish it?? Swedish State Railways class T44, 1987. Nice locomotives to operate.Thanks for the Monon trains info! Did they have different series of train numbers for freight trains? Maybe 3 or 4 digits? Mike – A number of interesting links! I wonder if Allan is in any of those photos? Nice pic of the GG1. It looks like it topped on the bridge. Normally I am not big on psychedelic stuff but that picture of the train coming off the Britannia Bridge looks pretty nice! Thanks!Rob – I didn’t know that any Canadian railroad tested any German diesels. German diesels are usually diesel-hydraulic. That naval base is very interesting. I have a friend who used to work there and she arranged so I got a tour of the place.216 days and I will quit my part time work! Can’t wait.Allan – Good news about the snow!! I have a question for you. Does the NZ government plan to expand the passenger service at all or just let the operator take care of it now?
Eric
Friday's Grin
Brain Cramps
"That lowdown scoundrel deserves to be kicked to death by a jackass, and I'm just the one to do it," --A congressional candidate in Texas.
It's the end of the work week <for many> ‘n a good time to fill up those mugs with our freshly ground ‘n brewed Joe - grab a couple of pastries from The Mentor Village Bakery case ‘n of course order a <light> or <traditional> breakfast from our Menu Board!
It's that time of year when my thoughts wander off to UTBs like Ted <Theodorebear> and Doug <barndad> who were so instrumental in keeping this place vibrant in their respective timeframes. Both attended "Our" Place Rendezvous' and both checked out shortly thereafter - not to be seen here again. Hmmmmmm. Well, wherever you two are, we know it isn't here, but at times, your ghosts seem to permeate this joint, especially when things are slow ‘n lonely - as has been the case this week. RIP . . .
Page 23 - CM3 Shane <coalminer3> at 8:12 AM ‘n 12:07 PM: Our only daylite customer for Thursday, but most appreciated fer sure, fer sure!
All Emails received ‘n appreciated! Nice to have a morale boost now ‘n then . . .
Enjoyed your MONON ‘n B&O offerings . . . nice trips to "back in the day."
There's no doubt <doot, for Rob> that a "rolling Rendezvous" for "Our" Place should be planned for. And why not I mean that's what this idea for the Rendezvous has always been about - classic trains! Anyway, the Chaluer up to Gaspé ‘n back would be a great trip - especially if we began it in Toronto with a "corridor" train from Toronto's Union Station to Montréal's Central Station ‘n return. Something to really think about. Of course, we'd have to visit the St. George Arms for our 1st night! <grin>
And this is a MUST - anyone involved with this pre-planning idea, must commit to it all - otherwise . Three nights in Canada . . . two aboard the train. Now doesn't that kinda "flick" your switch Does for me!
Not to worry, Shane - we're "on" for WVA in 2009 - IF that is, we still have a functioning "Our" Place . . . Pointless to call it an "Our" Place Rendezvous if in fact the joint gets boarded up . . .
Appreciate your picking up the slack on this lonely, lonely day . . .
Page 23 - Rob <trolleyboy> at 8:25 PM: Not to worry, at the rate this Forum receives new material or "hits" of any kind, I'd say we'd have to be in the doldrums for a long time before dropping off the Page . . . However, it IS very lonely ‘round here without the activity we've become accustomed to. NOT quantity - but quality Posts of relevance to what we do. Oh well . . .
Water came in at the rate of 6 large bath towels every 2.5 hours . . . still trickling, but slowed down some. More rain on the way . . . Next time we speak on the fone, I'll fill you in on the grim prospects. <ugh>
Email didn't require a response - just wanted to know you got it.
I really was surprised at some of those fotos I took - glad they turned out okay. Just a shame we had such lousy visibility en route Montréal . . . but, since I've seen that part of your county many, many times - it wasn't as if anything was missed. Anyhow, I enjoyed your company . . .
Visit, chat ‘n ROUND appreciated!
Page 23 - Allan <Gunneral> at 9:53 PM <4:53 PM Friday NZ time>: Fosters brew is a "fixture" in both countries - been seeing it in the U.S. from way back in the 70s . . . Tui is something I'll just have to look for. Next time I'm in one of those import stores I'll definitely have to check! But until then, I'll enjoy YOURS!
Enjoyed the chat ‘n glad you're enjoying the trip fotos - there's plenty more. Just a matter of getting A-ROUNDTUIT! <grin>
Thanx for the ROUND!
