G'day Gents!
Nearly 4 hours without so much as a visitor - a far cry from "back in the day" of "Our" Place. Not a healthy sign, Gents . . . but, life goes on and as long as I have some material in the hopper, why not Post it, eh It IS NOT a bottomless pit, however! <uh oh>
My 2008 Canada Rail Odyssey continues . . .
MORE from Day Three: Saturday - May 3rd, 2008
VIA Rail trip from Montréal to Gaspé aboard the Chaleur
(133) Scenes from the Skyline Dome en route Gaspé
(134)
(135)
(136)
(137)
(138)
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
To be continued . . . .
Tom
Hi Tom and all.
A pint of Bathams please CINDY as RUTH is off on her adventure.
TOM Hope your bride and you had a great night out at the restaurant.
Many thanks for the Rendezvous photos; to think this time last week we were at Busch Stadium. It was a great slide show we had and we were lucky we were able to carry on after the bulb burnout.
Yes I can see a visit to the Cards shop next time the bride and I go to see the Cards is on the horizon.
I AM enjoying the photo spreads with the Canada ones and the Rendezvous III photos. As you say with the Texas Eagle running late it gave us time for a good look at the railroad items they had in Union Station early before it was busy.It really is good that they have some railroad items on show. What a wonderful place it must have been when all those lines shown in the timetables were running in and out of the station..
Many thanks for the great coastal views taken from the Chaleur, those great views are surely best seen from a dome car
ERIC I think you will be back home before I leave to cross the Atlantic. I hope the price of the aviation fuel by then, does not bring massive surcharges.
Yes it was a bit strange that there was no one on the miniature train but us, the train before us had a lot of passengers.
Many thanks for the great photo of Tom and CM3 in St Louis Union Station and going to see Springfield ILL Union Station will be a good reason for Tom and I to ride the Beagle again.
CM3 I think having three more friends to play with had worn Juneau out.
Many thanks for the list of the railroad companies that served St Louis, East St Louis, Alton, Carlinville and Springfield Ill. I noticed on the line out to Alton, we took, there were three different companies side by side for some of the route. I guess in 1950 there would be a good mixture of steam and diesels working the trains in the area..
Talking of traction engines I have found a photo of a Showman's engine.These were used to haul the rides of the travelling fair from town to town and then generated the electricity to light and run the ride. Were there simular engines in North America.
Some photos from Scotland.
This was a trip from Inverness to Wick and Thurso in the very north of Scotland.We had a night in Thurso and the train was run for local people and a bus arranged to take a photo en route, before travelling back to Inverness. Is it just me or does the countryside look a lot like Canada
It was the first time a steam engine had worked this far north since the mid 1960s.
In 2000 there was a Steam tour over 11 days in Scotland. The first day, before the tour proper we took the last of the trains that run over the summer months between Fort William and Mallaig. Our Engine on this part was Standard Class 4 4-6-0 No 75014 it carries the Braveheart name that was added in preservation days.
En route to Mallaig.
After arrival at Mallaig.
Well CINDY a round please and if you see NICK tell him I miss him and his Fish 'N' Chip.
Pete.
Just a quickie to let Pete know that his latest round of Pix are absolutely stunning in terms of color 'n quality! Well done, Mate! Have one on me! <clink>
An Email has been sent to Rendezvous attendees . . .
We took in the opening day of the latest Indiana Jones flick at one of our multi-screen theatre emporiums . . . must admit that it wasn't a bad way to spend a couple of hours. Harrison Ford is on my bride's "list" - so I had to go! <grin>
There were some heavyweight passenger cars 'n a steam loco in opening scenes . . . but that was it for railroading. Good adventure flick!
Appears the doldrums has set in, once again - let's hope the night crew has a better time of it!
New London, CT train station <courtesy: trainweb.org>
See y'all when the wind shifts!
Well greetings fellow travellers-Leon-extremely large drinks for all-has been a bit of a week here..........Had a bit of an electrical storm here thurs & fri last week-usual drill:-flash floods,power cuts,small children/pets with hair stood on end,but as an added bonus,complete loss of phone line-has taken until today to convince the service provider that there is a fault-took 20 minutes to fix -Am smiling `cos if I don`t I`m going to do something foolish-Hope all is well here-please excuse me if I check out now and go and read whats been happening lately-just thought a "Still alive" post might stop you all thinking I had been abducted by aliens
Consider me back-will take time to catch up and be right with you.......
NICK has returned 'n is OH-FISH-UL-LEE off the AWOL list!
Was hoping you hadn't been abducted by a band of over-zealous Spice-Girl-Wanna-bees! <grin>
All's right with the bar when our Chief Chef is about <aboot for Rob!> the decks! Speaking of which - where in blue blazes is our Manager Hmmmmm. Nick says Mother Nature did him in - wonder what kind of a story we'll get from Rob <grin>
Okay 'nuf of that - fill up your tankard on me, Nick me boy!
Gonna watch some "thug ball" tonite - Celtcis & Pistons. Man oh man how times 'n the game has CHANGED <my favorite word!> . . .
Catch y'all in the AM!
BR 71000 Class 8 Pacific Duke of Gloucester (Foto: K. Langston)
Hi Tom and all,
The usual round of Tui`s for all the guys` please Leon!
Tom. Good to see that Nick has shown up again and that the search party can now concentrate on looking for Rob, hope all is OK at his place! Looking at all of your pics of RV III and the guys`it just shows what a great idea you came up with to form "Our Place" in the first place, would have loved to have been there sharing in everything with you all. Really enjoyed all the pics of your trip to the baseball, the ones of CM3 Shane`s slideshow, and the Union Station with the ones` of Pete and you too. Those were some nice scenic sea shots you took from the Chaleur domecar on the way to Gaspe. Nice pics of the Can-Am RR subway system you are working on too. Am looking forward to seeing the new Indianna Jones flick over here soon, it was released for viewing over the weekend. Nice shot of The Duke of Gloucester Class 8 BR Pacific.
Eric. Some more great shots of RV III, nice one of the gang in the train, Juneau, Tom and Shane at St Louis Union Station, and a nice shot of Springfield Union Station. Hope you are enjoying getting back to that sunny Pheonix climate again.
CM3. NZ$6 million works out to be about US$4,645 million give or take, today the NZ$ is at 78.3 cents to the US$. Some nice pics of you with the gang at RV III. Interesting info on the RR companies serving St Louis, Springfield etc. BITD.
Pete. Some great pics of you and the gang at RV III, you looked very smart in the white shirt at that ball game, could`nt see the ketchup stain at all! Would have been a honour to have been there with you all. Some nice pics of the Showmans engine , the ones` of your Scottish rail trip from Inverness to Wick and Thirsk, and to Mallaig, does that sleeping train service still run there from London? Boy, were Man United lucky to win the UEFA Champions Cup, one of the best finals i`ve seen for years, pity it had to go to a penalty shoot out in the end, what a great remembrance for Bobby Charlton to be there with it being the 50th anniversary of the Busby boys` plane crash.
Fergie. Nice to see you aboard again.
Nick. Good to see you back mate, we were getting real worried about your whereabouts`. I get a lot of service provider problems over here, probably because i`m still on dial-up service!
Rob. Wherethehellareyamate? Hope all`s OK at your place?
See ya, Allan
Another most welcome visit - this time from our downunder connection! Good to see ya with all kinds of positive comments!
Didn't know the NZ dollar would get me such a good deal - I'll have to cash in those millioin dollar bills stashed in the mattress. <grin>
It's half-time at the basketball game <Celtics-Pistons> 'n my guyz look rather flat . . . but there's another half to go 'n who knows . . .
Just wanted to make mention of my apprecition for your continuing support for "Our" Place 'n our small, but dedicated crew! Have one on me, Mate! <clink>
NZ Ka 969 4-8-4 <photo credit: Steam Incorporated - trainweb.org>
See y'all in the 'morrow!
