Good Morning Barkeep and all Present; coffee, please; round for the house and $ for the jukebox.
Lots of fine RPO-related material yesterday; leading off with Tom’s survey/summary.
Mike provided some interesting pictures. The Belfast and Moosehead Lake RPO was a fine example of older RPOs. The Hannibal and St. Joseph had the first RPO service, IIRC. Last the NYC streamlined car brought back lots of memories. I am going to have to dig around in the stack of stuff, but I think that car may have been built for the Empire State Express.
The NYC RPO ad was part of a series that the railroad ran during WWII. The ads covered a “typical” NYC train from front to back. The one that dealt with the NYC dining car service was probably the best of the group.
DL and BK posted all kinds of interesting material. I had forgotten about the Auden poem until I started reading through it; then it came back to me. Now, I have to go find my John Masefield material and go “sailing.”
James – Thanks for RPO material
Nick was here with pictures (real and model) of all sorts of technological wonders.
Rob provided electric mail information. I especially enjoyed the shot of the RM car in Ottawa.
Pete – The Great Train Robbery – good one! Maybe we can get a screening at the Mentor Theatuh.
Last thanks to all for kind words re Boston RPOs. The B&M was not the only road that had RDC4s, of course, but they were the ones with which I was most familiar. I had the delightful experience of riding in one on one of my few “railfan” excursions. We rode from deepest Vermont back to Boston via the Hoosac Tunnel. Rode in what used to be the RPO “apartment” most of the way back. Fellow passengers included more than a few B&M veterans – lies, !@#$ lies, and tons of “war stories.” Sort of like mariners (no offense, Tom) or a bunch of miners getting together.
Today is model day. Craig Wilson’s column in today's USA Today talks about Lionel trains. The writing is sort of a cross between nostalgia and the Addams Family, but it’s a lot of fun.
Following is a repeat of an item I submitted abt. this time last year – OMG! Was it hard to find in the archives as the forum’s search feature is a bit clunky.
Anyway – here ‘tis.
I went to the Post Office this a.m. and the box was full of catalogs which sent me to the notebooks. Hope it ties in with model rr Wednesday. The catalogs come in November, just as they have for years. The catalogs are books that deserve serious study. The catalogs mean that Christmas is coming. The Lionel catalog is the one that gets the most attention. Its glossy pages contain enough railroad-related material to satisfy Commodore Vanderbilt and all of his vest-wearing, watch chained, cigar-smoking lackeys. Look, here’s a Pennsylvania Railroad steam turbine. On the next page is a Tuscan red GG1 electric with a set of Pennsy passenger cars. My father tells me that they look just like the ones he rides to Washington. I want to go to Washington, too, and see the “Congressional Limited” as it passes along the tidal basin by the cherry blossoms – at least it does in the catalog. Here’s a GP7 in red, black, and silver from the Burlington Route set against a generic picture of the heartland. Turn the page and there’s some EMD switchers decorated for the Seaboard Air Line and for the Central Railroad of New Jersey. My, what we could do with a set of those. Then there are lovely F units in Santa Fe red and silver war bonnet paint and on the next page a pair of Fs for the New York Central. You can get freight or passenger sets with these. Right after that is a monstrous FM Trainmaster lettered for the fearsome, far away, Virginian. Toward the back of the book is page after page of freight cars of all types. Then there are pages of passenger cars. The very back has track, accessories, and transformers big enough to power a small city. It’s pretty simple: we want it all. And why not? Christmas is, after all, a time of renewed hope and possibility.
Work safe
G'day Gents!
Something from our past to commemorate this "Toy 'n Model Trains Day!" here at the Saloon by the Siding!
First Posted on Page 321, 03 May 2006:
My contribution to this, our first “Toy & Model Trains Day!” (formerly: Pike Perspective’s Day!)
Used with permission from: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Formatting differences made necessary due to Forums requirements.
Toy train
A toy train is a toy that represents a train, distinguished from a model train by an emphasis on low cost and durability, rather than scale modeling. A toy train can be as simple as a pull toy that does not even run on track, or it might be operated by clockwork or a battery. Many toy trains blur the line between the two categories, running on electric power and approaching accurate scale.
Standards
The first widely adopted standards for toy trains running on track were introduced inLeipzig, Germany in 1891 by Märklin.
Name . . . . . Width . . . . . Width . . . . . size . . . . . . . . . . Comments
gauge . . . . . (metric) . . . . (imperial)
Number 5 . . . . 120 mm . . . 4 ft 5/8” . . . 1:8 . . . . . . . . . . Also known as V Gauge.
Number 4 . . . . . 75 mm . . . 3 in. . . . . . 1:11 or 1:20 . . . . Also known as IV or 3 gauge. Measurement is sometimes also quoted at 2 15/16 in.
Number 3 . . . . . 67 mm . . . 2 5/8 in . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . also known as III, II, IIa gauges
Number 2 . . . . . 54 mm . . . 2 1/8 in . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . also know as II gauge.
Number 1 . . . . . 45 mm . . . 1 ¾ in . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Also known as I gauge.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Used by modern G scale.
Number 0 . . . . . 35 mm . . . 1 3/8 in . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Introduced later, around 1900. This is modern O gauge.
Märklin measured the gauge as the distance between the centers of the two outer rails, rather than the distance between the outer rails themselves. Lionel's Standard gauge is allegedly the result of Lionel's misreading these standards, as are the variances in O gauge between the United States and Europe.
Most of these standards never really caught on, due to their large size, which made them impractical to use indoors, as well as the high price of manufacturing. Wide gauge trains, which are close in size to 2 gauge, are produced in limited quantities today, as are 1 gauge and O gauge trains. Of these, O gauge is the most popular.
An O gauge Marx toy train set made in the late 1940s or early 1950s.
GNU Free Documentation
The modern standards for toy trains also include S gauge, HO scale, N scale, and Z scale, in descending order of size. HO and N scale are the most popular model railway standards of today; inexpensive sets sold in toy stores and catalogs are less realistic than those sold to hobbyists. O gauge arguably remains the most popular toy train standard. Another size that is attracting interest among hobbyists is building and operating trains from LEGO, or L gauge, which is roughly 1/38 scale.
Although the words "scale" and "gauge" are often used interchangeably, toy train manufacturers have only recently concerned themselves with accurate scale. The terms "O scale" and "S scale" tend to imply serious scale modeling, while the terms "O gauge" and "S gauge" tend to imply toy trains manufactured by the likes of Lionel and American Flyer. While S gauge is fairly consistent at 1:64 scale, O gauge trains represent a variety of sizes. O gauge track happens to be 1/45 the size of real-world standard gauge track, so manufacturers in Continental Europe have traditionally used 1:45 for O gauge trains. British manufacturers rounded this up to 1:43, which is seven millimeters to the foot. U.S. manufacturers rounded it down to 1:48, which is a quarter-inch to the foot. However, most engaged in a practice of selective compression in order to make the trains fit in a smaller space, causing the actual scale to vary, and numerous manufacturers produced 1:64 scale trains—the proper size for S gauge—in O gauge, especially for cost-conscious lines.
Some of the earliest O gauge trains made of tinplate weren't scale at all, made to unrealistic, whimsical proportions similar in length to modern HO scale, but anywhere from one and a half to two times as wide and tall.
Some adult fans of toy trains operate their trains, while others only collect. Some toy train layouts are accessorized with scale models in an attempt to be as realistic as possible, while others are accessorized with toy buildings, cars, and figures. Some hobbyists will only buy accessories that were manufactured by the same company who made their trains. This practice is most common among fans of Marx and Lionel.
