Greetings Cap'n Tom 'n fellow travelers at the bar!
'Tis I, the Larsman with a powerful thirst for the finest of lager and available of women! Pardon me, didn't realize I was being watched! <grin> Ruth my deAH, set 'em up and I'll have a cold, frosty mug of Schaefer. Also, slide the snacks and a couple of those pickled pig's feet down my way, wudja Of course a round on me for the house! And oh yes, give Boris a plateful of pickles if you please!
Haven't a clue why I'm so &%#$ cheerful this day, but I am! Why question it, huh Weekend is upon us - but then again, who can tell a Monday from a Saturday once retired - right, Cap'n Tom
Good to see the return of my "bookend" to the group! My advice is, keep Lydia at arm's length from that silver tongued devil in Wales! His way to a woman's heart may very well be through the menu's he presents! <oooooooooh> Sailors KNOW these things!!
Really regret having tweaked you with my comments on the B'day Watch List. Just thought it to be a good time to bring it back - and judging by the underwhelming response - I was wrong. No takers! You are sooooooooo right - takes a lot of time 'n effort to keep these things on the front burner and if they go to no avail, why do 'em Maybe another time - once my personal tribulations settle down to riot stage, then I can help a bit more.
Some really great input coming in from DL in the UK regarding your planned rail adventure. You bettAH make the trip - after all, you've got more than a couple of Brits rooting you on!
Nice response to your idea for the November Contest, by the way! I see we've lined up pretty much the entire active crew, which says a lot about "Our" Place! I'll take November 23rd!! Didjanotice that my "bookend" picked TWO dates!! <ooooooooh>
Like the idea for a Veteran's Day - Remembrance Day - Armistice Day recognition. Here in the U.S. we are celebrating our "legal observance" on Friday the 10th - so the way I figger it, we'll have TWO days to honor those who made the things so many take for granted, possible! Let's really do it up right and provide some thoughtful posts for classic train related travel for the military who served the countries who successfully put down the threats of their day. If there was a way to do it, I'd spring for the Poppies for each and every regular at our bar!
Interesting stuff regarding the "attitude" about the ratings system from the Forums Manager. Really wudda thought that Kalmbach would be more interested in positive stuff rather than support the negative. Surprised, really suprised. To "feed" the animals just makes them content to go on with their disruptive ways. I don't subscribe to Kalmbach - but from time to time I purchase their magazines from local sources. In what's left of my basement (that wasn't destroyed by our flood of some months ago) there are boxes of Kalmbach magazines from a time when I'll bet the attitude was more in line with the times than they are today. Pity.
Got a laff out of the Quebec "stuff" and have to admit, I'm not as educated into the situation up there as I probably should be. Wasn't all that long ago, was it? when Quebec darned near ruined the federation we call Canada. Is that so So I must ask, what is the problem Then again - we are a Classic Trains site - so the answer MUST be couched in railroadiana terminology! (easier to understand that whatever tongue is spoken up in Quebec would be my guess!)
The laff of the week has to go to the pix posted by Mike - that elephant and the steam loco just is "too much!"
For DL in the UK: You have come on like Gangbusters (an old radio and TV program) and we really appreciate your interest and participation in this bar of ours. You are as "regular" as it gets and I for one am most pleased to have you aboard!
Well, enough of my prattle - time for one more, then I gotta skedaddle!
Until the next time!
Lars
Hi Tom and all.
A pint of the Holden's Golden Glow and if there is any of NICK's menu left from last night please LEON.
NICK Yes it would be great to get Tom on one of the Great Little Trains of Wales, a trip up the Ffestiniog in the spring would be wonderful. Looking forward to the loco model pics next week..
ERIC Many thanks for the link to the preserved Big Boys a great site. Reading it there is a faint hope that one could be restored. I did not know the last few were built on a follow up order.
What is this,the Bikini teams Mums are heading for Our Place , can we cope.
MIKE Good pic of the Flying Scotsman in New Jersey, I think the only pics I have seen of the Scotsman before, when she was in the U.S, was in San Francisco.
It is a real pity one of those CV locos could not have been saved, I have just seen a pic of the first of Gresleys A4 locos, Silver Link being cut up which saddened me.
Thanks for the link to the story of Jumbo.
DOUG Hope the back heals up real soon and the moving in goes smoothly. Thanks for the pics of the new house it looks a great place to live.
The ornate decorations on the Admiral are amazing.Enjoyed the joke and hope it is not too long before we get more of them.
DL Great intinarary and info for Tom. I think a break on the way south from Inverness at Perth would allow a side trip up to Dundee and let Tom travel over the Tay and Forth bridges on the way to Edinburgh.
What a fantastic link to the trainspotter stories, I spent a happy hour or two reading some and will return to it.It is a pity there isn't a pic of the author as I would probably reconise him from being on the steam tours he logged.
I never got to Tamworth although he mentions Rugby where he went where the ex LNER line crossed over the ex LMS to the south of Rugby station at the Girder bridge also known as the Birdcage, this was a very popular site.
Another popular site was at the north end of Rugby LMS station. There was an old railway building with a large water tank on top and a row of railwaymens cottages, there is a tall wall which many a spotter used to sit on until a passing policeman moved them off. The highlight there was when one of the Pacifics, that had called at the station and re started its heavy train, often with a spectacular and noisy wheel slip.The down goods line was only inches from the fence as well,ah I can almost smell the steam and the hot oil now..
It was also a good place to be in the mid 60s when for a short while Rugby was the changeover place for diesel and electric traction as the West Coast electrification moved southwards.
The worst brake van ever must have been the one on the first Frieghtliner trains. it was a a box that fitted on the end of the last flat car. they did not last long, I believe I have seen one preserved but I cannot remember where, it may be at the NRM at York. The LNER also had brakevans constructed of concrete, they must have been hellish cold in winter.
BK I also think the is something special about Inverness, it seems a very calming city. I do hope it is possible for you to come to the Rendezvous.
LARS Very good words on the Poppy Day. I very much enjoy the wise words that BK and you put in your posts.
TOM It was great to talk with you today. If you do go to England do you think DL and Nick will let you back home.
I was going to put in a piece about the Bluebell trip but I cant seem to get the photos off the disc, so I' ll try again, I had better post this before I lose it.
So a round for the house please Leon.
Pete.
G’day Gents!
It is Pizza ‘n Beer Nite along with Steak ‘n Fries Nite at the Saloon by the Siding! began at 5 PM and from the looks of the now-restored Pool Room, the Track Gangs are enjoying the bill o’ fare!
A rather sparse turnout today, but good to see those who passed through our portals nonetheless! Some acknowledgments:
DL at 9:35 AM today: Twice in one morning makes for twice as much interesting dialogue! The URL has more information within it than time permits . . . unbelievable just how much “stuff” there is in the Ether, just there for the taking. Anyway, I’m enjoying the confabs between you ‘n Pete; picking up on this ‘n that adds to my modest understanding of what was and what is railroading in your land.
Thanx for participating in our NOVEMBER CONTEST!
BK at 1:52 PM today: You THINK the Penthouse Suite could be put to good use !! Hmmmm, and THAT from a newly wed!
Thanx for participating in our NOVEMBER CONTEST – BUT, you’ve already done so! Therefore, your first selection – Nov 17th is what we’ll go with. <grin> And they say the SECOND THING TO GO is the memory!
Lars at 4:01 PM today: Was beginning to wonder whether we’d see you before the weekend – glad you were able to swing on in. Been a long time since anyone has ordered the pig’s feet – audibly that is!
So you rang the bell on your “bookend” eh But, you are correct – he blew it!
Don’t be concerned about the Birthday Watch List give ‘n take – it’s healthy. Again, you are correct – the offerings to pick this up have been rather sparse – actually the word is: NONE.
We’ve probably done a bit of overkill regarding the “ratings system” on the Forums – however, the way I look at it is the more of us who COMMUNICATE our thoughts to the Forum Manager the better the chance we have to effect change. Isn’t that the way of the world Should be.