Good evening Gents,I have returned from my dog sled trek looking for the wayward Nick.So lean a nice cup of Irish coffee with the extra Irish in it. Actually just a week of the 7am shifts catching up with me ,but I is here now
Tom-You been a busy boy lots 'o' great pictures to enjoy I'm glad that we didn't have to call out the guard to find Nick,we all know how unorganized the Mentor Fusiliers are I see that Ruth's winged away to her private Rendezvous Cindy is always most welcome espeacially since she keeps you so happy
Fergie must have been seeing mermaids again or was it barmaids Please keep me posted and in the loop about any possible rolling rendezvous
The subway set up looks great hopefully not too much blood was spilt in it's construction.I like to concider myself as a master of useless information,actually if something intrests me I'll research it to death,by the books etc etc. heather says we don't need any more books,I always say there is never such a thing as too many books.I'm the last of teh messed up generation up here. The generations before me were all Imperial measures folks and that's what they know and work in my generation got taught half n half so we are the great confused generation, the generation since and continuing on are straight metric, who haven't a clue about inches and miles.They figure in fifteen years the conversion will be complete.
Pete- sad to say none of teh O boats have been turned into museum's. Generally anything military that becomes a museum over here gets the full demiliterzation upto and including most fittings Last I heard all three were still tied up in Halifax awaiting crown assets to figure out what they are worth.Some great photo's the last couple days, loved that steam tractor.
CM3- Great to see you at least in pixels Amazing how many railroads served the greater St Louis area. I find that our cats are generally disuaded from being upset about other peoples pet smells as long as we break out the treats for them as well.We are their best staff after all.
Fergie-A stop in with some tales from the deep, including stories of mermaids from Toms past.
Nick-Good to see you again mate , I thought you might have locked yourself in the loo again . Always remeber that Boris will help you out of most jams he's very helpfull that way.
Allan-Nice to see a couple stop ins by you this past couple days as well. Makes it feel like the gangs all in again these last couple.I did indeed enjoy my abriveiated Victoria day weekend as my work scheduale worked out I was off only on the Victoria day Monday but I get this weekend Sat sun off. theres a big airshow in Toronto that we are headed to this weekend at the old CFB Downsview in Toronto. The Lanc will be flying along with two spits two hurricanes and an ME 109 , not to mention they have a full sized reconstruction of an Avro CF105 Arrow MK 1 so I'm sure I'll hopefully have many a photo to share next week.
Eric-Couple neat photo's from you the last couple days as well Yes looking back at the info you have provided you were at Guelph Jct on the x2000 circut. The station's gone now victem of a "fire" it hadn't been used as a passenger terminal in years. Don't worry about the double asking about our first two cars, I haven't written up the exam yet Yes we are a long ways from neatest outside rail facilities. it doesn't matter that much other than the transport fees as any equipment we would bring in , wouldn't be able to get to us on their own wheels anyway.
Rob
Good evening Captain Tom and Gentlemen!!
Leon, Steak and Bisquits, please! Don't forget to add extra marinade! A cold Tuborg Gold, thank you!
It is raining in the desert tonight. The temp is down to 53Ëš. Where is the heat?
Tom – Escalators? Hmmm, look quite a bit like some... escalators. Hmmm. 60Ëš in Gaspé? Warm? It must have been indoors. Everything below 75Ëš is cold. Springfield Union Station belonged to Illinois Central and their track obviously ran east - west through Springfield while Amtrak is running north - south. But it is a beautiful station building well worth a visit. Photos below. I am glad CM3 saw it when we were heading for the Lincoln home. Looking at your pictures from day 2, I can tell we had nice weather that day! Question: Photo #138. It looks like the train is heading out onto a tiny island. But that doesn’t make sense so I guess the railroad is following the shore, correct?New London, CT, train station! Does it have a connection to the Indiana Jones movie? Here is a photo from New London 1993.
BR 71000 is a very good looking locomotive! CM3 – On the other hand you have different fingers! So true!! I like that. Yes, I am also glad you looked in the right direction and saw Springfield Union Station! No, I don’t think Juneau thought your slides were bad, I think he was so excited seeing so many interesting slides!!! I was! When I see your list of railroads serving Alton, IL, I wonder if Alton and Southern didn’t serve Alton? It should.Pete – The price of aviation fuel in September? I don’t even want to think about it. I am glad I already have my ticket. Thanks for the pictures of the Showman’s engine and the steam trains. I love the one with the steam locomotive and the train (looks like Canada)! Nice light!Nick – Good to hear that you and the family are okay!!! Weather problems? Electrical storms really can cause a lot of problems. Allan – Sunny Phoenix climate?? Not today. It was cloudy most of the day and tonight we have rain. The high today was only in the low 70’s. Almost 40Ëš colder than last Monday! Rob – I agree, there is nothing like too many books. I still have several boxes filled with books in the attic but is slowly making room for them downstairs. I have changed the name of the station in my notes to Guelph Jct. Thank you! Sorry to learn that the station burned down. I am glad I didn’t screw up my exam by asking the same question over and over again.
Finally, Springfield Union Station again.
From the southwest.
Platform, on the north side of the building.
Eric
<Big Boy at the StL Museum of Transportation - personal foto>
Friday's Grin
Brain Cramps
"Half this game is ninety percent mental." --Philadelphia Phillies manager, Danny Ozark<I KNOW "Yogi" said that 1st!! >
The end of the work week can only mean one thing - good times for two days coming!
Fill up the mugs, check out The Mentor Village Bakery case ‘n order a <light> or <traditional> breakfast from our Menu Board!
Comments from the Proprietor
PLEASE visit "my other Thread" especially when there's been looooooooooong gaps between Posts!
Keeping track!
138 fotos from my 2008 Canada Rail Odyssey . . .
54 fotos from Rendezvous III
. . . more to follow!
From the You Won't Believe This! Department . . .
http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20080522/od_nm/naked_dc;_ylt=AoVph76TatY8GSeORRsgpmys0NUE
Perhaps a good reason to consider NZ as a Rendezvous site <tweeeeeeet> <tweeeeeeet>
Customer Acknowledgments (since my last narrative):
Thursday - May 22nd <all times Central daylite>:
Page 29 - CM3 Shane <coalminer3> at 9:02 AM: At least we still have Amtrak in St. Louis for passenger service, whereas across the river in E. St. Louis is it zilch - zero - zip. Closest station for them, other than here is north at Alton <that's where all of those kiddies departed the Beagle!>.
Early reveille, eh I recall those times - been there, done that ‘n got the magnet! <grin>
Perhaps Juneau was fatigued by your slide presentation -but methinks he was simply content in being smack-dab in the middle of it all! Just wanted to be included . . .
Had a friend from a town north of Toronto who said he used to travel from TO to St. Louis on CNRs thru equipment. Back in the day, of course. Sure would be nice, IF . . .
It must have been an amazing sight to see all of those roadnames emblazoned on the sides of the passenger cars beneath the enormous shed at StL Union Station. I can "hazily" recall it from 1953 . . . but the purpose of that trip was far reaching - we were heading to Santa Ana, California and the Boy Scout Jamboree.
Fully expect four bucks a gallon before Memorial Day ‘n it wouldn't surprise me if we hit five if things don't turn around with the speculators ‘n OPEC. What a bunch of fools we are to be taking this without a fight . . . [censored] Boris, ring the bell ‘n the drinks are on the Boss! <grrrrrrrrrr>
Thanx for the StL RR insights, ROUND, quarters ‘n chat!