History
Toy trains can be enjoyed by both children and adults. (Fair Use)
The earliest toy trains date from the 19th century and were often made of cast iro
Good afternoon Tom and all in. Hope you'll permit me to reflect on some of the previous posts from RPO day.
I’ll have a pint of pint of bitter please, too.
Looks like the RPO day went well – a great spread of contributions – really increased my knowledge.
Doug – thanks for your kind comments about my submission, but others were of its equal (Rob’s streetcar / electric one being particularly interesting to me).
James – yes, good point 2003 not very long ago – had I made the acquaintance of the regulars here at that time it would have been my pleasure to post a note on one of those final TPOs to ensure all you regulars could have had a final TPO postmarked envelope, but those days are no more.
Mike – superb jpeg links – really good quality pictures – enjoyed them.
BK – nice pics of the UK class 325 electric royal mail unit. By way of background these are the vehicles bought in the 1990s investment programme I mentioned – they can run on 25KV ac electric pick up, 750V dc third trail pick up (in south of England) and can be hauled by a diesel locomotive giving them access all over the country. They are van trains though so often seen in daylight (as Pete mentioned).
You asked what had happened to all the vehicles – well the 325 units are (mostly) back in service carrying mail again – crewed by a different company than EWS – which gave credence to the suggestion that Royal Mail scrapped the whole thing just to get out of the EWS contract they had signed. The TPO sorting cars and hauled vans (GUVs) mostly got parked up in sidings after the immediate contract end, and no doubt many have gone for scrap (I saw quite a few of them parked up near Bristol back in June – covered with graffiti and generally looking neglected) – some have gone for preservation. The TPO cars dated from the 1950s and 1960s so there was an issue about whether replacements would be built (that could have ran at the 125 mph speed of the locomotives EWS bought to haul these trains) but I guess Royal Mail did not want to pick up the costs of that investment.
The newish mail distribution depots are not lying empty – maybe worse – they turned most of them over to road haulage – filled over many of the railway lines inside too.
Nick – yes say the word if you get thinking about that Scotland by sleeper trip – just a quick run down on the intricacies of the UK advanced ticket purchase system which those of you lucky enough to be able to get Brit rail passes don’t have to worry about!
Tom – yes sleeper one way to Scotland, daylight the other is a good option. Of course with the luxury of the Brit Rail pass you can ride any train – perfectly possible to do an out and back to south Scotland at least in a day – if riding the rails and taking the scenery in is an aim. EG the 9am departure from London Kings Cross on the LNER ‘east coast route’ arrives Edinburgh at 13.40 and Glasgow 14.46. The 15.10 departure from Glasgow arrives London Euston 20.25 via the LMS ‘west coast route’. In May-June it would be daylight all the way. When I had my BR staff pass I used to do those sort of expeditions just to see the countryside! A lot of fun, and pretty relaxing too sitting there watching the world go by!
Rob – I think you’ve mixed up the 1979 Connery Film ‘The Great Train Robbery’ – set in 19th century (I think this is fiction but I’m not sure), with the 1988 Film of the 1963 so called ‘great train robbery’ Pete mentioned (which is called ‘Buster’) – ‘Buster’ Edwards – one of the robbers- is played by Genesis rock group drummer Phil Collins in that one – I wonder if it ever screened in the USA as I think it was a modest budget UK made film. (see www.imdb.com) – I’ll add some trivia to Pete’s contribution which may be of interest.
Firstly though Pete – thanks for telling that story – a nice addition to the posts – raises some interesting points which touches on Tom’s point about it being a ‘romantic episode’ – this is rather interesting because you are right Tom – it has gone down in UK folk history in that way – not least I suspect because they robbed a train of used bank notes being taken for incineration – hence many felt there were no ‘victims’. However, in contrast to your assumption Tom, sadly Driver Mills was badly injured and never returned to work – he died in 1970 without ever having made a full recovery and his family always maintained his death was because of this incident.
Other anecdotes about this include
- the fact that the robbers recruited a retired driver to drive the train forward to a convenient unloading point after they had captured it – turned out he was a steam driver who had never trained on diesel locos and he could not get it going! – robbers had to revive the injured Driver Mills and force him to move the train against his will, it can’t have helped the guy.
- After the robbery TPO window sizes were reduced to aid security (I learned this on the TPO website I posted yesterday so others may have seen this too).
- For the Film ‘Buster’ a preserved English Electric Class 40 diesel of the same design as used on the 1963 train was painted up to be the loco Pete mentioned which was in the incident. This was done where they filmed the recreated TPO train on the Great Central preserved line in England – previously mentioned on these pages.
Some good info here
http://www.bbc.co.uk/crime/caseclosed/greattrainrobbery.shtml
Maybe ‘Buster’ can be a future screening at the picture house Tom?
Pete – I’ve dug out the article on the APT / Pendolino record runs – I’ll transcribe it in due course (not too long an article).
Lars and Tom, you’ve both mentioned the voting – without straying on to politics I have to tell you we’ve heard plenty about this election this side of the pond too! This was being talked about at home the other day and I said the only aspects of US govt policy I had much knowledge of was your foreign policy (because we get plenty of coverage of that here) and the impact on Amtrak! – so if you want to give us some info what is your take on the election result vis a vis the prospects for Amtrak? (or is that a customer stampede for the door I hear…)
All the best - DL
<psssssssst> <pssssssst> <over here> <over here> <No, No, don't say anything!> <Just nod your head> <Is it safe for me to come over to the bar?> <No one waitng for me, huh??>
Greetings Cap'n Tom and fellow travelers at the bar!
<phew> This is getting a bit ridiculous having to scurry about as if I'm escaping the law! Can't get into the details, gents, however, let's just say I'm ducking the Mrs. these days and the only place I know to get a bit of sanctuary is right here at "Our" Place! <grin>
Ruth my deAH you are such a radiant young lady! Must've been the "glow" of yours that melted all that snow we had yesterday. Can't even spot a trace of it today. Oh well. Set 'em up on me and I'll have a double JD on the rocks if you please. Nothing to eat today, thanks.
In no particular order, let me get to some comments on the posts:
DL - Amtrak will benefit from the change in Congress. The current administration hasn't been friendly to Amtrak, whereas the opposition has. Does this mean "big things" in store for the struggling rail service Nope - but it may assure continued funding to keep putting bandaids on the sucking chest wound! <ugh> That's
Nick - yes, I'll take you up on that suggestion! However, SHE has been here B4 and in fact KNOWS where to look! <groan> Maybe I should sign on as one of your "roadies," what say you
Rob - stern sections, transoms - they all equate to the same thing, huh <grin> Distrations, distractions - ain't it wunnerful
Pete - a great tale about the train robbery. The movie "Buster" that DL mentioned was "news" to me - although it IS available on amazon.com. Getting back to the incident, do you happen to know how much money is still unaccounted for
CM3 I'm NOT Shane! - That's a fine piece on the Lionel Catalog! Brings back so many thoughts of times gone by and dreams of having all the trains in those glossy pages!
Cap'n Tom - all of your posts are always motivational to many of us who frequent these premises. Let there be no doubt who the navigator of this place is and has been! Anyone who fails to note that without your contributions and daily efforts to keep things going, this bar would in fact be long relegated to the far back pages of this forum.