Friday - May 9th <all times Central daylite>:
Page 23 - Eric <EricX2000> at 1:52 AM: That Lambert terminal in my foto is the main one and is where your flight will deposit you in a few days! Arrivals are on the lower level where the baggage carousels are. The ground transportation (taxi's, etc.) are clearly marked down there.
Way back in your earlier times ‘round here - perhaps at "Our" Place I, you asked that question about the cabs for the trucks using the Can-Am highway system. No sleeper cabs permitted as Vito the Hit has the "contract" for the motels on both sides of the mountain range. He wants the truckers to use ‘em . . . Good observation!
That Expedia bus was the airport transportation to downtown - I guess the advertisement helps to keep the fares down. <yeah, right!>
That flag on the F59PH GO loco is the Provincial flag of Ontario . . .
The newer GO loco is an MP40-3C, built by Motive Power Inc - MPI; sometimes referred to as an MPXpress loco.
The "goal" for Day One was indeed the St. George Arms . . . but then along came Days Two, Three 'n Four!
Lots of snow up the "peninsula" and NO, I'd be safer to NOT let Juneau know! <grin>
Nice old country loco!
Appreciate the visit ‘n inclusiveness of your comments!
TODAY is Pizza ‘n Beer Nite! - and - Steak ‘n Fries Nite!
Good Morning Barkeep and all Present; coffee, please; round for the house and $ for the jukebox. Raining here today but it is supposed to (maybe, sorta, kinda) clear up later today. Celtics are moving forward and Red Sox subdued the Tabbies.
Thought for the Morning: "Light travels faster than sound. That's why some people appear bright until they speak."
Rob - Amazing how new stuff leaks, shorts out, can't run in the snow, isin't it?
Allan - Good to hear from you.
Eric - Nice profile shot of the T44. Let's see, 216 days until you re-retire? I know, anything for another party.
OSP was by with more comments, observations, Boris says mug shots, and posters.
Herewith some more (new) Monon material since folks seemed to be interested in the last posting. This covers passenger service in 1950 when evreything was pretty well intact. Had to mention JB, of course.
In 1950 (when John Barriger presided), the Monon operated passenger trains between Chicago and Louisville via Frankfort, Indianapolis, Lafayette, and Bloomington. Their ad copy emphasized that all, "Monon passenger trains are streamlines and diesel-powered, completely air-conditioned - clean, cool, and comfortable."
Train 13, the "Hoosier" ran daily between Chicago (Dearborn Station) and Indianapolis (Union station). It departed Chicago at 6:15 p.m. and arrived in Indianapolis at 10:05 p.m. The northbound side of the "Hoosier" was train 14 which departed Indianapolis at 5:15 p.m. with a 9:10 p.m. arrival in Chicago. The consist included reclining seat coaches, a dining-bar car, and an observation lounge-parlor car.
Trains 11 and 12 were the "Tippecanoe." Train 11 left Chicago at 9:00 a.m. and reached Indianapolis at 1:10 p.m. Train 12 departed from Indianapolis at 7:30 a.m. with an 11:35 a.m. arrival in Chicago. Passengers could ride in reclining seat coaches. Trains 11 and 12 also carried a parlor grill car.
Train 1, the "Varsity" ran on Sunday only between Chicago and Bloomington. Train2, the Bloomington-Chicago version of "Varsity" operated on Fridays. It left Bloomington at 5:00 p.m. with a 9:50 p.m. arrival at Chicago. This train carried reclining seat coaches and a grill car.
Trains 5 and 6, the "Thoroughbred," ran between Chicago and Louisville. Train 5 left Dearborn Station at 1:00 p.m. and pulled into Louisville Union Station at 9:00 p.m. Train 6 would leave Louisville at 9:20 a.m. and arrive Chicago at 5:10 p.m. This carried reclining seat coaches and an observation dining parlor car.
Quiz question - The Monon operated a train called "The Varsity." What other Class I operated a train which had the same name? Extra points if you can tell me end point cities where the latter train ran.
Good to see one of our GOR show up to begin the last day of the work week! Just a matter of days before our Rendezvous attendees get to meet SHANE!
Ah yes, the Varsity - also a train operated by the Milwaukee Road between Chicago, IL 'n Madison, WI - weekends only - trains #117 & 118.
Continuing on with fotos from my 2008 Canada Rail Odyssey . . .