Page 29 - Pete <pwolfe> at 3:07 PM: First off - enjoyed speaking with you yesterday afternoon! Have to get my weekly "dose" of Brit-speak, dontchano! <grin>
Yes, the bar is definitely in the throws of that downward spiral . . . supporting cast of PG <periphery guys> has pretty much dried up, so it's up to our GoR <Gang of Regulars> to maintain the flow . . . It's been a good ride though, ‘n no one or nothing lasts indefinitely. Even the guys who go berserk with racking up numbers for their appearances will one day look back ‘n say "Huh?". Fun is the idea . . . meaningful exchanges can make it so. Once we have exhausted those two facets, it'll surely be time to shut ‘er down.
A super-fine spate of fotos from Scotland - really came thru in brilliant colors. Nicely done, Mate! I know that I've not seen a "Showman's engine" before . . . Wonderful shot of the steam excursion rounding the bend . . .
"The Committee" has met ‘n you are approved for your weekend away at month's end - PROVIDING you put up a Post in advance of departure ‘n NOT wait so long to check-in upon return. Since our Manager seems to have skipped out on us, I've put the stamp of "okay" on it . . .
Sorry that the Cardinals jersey apparently has been blemished . . . BUT ketchup is red, isn't it <uh oh> Anyway, next time - buy a red one!
I think it is a safe bet that when we plan our next run up to Springfield, IL, that the Texas Eagle will be running late on the northbound. So, we'll have plenty of time to catch her . . . I'm already looking forward to the round-trip. I wouldn't be adverse to another trip up to Chicago . . . all kinds of possibilities, eh
Many thanx for the visit, fotos, chat ‘n ROUND!
Page 29 - Nick <nickinwestwales> at 5:18 PM <11:18 PM GMT>: The man called Nick has returned ‘n is OH-FISH-UL-LEE off the AWOL list!
"Our" Place is a far better place with you aboard . . . we've suffered absences before, some rather long, here's hoping those days <daze> are behind us! <clink>
Looking forward to a resumption of this ‘n that from our Resident Londoner in Wales!
Page 29 - Allan <Gunneral> at 8:39 PM <5:39 PM Friday NZ time>: Good to know some things remain constant - especially from our Resident Downunder <boom boom> Kiwi! We'd not do very well with a TUI drought! <yikes>
Appreciate the kind remarks - really do! The idea for "Our" Place ‘n the Rendezvous all have worked well - but the success really belongs to those who have been the supporters. We've always had a strong nucleus - even if reduced to a handful at times - it's our inner circle keeping us afloat. Cheers to YOU ‘n the rest of ‘em! <clink> Next one on ME, Mate!
I'll never fully understand the rationale behind the date selected for the opening of a supposed "block buster" move. For example, the latest Indiana Jones flick opened today <Thursday> when people are at work ‘n kids still in school. <duh> Hmmmmm. Oh well . . . they got their bucks from us. And to think that a DOUBLE-Feature with a stage show in between cost 25 cents when I was a kid. Really! There's that word again - CHANGE!
I meant to comment on the Manchester guyz pulling out their victory. But since I really don't follow it - completely slipped my feeble mind! <grin> Anyway, it's a grueling sport ‘n not engaged by the faint of heart. I do think Rugby is far more to my liking though . . . I like blood ‘n guts! <grin>
Tell us a bit about that plane crash . . .
Just thinking about those great trains running to ‘n from Scotland makes me wanna . . .
Many thanx for the visit, ROUND ‘n good cheer!
Page 29 - Rob <trolleyboy> at 10:48 PM: He lives! Our Manager is about <aboot> the decks, witty ‘n as interactive as ever! Good to have you back ‘n DON'T DO THAT AGAIN! <uh oh> Next one is on me - a double super-powered OJ this AM!
It's NEVER too late for that "formal" ED-U-MUH-KAY-SHUN. If I could do at age 50-54, so can anyone! I discovered a discipline of study that simply flicked my switch - anthropology. Had I been a youngster - that surely would've been my course of study and who knows . . . . It was a minor of mine <the other was sociology> but I had so many hours amassed that it easily could've wound up as a double major <criminology was "it">. Anyway, you've displayed much insight ‘n ability, that I can just "see" you in an academic environment . . . take it for what it's worth, Mate!
Mermaids, eh I never quite put ‘em in that category - but I suppose . . . Imagination is a wunnerful thing! <grin>
Glad to have you back in the fold ‘n hope that work doesn't wear those creative juices too thin . . . gotta set the PRIORITIES ya know! Drink up . . . <clink>
Friday - May 23rd:
Page 29 - Eric <EricX2000> at 1:22 AM: Although the new Indiana Jones flick was indeed partly filmed in the Nutmeg State, I don't recall seeing the New London train station in it.
A super fine spread of fotos from the Springfield Union Station - I say again, too bad that place isn't operational!
Figured the IC owned the right-of-way at one time . . . they also had a north-south line that the City of New Orleans traveled over. Today it belongs to CN.
Many thanx for the fine inclusive Post, chat ‘n fotos!
Reminder: Cindy has the bar from 9 AM until Leon the Night Man comes in at 5 PM ‘til closing.
TODAY 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!
Ruth returns Tuesday!
Boris, serve ‘em all of the "spiked" OJ they can handle!
Here's one from the archives to begin this end of the week work day!
PASSENGER TRAIN NOSTALGIA #7
<Initially Posted on 11 Oct 2005, Page 134 of the "original" Thread . . . >
Here's something to ponder with regard to our appreciation and fascination with Classic Trains. Check this out (unknown origin - found at flea market; circa 1920's) HOTELS AND BOARDING HOUSES in the BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAINS along the Washington and Old Dominion Railway
Name .............................. Terms and other information Bluemont, Va. ................ Located on mountain overlooking the Loudoun Valley; ... J.M. Moreland ............. modern conveniences; excellent board. Rates on application. ... H. Rathbone Smith ....... Accommodations for several guests on large estate located ...................................... on mountain; meals at owner's residence close to main ...................................... house; reasonable rates; references required. ... A. L. Longerbeam ........... Best country board; terms moderate. ... Mrs. Millard Patterson ...... Excellent board; chicken, milk, fresh eggs; home garden. ...................................... Terms $2.00 per day' $10.00 and $12.00 per week. ... "The Heights" ................ Modern conveniences; splendid home cooking. ... Mrs. T. P. Simpson .......... Terms moderate. ... Proprietress ... "The Loudoun" ............... Large lawn; tennis. Comfortable rooms, porches, etc. ... J. C. Beatty, Proprietor ...... Terms: Single rooms, $15.00 per week; double rooms, ............................................. $12.00 per person per week. Round Hill, Va. ... "Baldwin House" ............. Terms on application. ... F. P. Lowe ..................... Near town. Terms on application. ... E. L. Donohoe ................ Terms on application. ... Fannie Wynkoop ............. Terms on application. ... Maud Wynkoop .............. Terms on application. ... T. W. Best ..................... Near town. Terms on application. ... Mollie Copeland ............. Terms on application. ... Edw. Finnell .................. Terms on application. Purcellville, Va. ... "The Bell Inn ................ Modern conveniences; plenty shade; ... Mrs. M. H. Beal ............. Lawn; garden vegetables. Terms $3.00 ... Proprietress ................... per day; $30.00 per month. ... "The White Cottage" ....... Near town. Excellent table. ... Miss Rebecca Lloyd ........ Terms on application. ... Proprietress ... Mrs. E. Shoemaker ......... Near town. Large shady lawn; fresh ... R. F. D. No. 2 ............... vegetables. Terms on application. ... Mrs. Alice Corder .......... Near station. Modern conveniences. ..................................... Terms on application. Hamilton, Va. ................. Large shady lawn; fresh vegetables; ... Mrs. J. W. Chamberlin ..... milk; cream; eggs. Modern conveniences; . .................................... excellent table. Terms $10.00 to $12.00 per week. Leesburg, Va. ................ Located in business section. A delightful place ... "Leesburg Inn" ............. Spend day and week-end vacations. Special Sunday .................................... chicken dinners. ... Mrs. Fulton ................. Near town. Modern country home. Delightful meals; .................................... terms on application. Electric Trains leave from Rossyln Terminal Station (Washington), located South End Key Bridge, on Frequent Schedules * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Enjoy! Tom
Yes, we're on Page 30 <a multiple of 10> - so here's that REMINDER of the way we do things 'round here from Page 1 of this "new" Thread . . .