To all who provided pix, narratives and URLs for the Tuesday Theme - well done!
I'm in need of a refill!
Until the next time!
Lars
Hi Tom and all.
A pint of Kimberley Bitter or Mild please........ BORIS. Oh you say RUTH is doing a stocktake with LARS, Ok but I hope Tom doesn't Find out.
A really Excellent Theme day yesterday
JAMES thanks for the Arkansas & Missouri link. I will have to see if I can get down to have a ride on it some day.
Great RPO pics.
NICK The model TPO pics reminded me of one of my early friends having the one pictured, I think he had a Duchess loco hauling the working model and we spent many a happy time watching it. Good to see the model cars in B Rail livery.
We had one Garrett working through Rugby which came off the Midland line from Leicester although I cannot remember it myself. I was told that it loaded to over 100 coal wagons, I believe it came from a colliery in Nottingham shire to a Power station on the West Coast line on the outskirts of London. The problem of the loops on the East Coast line to London also caused the two Gresley Booster fitted class P1 2-8-2s not to be used to their full potential.
As to Trap and Catch Points, my only guess is that trap points led to a sand trap whereas catch points just derailed the run aways.
Heres a question.Do you know what Scottish railways had to do with the birth of television .
Great pics of Landore depot. I can recall visiting there in the days of Hymeks and Westerns.
ROB Thanks for making sure we got the Classic Juice #35 a great read. The Ottowa Royal Mail car #1 is a splendid car. I dont suppose it was saved but it would be a great replica to build.
DOUG The more I see the more I MUST visit the IRM. Do you know when the last Worlds Fair was held in Chicago. Perhaps one day they will hold a large railroad exhibition there again one day.
In the man's guide to female English, one should be."You know very well what you have done to upset me" ,when the man hasn't a clue what he has done.
CM3 Glad you liked the Great Train Robbery . The Christmas model railway catalog brought back a few pleasent memories. It seems railfans are the same the world over on railfan trips, it was even more so in the UK in the days when compartment coaches were used on the trips seating six in each compartment.
DL Great idea for the RPO/TPO day.
With the Distribution depots I was wondering who payed for them. I think the Royal Mail was fortunate that there were other freight companies on the railways besides EWS, I heard that the Christmas Mail in 2004/5 was impossible to deliver without some of it going by rail.
Another anecdote to your one on the great train robbery, I saw a documentary which had some of the robbers talking after they had done their time. At the farm hideout some of them were digging a hole to bury some of the evidence. The guy whose was supposed to drive the loco for them thought at one point it was a grave for him.
On a more serious note, I read at one time there was a campaign to get a locomtive named after the driver who was hurt in the robbery. I dont know if this happened or not.
Can you help. I had a talk to my friend in Rugby and they are planning a visit to Nottingham to get some Kimberley beers again while they can. Do you know of some good Kimberley pubs on the Tram route or in the city centre.(Alan has stopped buying Greene King as a protest).
LARS The piece I read just said that a large amount of the money was never recovered from the robbery.If I remember right a mail sack of the loot was left in a phone box.
Of course nowadays the banknotes have a completly different design to the ones used in 1963, in fact the one Pound note has been replaced with a coin. I still have a 5 Pound note from that era, they were quite a work of art.
TOM It seems as though we could have a Mail Train special at the Emporium. With Sean Connery and Donald Sutherland in the First Great Train Robbery then Buster, with the Night Mail as the short. There must be some good N.American films that involve Mail trains as well .
Thanks for the model scale and history Encore. I wonder what the early producers of the toy trains would say if they could see the detail (and the price) of some of the locomotive models produced today.
Well I see that LEON has arrived so I will try a Kimberley Bitter this time and a round please.
Pete.
Good Evening Gents!
Things are settling down the “day after” as those of us who vote and pay attention to what is going on in government begin to absorb the ramifications of the election. Life will go on and perhaps something good may indeed come out of all of this. One can only hope!
THANX to CM3 at 9:00 AM – DL at 12:03 PM – Lars at 2:47 PM ‘n Pete at 5:48 PM for the Posts for today.
Messages received regarding the “flicks” for the Emporium – watch for ‘em! Thanx to DL I’ve researched “Buster” and ordered it for our home library of movies! Never knew it existed! Have the other one in our collection and it’s a “goodun” – my wife thinks ANYTHING with Sean Connery is worth the price of admission. <geesh>
By my count only FIVE more Posts are needed to reach the “magic” 8,500 mark! So, that’s maybe tonite or most certainly tomorrow – November 9th. Therefore, no winners in the CONTEST – however – drinks ‘n food will be on the house for ALL who participated! Tomorrow happens to be Fish ‘n Chips Nite too! at 5 PM and of course, watch for Nick’s Picks!
Seems I neglected to answer a question from BK – Yes, Spirit of St. Louis Airport is about 5 miles from where we live. It’s a rather busy airport for this area and in fact is the largest “small” airport in the state – traffic wise. Should you decide to attend the Rendezvous and come by private aircraft, let me know. I have a friend or three who may be able to “cut you a deal.” More by Email if you wish! Like to keep the particulars out of the Ether.
Another missed comment - For Doug: Glad the CORK ROADBED info was useful for you as well. As with most things like this – one size just doesn’t “fit” all (circumstances). There may be a way to prepare the cork to prevent the expansion and contraction problem that I encountered – don’t know.
DL: I’m positive that we wouldn’t be making a daylight round trip to/from Scotland. Nope – definitely want to spend at least one night in country. However, the info you provided has gone into the “folder”!
Nice accounting of and for those TPO cars. What a pity to have shelved such an impressive mail system. But costs to government, the world over, seem to be much higher than to private concerns. And that speaks volumes, eh
Here’s a URL from the Halifax Chronicle Herald on that special train we’ve been discussing:
http://www.halifaxherald.com/Search/539401.html
Finally, CM3: I really enjoyed that rerun of yours on the Lionel catalog. I recall the first time you Posted it and found it to be just as heart warming the second time ‘round!
Leon, give ‘em one on me and Boris – ring the bell!
Tom
Good evening Leon , I think a crown would go nicly right about now thank-you.So all seems well , bit slower today but that's to be expected we tend to slow down the day after a successfull theme day, no biggy we must all be enjoying the afterglow as it were.
Tom-Six degrees you say , remember though I'm in Canada so it's metric thanks for the url though interesting stuff. I figured that i would put in my over on the other thread, I know it's all done and all for not now but I like keeping up my end.At least you know that most of us have your back as they say.
Dl-Thanks for the clearing up of the movie. Like Tom I had not even known about the Buster movie, it's very likely that it didn't make it over here , at least now I can keep an eye out for it.great follow up on the disposotion of the TPO cars today. It's just "wunnerfull" how the topics keep on going around here.
Doug-Interesting RPO shot and I have to say that today's joke was the best list of that sort I've seen in a loooong time. BTW make sure you've had all your shots you wouldn't want to give Juneau anything when he "chews" on you in May
Pete-I'm gald you enjoyed number 35, I enjoyed typing it twice A group did save the body of number 1 last I heard it was in various states of dissasembly at the steam and tech museum in Ottawa.
Lars-Try laying low in Boris's shed, since it's been cleaned out he has more room. that and he's installed a Hogan's Hero's like periscope to check things re people out.
CM3-Great rehash of the ole Lionel story you posted before. isn't the search function on this site absolutly marvelous I find myself writing down the pages I post anything repost worthy, thatvway I just type in the page number in the search line. I've given up on using the search features on this site months ago.