Also, the Quebec “thing” is far more involved than I’m prepared to address here. Actually, my “roots’ – so to speak – have a Montreal connection, somewhat removed that is. My Godfather was a Montreal native and perhaps one of the warmest most wonderful man to impact my young life. He passed on way too soon . . . Anyway, it wasn’t until I began traveling to Montreal for my VIA Rail connections to Halifax that I began to pick up on the “things” going on. The more English and French speaking Canadians I met, the more I realized the “thing” that separates English and French Canada. A shame. When it came to railroading, however, there was NO “thing”! Now that speaks volumes, eh
Pete at 7:32 PM today: Finally got the Email squared away and looks like you’ve been given access once again! Yes, it was good speaking with you and we look forward to another fine lunch up at the Winery next weekend.
So the big question shall be, “Will Nick ‘n DL permit Tom to leave England ” Perhaps if my trip was a solo, that COULD enter the picture, however, having my bride along, no chance!
I never heard of a brake van – tell us MORE! Maybe even find a Pix or three.
Entries thus far in the NOVEMBER CONTEST to name the DATE when we reach 8,500 Posts:
Rob . . . Nov 20th
BK . . . . Nov 17th
Pete . . Nov 15th
James . Nov 19th
CM3 . . Nov 24th
Nick . . Nov 22nd
Good morning Tom and friends. Is it too early for a light breakfast? I'm getting too much rest these days and wake up way too early. Thanks to all who have expressed get-fixed wishes. I suppose I should clarify that I did not hurt my back. It's the muscles near the bottom of the left side of my rib cage that got strained. At the time, I wasn't sure if it was my heart, or what. They gave me an EKG to rule out cardiac troubles. I'm already feeling fine, but am not going to do anything stupid to set me back so close to our move. Thanks for the compliments on the new home. Citizens of Mentor are welcome anytime.
A fine exchange in these posts concerning travel on Brittish rails these days, with lots of geat links to follow. Great idea to have an online diary! Was that Eric or DL who provided it? My father used to keep a ratings book which outlined key family events of the year which he ranked -5 to 5. It was tradition to read the last years events on New Years Eve and hear the final tally number for the year. Sure wish I'd maintained a book like that myself!
I'm still not well enough organized here to give proper credits concerning the many fine posts here, but must make mention of Nicks superb history of the myth/legend that is Boris. Major kudos go to CM3 for his coverage of the dart tournament. I have put a dart board on my Christmas list so that I can be better prepaired for a re-match, which I am sure we'll be hearing about.
And now .... I need to get everyone in the proper fram of mind for a special announcement. Please watch the following before you read the rest of this post
http://video.google.co.uk/videoplay?docid=7105387249986717107
I VOLUNTEER to maintain the Birthday Watch List. I feel it's important to the overall comradery of this bar that we not lose sight of this particular milestone. Whether or not we actually throw birthday bashes will be up to ya'll, but I'll at least keep a watch on the dates so that we don't miss 'em. Anyone got a copy of the most current list? And Lars ... I think you did just fine in bringing this subject up.
And now ..... here's part I of an ENCORE from me:
Sorting on the Road by Don Rohrer – Rail Classics Jan. 1984 The last mail car has departed and the Railway Mail Service remains only in memory, as a bright and unique chapter of our railroad history. The Post Office Department, perhaps purposely, failed to publicly recognize the mobile organization. To the vast majority of Americans the RMS was an unknown quantity. The average observer was inclined to fix the express messenger, baggageman and railway mail clerk into the same category. Nevertheless, for a full century the RMS, with an interlocking system of trains and distribution expertise, provided the main trunk in delivering the mails before the advent of the zip code and the electronic sorting machine. In spite of lack of recognition, the road clerks were a proud and productive group. Team work was essential to successful operation, and clerks responded with an amazing esprit de corps. To best interpret RMS action, we wi***o take you for a ride with an R.P.O. crew on a fairly typical trip in 1966. With the RMS on its last wheels, we will occasionally refer back to more vital days in RMS annals. St. Paul, Minnesota in the winter can serve up a first-class blizzard and biting, cold wind was sweeping through the Milwaukee Road yards one 5 a.m. As I walked out to the Chicago and Minneapolis mail car, part of the consist of the Twin City Hiawatha which was on track No. 11. The Hiawathas were still superb trains in 1966, sleek and streamlined flyers, bearing the Milwaukee Road’s traditional orange and maroon colors. The locomotives were powerful 3600 hp diesels. Inaugurated in the early ‘thirties, the original Hiawathas were quite spectacular, with locomotives patterned after Britain’s Flying Scotsman, sporting shrouded boilers and skirted wheels and consists of a dozen shining coaches, with distinctive beaver-tailed observation cars bringing up the rear. With my sheepskin coat pulled up around my ears, I banged on the mail car door until Basil Loney flung it open. I was grateful to be able to climb into the welcome warmth of the “Minnie.” I exchanged greetings and observed the crew as I set my road-grip on the counter in front of my Illinois letter case and changed into my working clothes. Five subs (substitutes) in a crew of fifteen. Not too encouraging. It was reassuring, however to see Old Wall Erickson at the pouch case, the core of our operation. A good performance there was essential to a successful trip. Incidentally, our organization included another capable Wallace Erickson, dubbed Young Wall. The pouch and paper racks had already been set up and labeled, and headers and slips run in the letter cases, by the time the mail handlers arrived with the first load of pouches and sacks. A freezing blast of cold air and snow swept through the car when Norm Podratz, the paper case man, opened the door. Old Wall helped him take in the mail, while I checked off the pouches as they were called. The rest of the crew formed a chain gang and relayed the pouches and sacks up or down the aisle to their assigned stalls. The #1 and #2 mails close by for first attention, and the #3 – for distant states – farther down the 90-foot car, to be worked later. Our immediate task was to “get the jump on it” in the yards. To “clean up” the mails, to avoid “going stuck,” was the primary goal of the railway mail crews. If there were unworked mail at the end of the trip, the boss would be forced to come up with a reason. One of the few acceptable excuses was “sub in crew.” These poor subs really earned their stripes! There existed within the ranks an esprit de corps of the kind needed for swift, sustained and cooperative action. The clerks were required also to devote much time between trips to the study of schemes and schedules. An example of the knowledge needed, Platteville, Wisconsin, alone had eight different supplies, depending on our location on the line. I put substitute *** Kelly dumping pouches. He was a new hand, and knew very little about distribution. Basil Loney picked up the first bundles of letters to hit the table and returned quickly to his “hot” local letter case. Other clerks continued to assist at the pouch and paper tables, tossing directs, and mail for connecting RPO lines, into their respective pouches and sacks, until their own stated working packages arrived. Harry Anderson, the registery clerk, had caught up on his mixed letters, and as no “reds” had arrived as yet, prepared coffee. Mail lock coffee it was called; when it was think enough to float a mail lock it was considered satisfactory. The Great Northern and the Northern Pacific trains, due from the west coast with our heaviest deliveries, had been delayed by the storm and had not yet arrived. However, we had taken on extra loads from earlier trains that had missed their regular connections. Shortly after 8 a.m. our “drop” load arrived – and we were ready to take off. Our train was hardly ever held back, for we were geared to important connections in Chicago. At 8:15 a.m. we felt our big road engines hook on, directly ahead, but we failed to hear the rattle of closing couplings and suspected that something was awry. We tried to peer out the windows, but they were completely frosted over. We were a world unto ourselves, in the ce
Hey guys! While I was sitting here working on my third light breakfast, I happened to find an intstruction video shows how to opperate a steam engine.
http://video.google.co.uk/videoplay?docid=-1458135495334767676
There are also handy links to other interesting videos! Have fun!
G'day Gents!
A gloomy start to the day here in mid-continent USA with threatening skies - however the forecast calls for temps in the 60s (F) and no rain 'til late tomorrow or early Monday. Petrol up at "Collusion Corner" was pegged at $1.98 (rounded) - a good sign as we head into the holiday travel season for many.