Day Two: Friday - May 2nd, 2008
NOTE: "Up" with the chickens to ensure our on-time-arrival to catch VIA Rail #82 northbound to Toronto. A light rain falling with a bit of a chill in the air. Definitely NOT mid-spring weather as felt in mid-continent USA!
Brantford VIA station was rather crowded with those awaiting #82 - a non-stop train to Toronto's Union Station. Train originated in Windsor, Ontario.
(31) Brantford, Ontario, Canada VIA Rail station <enhanced>
(32) Brantford VIA station
(33) Waiting room <no flash>
(34) Waiting room
(35) Rob in waiting room
(36) Brantford CN freight yard
Good morning Ruth , I'll have the usual number three with the large thermos of BK blast I'll leave some extra in the tray for some afternoon rounds I see that Boris is out back giving the critters some fresh air and playtime so I'll just leave the jar of PPF here for him when he gets back in.
Eric-I see that Tom got you the aprticulars on the flag and the new GO unit.Thiose MP40's have not been released for service for much more than two month's I assume that they still smell new inside,or if you believe the crews the cabs muight smell like foul weather gear
Nice shot of that Swedish diesel. It would make a fine model,something to look forward to doing once you re-retire.The bar charges exponentially more for each aditional retirement party so be warned. Oh and Pete no bartabs allowed during re-retirement party's as well.<uh oh >
There were two German Diesel hydrolics that CN aquired in the early 60's.Centre cab units with side-rods on the trucks.They were used in the Montreal Coach yard apparently they were not all that well liked by those who operated and maintained them as they seem to have dissapeared after a decade or so. I'll have to do some digging in the library to see what I can come up with.
Allan-Back in the saddle again as they say. I haven't seen Tui anywhere up here either Fosters been around for ever though I never aquired a taste for it.It must have been a bit eerie watching that car show and seeing yoru old barracks buildings etc winging by.
Shane-I don't think I can even hazzard a guess at your quizz,without it being exactly that,but being the fool I am here goes.B&O Boston to Washington ( my guess is I'll be the wrong side of the country but hey it's the attempt that counts )
Yes those new MP40-3's are nice looking loco's,but what I'm told is that the bodies and cabs are made of some kind of laminated resin not steel ,so the rainwater/slush seeps in between the joins which are glued not welded. I guess they didn't use a good enough gap -filling CA glue at the factory.
Tom-Stiff upper lip as they say about those repairs,I'll catch up with you by "fone" once your over the estimate and pain phase.Best advice is enjoy the rendezvous then bite the bullet.
Great photo's of day two as well doesn't seem like it was a week ago.Good to know that my various mugg shots did not adversly affect your camera. Mind you it wasn't imearsed in a soda pop bath in a black bag either.
I'm sure that we'll keep on carrying on round here,I'll keep the fires burning while you folks are enjoying the train travels
Good Afternoon Captain Tom and Company
I'm finally clear of the surly bonds of the shore. Got away from the dock shortly after 09hr yesterday morning. Anyway I am here now so please top up the mug with then usual daily sea ration and an ample supply of grub. I promise to tip big today!! Spent the majority of time this morning looking at forecasts and ice charts. Seems there is a very large number of bergs as far south as 41N. Lots of fog right now and we are approaching the outter limits of the Iceberg drift zone.
First I must apolagize for not welcoming Tom back to the Bar the other day. Once again I meant to say something but Dog was barking as the Contractor showed up and I had to run... once again.
Tom and Rob: Once again thanks for sharing the pics with us some interesting shots to say the least. Tom: again a great layout you have. Hopefully your basement woes will be solved with as little problem or cost as possible.
Rob: great synopsis on the CPR Passenger service and demise. It's all so unfortunate but with the ever rising cost of fuel, who's to say we won't see some sort of revival of Rail service.
Anyway Gents Must go to the bridge with latest Ice info and plot a course!
Fergie
http://www.trainboard.com/railimages/showgallery.php?cat=500&ppuser=5959
If one could roll back the hands of time... They would be waiting for the next train into the future. A. H. Francey 1921-2007
Hello Tom and all in
Round for the house - v quick visit - just to say although I've not had time to read postings properly last few day (I will catch up) - I have been able to scan the pics from Tom and Robs trip report and really enjoying the photo diary!
Best wishes to all
DL
A bit better this day with Rob, Fergie 'n Dan stopping by!