Rob
Well good evening Gents-looks like we made half way to the weekend day again and all is well with the world ( or at least our bit of it...) Leon,beers for all please and have one yourself
First up :- an apology...MIKE-somehow,I inexplicably failed to note your fine submission yesterday...there was no slight intended,please forgive me...........<grovel,grovel>
ROB-an interesting piece on electric mail with your usual atmospheric pix to illuminate-nice one With regard to couplers we do seem to be catching on at last (excuse the pun) and buckeyes are becoming an ever more common sight-possibly `cos we are buying most of our new motive power from G.M these days............Now-med. school-I knew a lot of med students up at St Andrews uni back in the day and a sicker,weirder and more deviant bunch of freaks I have yet to meet.....sign me up,I`ve even got my own knives..
PETE-An interesting `take` on the theme-I never even thought of it-I too have a personal connection:-A small part of the proceeds from the robbery paid for the house I grew up in-for about 6 months after the robbery, a small van could be found around the back streets of the east end selling used ten bob notes at 4 for a quid-dad used to stop off there after his shift in the taxi and trade all his 1,5& 10 pound notes for double value in brownies before going back to the yard to pay in and pocketing the difference-The oul fella was a bit of a `spiv` in his day,bless him
DOUG-Some fine pix of a beautiful model--as a sometime carpenter myself,I especially enjoyed the shot with the outer panelling removed to show the arrangement of bracing and support timbers---Loved the `translations` by the way
TOM-A nice piece on the origins and early days of our hobby-that wooden CSX toy has oodles of charm I thought I have a couple of gauge 4 live steamers up in a cupboard awaiting completion which my parents `aquired` during a house move (another one of dads little scams I suspect). They were designed by a guy called `Curly` Lawrence,who wrote extensively in the `50`s & `60`s under the pen-name L.B.S.C.
By one of those weird 6 degrees things he lived not far from us and used to bring the prototypes of the two loco`s ( a G.W.R Hall & an L.M.S dock tank )to our infant school fete every year and give rides to the kids--DL might have seen his running track ,which was set up in his garden between Purley & Purley Oaks Stns,on the up side. As to DOUG`s translations,I emphatically deny everything-which brings to mind the worrying prospect of another mind as twisted and cynical as mine out there in the ether............................................. A last thought-your reference to beheadings calls to mind the scene in Pythons `Holy Grail` where Eric Idle`s character is dragged away by the Roman guards yelling " crucify a bit of sense into them,thats what I say"
CM3-A wonderfully lyrical memoir of the hopes and dreams of childhood -for me it was the Tri-Ang catalogue ,for you,Lionel but the vision was,I suspect,the same.....................Us Brits have always been at the cutting edge of technology and the like:- 3 link couplers,warm beer,pointed sticks,cricket ( in hindsight,a mistake..),self-propelled kettles,the Triumph Bonneville (one of our better ones ),woad,WEM & VOX amps,Francophobia...........
DL- Nice follow up to yesterdays theme-noted that the preserved TPO had the toilet windows plated over after the robbery-slightly but so pleased you refered to Phil Collins as the Genesis drummer (good player)and ignored his subsequent solo career ( an embarrassment to all right thinking muso`s )-you are obviously a man of taste
LARS-If the bar offers no hope of safety,please adjourn to the galley-It may resemble the secure holding area at Ellis Island at times but they don`t bite (often...) if that fails you would be more than welcome to come out on the road with us-I rather think it would give you some unmatched life experiences (Rob Reiners film "This is Spinal Tap" is probably the best reference I can provide)
Right,up to date-Leon,same again please old son and better break out the rum,this might take a while...
O.K-joining yesterday & today seamlessly together we have model T.P.O vans-the examples shown are from the Hornby Dublo and Tri-Ang ranges.
Of the two,the Dublo version was perhaps the most sophisticated-both the pick-up and drop off apparatus was on the left side of the car,which meant it could be used in a double track formation and it was activated by push-button solenoids so the scoop only worked when you pressed the button.
The Tri-Ang variant was purely mechanical,the under-car trigger hit a ramp which opened the appropriate door-the scoop was on the left and the thrower on the right -however the catching bin was too wide to fit between standard double tracks so to use it on a twin track layout required slewing one of the mains-easy enough with modern flexi-trak but a bit of a b****r with the fixed radius geometry of the time.
Also used in mail service,the full brake shown in the unattractive `corporate` blue grey colours-the rest of the Mk1`s are in there too
Onwards and upwards,here are the promised pix of the motive power fleet from my old Somerset & Dorset layout:-
" border="0" />
Right -to start with we have the `Western` engines:- from back left,`King` class-not appropriate for the route,but a 21st b/day present from my parents,14xx auto tank,20xx pannier tank,61xx prairie tank,Albert Hall,43xx mogul,22xx 0-6-0 ,44xx prairie tank [i mg][/img]
And the Midland engines,Duchess of Sutherland (again,inappropropriate but you find excuses....),4F,3F,Princess Victoria(with simplified valve gear & borrowed tender),1F half-cab with Belpaire firebox,2x ex L&Y pugs,Ji
G-day Tom and all present!
Well After this post, only two more posts to go before 8500 posts!
Before you leave leon could I get a java with a splash of Vanilla, please. I will wash the cup out when I'm done.
Nick- Glad you liked the pics. The brand of cork board that I would recommend is Midwest Cork. My whole layout is made fo this board and like I said it is easy to apply. Your model pics are cool. You deffinitely have a big collection going. Very nice. Thanks for showing.
Rob- Glad you liked the pics. I see you know a little on the "Joe". You did know it was built for Russia. Just wait untill I post the majority of its history here. That should be pretty cool.
Pete- I see the Arkansas and Missouri link came in handy. I looked it over a little and seems to be pretty cool. And Yes, I think I will be riding it also someday. BTW: Interesting Robbery story. It would be quite scary to be the crue then. Do you know when this happened?
Barndad- Well I'm glad to see that my information and material is appreciated. I am always happy to see people interested in what I have to say, when it's informational of course.
Tom- Nice article on toy trains. Some of those toy trains are really wierd, like the CSX wood block that resembles Thomas the tank engine. Really neat info. Thanks.
CM3- Thanks for the comments on the pics. BTW: your model rr contribution was kind of funny. But you gave some good directions and I did find the models in my catalogue.
DL- An envelope would have been really cool. I don't think I have seen anything else from another railroad, except through pics. But it was interesting to learn that they were recently still using the mail car. That makes me wounder why our mail train system died out so long ago?
I think it's time for some more pics!
Model RR day!!
A 2-10-2 Duluth, Missabe and Iron Range locomotive. You would have seen one of these working an iron ore train back in the 40s and 50s.
Here we have two trains meeting each other. You could probably guess which is the yard transfer and which is the main frieght. But still a cool shot.
This time the shed is busier! The locomotive hostler is about to move the SD40-2 on to the farthest track toward the main line so that he can move the GP38-2 on to the first track for an oil change. This can take a few days. You can see the fork lift ready to move!
Happy railroading
James
JAMES-nice pix mate -that white limestone ballast still looks weird to me but hey....different strokes and all that
At this point in time ,the only advice I can offer is :--take care mate,nick hey-I thought somebody checked that gas main.....
Hi Tom and everyone, a round for the house.
Yes we have no bananas and some elegant train collections.
Nick, my little gal friday is still doing the Peppermint Twist.