As determined by Kalmbach, the 2nd "old Thread" has been shut down <locked> and the new begins today, 21 Mar 2008. What's different Nothing! Same crew, same way of doing things and hopefully the same supporting cast that has kept us afloat all this time.History: "Our" Place began on April 12th, 2005 on the General Discussion (Classic Trains) Forum.Concept: An adult bar & grill for all who are interested in and familiar with "Classic Trains." The conversations are as they would be in a neighborhood bar, where people know one another and share stories, photos and other information relevant to the idea of the Forum - Classic Trains. All of this with some humor thrown in and the rest is simple.Objective: Have fun!Ground rules: Leave ALL emotional baggage and "attitudes" on the front porch. Be inclusive with your comments through the acknowledgment of the other guy's efforts. Hit ‘n run Posts are not welcome.Greet the bartender upon entering and order a drink or food. Pretty easy, eh * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *Final "stats" for the 2nd "old" Thread at 9:34 AM, 21 Mar 2008:Replies: 4,001Views: 122,664 Pages: 201* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *For those who may require it, the links to the "old" Threads are:#1 - http://cs.trains.com/trccs/forums/451/991587/ShowPost.aspx#991587#2 - http://cs.trains.com/forums/201/991960/ShowPost.aspx#991960* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
What's different Nothing! Same crew, same way of doing things and hopefully the same supporting cast that has kept us afloat all this time.
History: "Our" Place began on April 12th, 2005 on the General Discussion (Classic Trains) Forum.
Concept: An adult bar & grill for all who are interested in and familiar with "Classic Trains."
The conversations are as they would be in a neighborhood bar, where people know one another and share stories, photos and other information relevant to the idea of the Forum - Classic Trains.
All of this with some humor thrown in and the rest is simple.
Objective: Have fun!
Ground rules: Leave ALL emotional baggage and "attitudes" on the front porch.
Be inclusive with your comments through the acknowledgment of the other guy's efforts. Hit ‘n run Posts are not welcome.
Greet the bartender upon entering and order a drink or food. Pretty easy, eh
Final "stats" for the 2nd "old" Thread at 9:34 AM, 21 Mar 2008:
Replies: 4,001
Views: 122,664
Pages: 201
For those who may require it, the links to the "old" Threads are:
#1 - http://cs.trains.com/trccs/forums/451/991587/ShowPost.aspx#991587
#2 - http://cs.trains.com/forums/201/991960/ShowPost.aspx#991960
Later . . .
Good Morning Barkeep and all Present; coffee, please (New England Full City Roast will be just fine), something from the pie case (it is Friday), round for the house and $ for the jukebox.
Before anything (given this weekend) - Gentleman, charge your glasses! A toast to absent friends.
The Bostons nearly snatched defeat from the jaws of victory yesterday but they survived - off to Oakland now. Weather here in the mid-40s this a.m. and a few showers around - supposed to get better over the weekend.
Happy 125th Birthday, Brooklyn Bridge.
Thought for the Day: Eagles may soar, but weasels don't get sucked into jet engines.
Nick has reapparated. Hope the lights are back on - can't say as I'd miss the ‘phone a whole lot, though.
Rob has reappeared as well.
Pete - The showman's engine resembles something from "The wind in the Willows." Strait's Shows (one of the few left who travel by train) has diesels to provide power for rides, midway, etc. Fascinating to watch them unload and set up. We have seen pictures of the PRR 2-10-0 in Hamburg, NY in earlier posts. Their train unloads right near there to get to the Erie County Fairgrounds.
Also liked your Scotland pictures.
Eric - wish it would get to the 50s around here. Thanks for the shots of the Springfield station. See below for Alton and southern information.
OSP has been by with pictures. Lovely dome shots, sir; especially photos 133 and 134. Reminds me a lot of Maine (funny thing about that). Your shot at New London is fairly recent as it shows the overhead. Eric's was a little bit older.
Can we ride the motor car out to Leesburg for a Special Sunday Chicken Dinner? Used to call it "Gospel bird" around here.
Here's a little more about the Alton and Southern (in response to Eric's question).
The A&S (in 1950) billed themselves as the "St. Louis-East St. Louis Gateway" and as "The East St. Louis Outer Belt Line." They had 31 miles of trackage; most around E. St Louis, however, the A&S did cross the river into St. Louis via the MacArthur Bridge.
Company information said that the A&S provided switching and terminal service around "St. Louis, East St. Louis, Dupo, Valley Jct., Granite City, Madison, and Mitchell, ILL." The Alton and Southern had direct connections with the following lines: B&O, C&EI, GM&O, IC, IT, L&M, L&N, Manufacturers Ry., MP, NYC, NYC&St.L, PRR, St. Louis and Belleville Electric Ry., St. Louis and O' Fallon, SLSF, SSW, SOU, TRRA, and WAB. They had a dock facility at Fox Terminal Wharf; on the E. St. Louis side of the river.
Here's a snapshot of the TRRA in 1950, again from the ORG.
"Terminal Railroad Association of St. Louis serves the industrial district of St. Louis and adjacent communities on both sides of the Mississippi River. It connects and interchanges traffic with all of the 25 railroads at St. Louis-East St. Louis; with the Federal Barge Line, Mississippi Valley Barge Line, and the St. Louis National Stock Yards."
"With its 65 steam and 72 diesel switchers, large capacity yards, nearly 400 miles of track, icing station, and trained personnel, it is adequately equipped to quickly handle freight traffic through the St. Louis gateway."
"Hundreds of industries and firms are served directly from rails of the Terminal Railroad Association. A location on Terminal rails is equivalent to being served by every one of the trunk line railroads serving St. Louis."
Have a good weekend - will continue more on ORO St. Louis lines next week.
Work safe
G'day Shane!
Just wanted to let you know that I caught your Post before the loooooooong weekend!
Hope you'll be able to get that plaque foto to me . . .
Check out the URL I just added to this AMs acknowledgments . . . <grin>
Have a "gud un"
A B'day gift from Juneau!
Continuing on with Rendezvous III fotos . . . Rule of Six suspended!
NOTE: On our 2nd full day of Rendezvous activities, we were "blessed" with the anticipated late, late arrival of the northbound Texas Eagle at StL Union Station. What you say! Anyway, rather than spending far too much time sitting or standing in ‘n out of the Amtrak Shack, we used that time to explore Union Station. There really isn't that much remaining, other than the architecture, of back in the day. However, on the 2nd level we found quite an interesting display of memorabilia, along model RR displays, that I'm sure the guys will "treat" us to a bit later on. The following spread are those things that captured my attention - even though I'd seen ‘em before . . . <grin> Hope you enjoy ‘em too!
"Our" Place Classic Trains Rendezvous III - St. Louis, MO 2008 - Day Two
Walls of RR heralds at Union Station
(55)
(56)
(57)
(58)
(59)
(60)
(61)
(62)
(63)
(64)
(65) The Boyz at Union Station
(66)
More to follow . . .
(139) View from the Skyline Dome
(140)
(141)
(142) Approaching Chandler, Québec <Home of the Bar Chandlers>
<Note: I erred in an earlier comment about Chandler - we did stop to disembark a few!>
(143) Some window art work at Chandler!
(144) More of a static display, methinks!
and <drumroll> . . .
(145) An extra for Pete!
A pint or two of Bathams please CINDY, heard any thing from RUTH by the way.