NOTE: Boarded at 7:26 AM - very crowded, found two seats together across from AN OLD FRIEND of Rob's! In fact, I'd say she had a "thing" for him . . . but I digress. <grin>
Arrived at 8:25 AM at Union Station - with an hour to "kill" before our Montréal train. Browsed around the station . . .
(37) A "NAFTA" car . . .
(38) Here she comes thru the mist!
(39) VIA loco #900 and train #82 arriving at Brantford!
(40) The rush to the crunch! Boarded car #3318.
(41) Are YOU talkin' to ME
(42) 1st leg complete!
Good evening Leon. I see that Boris has the bouncing duties tonight. Hopefully he hasn't had too many fights to break up between the track gangs.Lets see oh what the heck a T-bone and all the fixings and just a pitcher of Canadian while I'm at it as well.
Fergie-Oh to hope we could have more rail passenger services,hopefully it's not a pipe dream.I did notice today that Air Canada is now tacking on fuel surcharges to all domestic flights as well,upto $120 per round trip. That may force a few more onto the Toronto to Montreal and Toronto to Ottawa type trains, we'll see.
Clear sailing sir,we'll keep the barstools polished for you
Dan-Always good to see you , glad that your enjoying the picture extravaganza
Tom-Actually those misty shots turned out quite well,too bad we didn't do the trip this week. Today was a bright blue sky and 16C day, oh well at least the snow is gone for the year.I had the contractor in to do some work on the porch today as well,had to replace a couple of the under supports,looks like the decking needs to be done as well. most likely will not be all that costly though.
Did you see todays news about the Canadian They held the Toronto bound train at Foylet for six hours. apparently a lady passed away and ten others got sick. They cleared the train around 6pm to continue to Toronto as they deemed it not a contagious concern. remind you of a trip you had on the Canadian ( other than the whole train stop and quaranteen )
Okay folks just a round of photo's to end the day with.
One of the advertising "wierdies" at Bayview jct, this is the one that started the ad wraps off.
The CBC 50th aniversary paint job at Brantford
The 900 at Brantford last year.
The 915 at Brantford.
See you guys later today
Friday evening, is there a better time for a Rumpsteak Café de Paris? Leon, that is what I want! A cold Keith's!
Kind of busy day. Had to go to the office to say goodbye to an engineer that retired today. He is moving back to South Bend, IN, next week.
Tom – Thanks for the info on the GO-loco! MP40-3C. Thanks for the continueing trip report! Nice photos! I like the style of Brantford station building! I saw a poster on the wall ‘Notice for your security’ in one of the photos. Do they have any special or extra security measures on the trains in Canada? VIA #900, a P42DC, almost the same color on the front as Amtrak’s P42’s.CM3 – Light travels faster than sound. Very true, that is why I don’t say much, I like to appear as bright all the time!Another party? Hey, that is a good idea! I’ll let my boss know!Milwaukee Road operated a train called The Varsity between Chicago and Madison, WI. That service started 1927 and lasted until the start of Amtrak 1971. Rob – Ooops, a lot of restrictions when it comes to re-retirement parties. I have to think about how to get around all those restrictions, but don’t tell anyone.I did some research tonight on those CN diesel-hydraulics but did not find anything. I’ll try again later. Didn’t you mention some time ago that VIA isn’t satisfied with their P42’s and that is why they are rebuilding the F40’s? Nice photos including one of VIA #900 (the same as in Tom’s photo) from last year.The news about the Canadian was discussed at a Swedish train forum as well. I posted a message telling them that the train was on its way to Toronto again. Fergie – Be careful out there around those ice bergs! DL – Thanks for the round!Sorry, I couldn’t post any picture tonight, but the server is down because “We are currently performing scheduled maintenance.”
A round for the house!
Hi Tom and everyone, a round for the house
Today is May 10, 1869
http://webapp1.dlib.indiana.edu/collections/cushman/full/P04088.jpg
http://webapp1.dlib.indiana.edu/collections/cushman/full/P04087.jpg
http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=146921
http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=146922
B&M and CV at White River Junction.
http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=1086046
http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=1086058
http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=1086064
CN Steam at Montreal
http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=1109750
http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=1109753
CN Steam in Connecticut
http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=1127114
http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=1127112
CV 700
http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=892040
CV 706
http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=879826
CV 402
http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=879823
http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=879828
CV 453
http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=938699
CV 461
http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=879804
CV 461 and 469
http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=1021567
CV 465
http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=889250
http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=951819
CV 474
http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=1021498
CV 475
http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=939707
http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=938650
My mom took me on that first train ride in 1950, Davenport to Palmer. About the Central Vermont Railway, if this wasn't more than enough, see Railroad Magazine at your local library, August 1947.