On to the acknowledgments:
Eric at 10:51 PM yesterday: Thanx for the insights regarding calling Phoenix "home." Considering the description you provided of your home in Sweden - there's no doubt where I'd want to be! Bring on the SNOW and just love the forests too!
Was a time my travels took me to Arizona on a frequent basis from where my "center" was located - Long Beach, CA. Tucson was one of the main stops - much interaction back then with the Border Patrol and so forth. But that's a story for 'nother time 'n place - perhaps at the 2nd Annual Rendezvous in St. Louis, eh
Doubt that either of us will ever change our hearts when it comes to the way we feel about our best friend. The Husky we had previously to Juneau lived 16 years and 2 months and was fortunate to have a "dog-house sitter" each time we traveled. And travel we did. Once those young ladies grew up and assumed lives of their own, so to speak, it became very difficult if not impossible to find someone else. Once Juneau came along, we decided to use the kennel - and it is "good" one - but still a far cry from the surroundings he is familiar with. Oh well - such is the way of life with dog lovers. Nope - at nearing 69, I've seen many continents and scores of countries. Sure, there's always more to do 'n see - but not at the expense of one we really care about. One never knows, though - perhaps we'll find someone and then it's "off we go!"
Doug at 6:02 AM and 6:49 AM today: Okay - you're "it" for the Birthday Watch List "Whip"! I'll provide the most current data today on the Thread and will maintain the "master" list - just to avoid any confusion. So guys here's the way it works: For those who wish to participate - send ME your birth date by Forum's Email. I'll make sure Doug gets it. From that point on it's up to y'all insofar as a Bash is concerned. Good show, Doug!
Don't know if you missed the announcement - but the Grudge Match Bragging Rights DARTS CHALLENGE! (GMBRDC) is in fact going to be an annual event - scheduled for October. Next matches will kick off at "Our" Place. Who Darted
A FANTASTIC VIDEO WITH THE LEGO SINGERS! A MUST SEE FOR ALL "OUR" PLACE CUSTOMERS! 10- Salute!
Fine ENCORE! - good way to prepare us for this coming Tuesday's Theme for the Day! Railway Post Offices!
Also thoroughly enjoyed the "instructional" video on the Brit steam loco. Sure bet to attract our guys from the UK!
Enjoy the day one and all and keep in mind that this is our ENCORE! Saturday - a day set aside for reruns based on traditonally sparse attendance . . . .
Boris, serve ‘em all of the “spiked” OJ they can handle!
Tom
ENCORE! Saturday - ENCORE! Saturday
RAILWAYS of EUROPE #4 - ICE (Germany)
first Posted on Page 270
Deutsche Bahn (DB) Used with permission from: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Formatting differences made necessary due to Forums requirements. Some heralds from other sources. InterCity Express ICE train (Wikipedia) The InterCity Express or ICE is a type of high-speed train operated by DB Fernverkehr in Germany and neighboring countries, for example to Zürich, Switzerland or Vienna, Austria. ICE-trains also run at lower speeds to Amsterdam, Netherlands and to Liège and Brussels, Belgium on the Belgian highspeed way. The Spanish railway operator RENFE also employs these trains, and the Russian state ordered 60 for new high-speed routes between Saint Petersburg and Moscow. The new management of the Russian railways is reviewing the order and apparently plans to reduce it to six trains. Another 60 trains were ordered for the Chinese Beijing-Tianjin high-speed rail line. Equipment and specifications 3rd Generation ICE "Frankfurt am Main" (GNU Free Documentation) ICE equipment is manufactured by an industrial consortium led by Siemens AG. ICE trains require special high-speed tracks to run at high speeds, but can run on normal tracks at normal speeds. The first generations were derived from the then-new class 120 electric locomotives. The powerheads of those units are in fact upgraded 120s with a more aerodynamic lining. Passenger cars can be coupled and uncoupled for maintenance, enabling the operator to run trains of different lengths. First-generation trains are currently undergoing a major redesign, including a standardization of train lengths. The third generation ICE has a completely different concept: The entire traction equipment is fitted underfloor, with a larger number of less powerful motors. An ICE 3 unit consists of eight cars, four of which are powered, while the others carry other electrical equipment, including the pantographs. This design allow seats in all parts of the train, including "lounge" seats at both ends separated from the driver by a glass wall only. The ICE 3M (class 406) is a multisystem variant of the ICE 3 that currently serves routes into the Netherland and Belgium. Licensing for French LGVs started in 2001 and has been described by engineers as a "clash of cultures". Problems included flying gravel and trackside equipment ripped loose by the ICE's magnetic brakes. Admission of the ICE 3M for regular service into France is expected late 2005 or early 2006. ICE-T ICE-TD train (Wikimedia Commons) Simultaneously to the development of the ICE 3, DB demanded new tilting trainsets to be able to serve conventional tracks that couldn't be upgraded to higher speeds. Originally these trains were to be called IC-T (InterCity-Triebzug), but just prior to their introduction, DB decided to charge ICE fares for these trains and renamed them ICE-T. These trains are constructed to a concept of distributed traction similar to the ICE 3. Three different types were ordered: • electric train with 7 cars (class 411) • electric train with 5 cars (class 415) • diesel train with 4 cars (class 605) Units of either of these types can be coupled with one or more unit of the same or any other type within a few minutes. The electric units, equipped with tilting technology of the ETR 460 bought from FIAT, entered service in 1998. A second order for additional series 411 ICE-Ts. These units, known as ICE-T2, were delivered in 2004. The main difference to the original ICE-Ts are several cost-cutting measures, giving those trains a "cheaper" look and feel. For the diesel units, called ICE-TD, Siemens developed their own tilting technology, based on the aiming system of the Leopard 2 main gun. These trainsets became something of an embarrassment. They were to be delivered in 2000, but braking problems caused delays, so they entered service in spring 2001. Their first year in operation was overshadowed by software failures and problems with the tilting technology. One of the 20 trains fell off a maintenance platform and had to be written off. When those problems were fixed and the train finally ran without apparent problems in December 2002, a train derailed because of a broken axle. The trains were temporarily pulled out of service by the federal rail authority. When Siemens had fixed the problem, DB refused to take the trains back, claiming they weren't meeting specifications. It is speculated that besides technical difficulties, these trains were an economical burden as well. Source claim that even when filled to capacity, income from fares would be below the operating cost. Network ICE network in Germany Red: 300 km/h Orange: 250 km/h Blue: 200 km/h Grey: Conventional lines Unlike the French TGV network, which is centered around Paris, the ICE network has multiple nodes. The ICE network is not a replacement of the InterCity network, but an upgrade. ICE and IC trains usually share the same tracks. The main difference being the higher speed: While the ICE trains travel at the maximum line speed, IC trains are limited to 200 km/h. The only line that is not shared with other traffic is the 300 km/h Köln-Frankfurt line due to its steep grades. In fact, it is limited to ICE3 trainsets, even the older ICE types have to take the longer route through the Rhine valley. The second 300 km/h line between Nuremberg and Ingolstadt, due to be opened on 28th May 2006, will not have these restrictions. The line will also feature Germany's fastest commuter line at 200 km/h. Since the early 1970s, hundreds of kilometers of existing tracks have been upgraded to 200 km/h. As a result, ICE trains are able to use most conventional lines without losing too much time in the process. This allowed a rapid growth of the ICE network without the need to build several thousand kilometers to new high-speed lines. Actually, even two of the high-speed lines (Köln-Aachen at 250 km/h and Hamburg-Berlin at 230 km/h) are in fact upgraded conventional lines. North to South The network includes three main north-to-south corridors that start in Hamburg: • via Bremen, Dortmund, Köln, Frankfurt and Stuttgart to Munich (branch Frankfurt - Karlsruhe - Basel) • via Hanover, Kassel and Nuremberg to Munich • via Berlin, Leipzig and Nuremberg to Munich West to East Three main west-to-east routes exist in the network: • Bonn - Köln - Hamm - Hanover - Berlin • Köln - Dortmund - Kassel - Lepzig - Dresden • Saarbrücken - Frankfurt - Leipzi
Some unpredicted light rain is falling this AM, thereby keeping the yard work from getting done BUT permitting me to engage a bit here at the bar! So, Ruth - take a break and I'll get a thing or two done 'round here.