TOM Great to talk with you yesterday. Glad you enjoyed the Indiana Jones film.
Congratulations on turning page 30
Great photos of New London station, the ‘Duke' and the NZ Ka 969. and loved the link to the NZ news report and the comment by the Police Sergeant.
Thanks for the kind words on the photos.
With the increase in trains on the Chicago route it is possible to go up there on a morning train and back on the Beagle.It seems the policy, to me, if a train is running to time it has priority of one running late, so one starting in St Louis should arrive in Chicago about right time, but I could be wrong.
Many thanks for the Passenger Train Nostalgia from October 2005 on the Hotels and Boarding Houses in the Blue Ridge Mountains, I wonder if there was much rivalry between Fannie and Maud Wyncoop's boarding houses in Round Hill.
Thanks for posting the rules of the bar. I had a quick look at Our Place II and there as been another 15,458 views there since we closed.
Juneau knows how to give a great gift.
Many thanks for the photos in the museum at Union Station; it is good to see those names and heralds of the railroads that served the area. I wonder who the ‘M Manufactures' were. Those pictures of us came out really well even the one I took.
Great photos of Chandler it looks a good town with a great station, I wonder how many bars there are there. I think the ‘Static Display' is the conveyance to get the bar chandlers back to the station after the graduation party after the training is over.
NICK Great to see you back Seems like another round of bad weather in West Wales it certainly has been a bad year for the weather over there this year.
Real glad the never got you, looking forward to your posts when you have caught up.
ALLAN Thanks for the kind words on the photos.
The Sleeper still runs to Fort WilliamIt leaves London Euston at about 9.30PM and it goes to Edinburgh behind electric traction and splits into 3 portions, one to Aberdeen, one to Inverness and the Fort William portion. It is the longest passenger train on BR now. We took the sleeper when we went on the Highland Steam Festival, having to go to Euston to catch it, as the first stop out of Euston is Crewe. It was a great trip with a good atmosphere in the bar car which closed at Preston having run out of all alcoholic beverages.
Yes I though the Euro final was a good showcase for English Soccer. I thought Man Utd should have rapped it up in the first half but were lucky in the second half as Chelsea came on strong. Although not a big fan of penalty shootouts they sure are exciting and I don't know what else they could do. Being from north of Watford I am glad Man Utd won.
It really would have been good to have had you at the Rendezvous.
ROB Great to see you see you. Loved the Mermaids or Barmaids but sounds a bit fishy to me.
Many thanks for the kind words on the photos. Those Showman's Engines are a great sight and quite a few have survived today.
It good to know there are three ‘O' class submarines still in existence, if we are able to meet up we will have to have a chat about them.
Have a great time at the Air show this Saturday. It will be great to see and hear those Classic Aircraft.
ERIC Many Thanks for the photo of the X2000 at New London station and the Union Station in Springfield Ill. The station looks is really great condition inside as well as outside.
Glad you enjoyed my photos, yes it is good light in the North of Scotland, when it is not raining which they get a lot of. On the ones of the 8F between Thurso and Wick, the loco was running tender first, which it had to do all the way from Inverness to Wick as there are no turning facilities in the far north. They chose the right way round, as on the way up it was pleasant weather but on the return the next day it was heavy rain later in the day.
CM3 May I join you in the toast to Absent Friends and all those who serve.
Yes I recall the photos of the circus train unloading at the bar. I was too too young to have seen the Showman's' steam engines at the fairs but I well recall the diesel generators that powered the rides at the traveling fairs that visited my town. They even had a moment of glory in line in a rock song, "With the roar of Ruston diesel". I wonder if NICK or anyone knows from what song it came from, a clue; the lead singer/guitarist of the band came from Newcastle on Tyne.
A steam powered ride at Bressingham Steam Gardens
Glad you enjoyed the photos.
Many thanks for the information on the Alton & Southern and the TRRA of St Louis. The TRRA certainly had a large fleet of locomotives in 1950.
Today's photos.
"Speed Bonnie Boat, Like a Bird on the Wing"
At Kyle of Lochalsh looking over to the Isle of Skye after arrival with 75014.
75014 being brought up to pressure ready for the trip back to Inverness.The Kyle line is very scenic with steep grades and running along side a Loch at the Kyle end. When I first went here in the mid 1970s if was a ferry connection to Skye but now there is a road bridge at Kyle to Skye.
Also at Kyle was another charter train, with ex works 37413 in EWS colours, the loco is named "The Scottish Railway Preservation Society". When I was there in the 70s it was loco hauled passenger trains, nowdays they are in the hands of DMUs like the one on the right in the first photo, apart from specials.
You might like this video.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=86egt8PDmos
Well CINDY a round please and the Steak and Fries before I make sure the bar is well stocked.
Good evening Captain Tom and all present!
It is Friday night, Leon! I would like to have my favorite, Rumpsteak Café de Paris! Yes, please! Oh, you know, medium. To drink? Hmm, a cold Tui, please.
A cold day in the desert. We got some rain and even some thunder.
Tom – Interesting info on the Hotels and Boarding houses in the Blue Ridge Mountains! Imagine today that they would ask you for references when you check in! Interesting book, Great Northern Empire Builder! Reminds me there is a railroad, shortline, in Sweden that goes by the same name, Great Northern! Good idea to take pictures of all those RR heralds! Never thought of that. Nice shots!That part of Québec (Chandler) seems to be very flat. Do you know what kind of industry it is in photo #141? They obviously have their own switcher. CM3 – I would like to join you in the toast to absent friends! We hit 72Ëš today! Kind of windy too.25 railroads at St. Louis/East St. Louis! Thanks for the info!! Pete – Thanks for the photos! Beautiful area round Kyle at Lochalsh! The diesel locomotive, what class? Very British design in my opinion. Beautiful views in the Skye Boat Song video! Scotland I presume.
Hope everyone is ready for a fine, long weekend here in the states . . . just one request: Enjoy the long weekend ‘n keep a thought or three for those in whose memory we reflect!
Time to fill up the mugs - check out the pastry case ‘n order a breakfast from our Menu Board!
145 fotos from my 2008 Canada Rail Odyssey . . .
66 fotos from Rendezvous III
Friday - May 23nd <all times Central daylite>:
Page 30 - CM3 Shane <coalminer3> at 10:03 AM: First customer ‘n the honor goes to our Resident WVA Connection in his "slot"!
Email received ‘n responded to - thanx!
I've traveled along the coast of eastern Nova Scotia ‘n if you want to make comparisons, that surely reminds one of Maine - big time. Although there were a few places along the line to Gaspé where the resemblance stood out. <aaaaaaaaauh>
Next time I'm in Virginia <used to call it home for 5 years> we'll have to check out that place for the Sunday dinner!
A&S ‘n TRRA info is a good "fit" given the week past . . .
Many thanx for the visit, quarters ‘n ROUND!
Page 30 - Pete <pwolfe> at 4:36 PM: Just two daytime customers - you ‘n Shane! We're definitely in one of those periods of no wind in the sails . . .
As always, enjoyed your foto spread - some good stuff! Last one almost looks like a model - nice livery!
The Isle of Skye is where one of our family dogs came from - he was a terrific pooch, a Skye Terrier - long, hairy body - short legs - ‘n very devoted to us all <many decades ago>. "Hodges" was his name - named after the guy who gave him to us. We had just lost our family pet ‘n he "insisted" that the kids needed another . . . he was right! Loved that dog!
Nice link - song is rather "pensive" - but definitely what one would expect from that area! Some beautiful photos too!
Yes, the "hits" keep piling up on both "locked" bars - just makes me wonder WHY they can't be called back - whereas any other Post, regardless of how old, can. Doesn't make sense to me - ours contains all kinds of quality stuff, but gets "lost" as the months go by. Others, no matter how ridiculous can get brought to Page 1 simply with a "click." Again, doesn't make sense.