Mike
Ssssssssaturday! Coffee - pastries 'n breakfasts to order!
Page 24 - CM3 Shane <coalminer3> at 8:29 AM: Morning visit from our WVA Connection can only mean life has returned to normal for him!
"In" with Monon material . . . and by the by, I did answer your "quiz" - repeated once again: Milwaukee Road operated trains #117 ‘n 118 between Chicago, IL ‘n Madison, WI on weekends - called the Varsity!
I believe we're all caught up with the Email exchanges! <phew> <grin>
Thanx for the chat, quarters ‘n ROUND!
Page 24 - Rob <trolleyboy> at 10:11 AM: Many thanx for a fine, inclusive Post!
Fully intend to enjoy the company of those attending Rendezvous III. Hoping the rains stay away - forecasts aren't that promising. But the we all know "they" can change, eh Don't even wanna think about rain . . .
Don't be concerned about this joint while the four of us are engaged in our activities . . . whatever you can do will be most helpful ‘n of course well appreciated. BUT, given the time zone differences for Nick ‘n Allan - there's not a hulluvalot that we can expect to keep things active.
Just can't say what I'm going to do regarding the basement. Kinda like being caught between a rock ‘n a hard place . . . still hoping for an outside solution, rather than submitting to the destruction of the Can-Am Trainroom. <groan>
ROUNDs appreciated!
Page 24 - Fergie <Fergmiester> at 11:06 AM <1:06 PM ADT>: Don't envy any mariners out to sea in your part of the globe these days <daze>. Not sure of your mission, but seems to me that those scientists should surely have gathered all they need to come up with their conclusions for this ‘n that over the decades . . . . I recall them being aboard our cutters back in the 50s . . . Yeah, yeah - I know, it's a changing world. But rather harrowing for those involved in ensuring their safety from getting to points A thru Zed . . . <barf> We always had "weather birds" aboard <weather men> who launched their balloons ‘n did the bathythermographs, etc. As a multi-missioned organization, it was such fun. <grin>
Appreciate the visit ‘n do hope you've been able to keep up with our picture-parade. I'm hoping to convince our crew that there's much more benefit to fotos with brief narratives than the other way ‘round . . .
See ya when the wind shifts!
Page 24 - Dan <DL-UK> at 12:31 PM <6:31 PM GMT>: Appreciate the visit, albeit brief! ROUND keeps things perking! <KaChing> <KaChing>
Saturday - May 10th <all times Central daylite>:
Page 24 - Rob <trolleyboy> at 12:04 AM ‘n 12:22 AM: A two-fer from our Manager, who has reverted to his Count Dracula persona! <grin>
Went nearly TWELVE HOURS between customers . . . now that surely doesn't speak well for "Our" Place . . .
Home ownership is just another definition of how to deplete one's savings . . . <groan> Hope the deck work doesn't set you back too much . . .
Liked that spate of four fotos, especially the Purple People Eater!
There's a short article in our paper regarding the death of an elderly woman aboard the eastbound Canadian . . . said she did not have an infectious disease and that Health Canada ruled out the NoroVirus. And yes, mention of it did bring back some not-so-happy memories of my experiences . . . Said the train was quarantined and that there still is no explanation for six others falling ill. Makes one wonder . . .
Appreciate the visits!
Page 24 - Eric <EricX2000> at 1:41 AM: I didn't notice anything extraordinary regarding security aboard or at VIA Rail facilities during my recent trip. Seemed pretty "normal" to me. Airports totally different - very much as our own.
That P42 loco #900 was the one that hauled me from Montréal to Ottawa in May 2005 for the commemoration of the Canada War Museum. This time she shows up in Brantford, bound for Montréal!
Perhaps one day we'll get a VIA Rail engineer to stop by ‘n we'll get the straight skinny on their locos . . . although I do think they are CN employees. Rob should know . . .
Appreciate the visit, chat ‘n ROUND!
Page 24 - Mike <wanswheel> at 6:06 AM: "In" with a significant event notice, URLs, <sweet> mag cover 'n a ROUND!
Reminder: Cindy has the bar from 9 AM until Leon the Night Man comes in at 5 PM ‘til closing.
Hi Tom and all.