Doug, before I forget, thanks for that New Albany & Salem 4-4-0. And a lot of other things too.
Eric, great Sunday pix, that city in Germany is what the Pennsylvania Railroad named Altoona, PA for.
DL, you were extremely well prepared for theme day, no wonder you suggested it!
CM3, good writing about Lionel, and by the way I sent your recent dispatches to the Pulitzer Prize committee. You may have to rent a tux.
James, electric locomotive 10200A, which I think it's the one known as E-50
http://www.catskillarchive.com/rrextra/mstrip02.jpg
There's a map and more old colorized pictures at this link.
http://www.catskillarchive.com/rrextra/mstrip.Html
Pete, here's a rail connection to John Logie Baird (1888-1946), inventer of the electomechanical television system demonstrated over 438 miles of telephone line between London and Glasgow in 1927.
http://johnlawontherails.fotopic.net/p28150279.html
Rob, for aviation fans, how about the Spirit of St. Louis
http://collections.mnhs.org/VisualResources/VRDbimages/pf121/pf121621.jpg
Tom, they had RPO/coach RDC on the Rock Island Line
http://www.cbu.edu/~mcondren/MRP/LAM-2006/RI9002.jpg
http://www.cbu.edu/~mcondren/FSVB/images/RI9003HoweArMay31_62.jpg
Mike
Hello Tom,
I’ll join Pete with a Kimberley bitter.
Lars – thanks for your feedback – I sort of assumed Democrats would be more likely to support Amtrak, but appreciate the services are still far from ‘green lighted for investment’.
Pete – I’m told Garrett LMS locos were regulars out of Nottinghamshire’s Toton yards – before my time – interesting yard pic here – for those of you following the 3 coupled unfitted freight car discussion this gives an idea of the scale of the operation as late as 1952 http://www.scienceandsociety.co.uk/results.asp?image=10316231&wwwflag=2&imagepos=2
I’m sure those Royal Mail depots were paid for by Royal Mail – although presumably the railway benefited from the services not being at London stations any more. I guess the whole thing was planned prior to BR privatisation. There are some good interior pics of the depot on the TPO site I listed from a trip the webmaster got to do on board one of the runs.
APT / Pendolino: Mr Doe’s article in Rail Magazine Issue 551 states:
STARTS “On Sept 22 Virgin Trains achieved a remarkable non-stop run from Glasgow to London with a special train. The overall time was 3hr 55 mins 27 sec fro the 401.3 miles – a start to stop average of 102.2mph.
From the Network Rail internal log I find it took 2hr 25min from passing Carlisle to Euston (104.3mph); 1hr 57 min Preston to London (107.1mph) and a mere 73 mins Stafford to London (109.7 mph). The flying avg from Crewe to Watford was 113mph of which the 65.1 miles from Rugby was done in 33 mins (118mph)!
How sad, therefore, that Virgin spoiled the achievement by trying to re-write history. It took out a press release saying: “A tilting Virgin train yesterday outdid its ill-fated British Rail predecessor to set a new Glasgow-London speed record. In the early 1980s BR’ Advanced Passenger Train – later scrapped – did the 410 mile journey in 4hr 14 mins. Yesterday a Virgin train left Glasgow at 12.37 and got into Euston station shortly after 16.30, taking a record 3hr 55 min 27sec.”
The truth – which Virgin wants us to forget, or hopes we never knew – is that on Wednesday December 12 1984, without any of the subsequent West Coats modernisation, the APT travelled from London to Glasgow in 3hr 52 min 45 sec, reaching 137 mph en route. Yes, on the way back it took 4 hr 14 mins – with 2 station stops and a signal failure at Stafford! Yes, the APT was ill-fated and later scrapped, but it still holds the record. I am told Virgin had hoped for 3hr 50 min – but did it deliberately arrange a southbound attempt knowing that if it achieved 3hr 50 it could genuinely claim the record, whereas if it didn’t it could conveniently rubbish the APT’s southbound run and still claim a record, even though it’s a lie?
By doing what it did Virgin simply undermined September 22’s achievement, which is considerable given today’s lower top speed and abusier railway – albeit one on which vast sums have been spent.” ENDS
Tom – hope you enjoy ‘Buster’ – can’t recall how much rail sequences are in it, but it should have lots of period 1960s British detail. Given Rob’s comment I expect the film never made north American distribution. Nick – I have a fear that Mr Collins solo’d on the soundtrack to part of the film – I doubt you will approve, and indeed I share your concerns. Otherwise it should be a good watch.
Tom – my Scotland round trip in a day idea certainly does not replace a proper trip to Scotland – surely you know me well enough by now to realise this is simply an idea for an in addition – a quick 800 mile scenic day excursion if you like!
James – end of RPO mail in the USA vs UK – I expect this is partly due to the longer distances in the US being more suited to a switch to air carriage much earlier – distances in the UK are so short relatively speaking that air shipment does not make so much sense – although is used as part of the mix nowadays.
Mike – fair enough I had a few ideas for an RPO posting, but I did script up the stuff esp. for the day (being a newcomer to this Tavern I was cautious about making a suggestion for a theme day in case I’d not yet earned my stripes in that regard – but Tom seemed to think it was a good idea so I got my thinking cap on).
Nick – I don’t think I ever saw that layout near Purley – when was it there? Your mention of model maker LBSC is of interest however. In Beeston, Notts near here is the Myford lathe company manufacturing base. My father uses a Myford for model engineering purposes so if a spare part etc is required I get sent on errands to the sales counter – behind the counter is a superb model loco (it escapes me what it actually is at the moment – I’ll have to go back some time and have a look) – I’m sure the plaque on it says it was made by LBSC himself, not just made to his plans.
Incidentally – have any of you (with UK connections of course and an interest in modelling) ever visited the Basset Lowke house in Northampton? (which I believe has some BL models on display in its visitor centre) – some stuff here:
http://www.78derngate.org.uk/hist4.html
http://www.78derngate.org.uk/
Tom – I noted many of the ship models in the excellent collection at Halifax Atlantic Museum were originally BL models built for the shipping lines that owned the actual ships.
Pete – Kimberly location guide to follow.
DL
PS – I’m not a modeller so this may be a daft idea – but cork roadbed / damp probs – could you varnish it when you have it as you want it – like you might varnish a cork tiled bathroom floor to protect the tiles from water splashes?
G’day Gents!
Thursday at the Tavern by the Tracks - time for a hot mug of freshly ground ‘n brewed coffee – some pastries from the Mentor Village Bakery – and of course a <light> or <traditional> breakfast from the Menu Board. Great way to begin the day, dontchathink
A strange thing happened when I logged in this AM - there were NO Posts from last night - nary a one. Then after I Posted this note, "wallah" a bunch of submissions appeared including the most current from DL. So, I'll get to the acknowledgments a bit later on!
Okay – remember, tonite is Fish ‘n Chips nite with at 5 PM. Also, we'
ve reached 8,500 Posts with NO WINNERS in the NOVEMBER CONTEST. However – I’ll spring for the drinks ‘n food today for each of you who participated!
Boris, serve ‘em all of the “spiked” OJ they can handle!
Remember: Ruth comes in at 9 AM and remains behind the bar ‘til Leon takes over at 5 PM!
Good G’day Gents!
Okay – let’s try this AGAIN! To the acknowledgments:
Rob at 7:51 PM yesterday: Must have “just” missed each other, eh Metric – hmmmmm, didn’t give THAT a thought!