With names like Maud ‘n Fannie . . . well, no comment! <grin>
Manufacturers Railway Company info may be found at:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manufacturers_Railway_Company
As I understand it <'n I'm NOT an authority!> - passenger trains still have priority on the rails in the U.S. - HOWEVER, once they fall behind in their schedule, well then it's "pot luck" - translated: into the passing sidings! <ugh>
Surprised you didn't pick up on that URL in yesterday's acknowledgments . . .
Many thanx for your continuing < I3 > Posts! ROUND ‘n fotos appreciated!
Saturday - May 24th:
Page 30 - Eric <EricX2000> at 1:28 AM <11:28 PM Friday sandbox time>: I checked my notes ‘n found that foto #141 is of a paper & pulp mill at Chandler.
Caught the weather for your area on the TV ‘n thought about you "shivering" in the sand box! We're going to have another fine day in the 70s, whereas beginning tomorrow we'll get up into the 80s. In no time at all we'll be sweltering with the blast furnace heat of July ‘n August - ‘n guess what It's NOT a dry heat! <grin>
Nice shot of the BC Rail RDCs at "Land Between the Lakes"!
Times have changed - references to stay at a place of loding! Yeah, I can just imagine how long that idea would last today! <grin>
Appreciate the visit, chat ‘n business! <KaChing> <KaChing>
A nice hot cup of coffee and a bacon sarnie on this very wet and stormy Mid-Mo morning please CINDY.
ERIC Thanks for the kind words on the photos. The area around the Kyle of Lochalsh is very beautiful. The very first time I visited the area was in the early 1970s on a British Rail All Line railrover ticket. An overnight train from home then a 6AM start out of Glasgow up the West Highland Line to Mallaig, where there was a Thursday only boat the ran up the coast between Skye and the Mainland to the Kyle then a train to Inverness and overnight train back to Edinburgh.
The diesel in the photo is an English Electric Type 3 Co-Co of 1,750HP, the class was introduced in 1961 and just a small number are in use with EWS today. They became class 37s in the T.O.P.S. number scheme and 37413 was one of a batch of 31 there were fitted with HEP for passenger work.
Glad you enjoyed the video and the Scottish scenes.
Many thanks for the photo of the RDCs passing the lake and heading for Mountain Village no doubt with some patrons of the Second Class Saloon on board
TOM. We will be putting Old Glory and the ‘Jack' outside the house Monday to honor those who served.
Glad you enjoyed the photos and the ‘Skye' song video.
Those Scottish terrier breeds seem to have great deal of personality and great loyalty, "Hodges" sounds as though he had those qualities. A good touch on locomotives in late BR days, mainly the class 37/4s that worked off Eastfield shed in Glasgow, was they a had a transfer of a West Highland terrier on the bodyside of the locomotives.
As you say it would be good to have the other Our Places on page 1, if it was done by the number of views I think we would be, still there must be a lot of folks searching them out. It is a real pity that one or two of them don't pop in the bar but we have talked about this.
Many thanks for the link to the Manufactures Railway Company, I did not know Anheuser Busch was involved with railways, unfortunately the link to the MRC official website would not work when I tried, I will have to try again later.
Not Guilty M'Lud. I did see your URL yesterday, I did comment on it yesterday but it was in my comment about your ‘Duke and NZ locomotive photos.
The Barry Scrapyard photos I talked about.
I am not to keen to see these fine machines waiting their fate but Barry was different. My first visit was in late 1968, when steam had just finished on BR and there was 212 steam locos in Barry. The really great thing is that all but a handful have been saved and over half of the egines have been renovated by preservationists and have steamed again, some working main line steam tours..
A general view looking from Barry Island. I think the locos are, looking from left to right, A GWR King class, SR Pacific, GWR small prarie Tank, not sure, Looks like a tender from a BR Standard Class 2 2-6-0 and GWR 2-8-0 Tank on the right.
A sad sight ex LMS Jubilee class No 45699 'Galatea'. I believe the cut off driving wheel was due to a derailment in the yard and that was the easiest way to solve it. 45699 together with the other Jubilee 45690 'Leander'(which has been running for over 25 years now) were Bristol Barrow Road engines and were near Barry. Beleve it or not but 'Galatea' is due to be running again in the near future..
BR Standard Class 4 2-6-0
Great Western Railway 2-8-0 freight loco and it looks like one of the two GWR 'King' Class locomotives that made it to Barry by mistake. One King No 6024 'King Edward I' has been restored for a while now and is a main line favorite.The other King No.6023 'King Edward II' suffered the same fate as Galatea with a cut driving wheel, but that loco is well on the way to running again.
A SR Pacific with a BR Standard 2-6-4 tank alongside. On the left is a main reason why the steam locomotives survived at Barry, there was a steady supply of wagons being scrapped.
Ex LMS 4F 0-6-0 No 44422, this loco as just come back after an overhaul, after a few years running on preserved lines.
EX LMS 8F 2-8-0. The diesel behind the 8F is interesting, it was D 6122 a North British diesel electric, also in the yard about this time was a NB 'Warship' diesel hydraulc No D 601 'Ark Royal'. These locos were not saved and there is not a NB mainline diesel preserved. D601 was a Western Region locomotive, but D6122 was a Scottish region locomotive, there must be a story of how D6122 came to be at the South Wales scrapyard.
Well Cindy I am ready for a Bathams and a round for those who come in..
And so you did, Pete - but I'm skeptical, as I surely didn't see it the first time! Hmmmm. Anyway, you're STILL GUILTY - how come you can't find "my other Thread" <gotcha!>
And now . . . . more from my 2008 Canada Rail Odyssey . . .
(146) Looking forward in the dome - surprised I caught this one!
(147) Almost heaven!
(148) Scenes from the Skyline Dome
(149)
(150) Approaching Grand-Riviére, Quebéc
(151) Now we're talkin'!!
Been a rather gloomy Saturday 'round here - no storms, but not up to the forecast of being the "pick day" for the long weekend. Yeah, right! Some light rain, a chill 'n very cloudy <gloom>. Good day to work on the Can-Am Railway - which I did. Track cleaning 'n taking care of "dead spots" on the rails . . . all part of the hobby! The trains are running the way they are supposed to . . .
NOTE: Walked over to the Amtrak Shack <aka: station> after spending some quality time at Union Station. The Texas Eagle was going to be "in" before 11 AM - which makes it about 3.5 hours late . . . but it did work to our advantage! Nice blue sky day with no need for jackets . . . Did catch a bit of freight activity, as you will see.
Look closely and you will see the concrete work for the new platforms . . .
(67) MultiModal Station taking shape <Amtrak - MetroLink - Greyhound>
(68)
(69) Amtrak Shack <actually this is an IMPROVEMENT over the trailers that housed the station for decades - this building will become the maintenance facility once MultiModal becomes operational>
(70) UP making up a freight
(71)
(72)
(73)
(74)
More to follow . . . on Monday!
Enjoy the long weekend 'n let's not forget WHY we celebrate this time in May!
Leon, the usual round of Tui`s for all the guys` please!
Tom. Had a great laugh at that URL on the latest NZ news, that Israeli girl made the news here big time, no photos`of her though! That plane crash in Munich in 1958 decimated the young Manchester United football [soccer] team, they were nicknamed "Busby`s Babes`", their is a comprehensive write up about it at;
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Munich_air_disaster
It was a big loss to English football as a lot of the players who were killed were top class. Nice pic of the NZR K Class 4-8-4, they look big in real life even if they are only 3ft 6inch gauge loco`s. Really enjoying all your great photos` of RV III with some nice shots of the you and the Boyz, nice shots in the St Louis Union Station of the historic displays, and the ones of your Amtrak Shack visit too. Interesting info on the Blue Ridge Mountain accomodations` in your Passenger Train Nostalgia #7. Some really nice scenic seashore shots of your Chaleur trip to Gaspe, Pete will be thrilled with that Chandler shot.