A bacon sarnie and a cup of coffee please Cindy.
Back after my trip. I will drop off a couple of photos and then catch up on the posts while I have been away.
Ex London & South Western Railway 4-4-2 'Radial' Tank locomotive No 488.Three of these 1882 locomotives lasted into the 1960s for working the Lyme Regis brange line. Preserved on the Bluebell line.
An old Great Western brake van, which after service use, was used by the Permanent Way Department.Photo at Kidderminster Town on the Severn Valley Railway
A Midland Railway Class 1 2-4-0 No 158A at Swanwick Jumction on the Midland Railway Centre. this 1866 built locomotive carried the LMS number 20002.
A round for those who come in please CINDY.
Pete.
MORE from Day Two: Friday - May 2nd, 2008
Note: Some shots at Toronto's Union Station before boarding train # 56:
(43) Easterly view from train platforms
(44) Westerly view
(45) Westerly view with telefoto!
(46) VIA Rail poster "pushing" Renaissance cars
(47) VIA Rail adventure poster
(48) Train board <ours is at the top>
Good Morning Captain Tom and Company
Top up the Mug please and I'll have a heaping plate of Corned beaf Hash if you please!
Still steaming on our way towards Orphan Knoll, Rounded Cape Race this morning , past an Iceberg and with no fog! Weather has been good so far and looking at the long range NOAA maps it will hopefully continue like this for the next week.
Tom: the Science crowd is gathering info annually as it will help them to determine trends and cycles and to see if the cycles remain consistant or if they are going askew. And from I'm told it's askew. Saying that it's all new to me and very interesting.
Eric: thanks for the well wishes yes it can be a tricky as Tom has pointed out but saying that May is starting to show signs of improvement in the weather... Knock on wood!
Pete: Where have you been!?! Just because the Gueniss Spigot was sputtering is no reason to run out!
Anyway here is some history for all of you to enjoy!
History of Nova Scotia's Railways, Part II
Cape Breton Development Corporation Railway (DEVCO: 1968 - Present) When the Dominion Coal Company went out of business in 1968 the federal government took over operations of the local coal industry. This resulted in the formation of the Cape Breton Development Corporation. DEVCO's mandate was to oversee the gradual phase-out of the coal production in Cape Breton and to get the area away from its one industry economy. Along with the mines, DEVCO also gained ownership of the former Sydney and Louisbourg Railway. These tracks were still the best method of transporting coal from the remaining mines in the area. The line to Louisbourg was in bad shape and was in need of some major upgrading. These tracks had been laid to Louisbourg because it was the only habour in the area that remained ice-free year round. With the introduction of modern ice-breaking ships, there was now no need for this link. The section from Morien Junction to Louisbourg was removed and sold for scrap. Eventually DEVCO moved it roundhouse and main yard, from their Glace Bay location, to Victoria Junction. Later a large coal preparation plant was also built at this site. DEVCO also modernized the International Coal Piers in Sydney. At present, DEVCO still operates two mines in the area and several trains a day make the short trip to the shipping piers in Sydney. Nova Scotia Power, DEVCO's biggest customer, uses Cape Breton coal in its generating stations at Lingan, Point Tupper and Trenton. The last two, receive coal via the Cape Breton and Central Nova Scotia Railway. Cape Breton Eastern Extension Railway (1901 - 1920) This uncompleted line was to run from Louisbourg, on Cape Breton Island, to Halifax on mainland Nova Scotia, with a massive bridge spanning the Strait of Canso. Once completed, it was anticipated that Louisbourg harbour would become the leading port for all trans-Atlantic shipments. Funding for the project began in 1984, but it wasn't until 1901 that construction started on the first, and only, segment of the line. This thirty mile section, from Port Hawkesbury to St. Peters, was completed in 1903. After this portion was finished, backers of the project believed traffic levels would not justify the high cost of completing the remaining sections. No more money was spent on the venture and the line ended at St. Peters. In 1920 the right-of-way was sold to the Canadian governmnet and became part of the Canadian National Railways. Central Railway (1893 - 1903) This line was incorporated in 1873 as the Nictaux and Atlantic Railway. It was to run from Lunenburg to Middleton with a branch from Bridgewater to Liverpool. In 1875, after a change in ownership, its name also changed to the Nova Scotia, Nictaux and Atlantic Central Railway. Construction began in 1877 at the Lunenburg end of the line. Between 1878 and 1885, due to financial difficulties, only small advaces were made. In 1886 there was another change in ownership and with it came another change in name. The new Nova Scotia Central Railway Company received government assistance and with the additional funding, work was completed in 1889. A year later the company went bankrupt and the line was sold at a public auction. The new owners changed its name to the Central Railway in 1893. Over the next nine years of operation, the line was able to turn a modest profit. This was due mainly to the iron traffic from the Torbrook mines. The Central Railway changed hands for the last time in 1903, when purchased and merged with the Halifax and South Western Railway.