Any coverage of the VIA Rail special train to Halifax in your part of the “woods” Bet not very much. There should’ve been lotsa Pix, etc. But as with last year, the press simply didn’t pick up on the event insofar as the train itself was concerned. Pity.
Nick at 8:19 PM and 9:54 PM yesterday: <whoa!> Phil Collins is a masterful and complete entertainer with or without Genesis. I OBJECT to those aspersions and omissions! <swg]
Psssssssst, hey buddy, wanna buy some bank notes Reminds me of a bar or three I used to frequent in my younger days (daze) in New York City or Boston where one could acquire just about anything at the local tavern. One night a guy even tried to sell of NEW BUICKS! Yup, seems a shipment destined for overseas somehow would up being “left” at the pier as the ship sailed away. An enterprising soul he, decided to pursue the “gift” from heaven. <grin> Pssssst, hey buddy, wanna buy . . . . Love it!
What an impressive array of loco’s in those Pix! Outstanding and perhaps one day I’ll have the privilege of viewing them up front and personal, so to speak. Nicely done!
James at 9:13 PM yesterday: An interesting set of Pix. I’ve used the white crushed limestone in one of my tunnels – more to get rid of the stuff than anything else. Had to buy a larger quantity than required for my landscaping needs. I’ve seen white roadbed in my rail travels – not very often and it doesn’t remain white for very long.
I haven’t received a response to my Email to you of several days ago. Also, your cork roadbed commentaries have had input from the other side of it.
LMCH9586 at 9:16 PM: A “locked” Post and “one-way” at that. Obviously someone who doesn’t want to engage here at the bar and one has to wonder why in the world the Post was made at all.
Mike at 11:54 PM yesterday: Really “dig” the RDCs you provided by way of the URLs! Don’t know what it is, but each ‘n every time I view those beauties – well, I just wanna climb aboard! Thanx!
You may have been the “one” to reach the 8,500 mark AND you didn’t play the game! Isn’t that THE way it works
Eric at 1:11 AM today: Juneau is 3 ½ years by human counting and is a neutered male. He rules the roost ‘round here and reminds us of it constantly! Yes, the name is appropriate for the breed – especially given my affinity for Alaska and so forth. Previous Husky was named Fred – not my doing and before my time. Anyway, he lived for 16 years and 2 months – was also a neutered male – had long hair (similar to a Collie) and was as gentle as a lamb. Juneau is a tiger in disguise.
Cracker Barrel I think I’ve missed the point! Nothing new at my age.
RDCs were at idle – hmmmmm, was it winter I believe the practice was to keep ‘em running due to the time it took to generate sufficient heat for those cars. And of course, who cared about fuel costs <groan> A bit surprised they didn’t have “shore tie” capability. Curious about all of that.
Hi Ruth - no order for me - just popped in to drop this message off for Pete - can you pass it on when he calls by? Oh, and message for Tom - if you are actually a Phil Collins fan you will certainly enjoy the film Buster.
Pete – Kimberly location guide for your friends with my compliments.
They should try and get the visit in before mid December as the word is they will cease brewing at end of year so I expect they are trying to fake the taste in Suffolk even now.
The Nottingham Tram operators publish a handy pocket guide book called ‘Beer by Tram’ which is on their website (often paper copies are available from a Tram Conductor). In case not they can download from here.
http://www.thetram.net/attractions/default.asp
http://www.thetram.net/attractions/beerbytram/default.asp
If arriving by train access to the Tram is from the footbridge at the middle of the station (not the main concourse area). It may also be worth purchasing a ‘Nottingham Express Transit Tram Add on Fare’ to the usual rail ticket at the outset of the journey if this is still available – otherwise an all day tram ticket costs £2.20 or if there is a group of people there is some sort of group ticket.
Not many of the pubs on the route guide are Kimberley Pubs (NOTE – all Kimberley Pubs are now branded Hardy’s and Hanson’s which they adopted about 2 years ago – hardly anyone calls them that though). They also now have Green King brews on the bar alongside the Kimberely brews
Anyway, I recommend:
The Bell, Old Market Square (2 mins walk from Old Market Square Tram Stop) – they sell Kimberly Bitter and Mild and usually a special from the brewery too. (Be careful to avoid ‘Kimberly Dark’ a bad keg version of the mild – some staff don’t know the difference - watch them pull the right thing!)
You can use www.multipmap.com or www.streetmap.co.uk with the postcode to get a map, postcode for Bell Inn is – NG1 6HL
From there it is a 10 minute or less walk to
Ye Olde Trip to JerusalemBrewhouse YardNottingham EnglandNG1 6AD
http://www.triptojerusalem.com/castle_rock.php
A pub you have mentioned before and one that needs no introduction. Location is near the castle rock – follow the walls of the Castle round until you find it. They will sell Kimberley Bitter and Mild and also Olde Trip – a Kimberley brew done specially for this pub.
At both of these pubs the beer is well kept and in good condition. Even without the tram they are less than 20 mins walk from Midland Station.
If making a special journey anyway I’d strongly recommend taking the bus out to Kimberley village itself. They have a very good pub very close to the Brewery called the ‘Nelson and Railway’ – you can enjoy a few beers and pay homage to the superb brewery buildings. Also nearby is the old GNR Kimberley station (line long closed) which seems to serve as the Brewery staff social club (I wonder for how much longer). Ask to be put off the bus ‘as near as possible to the Brewery’, you will then be near this pub.
Getting out there is very simple.
Take Trent- Barton - Route ‘Rainbow 1 (R1)’ towards Eastwood - runs every 10 minutes during day – 30 mins in evening. From Nottingham Victoria Bus Station (site of Nottingham Victoria Railway Station of course) - with a pick up point on Upper Parliament Street closer to Old Market Square if one was coming from The Bell for example.
See
http://www.trentbuses.co.uk/
Route timetable here
http://www.trentbuses.co.uk/timetables/times/index.html?rain1easnot.html
Pick up for service R1 on Upper Parliament Street is Stop ‘E’ on map link below outside old Elite Cinema (not a cinema any more) on Upper Parliament Street north of Market Square
http://www.nottinghamcity.gov.uk/www/maps/g_lib/ccbt%20portrait.pdf
Worth the journey in my view.
If they want to stay on the tram route a few of other good pubs (but not Kimberely ones) on the tram list are:
Use the Beer by Tram link to get exact directions from tram stop to pub – all stops have info boards with a decent local street map to help orientate oneself when getting off. The recommended pubs are usually marked on these maps.
Kimberley website may list other pubs, there is one round back (east) side of Victoria Centre that is quite good, can't recall name but if you walk through near where market is you come out beside it - must have been on east side of old GCR Victoria Station at one time :
www.hardysandhansons.plc.uk
Hope this helps
Good Morning Barkeep and All Present; will partake of freebies so graciously provided by our ‘steamed proprietor.
Rain is moving out although we had enough of it and fog as well. Gas holds at $2.26 when I fed the beast this a.m.
Tom – Thanks for toy train history, and the kind words re the rerun. The u/g economy still thrives in the places you mentioned which reminds me of the old story:
Two businessmen are sitting in a bar.
One says to the other “Sorry to hear that your factory burned down.”
The second man replies, “Sshh! It’s tomorrow night.”
DL is a master of esoteric information (my compliments, sir). I have seen lots of beer (and other substances) consumed on the MBTA over the years; much of it as carry ons by the passengers.
Lars and Pete provided a nice set of general commentary and reflections.