Rob. Great to see you back mate, looking forward to seeing all the pics of your Toronto CFB trip, see that they had the Dam Busters 65th anniversary in the UK last week, the only living pilot from the raid is a NZ`er and they flew him all the way over to the UK for the remembrance ceremonies. They flew a Lancaster over the dam in Derbyshire, where they did the trial runs BITD, during the ceremony.
Eric. Wish we had your temperatures` over here at the moment, we are firing up the wood burner nearly every day now. Nice pics of Springfield Union Station and New London, CT.
CM3. Was in with some interesting info on the Alton and Southern RR and TRRA in 1950.
Pete. Some more nice shots of your Scottish trip, really enjoyed that evocative "Sky Boat Song" by The Corries. Good to hear the Sleeper train is still running to Fort William, it must be the only one running in the UK now? Those were some really great shots of the Barry yard and all those steam locos` waiting for cutting up, good job their was some one there who knew the intrinsic value of some of them. See they have sacked Grant the Chelsea manager already, he did a great job getting the team to the final some club owners are never satisfied are they?
Good evening Captain Tom and all present!!
Leon, still awake!! No, not really. Just a cold Tuborg Gold will be enough at this hour.
Kind of quiet day here today. Saw a strange light in the sky tonight. Have no idea what it might be, at least not a train, classic or not.
Tom – Hey, what kind of guy do you think I am? No, don’t answer. I checked that URL and read about what happened, poor girl, and there was nothing I could do to help her. It was on the cool side again today, 72Ëš. It’s going to warm up though starting this Sunday. No dry heat? I am sorry to hear that. Thank you for the answer on what kind of industry it was in your photo. Paper mill, makes sense even if I have seen very few trees in your Canadian pictures from that area. Almost heaven? Do you believe there is snow in heaven? Maybe because it is too hot at the other place. Anyway, I like those grayish photos from your Canada trip! Typical late winter/early spring weather when one doesn’t want to go outside. Nice looking light house!Nice photos from Amtrak’s present and future station in St. Louis! What year is the new station supposed to be finished? Pete – You are right! Several of the mean guys from Second Class Saloon was in those RDCs. I saw they were looking at me when the train passed below where I was standing. Thanks for the info on the diesel locomotive and the Kyle of Lochalsh area! Interesting and kind of sad photos from Barry Island! Locos waiting for the torch always look sad. I am glad some of them were saved though. LMS 4F 0-6-0 No 44422 has two pipes or chimney like things sticking up from the tender. Do you know what that is for?Allan – The hot season will start here very soon and I will try to send you some of the heat. I wonder why they didn’t show any pictures of that Israeli girl? Hmm. Texas Eagle arriving St. Louis a few hours late on its way to Chicago.St. Louis.Crossing a diamond.Looking out.Streetrunning in Springfield, IL.Springfield, IL.The end.UP locos with empty cars. Springfield, IL.Eric
<Alco S2 at the StL Museum of Transportation - personal foto>
Reminder: "Our" Place is CLOSED on SUNDAYs
Getting a leg-up on the acknowldgements before Monday rolls 'round . . .
151 fotos from my 2008 Canada Rail Odyssey . . .
74 fotos from Rendezvous III
Saturday - May 24th <all times Central daylite>:
Page 30 - Pete <pwolfe> at 3:21 PM: Good to see our Bar Chandler being active on this lonely Saturday at the bar. Wanted to get some grass cutting done, but the light rains have made it impossible - don't want "clumps" instead of cleanly cut mulched remains. Supposed to get more rain tomorrow thru Monday . . . most unusual spring, fer sure, fer sure!
Put the time to good use though ‘n got those troublesome track conditions taken care of with the Can-Am Railway. I have an assortment of "things" to clean track, but nothing seems to work any better than good old fashioned "elbow grease" . . . even with a whole-house air purifier ‘n dehumidifier in operation - the tracks require maintenance, otherwise we get the results witnessed last week at Rendezvous III. <barf>
Personality is a good descriptor - for Hodges certainly had his. A great family pet ‘n friend . . . it was a sad day when he had to be put to sleep. I'm sure my kids will always remember that "funny looking" dog we had . . . <grin>
Wouldn't want to accuse you of ‘editing to cover-up' - but, the tapes are being reviewed! <uh oh>
Thanx for the Spate of Seven fotos - ‘n I agree with you that it is a sad thing to know those beasts of the rails were destined for a fate not befit their days of glory. <sad> But, thanx to people who give a Rat's Patoot, we have places like the StL Museum of Transportation <Kirkwood> - ExpoRail <Québec> ‘n many others where the best of what was can still be seen . . .
Appreciate the visit, chat, fotos ‘n ROUND!
Page 30 - Allan <Gunneral> at 10:44 PM <5:44 PM Sunday NZ time>: A most sobering URL regarding the soccer team's plane crash back in 1958. I was at sea for quite a bit of that year ‘n probably didn't hear about it OR just wasn't logged in my long-term memory <which from time to time gets a bit foggy!>. Anyway, what a tragedy. I surely can support those survivors with their thoughts about any movies being made WITHOUT consulting them. What a bunch of crap from Hollywood, eh Why not! That seems to be the way in these times - revise history for a buck. <barf> Did that movie ever come out
Brought to mind a similar tragedy with a college football team from West Virginia back in 1970. Hollywood did make a movie from that one - but apparently did it "right" with their version called, "We Are Marshall." Very sobering. Shown at the Emporium on Sep 23rd - 29th, 2007 . . .
http://www.marshall.edu/library/speccoll/virtual_museum/Memorial/fountain.asp
Good to have you aboard on our quiet Saturday - we surely needed that ROUND of TUIs!
Sunday - May 25th:
Page 30 - Eric <EricX2000> at 2:59 AM <12:59 AM sandbox time>: Strange light in the desert sky <uh oh> Where's Rod Serling ‘n the Twilight Zone when we need him <grin>
The St. Louis MultiModal Station was supposed to have been finished years ago - but the start date kept getting delayed primarily over indecision and the like from the major players. Many point their fingers in the direction of St. Louis City Hall . . . but that is heresay. The last completion date I saw in print was for THIS MONTH - which obviously aint' gonna happen. Also, have read that Greyhound has been a foot dragger as well . . . Amtrak isn't breaking any construction records with their end of the deal <platforms, etc.> so you can see how this kind of thing goes. Over ten years ago I used to interact with a group of people who were "in the know" about projects like this one - best I can say is that there were <and probably still are> many in politics who ask questions simply for the sake of asking questions. You know the type - they have the answers - but want YOU to provide your version in order to either trip you up, or create an atmosphere of doubt. And the beat goes on <Sonny & Cher> . . .
Spate of Eight fotos from our Rendezvous came thru quite nicely - Thank you for them!
Best be careful when you're visiting Can-Am's Mountain Village. Those Second Class Saloon boyz also work for the railroad up there - track gang <former chain gang> members! <uh oh>
Appreciate the late-nite visit with inclusive comments ‘n good cheer!
"Our" Place is CLOSED on SUNDAYs
Starting TODAY at the Mentor Village Emporium Theatre!
. . . May 25th thru 31st: Force 10 From Navarone <1978> Starring: Robert Shaw, Harrison Ford, Barbara Bach, Edward Fox & Franco Nero - and - ENCORE Presentation of The Natural <1984> Starring: Robert Redford, Glenn Close, Kim Basinger & Wilford Brimley. SHORT - The Three Stooges: Hold that Lion! <1947>.