What's on tap for this day Aside from it being our ENCORE! Saturday, which is an OPTIONAL "thing" - we have Steak Nite w/all the trimmings tonite! at 5 PM!
Ah, the Birthday Watch List is to be resurrected and overseen by barndad Doug - okay - here's the latest info from my archives including a few Legion of the Lost guys:
2006 BIRTHDAY WATCH LIST
(rev. Jun 12th)
March 5th (Nick – 46)
March 13th (Doug – 50)
March 31st (Lars – 66)
April 18th (Al - 63) - Legion of the Lost
May 18th (Tom - 68)
May 27th (Dave - 47) - Legion of the Lost
June 3rd (John) – 47) - Legion of the Lost
August 11th (Pete – 55)
August 16th (Ted – 68) - Legion of the Lost
September 8th (Rob - 35)
October 18th (BK – 66)
December 29th (CM3 – 60)
Not on the list Send me an Email with your birth date (month-day-year) Corrections too! I'll ensure that Doug gets the "word" . . . .
Catch y'all later . . .
Tom (
Good Morning Captain Tom and fellow sophisticates!
It is about minus 5 (C) here in the mountains with a light dusting of snow at the moment. Expect it to remain pretty much this way throughout the weekend, although one can never depend on the forecasts.
A rare Saturday visit from me and I thought it would be a good time to reissue my X2000 submission from back in October. In response to a question from Sir Eric, I do not recall the exact year of the trip - it was mid 1990s though. My travels were so very extensive in those times that the months and years run together on things such as these. However, one day when I open my trunk of business related materials, I will be sure to look for the precise dates. I have not opened the trunk since retiring and who knows when that will occur.
Congratulations to Sir Doug for being willing to take on a responsibility here at the bar with the Watch List for the Natal Days. I think it is a grand idea and one that will provide those of us with a continuing bit of good natured interaction, while relieving our Proprietor of the oversight. Nicely done, Sir! Anything that can be done from the comfort of a chair, sounds rather accommodating to me.
Nicely done to you Sir Tom with the Encore of the ICE train of Germany! One must see that machine in action in order to appreciate it. Brought back some memories, not necessarily of travel, but of being in places where it "woooshed" by.
Ruth please, I would like a large mug of steaming hot coffee with just a "splash" to make it interesting along with a few of those crullers from the Mentor Village Bakery case. Keep the change my dear! <grin>
Back to Sir Doug, EXCELLENT Url with the singing beer drinkers. That is hilarious and perhaps is the best seen at this bar during the time I have been a regular. Well done, Sir - well done indeed! Also enjoyed the inside look at being a locomotive engineer in the UK. Another well done! You have come back to us with reckless abandon, or so it seems.
Now to my humble offering on this Encore Saturday! at the Saloon by the Siding:
This is from page 249 and was posted on October 25th of the past year:
My story involves a trip between Göteborg and Stockholm, Sweden back in the mid-90s aboard the "tilt train" referred to as the X2000. My memory is not quite as vivid as many of you out there who thrive on these kinds of recollections. I prefer rail travel, but am not what one may consider to be a rail fan nor am I a hobbyist. Mine is to use that mode for travel when it best fits into the time I have available. X2000 provides all types of innovative approaches to passenger rail travel, many of which have since been incorporated elsewhere. For example: Automatic Train Control which can stop the train should a signal "back" not be received; Parking brakes and anti-slip devices that are electronic in operation; magnetic emergency braking that can stop a speeding train at 125 mph in about 3/4 of a mile; asynchronous traction motors used to power the car's four axles; and of course the "tilt" mechanism that kicks in when rounding curves. The consist we had that particular run featured the locomotive and I believe 5 or 6 cars, each with specific interior designs and purposes. I traveled in First Class in the 2nd car back from the locomotive - I think. I recall the cars being "done" rather fashionably, although a bit on the "plastic" side - sterile might be a better word. Some passengers appeared to be a bit uncomfortable with the motion of the car, causing a feeling of "sea sickness." Fortunately, no one found a reason to experience projectile vomiting in the car I traveled in! My recollection is that I had no difficulty navigating the passageways heading to and from other cars, as I visited the bar car a few times to sample the Swedish brew and other delights. I could have waited for the on board Hostess, but wanted to stretch my legs during that just a bit under 4 hour journey. I do not wish to make comparisons with other trains, such as the French TGV or German ICE, etc. The X2000 is a distinctive engineering accomplishment and stands alone in my mind as worth the expense of time and money. The Swedish countryside seemed to zip by and as I had read from someone's Post elsewhere - looking from the window was as is a slide show was taking place. They advertised the speeds in excess of 100 mph, perhaps even 125. All I can report is that we were moving and moving quite well. The ride was fine and stops minimal. Today, as I understand it, the X2000 runs link most of Sweden's major cities. I travel to that part of the world rather frequently, but have not availed myself of a repeat train trip. Next time, I plan to.
Enjoy the weekend, gentlemen and I plan to rejoin you on Monday.
BK in Alberta, Canada's beautiful high mountain country!
G-day Captain Tom and all present.
Ruth-Could you kindly set me up with a sandwich and a coke, please.
Tom- I see now. Only coffee, but it does make sence. Not a coffee shop, I do understand.
Nick- The rail is indeed sitting on top of cork. This stuff is pretty nice. It forms to any curve you wish to have and can be cut. The cork comes in 3 foot sections.
I am also glad you liked the videos. I thought they were cool myself.
Eric- The room the layout sits in is about 15 by 20 or so. The layout I have is 10 by 20. So its a good size layout for what I need.
Pete- Glad you liked the locos I have. I know they look pretty good without the scenery but wait untill the scenery is finished with trees and a new switch tower. It will be so cool. BTW: interesting that british adopted the Wisconsin Central colors. I know there are some railroads (shortlines) that have the colors. So it's interesting to here they also have the colors. They seem to get around more than one thinks.
CM3- Glad you liked the layout photos. I'm glad I can post them everyweek.
Rob- Some more good info on the Bl2. Very interesting and much appreciated. Thanks.
I missed a couple days here. First, on Thursday, I had an appreciation party to go to that was held for the volunteers at the North Shore Scenic railroad. Over the whole year I put in about 160 hours. A pretty good amount. On Friday.. Well I wwas so tired. I just sat around the house and injoyed the rest of the day. Didn't really think about posting.
I will probably post some more tonight.
Happy railroading.
James
Here's one more from the archives - this time from Page 167 . . .
Here’s something to ponder with regard to our appreciation and fascination with Classic Trains. Check this ad out (from The Official Guide of the Railways – 1956) [located on page 1502] . . . . . . . . . . The Pocket List of . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Railroad Officials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Containing the Names of Officials in Charge of . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Railroads in the . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . United States, Canada, Mexico, Cuba, Puerto Rico & Dominican Republic Showing the Gauge of each road, Number of Miles Operated and Rolling Stock in Service of Each Company . . . . . . . . . . Also List of Private Car Companies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PUBLISHED QUARTERLY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Distributed approximately the last week in the months of . . . . . . . . . . . JANUARY, APRIL, JULY and OCTOBER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SUBSCRIPTION PRICE (Postages Prepaid.) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . UNITED STATES and Possessions - - $8.00 Per Annum . . . . . . . . . . FOREIGN, including Canada - - - - - - $8.50 Per Annum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Single Copies - $3.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . For Advertising Rates Address . . . . . . . . . . The Railway Equipment and Publication Co. – 424 West 33rd St. (11th Floor), New York 1, N.Y. John A. Patee, Advertising Manger 424 West 33rd Street, New York 1, N.Y. James M. Fawcett, Western Representative 1428 Lyton Building, Chicago 4, Illinois Enjoy! Tom
Greetings Cap'n Tom and fellow travelers at the bar!