Rob – Good advice. I have been archiving stuff for awhile anyway; that search took awhile.
Nick – Don’t be so hard on yourself. We have the WV legislature. Thanks so much for sharing the fine collection of power; vintage and more modern.
James – Thanks for the layout shots.
Mike – Rent a tuxedo? That means we can’t wear the blue jeans and suspenders? I’ll send the Springer to accept the award – he’s already dressed appropriately (LOL).
My, my, what a fine litho of that MILW electric.
The guide book has been downloaded.
Also thanks for RDC4 shots; take a look at what’s behind the RDC4 in the first picture. The photos show how the RDC4s were laid out. The design was basically the same from railroad to railroad.
B4 it slips what’s left of my memory, Boston and Maine had RDC9s as well; these were cabless RDCs – looked like passenger coaches with the typical RDC roofline. Consist for what passed for an RDC longhaul train might be RDC4/RDC9/RDC9/RDC1. You get the idea. All were powered and could mu from the cab of the first unit..
Eric – most of the RPOs disappeared in the 50’s or a little later when the Interstate network began to get filled in. I-95 about killed the New Haven; and I-90 about killed the dearly beloved (NYC).
I am contributing extra cash today so folks can toast absent friends appropriately over the weekend (so many as we get older) Will be offline tomorrow.
Oh, almost forgot – the newest issue of C&O History is devoted to “George Washington” dining car china; with lovely color shots of gold bordered plates, etc. I’ll see if I can find some sample menus in the east wing and post them. That’ll give the chief chef and his minions some ideas.
I heard there was still some of the Old Fashioned RR Stew left over from the darts tournament; I hope it’s just an ugly rumor that it’s being fed to the denizens of the yak pen down near the Mentor and Southern Narrow Gauge roundhouse. Sorry Boris, I didn’t realize the relatives were in early for Thanksgiving.
Tuesday’s THEME for the Day is Chicago Great Western (CGW)!
Watch for the arrivals on track #1 throughout the day!
h
<psssssst! pssssssst!> < Hey Buddy!> <Wanna buy a Rolex?> <No?> <How about a box of chocolate bars?>
Ruth my deAH, I'd like a frosty mug of Shaefer, a half-sandwich of my favorite - ham 'n Swiss with mustAHd 'n buttAH and two large pickles from the barrel. Yes, a saucer of brine for Tex, half dozen ice cubes for Frostbite, a tin o' worms for Awk and a soup bone for Juneau! <phew>
Man, do I remember those days in some of the dives I used to stop off at on the way home from the ship! For anyone out there who has no clue regarding what could have been purchased in the taverns of New York - well, all I can say is you're in dire need of an education! Enjoyed the trip back to those times! So, how long did that Buick last <grin>
Another strange day in the daylight here at the bar - and from the looks of things, I'd say this is the trend we're currently on. Can you imagine this place without CM3 I'm NOT Shane! or DL Would be rather grim I'd say. Can't expect Cap'n Tom to shoulder the load each day by himself. We've traveled that tenuous road B4 and the results weren't good at all. Hope this isn't an indication of things to come . . .
So, tomorrow begins the long weekend (for some). A federal holiday here in the U.S. as the Veteran's Day holiday falls on Saturday. Wonder why Congress hasn't screwed up this holiday and turned it into a Monday affair Not that I want them to, but I'm surprised they left it alone. Seems like only the shopping centers benefit from these holidays for I'm not seeing very much civic anything for the Vets.
I'm still rather "sick" regarding the results from Tuesday's election. I think we're in for a stormy two years and there's NO WAY that I believe the change of leadership in Congress will work for the benefit of the people who put them there!
Good choice for next week's "Theme" - hope we continue to demonstrate the enthusiasm for these events and the contributions are plenty.
Eric, the OC&T RPO actually is sanctioned by the U.S. Postal Service and remains "operational." Check out this site:
http://www.americanheritage.com/travel/articles/web/20060908-titusville-oil-pennsylvania-edwin-drake.shtml
Put me "down" as a Phil Collins fan too! The Mrs. LOVES the guy - and I'm not sure why Just a "wheezy" little Brit! But seriously, do enjoy the man's music and his talent shows throughout all of the performances we've attended.
Hey Tom! Did DL get away with escaping the wrath of the "TWEET" Seems like that rather long "private" message to Pete was a bit out of bounds, dontchathink I know that I'm just the Manager, and YOU are in charge of the "TWEETER," but . . . . <grin>
Must interject, even though the conversation was "private," that list of Pubs is outstanding, simply outstanding. By my count there's 25 watering holes and all within stops along the transit lines. Nice.
I hope to be back tomorrow, however no promises. Got some heavy duty things to take care of and the way things are shaping up, this weekend may be anything but pleasant. <ugh> Hope I'm wrong for I do want to particpate in our commemoration of the Vets Day event.
Enjoy the Fish 'n Chips - I've "sampled" the makings and things are shaping up quite well in the galley! at 5 PM!
Manager Lars
Well good evening one and all,Leon-a quick bottle or two before I slide out to the galley and whip Boris & Copperkettle into shape,and a round for the chaps whilst I`ve got ny wallet out......
Looks like I`ve started something with my opinions R.E Phil Collins-(another railway modeller BTW)--In my opinion,as a muso,he is a great drummer (listen to any of the Genesis albums,also his work with jazz band `Brand X`),when he took over lead vocals from Peter Gabriel he kept the band working ( I was lucky enough to see them at Knebworth in the late `70`s (although not a patch on Led Zeppelin with the New Barbarians as support.....)and they were brilliant-the drum solo/duet with him and Chester Thompson was awesome,but his solo work seems to revolve around the themes of "my wife left me and I`m going bald" Dont get me wrong,He produces well crafted albums with nice `easy listening` tunes but man,they are depressing..............................Give me `The Lamb lies down on Broadway` any day O.K-- over with
Right,it`s the galley for me before I alienate any more of our customers with my outre views.........
Well,I had a wander around Mentor market this morning and it looks like tonights specials are:-
Starters, Chinese style Shark fin soup
Tiger Prawns with sweet chilli sauce
Smoked Trout Fillet with mustard butter
Creamed mixed mushroom and herb crepes
Mains:- middle cut of Skate with beurre noisette sauce
Grilled Red Snapper with `s salad & garlic bread
Cod in beer batter with mushy peas and chips (For the Brits)--pickled eggs also available
Dover sole ,pan fried in breadcrumbs with a `s salad and choice of potato dish
Spiced Filo vegetable parcels with mixed rices
Venison steaks with cranberry and garlic sauce
O.K-I`m out of here,lets to the galley and get working ,bon appetite ladies and gents ,see you all later,nick
Leon, I'll take one of those 'freebies' Tom has provided for all who entrered the November Contest! A Schaefer in a frosty mug if you please!
GENTLEMEN, check your email in boxes!
Nice menu from our Chief Chef Nick - makes me hungry just reading it! So, I think I'll meander over to the booth in the corner and partake . . .
Looking foward to the activities of tomorrow and the weekend - although, perhaps we'll be suffering from a "lock down" if this latest TROLL continues with the nonsense on the Forum. "siberianblo" indeed! What a jerk.
Boris, if you see a TROLL out back, stomp it!
On that note, I'll have another!
G-day Tom and all present.
Leon- I know it's late but I am hungry, could you get me those Fish n' chips please.