<Note: The Natural first shown on Sunday, Sep 24th thru 30th, 2006>
Force 10 From Navarone <1978>
PLOT SUMMARY: Robert Shaw (The Deep, Jaws) and Harrison Ford (The Fugitive, Air Force One) star as fearless World War II commandos in this thrilling follow-up to The Guns of Navarone. Directed by Guy Hamilton (Goldfinger) and adapted to the screen by Robin Chapman (screenplay) and Academy Award winner* Carl Foreman (screen story), it's a large-scale action-adventure saga with "remarkable special effects" (Los Angeles Times), a powerful cast and "one hair-breadth escape after another" (Newsweek). In the darkest days of World War II, Hitler's armies are storming through Europe, annihilating all opposition in their path. But US Colonel Barnsby (Ford) plots to strike a crippling blow to the brutal Nazi forces. To succeed, he'll need the help of the most skilled and lethal soldiers in the world: the Force 10 squad, fresh from its triumphant mission at Navarone.
Robert Shaw (The Deep, Jaws) and Harrison Ford (The Fugitive, Air Force One) star as fearless World War II commandos in this thrilling follow-up to The Guns of Navarone. Directed by Guy Hamilton (Goldfinger) and adapted to the screen by Robin Chapman (screenplay) and Academy Award winner* Carl Foreman (screen story), it's a large-scale action-adventure saga with "remarkable special effects" (Los Angeles Times), a powerful cast and "one hair-breadth escape after another" (Newsweek). In the darkest days of World War II, Hitler's armies are storming through Europe, annihilating all opposition in their path. But US Colonel Barnsby (Ford) plots to strike a crippling blow to the brutal Nazi forces. To succeed, he'll need the help of the most skilled and lethal soldiers in the world: the Force 10 squad, fresh from its triumphant mission at Navarone.
<from: amazon.com>
The Natural <1984>
PLOT SUMMARY: Nothing was going to stop Roy Hobbs from fulfilling his boyhood dream of baseball superstardom. Robert Redford stars in this inspiring fable that begins when 14-year-old Hobbs (Redford) fashions a powerful bat from a fallen oak tree. He soon impresses major league scouts with his ability, fixing his extraordinary talent in the mind of sportswriter Max Mercy (Duvall), who eventually becomes instrumental in Hobbs' career. But a meeting with a mysterious woman shatters his dream. Years pass and an older Hobbs reappears as a rookie for the New York Knights. Overcoming physical pain and defying those who have a stake in seeing the Knights lose, Hobbs, with his boyhood bat, has his chance to lead the Knights to the pennant and to finally fulfill his dream.
Nothing was going to stop Roy Hobbs from fulfilling his boyhood dream of baseball superstardom. Robert Redford stars in this inspiring fable that begins when 14-year-old Hobbs (Redford) fashions a powerful bat from a fallen oak tree. He soon impresses major league scouts with his ability, fixing his extraordinary talent in the mind of sportswriter Max Mercy (Duvall), who eventually becomes instrumental in Hobbs' career. But a meeting with a mysterious woman shatters his dream. Years pass and an older Hobbs reappears as a rookie for the New York Knights. Overcoming physical pain and defying those who have a stake in seeing the Knights lose, Hobbs, with his boyhood bat, has his chance to lead the Knights to the pennant and to finally fulfill his dream.
SHORT: The Three Stooges - Hold That Lion! (1947)
PLOT SUMMARY: The Stooges' inheritance from their late Uncle Ambrose has been stolen by crooked investment broker Icabod Slipp. The boys go over to Slipp's office to subpoena him, but he beats each of them up, rips up their subpoenas and then takes off on a train with the boys' inheritance. The Stooges trail him to the train he's on, but before finding him, they accidentally let loose a lion on the train. Later on, the boys finally capture Slipp and get their inheritance money back from him.<Curly Howard, who had retired, makes a cameo in this film as a snoring passenger.>
The Stooges' inheritance from their late Uncle Ambrose has been stolen by crooked investment broker Icabod Slipp. The boys go over to Slipp's office to subpoena him, but he beats each of them up, rips up their subpoenas and then takes off on a train with the boys' inheritance. The Stooges trail him to the train he's on, but before finding him, they accidentally let loose a lion on the train. Later on, the boys finally capture Slipp and get their inheritance money back from him.<Curly Howard, who had retired, makes a cameo in this film as a snoring passenger.>
<Curly Howard, who had retired, makes a cameo in this film as a snoring passenger.>
<from: threestooges.net>
Enjoy the holiday weekend - but let's never forget WHY we pay honor!
Good evening folks just in to do a final catch up on yesterday adn to do the usual paperwork. On a happy note it looks like Pete's bar tab may qualify for a guiness book of records entry
Tom- Where to start tons and tons of great photo's from the R3 and from Gaspe all great stuff from UP switchers to the Boys and the exhibits ant Unon station, to the glorious shots of nature from the window's of the Chaleur,oh and the lighthouse is okay too
I may take up some post sec ed-u-ma-ca-tion, just need to find the time and the cash If I do do it I would like it to be something I could use,we'll see.
Pete-Loved all the steam photo's , nice to know that several of those units survived the scrap yard and are well on their way to restoration and others are already restored and giving enjoyment to the ensuing generations.I do wish that people on this side of the pond had put more effort into preserving the steam heritage of our railways , far too few left even fewer that are operational. Still we cherrish those ones that are still with us
Eric-A few fine shots from the rendezvous sir. One question though, what were they looking at so intently on that shot from the superliner Was it one of the blondes from the second class
Allan-Sounds like you've been having the same type of weather we've been having. Pleasant during the day but it's dipped into the single didgets at night.Still this weekends been wonderfull high 70's both days Kind of makes up for the foul rainy cold long weekend of last weekend.I got some wonderfull pictures from Downsview today I'll post a couple in a few minutes.Wonderfull to hear about the dambuster services,I did see parts of it on the BBC feed,sad to hear that only one crewmember is still around though. Makes it all the more importatnt that we keep at the younger set to remember.
Okay I'll leave a bit of money for a morning round once the bars open again. And before I forget lets take a few moments to remember as well.All the more important nowadays.
So Heather and I were in Toronto for the bulk of the day today at the former CFB Downsview where the Toronto Aerospace museum now resides as well as a private flying club.Lots of stuff to take in. they aer currently cosmetically restoring a Lancaster MK10 that was built by Victory Aircraft in Malton Ontario ( now part of Toronto )The plant later became AV Roe Canada home of jet fighter building and development until the CF105 program was cancelled and scrapped in 1958. S some highlights.
A CP140 Aurora Maritime reconasence plant of the RCAF. This aircraft flew in from CFB Greenwood in Nova Scotia and performs patrols in the Atlantic and Arctic.They look like standard US built Orion aircraft ( which the airframe is ) but they have much more modern and capable sencing equipment.
A Grumman Tracker formerly of the RCN also flown in for the show
Three shots of the full size reproduction Avro CF105 Arrow MK1 now residing at the museum.Note how huge these interceptors were,amazing that they hit the mach 2 numbers in the early 50's before any one elses aircraft did. It was a black day in history when they were cancelled and destroyed.
More tomorrow
How do again gents just another quick one through the mail slot. A bit more from this afternoon, then we shall resume our regularly talked about topic trains
A 424 SQD CF18 down for the weekend from Bagotville PQ
Another shot of the Arrow, look at the size difference between it and the CF18 behind !
Shot of the Arrow from the rear.
Something from the East a Russian L9 Doplhin trainer down for the festivities.
Anf finally something a bit more classic the old Lancaster Bomber Fm104 which is currently being restored at the museum ( for static dispaly only ) This plane was on a pilon on the Toronto water front from 1964 when it was the last lanc to be flown in Canada to 1999 when it was taken down for a full restoration ( still on going ) This plane gave up some parts to it's flying sister at the Canadian Warplane Herritage Museum.
So getting back on the rails as it were, here are three posters from the mini rendezvous one reunion with Tom.
enjoy
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