A bit late for me, but I found a 'window of opportunity' and seized it! Leon, I'm ready for a JD on the rocks - make it a double if you please! Also, I'll take a 16 oz. T-bone, medium rare with all the trimmings. And of course, a round on me!
Must recognize Doug for the great URLs - that Lego song is terrific - still laughing! Also enjoyed the cab ride on the Brit steamer. Liked your Encore - and I too see it as a prelude to our Theme for the Day coming up.
BK - Always like reading your trip report of that memorable train trip to Vancouver! Now that's a story to be retold - I can just conjure up all kinds of great images.
Cap'n Tom - terrific Encores! and anytime the "Ice Train" shows up, I'm ready to read! I recall that train on tour in the U.S. and the same for Sweden's X2000. Both really great trains and still amazed we didn't pick up on either. Shows just what the commitment was back then and remains to this day - nil.
Another Salute to Doug for taking on the B'day Watch List! This idea that was the creation of our Proprietor had some memorable moments - many before I became a cusotmer I would guess. Let's hope this iteration brings forth the type of participation to make it all worthwhile. Thanx, Doug!
Here's an update to the way things are done 'round here . . . just to bring everyone up to snuf, as they say!
Weekly Schedule of EventsSunday - Bar is CLOSED - Food service is available for breakfast, brunch 'n lunch ‘til 2 PM FEATURE EVENT: Pix Posting Day. Monday thru Sunday: Breakfast - brunch - lunch.Tuesday - Classic Trains "theme day" - next up - RPOs!!Wednesday - Toy 'n Model trains day (optional)Thursday - Fish 'n Chips nite – begins at 5 PMFriday - Pizza 'n Beer nite AND Steak 'n Fries nite – begins at 5 PM Saturday - Steak nite – begins at 5 PM. Encore Saturday (optional)"Our" Place Staff
Bossman, Proprietor and Mentor: Siberianmo TomBar Manager - LoveDomes Lars
Bar Chandler - Trolleyboy RobChief Chef - nickinwestwales Nick
Assistant Chief Chef – DL - UK
Chief Cyclops - BorisChief Bartender (nites - begins at 5 PM) - LeonChief Bartender (days - begins at 9 AM) - Ruth
Substitute Bartender - Cindy (Tom's Gal!)
Gals of "Our" Place - Ruth (redhead) - Ann (blonde) - Lucy (brunette) - Jemima (raven)Mascots of "Our" Place - Juneau the Siberian Husky - Awk the Parrot - Tex the Armadillo and Frostbite the PenguinSecurity Force - Inspector Clueless of the Local Constabulary and Mr. Doyle, Private Eye Birthday Watch List and special celebrationsMaintained by Tom and overseen by Doug. Has been reinstituted!
Protocol
Greet the barkeep upon visiting the bar - each time.Order a drink or food. (Coffee and soft drinks are free with food orders, otherwise 5 bucks per cup)Acknowledge the other guys and be inclusive with comments.Order of the Stools (reserved and permanent)
Maintained by Tom and continuance to be determined.Most Valuable Patron - MVP
Maintained by Tom and continuance to be determined.Daily Summary and Mentor Village Gazette
Suspended and resumption to be determined by Tom.=====================================================
Manager Lars
Hi Tom and everyone, a round for the house.
If it's slow here's some old pictures to look at.
http://memory.loc.gov/pnp/fsa/8d13000/8d13100/8d13159r.jpg
http://memory.loc.gov/service/pnp/cph/3c30000/3c30000/3c30600/3c30645v.jpg
Gene H. Lawson Milwaukee Road pictures
http://www.eburg.com/~ghlawson/070301-01MilwHelperE-40-InSnow-1952CaptionLogo.JPG
http://www.eburg.com/~ghlawson/070101-02MilwE-22-InMissou-1954CaptionLogo.JPG
http://www.eburg.com/~ghlawson/061501-02MilwOlyHiWestoutSeaToTac1950CaptionLogo.JPG
http://www.eburg.com/~ghlawson/061301-01MilwE5BipolarKittitas-1957WkTrnCaptionLogo.JPG
Hiawatha observation car 1964
http://algomacentral.railfan.net/images/Oldies/milw_obs.jpg
Early Amtrak
http://www.umcycling.com/amabesbchigmo100a772.jpg
http://www.umcycling.com/sfff315yelfunittxchief473w.jpg
http://www.umcycling.com/bn9968closup972w.jpg
http://www.umcycling.com/amtriley372icstationlast.jpg
Rock Island
http://www.umcycling.com/ri643prock654comm12th872w.jpg
Southern Pacific
http://www.umcycling.com/spreno1martz471.jpg
Pennsylvania steam (black & white)
http://www.catskillarchive.com/rrextra/pullmans.jpg
Mike
Sorry, nothing for me tonight. I see that it's after 9 so there won't be anything.
Mike.... Wow! Very impressive pictures but, I think we need a little information behind some of those pictures!
The first Photo (Gene H. Lawson Milwaukee road pics) is of the Beverly Helper, As noted in the commentary. The locomotive in the picture is an EF-3, Two head ends and a middle B-unit. As stated it was used for helper service. Most of the time the locomotive would be spliced in the middle of the train.
You may also notice that the locomotive is painted in the black, maroon and orange. This was considered as the "Passenger scheme." Also, the early scheme before the black and orange. The black and orange didn't really come into affect untill the 60s.
The second photo (Gene H lawson pic) is quite rare. The "weird" Boxcab in the lead is actually a Westting House made locomotive. There were only a few of them made and they didn't go over well with the milwaukee, So forth the reason why you don't see them much. But the westting locomotive was equiped for passenger service and came in handy for a second locomotive if the first broke down. I am not fully acquainted with this electric and don't know a lot about them.
The third photo (Gene H. Lawson pic) is also pretty cool. This is the Chicago to Seattle Hiawatha. As you may notice, The EP-2 Bipolar electric # E-2 is coupled up to the observation car and is about ready to depart from Seattle, back to Miles city for locomotive swap. Miles city, Montana was the cut off of the electrics. After that it was diesels all the way to Chicago.
The fourth photo (Gene H. Lawson) is also a rare sight to see. Bipolars were epuiped for passenger service and nothing more but.. I see that this bipolar has a water tank and a caboose coupled up to it. So this is a rare sight. Even the commentary tells us that this electric for the day, was used for frieght service. Something new.
All your other pics are really cool too, just can't give you that small bit info on them. Oh well. If it has anything to do with passenger trains, I'm there.
Happy railroading
Good evening gentlefolks and Leon. A large Guiness this evening for me and of coarse a nice thick juicy medium rare steak with extra mushrooms
Well it's been quite the week , I lost track at +60 hours. I'm glad that the presidents tour is done with, we as always passsed with fling colours ( she was only in the building for 10 minutes ) makes you wonder why they even bother comming out So now it's just the busy xmas season ahead.
Tom-Loved today's encores , I think I pick up more info each time I read your preperations ! Feel free to borrow any and all sayings I put out there, after all I've taken quite a shine to some of yours over the years. For the lack of support from the forum manager , at least you were able to aggree to dissaggree.I can tell that the JO's bug you less which is good, don't want the BP climbing at the end of the day.
BK-Nice to hear that you are all for what was traditions and the whole nine yards. I too have seen the slow and steady changes even here , I hope that the really off the wall extremism doesn't take route here but one never knows.I have a feeling that should we ever meet in the real world that we might indeed chat into the wee hours about old family histeries , histery in general as well as a host of other stuff. I do come from a long line of native born Canadian's and UEL's
Lars-I like your two day approach over the tenth and the eleventh, should work out well I thinkI will buy and extra 8 or so poppies this week for everyone, and when Heather and I next make it to Ottawa we will place them on the tomb opf the Unknown Soldier, a tradition that started quite unreheresd the first rememberance day after the new tomb was set up in Ottawa.