Well Gents must run and get the latest forecasts!
Later All
Fergie popped "in" . . . bit o' chat 'n lotsareadinstuff.
I'd rather be ashore reading 'bout those scientists conclusions than bounce around in berg infested waters transporting them hither 'n yon . . . wonder how many of them can lay claim to the moniker of mariner! Hmmmm.
My 2008 Canada Rail Odyssey continues . . .
NOTES: Rob ‘n I boarded VIA Rail train #56, car #5606 <LRC> . . . underway at 9:30 AM with light drizzle ‘n limited visibility. Car was crowded with all window seats occupied - we sat across the aisle from one another. About ½ hour into the trip, the service manager told us there were plenty of seats two cars forward - so we moved to car #5604 <LRC> where we could sit ‘n chat more comfortably.
Not really a great day for fotos - but I managed a few!
Underway for Montréal:
(49) Funky GO Transit car!
(50) GO Transit F59PH & cars
(51) GO Transit MP40PH-3C
(52) Interior of LRC #5606
(53) Interior of LRC #5604
(54) Belleville, Ontario - birthplace of Missi-siberianmo
Well good evening fellow tipplers-Apologies for absense-been a hectic few days at this end of the counter and have been running to stand still....
No matter-tis the weekend now and the sun is a shining etc-so Leon,an ice-cold Pilsner for me please and a round for the chaps...
Some of you may recall mention of a trip out to Neyland and the discovery of some broad gauge remnants-well here are the pix,as promised
The first one should explain all.....
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I guess I can start running through the `Duke`fiasco shots now as well
The crowd awaits...This area was once a maze of tracks-to the right rear was a branch (passing behind the shed on the right) and winding along the haven for about half a mile to a mine depot,the curve in the foreground was the kick off point for a biggish yard & quay complexto the left of the camera,with more sidings kicking back away from me.
At 90 degrees to the last shot-the platform is just out of shot to the right-the route of the mine depot branch is clear at the back-and the bank is as steep as it looks.....
And here she comes !!!---In best saturday matinee style,will leave you with that cliff-hanger whilst I go and start catching up and dreaming up a specials board....
back in a bit
And who to our suprise should appear, but Mighty Man himself - Nick in westwales, Chief Chef 'n man of more talents than Bayer has pills!
Spate of rail shots not only ED-U-KAY-SHUN-UL, but interesting too! I expect a quiz is being formulated!
Will reserve further commentary 'til my round of acknowledgments . . . BUT, have a pint <or three> on me!
Spent a wee bit of time with the Can-Am City Subway System <CACSS> - finished up my control panel - got the track 'n station pretty much to my liking - but of course, there's still MUCH to be done: signal lights <operating> - girders, passengers at the platforms - just the way a hobby should be - not QUITE finished!
And nooooooooooow!
NOTE: Freight cars along the corridor . . . skies cleared as we approached Montréal.
(55)
(56)
(57)
(58) Approaching Montréal!
(59) Message board sez we arrived!
(60) Rob in queue for return to Toronto - bon voyage, Mate!
That's IT for this day . . . to be continued . . . .
Right then chaps-thats me caught up to the top of this page,so lets have another wee drinkie and see whats been happening....Leon-same again all round please old thing-have one yourself whilst you`re there.....
ROB-Some fine pix from Battlecreek & Brantford (now that could be a cool bridge line..) that T.H.B hopper is just screaming to be modelled......Delightful G.T green geep -Belhaven-am not sure the company even exists anymore-brewing industry over here has gone mad in recent years-corporate lunacy
ALLAN-Billy Connelly is one of the very few actors(John Cleese is another) who can reduce me to hysterics without even speaking.. Your description of the rail company structure sounds like the classic public/private partnership--if it makes money,it goes into private pockets-if it loses ,it comes out of the public purse..........