Eric-Perhaps the girls have defected I'd suggest that the Mom's get in touch with Vito's cousin who works at the Mentor town hall in the imagrations and records dept
Doug- Nice to hear that you may be in a bit more regularly,sorry to hear about the muscle pull though.I can only imagine what the anticipation level for the big move day must be like. Great encore's as well, good set up for next weeks RPO fest on tuesday Also gald to hear that you are taking on the Birthday list great for the moral around here to see others chipping in, good show.
Mike-great new batch of urls sir, seems to have caught young Jame's intrest. thanks for the link to the old Jumbo stroy again as well. Interesting to note that the Statue for Jumbo still stands in St Thomas, not far from where the accident took place.
Rob
Good morning one and all! Surely enjoyed reading the posts after my last visit, and hope that boss-man Tom won't mind a slight break in Sunday protocol, but I didn't get the 2nd part of my RPO ENCORE uploaded after my busy day. So please forgive me .. but here it is:
Sorting on the Road by Don Rohrer – Rail Classics Jan. 1984 Two hours later I glanced at my watch. We should have been farther down the line by this time, running through Camp McCoy. “Can you see where we are?” I called down to Podratz at the other end of the car. I had noticed him clear a space in the door window with a small ice scraper. “We just went by Lake City,” he answered. “I’d better try the door,” Podratz said, but the action produced no result. The door was frozen solid, a common occurrence. Podratz kicked the door, futilely, before he removed an iron stanchion from an adjustable mail stall and used it to break away the ice from around the door. Using the stanchion as a lever, he pried the door open. Finally he poured salt on the tracks to keep them operable. By that time we should have been only a few minutes from Reads Landing, a non-stop. Podratz adjusted his goggles and peered out the doorway until he spotted his landmark, a large grain elevator. He laid the Reads Landing pouch and sack of newspapers across his right foot, then, and at an exact moment kicked them out. He’d raised the car’s hairpin-shaped catcher arm at the same instant and a sharp whack indicated that he’d caught his incoming pouch. Mission accomplished. All in a day’s work. “Still got your shoes?” Loney asked, in jocular reference to an occasion in which clerk Frank Hall had accidentally kicked off a shoe with the mail. Reacting quickly Hall had kicked out his other shoe, remarking laconically, "That way whoever finds ‘em will have a pair.” As we approached Winona, earlier focal point of the storm, the sun came out and melted the frost from the windows, and we were able to catch glimpses of the passing scene. We began gaining on the clock then, hurtling through smaller towns that were either serviced by us non-stop, or accommodated by the milk trains. We moved on apiece, stopping only at Winona, La Crosse and Portage. At each junction we exchanged mails with other mobile units. Waiting for us at Potage was an especially hefty load from Madison, home of the state capitol and the university. Concentration was required to cope with the job at hand, but there was an equal need for exchange of information. Questions and answers rang out continually. “What do we do with Des Moines now?” “Give me your Red Wing letters.” “Help! Help on the Manhattan letters!” “Check the balance sheet with me.” We swept through Sparta, Tomah, and New Bisbon in record time. The road bed there was one of the best. Continuing the fast pace we rocketed through picturesque Wisconsin Dells, the Horicon Marsh bird sanctuary, and lake-blessed Oconomowoe, and on into Milwaukee. We picked up our mail there and rushed on. On the way to Chicago we managed to complete our tasks, to tie and lock out our cases, and wash up and change clothes, just before arrival. Our engine crews had performed nobly. We had lost only 18 minutes, still in time to make most of our connections, the Pennsy’s Broadway, the B&O’s Capitol Limited, and runs for the Cincinnati, St. Louis, Kansas City, and Detroit gateways. Our only miss was the Lakeshore, the New York Central’s Twentieth Century Limited. Bright and early the next morning we would report back for work again, ready for the trip back, to “run for the barn.” RPO, 1864-1977 The first Railway Post Office operated between Chicago and Clinton, Iowa on the Chicago and North Western beginning on August 28, 1864. Shortly after World War Two, there were 1,500 RPO routes criss-crossing the United States with 30,000 men working in more than 4,000 RPO cars. By 1961, the number of routes had declined to 262 and ten years later only eight routes remained. The decline of the RPOs began in the late 1930s but was delayed when railroad traffic increased through the war. The sharp decline occurred in the 1950s when railroads discontinued passenger trains at a great rate. The last surviving RPO was between Washington and New York and it was discontinued on June 30, 1977.
Okay ... now that I got that out of the way, I'll start to get the place ready for the morning eaters. We sure got a lot of interesting posts yesterday. The DB of Germany from Tom is most impressive, and thanks for the birthday list update. Looks like we only have CM3 left to remember in 2006. Thanks to those who congratulated me for assuming the watch over natal events, but the real credit goes to Tom for creating it in the first place. Glad ya'll liked the lego beer song and steam instruction link too. Makes my heart go pitty-pat to know you were entertained. Liked the X2000 ENCORE from BK yesterday. Tom provided a 1956 ad. Can I get your copy for the $3 you paid for yours? Thanks for the kind words Lars, and the updated weekly schedule. Uh oh. Looks like URL Mike posted new pix links on a Saturday. Are you trying to get in more trouble than me? Still .. they were great pix, and I was most impressed by James follow-up explanations of what we were looking at. Very impressive and interesting indeed! Great to see Rob and his HSR ENCORE yesterday. I wonder how many other railways started prior to 1900 still exist today. Here ya go Eric http://web.mac.com/ericx2000/iWeb/Sunday%20Picts/Sunday%20Pictures.html , and please accept a "WOW" from me for the excellent pix!
And now ...here are some pix from Chicago's past
Instruction car of Chicago Railways
Interior of instruction car, showing arrangement of apparatus
Double truck instruction car in Chicago City Railway schoolroom
Single truck instruction car in Chicago City Railway schoolroom
General view of the Chicago City Railway showing instruction cars and overhead construction
Sunday school teacher asked her class, "What was Jesus' mother's name?"One child answered, "Mary."The teacher then asked, "Who knows what Jesus' father's name was?" A little kid said, "Verge."Confused, the teacher asked, "Where did you get that?"The kid said, "Well, you know they are always talking about Verge 'n' Mary."
Even though the bar at "Our" Place is
Closed on Sundays -
We do observe Sunday Photo Posting Day!
NOW PLAYING at the Mentor Village Emporium Theatre!
. . . Sunday, November 5th thru 11th: Strategic Air Command - Starring: Jimmy Stewart, June Allyson & Frank Lovejoy (1955) – and – The Blue Max (1966) - Starring: George Peppard, James Mason & Ursula Andress. SHORT: The Three Stooges – The Sitter Downers (1937).
Strategic Air Command (1955)
PLOT SUMMARY: A star baseball player is drafted into the service around the time of the Korean War and is trained as a test pilot for the SAC.
The Blue Max (1966)
PLOT SUMMARY: World War I drama involving a lower-class German aviator who comes into conflict with an aristocratic member of his squadron.
SHORT: The Sitter Downes (1937)
PLOT SUMMARY: Featuring Moe, Larry and Curly The Stooges are in love. After they arrive at their girlfriends' house they ask them to marry and the girls say yes. But "Papa" says no, so the Stooges stage a sit-down strike and stay in the house until they get the nation's sympathy. The father lets them marry, but they face a new problem; building their new home. The girls refuse to have a honeymoon until the house is finished. After the Stooges build the house, it looks just plain weird, and it falls apart.
The Stooges are in love. After they arrive at their girlfriends' house they ask them to marry and the girls say yes. But "Papa" says no, so the Stooges stage a sit-down strike and stay in the house until they get the nation's sympathy. The father lets them marry, but they face a new problem; building their new home. The girls refuse to have a honeymoon until the house is finished. After the Stooges build the house, it looks just plain weird, and it falls apart.
from: www.threestooges.net
Enjoy!
Howdy-hi again gents! Hope your day is going well for you. I spent a part of yesterday at an apple-butter party at my uncles’ farm. His orchard doesn’t always produce enough apples to do this, as you start with 25 gallons of apple cider (he has an electric conveyor, grinder and hydraulic press), then add 3 bushels of cored and sliced apples. The recipe also calls for 10# of sugar, but he hardly puts any in at all. We have a very large copper kettle which is placed over a large wood fire that has to be constantly tended, and the contents of the kettle constantly stirred, so you need a lot of people to pull this off. We started cooking 7am, and finished near 8pm. We made about 40 more gallons of cider than we needed, which we drank all day long. Some jazzed theirs up with rum or other spirits.
Today, the wife is working till 3:30, I’m slipping out for breakfast and then to the stable to tend Apache’s stall. I’ll prepare my own firepit for some leaf burning, and tend to final yard duties at this property, working around the Chicago Bears game … of course. Thanks to Tom for bringing in the latest batch of Movies for the Emporium. Is there nothing that Jimmy Stewart cannot do?
Here are more photos of Chicago buildings that no longer exist.
General repair shops, Chicago Railway, at Seventy-eighth Street and Vincennes Road
Kedzie Avenue carhouse, Chicago Railways, showing termination of Van Buren St. line
Carhouse at Archer Avenue and Rockwell Street, Chicago City Railway
Typical employees’ clubroom, Chicago City Railway
A woman was having a passionate affair with an inspector from a pest-control company. One afternoon they were carrying on in the bedroom together when her husband arrived home unexpectedly. "Quick," said the woman to her lover, "into the closet!" and she pushed him in the closet, stark naked. The husband, however, became suspicious and after a search of the bedroom discovered the man in the closet. "Who are YOU?" he asked. "I'm an inspector from Termite Busters," said the exterminator. "What are you doing in there?" the husband asked. "I'm investigating a complaint about an infestation of moths," the man replied. "And where are your clothes?" asked the husband. The man looked down at himself and said, "Now you can see how serious the infestation is!"
A Sunday and the breakfast – lunch – brunch seems to have been accepted by the locals as the tables and booths are full. Boris ‘n gals are workin’ hard . . .
Somewhat of a departure from our more traditional Sunday bill o’ fare at the Saloon by the Siding for I see some Posts deserving of recognition!
BK at 11:29 AM yesterday: Nicely done ENCORE! and I too enjoy the “tale” from your rare but memorable rail adventure to Vancouver. [tup ] I have made so many friends over the years that have begun aboard trains – mainly VIA Rail. Some of these friendships go back over decades and to this day flourish. Nice, eh Thanx for the “rare” Saturday visit!
James at 2:04 PM and 9:30 PM yesterday: All of us are entitled to some “down time” from the Forums – in fact, it should be a requisite for all. Too much of anything can make one rather dull and narrow minded. Volunteering, eh I recall that not too many years back I gave 2,000 hours per year for a couple of years to our local PD. Now THAT’s a lot of hours. Nonetheless, it’s always a good thing to avail one’s self of time and effort to those where the need exists for help.
Lars at 6:55 PM yesterday: And the other “bookend” has been heard from! How long has it been where we’ve had the two of you on board for a Saturday Too long is the answer! I too recall the ICE and X2000 trains making their way to St. Louis in the 90s. The crowds were eager to board these magnificent creations and as with you, I wonder “how come” we (U.S.) didn’t pursue this technology further Don’t guess there’s an answer OTHER than to say that in absence of a National Transportation Plan – one with vision – that rightly should begin in the Congress – we’ll continue to muddle along with passenger rail service.
Thanx for putting together the “how we do things” once again – never hurts to Post the reminders.
Mike at 7:43 PM yesterday: Awesome display of URLs for one ‘n all to enjoy! Surely are the URLMeisterMonster of this Thread! Simply LOVE that last one with the Pennsy smoothsides!! <Ahhhhhhhhh> Email received and responded to - thanx!
Rob at 11:45 PM and 11:59 PM yesterday: He lives! Much appreciation for the two Posts and fine ENCORE! Too bad we didn’t have some extra time in Hamilton this past spring, as I surely would liked to have explored the area a bit. Anyway, it’s just astounding how many streetcar and interurban lines that once existed. Today, with a resurgence of interest, we see the modern light rail systems emerging throughout North America – only thing is the COST would gag a healthy maggot. Been there, done that on this Thread before, eh Good subject matter!
Catch my comments at the end of this Post regarding the continuing “flap” over the “ratings” et al!
Eric at 2:10 AM today: Thanx for your Email response to my 2nd Annual “Our” Place Classic Trains Rendezvous in St. Louis! Once the remainder of the interested guys respond, I’ll provide a follow up and so forth . . .
Check out these Pix from Eric on the ICE Train!! http://web.mac.com/ericx2000/iWeb/Sunday%20Picts/Sunday%20Pictures.html
Hello again Tom and friends. After the wife gets home, we're going to see the 3rd Santa Claus movie (providing that the Bears game is over). I couldn't help but notice that the new Clint Eastwood "Flags of our Fathers" movie has been released. You might recall that I did a little write-up on this thread concerning some of the IRM engines and cars that were used in the filming. So, be on the watch for IRM rolling stock if you see this film!
Kedzie Avenue carhouse, Chicago Railways
Typical storage bay at the Kedzie Avenue carhouse, Chicago Railways
Repair bay at the Kedzie carhouse, Chicago Railways
Chicago City Railroad test car with maximum traction trucks
Testing outfit installed in car 3701, Chicago City Railway.
When you are in deep trouble, say nothing, and try to look like you know what you are doing
Home alone this Sun so I will partake in the Brunch.
A good Encore day yesterday.. DOUG Great 2 part encore on the RPO s and the video links are wonderful, The LOGO beer song deffinatly sould be the Our Place Anthem "I could kiss and hug it, but I would much rather chugg it" Great.. The driving on the Midland Railway Centre at Butterley Derbyshire, a small but friendly line, they also have a narrow guage line using old mine cars. They also have a green burial ground next to the line so railfans can have their last resting place next to a steam railway.
TOM The German ICE is still a great read with the list of Railroads Officials. and with BK Sweedish X2000 encore.
Great links by MIKE and thanks JAMES for the info on the Milwaukee Electrics.
ROB thanks for the Hamilton Street Railway Encore another great read, and VERY much appriciate you getting the Poppies for us, Back in England the lady who used to come round our street with the poppy collection tin always used to save a small wooden cross with a poppy on it which the British Legion made for remembrance day.
Great start to Sunday Photo day DOUG with the old Chicago Instruction cars and Buildings, If there is any of the 40 gallons of cider left I think the bride could help you out.
Three great movies on again at the Emporium TOM, as already said James Stewart was a very talented actor.
I have had a look at the other site and can I just say how I totally agree with what LARS, BK and you have said TOM. And thanks JAMES for saying what, I believe we all think. If folks dont like what OUR PLACE is about they dont have to read it, all I know is it gives me a great deal of enjoyment and am privaledged to be a part of it.
Any way on to some pics, to start some of Alan,s from the UK this time.
AT the Foxfield Railway Staffordshire, England
A Kerr Stuart 0-4-0 Saddle tank works # 4388 used for shunting coal etc at the Stoke on Trent gas works. the diesel on the right is a Ruston & Hornby 4 wheel diesel machinical
0-6-0 Saddle tank loco Wimblebury of the Austerity class built by Hunslet of Leeds in 1956 as their works# 3839 it saw service for the National Coal Board.
A 4 Wheel Bagnall diesel hydralic #3207 which worked at a metal casting factory in Derby.
Two pics of Great Western 4-6-0 # 4965 Rood Aston Hall at Stratford-On-Avon on a railfan trip. These servaces are quite regular in the Summer months on a Sunday, running between Birmingham and Stratford.
Just caught your latest post DOUG. I will look out for the film and a great pic of the fox.