ERIC-Thanks for the detail on the T43/4-longevity suggests a useful engine-what sort of traffic were they used on ? -Nice pic of the `Paradise & Pacific` btw-the S.P cab in the background makes a nice secondary focal point..
TOM-Yup -you got me-I`m a big old softy for cats & dogs and the like-the Meercat enclosure at our local wildlife park can keep me enthralled for ridiculous amounts of time and the `feed a baby goat` session is one Hannah & I never miss.....
This weeks Can-Am spread is an especial treat-a great set of shots of the layout as opposed to the trains-the one of Rly Ave. is a perfect `Railway in the landscape `shot imho Also the mountain shot does the same and also shows the depth perspective work on the mountain itself-nice one Freight yard pix always welcome
CM3-I begin to think yours is the way to go re fantrips..........
TOM-At last-we are on the road --Some nicely judged build up work here-the anticipation is building nicely-a chance to appreciate the architecture of both station and city and get a bit of a `feel` for the place........
Silent MIKE-A fine list of addys-which I will check out asap-all wrapped in your elegantly minimalist prose....Bet you could pen a mean Haiku...
CM3-Liking this Monon stuff (think I spotted a 2nd part on this page )-will have to fetch the atlas for full appreciation-good call
TOM-So here we are-the brakes have cleared down, the power is on and ......off we go:-Well-what a cracking selection of the GO trains-the gods surely favoured you there-absolute meat & drink to me -thanks for those mate-
Also enjoyed the interior shots-not just for the technical detail or the portraits of the two of you (nicely caught as they are) but for the background detail (spot the under-cover cop.....)
Another good catch at Oakville-re the flag on#524-ROB will prolly confirm or deny,but suspect it is same as on O.N.R locos-indicates provincial govt owned......
The St Georges looks good in and out-the outside shot made to look all the more English by the Range Rover parked in front
Right,I think thats me up to the top of this page-gonna post this,have another wee drinkie,then start on some pix,specials board etc
brb
TOM-Looks like an overlapping post-my round:- take a large brandy and go and settle in the official bossmans armchair and I`ll start building a suitable sandwich to sustain you through the evening-how about our largely experimental 3 course submarine ..?
We have an 18" sub roll filled thus..5" with shelled Tiger prawns in piquant Marie-Rose sauce,6" with chicken *** & back bacon with lettuce,tom & mayo & then 7" of Sirloin of Welsh black with fried onions & mushrooms...served with fries,coleslaw and choice of dessert
Right-focus now..... ah yes-the `Duke`well,here we go from where we left off:-
Yup-here she comes-creeping in at a snail pace we have a class 66 (either 166 or 616 or 116)
This was the point at which my camera batteries failed,so:-
Over to the local paper-this shot must have been taken from Victoria bridge with a long lens-is completely distorted and heavily compressed
Here is the departure-platform ends about 8 carlengths behind tender-were many more people wanted to see her than did....
Here is one from the run to Fishguard on saturday-
And one from the same place,2 years ago-engine is Drwsllyn Castle
And from a little way over...
Right -thats 6 so better post and start the next-onwards to H/West
And on we go to Haverfordwest,where we beat the train by a very slim margin....
Right-well here is the `other` perspective of H/West-previous pix have all been from the footbridge ,looking this way
Hmmmm-things of possible interest-Was originally laid out to the 7` gauge-hence the big gap between the platforms,after conversion,centre road between platforms was a double stub spur,accessed by a double slip crossing in the middle-later relaid as a passing siding for the up line ( the down line has the goods loop ).Where the concrete hut is,a pair of up-side sidings for the milk & cattle spurs pulled out
Here she comes !!
And there she goes................
Not the most satisfactory possible outcome,however ,got a few yard shots that might be of small interest
Here we have the tank loading ramp in the old goods yard-the freight shed is on the right-the dismounted wheelset assembly is just out of shot on the right
Next up were a half dozen of these:---
Here is a reverse angle shot showing the old freight shed-now a used furniture warehouse-still retains all sorts of fittings,including internal hoist
Were also several of these:-
These two plus another open (off camera ) formed the front of the train-no idea whether they are service/support vehicles or just barrier wagons required for moving military gear
Am standing more or less where another small fan of sidings used to cut out and serve several sheds,including a provender store-have been gradually removed over the last 10 years as the M.O.W dept has wound down it`s operations out west....
Anyway-could go on rambling all night-Leon-more drinks please-naturally on my tab-I`m just about to go and work it off in the galley
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