G-day Tom and all present.
Well. I am glad that Pete, Eric and Barndad, enjoyed the electric explanation. If you like that, then you're going to have to read the Milwaukee road news, Issue 2.
Rob- The Hamilton street railway article was very interesting. Some of the stuff mentioned I didn't know, like when they first started in the 1870s. Very interesting, Thanks for the article.
Eric- Yes sir, The room is good sized. It does work for what I want. But just wait untill I have a whole basement to myself. It's going to be a mountain range, with the Milwaukee written all over it.
Tom- 2000 hours...well.. I "think" thats a few more hours than I had. Good job though. The North Shore got 9550 volunteer hours put in this year. So thats a good amount.
Barndad- Your RPO story was very cool! It really gives you an idea what work would have been like, back then, on one of these cars. Very interesting. I would have liked to do something like this for awhile. It might have been fun.
BTW: Your jokes!! Those are deffinantly different! on those.
Now it's time for some photos.
Photo from:www.budd-rdc.org/
Photo by: Bevis R W King 2003
Some Via Rail RDCs. I haven't seen any for quite some time so I thought it time.
Photo from: www.nrhs.com/railfan/pictures.htm
Photo by: unknown
Got to get some Arkansas and Missouri Alcos in here somewhere. These C420s are rocken there way across Missouri with a grain train. They look to be in run 8.
G'day Captain Tom and fellow travelers waiting for the bar to open!
Thought I'd drop a few pix off today, but "things" got in the way. Didn't even get to watch any football - thus far! Anyway, here's a few that you've seen B4, but worth the repeat - except of course if you happen to be one of those people who never participate and THINK we are providing all of this for THEM and only THEM! Yeah, right.
Book covers from the Larsman!
G-day Tom and all present! Issue 2
Its that Time again, for.....
Milwaukee Road News
The Box Cab electric!
There where many names given to this locomotive. GE motors, Cabs, but Box cab seems to have stuck.
There were 4 different types of Boxcabs that the Milwaukee road produced. EF-1, EF-2, EF-3, and EF-5 series. The EF-4 was the Little Joe.
The EF-1, the picture shown above, was some of the first sets ever produced. First introduced in 1915, they proved liable to the railroad and helped out with passenger service. When first introduced, The Bipolar gearless electric, was already becoming old. So the EF-1 started to replace some of the older Bipolars. 12 where sent to passenger service and classified as EP-1s. This locomotive was given a reward for being the largest electric locomotive in the world, in 1919. Later, The Milwaukee found that these locomotives were well equiped for frieght movements and began adding them to frieghts going to and from Tacoma and Seattle. 25 or 30 of these were produced for frieght service.
This is the cab unit of the EF-1. The EF-1 consisted of two of these units.
The EF-2 was the second Boxcab set to come out.
Any combination of 3 cab units made up the EF-2. This was a way to bring out more power. These began appearing in 1930 with the increase of tonnage needed across the US. And with more to haul bigger and better locomotives were needed so the EF-2 was built. It wasn't untill the "B"unit came out that the Milwaukee had something going.
The EF-3 was the first Box cab to have a B-unit. (the one shown above) This B-unit had no cab and took in the electricity that the Cab units fed it. It was more effective than three cab units and actually saved some electricity when using these untis. They were used as helpers and as lead units on trains. But hwen The Milwaukee road first bought the little joes, these locomotives were not used as frequently for leading trains over the mountains. But when The EF-5 came out some things changed.
Photo from: http://www.trainweb.org/milwaukee/milwe45b.jpg
The EF-5 was the ultimate in boxcabs. Each section of boxcab had almost 1400 HP and 35,000 pounds tractive effort each. At some points the locomotives would reach a starting tractive effort at over 200,000 lbs per square inch. The Locomotives HP would vary when starting and cruizing. Sometimes each locomotive would put out more than 2000 HP per section and cruizing it would sustain its 1350 HP. The EF-5 would consist of any combination of Head unit and B-units. There were always 2 head unit. One at each end. But the head units would also be put in between each of the units. What ever combination of units was possible. They were used for helper service and also for leading trains over the mountains.
Just something for you to read.
First two pics from Wikipedia.
Two Muffins were baking in an oven. One muffin turns to the other and says, "Holy moley it's hot in here!" The other muffin says, "Holy moley... A talking muffin!"
Now ... would you say that joke was "interesting", or a 4 on the groan-o-meter? Unfortunately, many of my jokes cannot be measured at all, as they frequently break the groan-o-meter. I think one of the springs is close to breaking now.
Great to see book pix from manager Lars yesterday. I wish I owned them all
Hey James! A guy asks his waiter how they prepare their chicken. The waiter says that there's nothin' special... we just flat out tell 'em they're gonna die...
Hear the springs straining? Here's a part-oner from me this morning:
Chicago Freight Subway – Traction Heritage - best of the 1912 convention
An extensive freight tunnel system underlies practically every street in the downtown business district of Chicago. There is little evidence of the vast maze of entries undermining the streets from the surface, yet it has been said that one-third of all the team tunnel traffic has been removed from the street by means of the tunnel system. This underground narrow-gage railway taps the freight stations of practically all the steam roads entering Chicago, receiving and delivering freight at these stations for a large number of wholesale and retail mercantile establishments, by way of connections to the sub-basements under the buildings.
Freight train leaving Marshall Field & Company’s basement
It is of historical interest to note that in 1899 the Chicago City Council passed an ordinance granting the use of the streets to a telephone company to be operated in opposition to the existing Bell Telephone Company. Under this ordinance actual tunnel construction was started. In 1903 the original company was reorganized under the name of the Illinois Tunnel Company and received an amended ordinance permitting it to equip the tunnel with an electric railway for the transportation of freight. The original tunnel construction contemplated approximately 60 miles of single bore with such connections to railroad freight and passenger stations and large business houses as could be contracted for during the process of building. This mileage has been increased from time to time until it now totals 62 miles. In addition to the routes shown on the map there is also a short section of tunnel on Armour Avenue between sixteenth Street and Archer Avenue, which does not connect at the present time to the main bore.
Map showing the underground lines of the Chicago Freight Subway
The floor of the tunnel is, at an average, 42 ft. below the street level, or 28 ft. below the level of the lake. In order to reach all the steam-road trunk lines and large industrial centers, it was necessary to tunnel under the Chicago River at thirteen different points. Here the tunnel grade dips until it reaches a point 20 ft. below the bed of the river, or 65 ft. below the street level. The construction work was started in 1901 and was pushed as rapidly as possible. The soft quality of the material to be excavated and the fact that everything had to be handled from the surface until taps could be made to docks on the river and Grant Park on the lake front made construction extremely difficult. A large quantity of the excavated material was raised through shafts to the streets and hauled away in wagons, but the bulk of it was transported to scows on the river and through the tunnel connection to Grant Park, where it was used for filling. The work of excavating was done largely by miners, who were followed by concrete gangs. The material was loaded in small mine cars and hauled by electric locomotives to the dumping sites. The small cars enabled the installation of a system of derricks which lifted the cars bodily and dumped them at any point desired.
Freight train passing typical crossing beneath two intersecting streets
The tunnel and equipment were designed for freight service, and the only passengers handled are those accompanying an observation party. In addition to the classes of traffic mentioned, connections are made to the basements of building under construction, whereby the bulk of the excavated material and trash is transported to the tunnel company’s disposal station and dumped into the scows. Coal and ashes are handled in a similar manner. The trunk-line cables of the Illinois Telephone and Telegraph Company (the Automatic System) are supported on the walls and ceiling of the bore in the downtown district.
Belt conveyor formerly used to handle mail from tunnel to post office
The bore is horseshoe-shaped, 6 ft. wide, with 7 ½ ft. in clear height. In a few places the tunnel has been increased in size for special conditions to 12 ft. wide by 14 ft. high. The tunnel walls are solid concrete, 10 in. thick, without reinforcing. The track is constructed with a 2-ft. gage, using 56
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