Tom- Infact I did recieve your e-mail, and I hope it has been resolved. I am sorry I never responded to you. I have been one busy guy these last few days. So the e-mail has been somewhat left out, which I should probably get back to it. BTW: I realize that my ballast looks unbelievably white, but it is actually a grey color. The flash on the camera eluminates anything that is white. Maybe I will figure out how to shut off the flash at some point or take the picture with my Nikon Camera.
Nick- Thanks for comments on the pic. BTW: Ballast, I understand that it looks really white but I assure you that it is a grey color. I will probably get a shot with the Nikon next time.
Mike- I saw the pictures and that is E-50. Infact that is the locomotive that is located at the Duluth museum. That exact Box cab is on display.
Eric- Well I am glad you liked the book and maybe you can buy it some time, if your interested. RDCs. You just have to love them. There one of those that just makes you...well..feel all happy to know that some are still running. Thanks for the comments on my pics.
Speaking of books. I just got a brand new Milwaukee road book. I have been detailing and adding decals to a friends cars and in return he gave me one of his fresh off the press books. I don't know if you know Patrick C. Dorin, but he is an author who loves trains. His books are well done and very informative. The book I got from him is called, The Milwaukee Road Passenger Train service. By: Patrick C. Dorin. So, Eric, if you are looking for a good book I would recommend some of his books.
DL- Yes, Airlines have gone over well here since were a much more vast country, so it does make sence why they would discontinue the mail train. And to your cork question, I would have no idea.
CM3- good to see that you liked the pics. I think a couple more locomotives sitting in or around the engine shed would be better. And probably a couple more people figurs to make it look as if it were more busy around there.
Well, I will post on Monday, so have a good weekend gentlemen!
I see Tom has offered to get the drinks and the food in to celebrate the 8,500 post so a pint of the usual and the Cod , Chips and Mushy Peas from tonights NICK's menu. please LEON.
ROB That was good news that the Royal Mail car body was saved, hopefully it can be restored to its former splendour..
NICK Great story on the Great Train robbery, London was only 80 miles from us but it was like another world.
Thanks for the Brit model locos. The King and the Duchess are fine models. As you say they would not have been seen on The Somerset & Dorset in BR days, but considering where this class of loco have been in preservation days like the King on the Settle & Carlisle and the Duchess at Kings Cross, Plymouth etc perhaps if the S&D was open today it may well have seen these classes if the line had been upgraded.
JAMES Good pics around your loco depot, the 2-10-2 sure is a fine model. The date of the train robbery was August 8th 1963 and like ERIC I can hardly believe it was 43 Years ago.
MIKE Many thanks for the links, I see on the map it has got the Missori as the "Carrollton River" as it passes through mid Missouri. Really enjoyed the link to the Glasgow area lines in the 70s to 90s I think NICK and DL will like them too, loved the pic of the Swindon built class 120 Diesel Multiple Unit at Paisley.
You were right about John Logie Baird and the first TV signal. The first one was sent from the Caledonian Hotel inside Glasgow Central station..
DL Yes Toton was a vast marshalling yard in steam days and I believe it is still the main depot for EWS today.
I have visited the depot a few times, the first visit was after steam had finished but the roundhouses were still standing. On one visit all 10 of the class 44 peaks were on shed by then the class worked mainly the unfitted coal trains not straying far from Toton depot. The depot used to hold some really good open days, the last time I was there the first 5 EWS class 66s had just been delivered which is a few years ago now.
I did do a day trip last June from Rugby to Stirling down to London and up the East Coast and back via the West Coast.
I will have to go to the Basset Lowke house next time I am over, I believe there are some excellent ship models by Basset Lowke in the Liverpool Maritime museum, if I remember right.
We were hoping to get to Nottingham on our last visit but unfortunatly could not fit it in,so it looks like I will missout on the Kimberley but MANY thanks for the info I have passed it on to the two Alans.
The APT V Pendelino article was very interesting. I suppose they are right saying that it is the fastest Glasgow TO London trip,If they had been more open about the APT Northbound record it would, as the article said, still not have detracted from what was still a great feat. I must admit I wondered at the time why it was a Southbound trip.
CM3. The saying about the factory fire is a little close to the truth some times. There has been a few mysterious fires in the UK in empty listed buildings.
LARS Thanks to the link to the Oil Creek & Titusville RR and its RPO,great reading.
Although I suppose I should defend Mr Collins as a fellow Brit I have to be honest and say if he was at Pat's Place and it was free beer I still wouldn't go to see him,OK I suppose that is a bit over the top, if it was free beer I might go. There again if it was free beer I would go and listen to BORIS singing selections from the Sound of Music.
TOM I hope I havent trodden on any toes with the P. Collins comment. Not doing too good tonight I cant believe what is going on with the forum and I managed to delete my post when it was ready for posting, better luck this time.
Anyway we have the CGW to look forward to Tuesday..
To cheer me up here is a big red engine.
.Pete.
Morning Tom
I’ll have the full breakfast with plenty of coffee.
Hey, Lars – what’s going on with this Tweeting? Can’t a guy call in and drop of a message for his pal? Some hard management techniques you must have picked up – I can only assume in some of the less salubrious taverns in New York City you have clearly spent time frequenting, the less said about them the better I suspect….!!!
Miner – thanks for your tribute – esoteric information eh? I guess I’ve learned to be frustrated with information books that say things like “near the town square you will find an excellent….” – well, I need to now how near, what direction, how do I get there etc etc.
Actually – this calls for a listing of one of my all time favourite esoteric websites. Helps if you have UK geographical knowledge but I think even without that others will be amused – essentially this is an effort to catalogue the trains in passenger timetables that take an unusual / obscure or otherwise unused route between points A & B when all other services between A&B take a different more regular route.
The compiler of this site deserves a toast in my opinion!
http://www.psul4all.free-online.co.uk/intro.htm
Eric – cold Kimberley bitter – ooh no – ‘fraid not – I isolated the cooler in that part of the cellar to avoid ruining the lovely stuff with those tendencies – have a warm Bud on me instead!!
You asked about the Pendolino line speed – well they were designed for max operating speed of 140mph in regular service – but the lines concerned needed to be upgraded to allow that – Railtrack (the privatised successor to BR) intended to do this and embarked on a multi million pound investment project (ultimately paid for by government) – their project management skills were so bad that this all went belly up leading to the eventual collapse of Railtrack and the de-facto re-nationalisation of the track under Network Rail. In salvaging the wreckage, the 140mph plan was scrapped and the max operating line speed in regular use is now 125mph. Virgin Trains walked with compensation for contract breach I think (again paid for by the taxpayer - surprise surprise)
Couple of really interesting articles about this debacle are here:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/g2/story/0,3604,1183118,00.html
http://www.guardian.co.uk/g2/story/0,,1183226,00.html
Pete – yes, Toton still a big operation, it was matched of course by the LNER local equivalent at Colwick – now wiped off the face of the earth but locals here recall it well. For others – these two big yards were focussed on concentrating coal wagons coming from the large east midlands coalfield and organising them for on ward transhipment (in a way that you will of course be familiar with).
APT – vs Pendiolino – agree with your comments – I assume Virgin were frightened that some smart journalist might work out that they were only a few minutes off the APT record and run a story along the lines of “so 22 years on, over £7 billion invested in the west coast main line, a fleet of brand new hi tech trains – and you can’t even beat the record BR set with the APT” (yes folks that b in billion is not a misprint!)
Hope your friends can make that Nottingham trip and have a most enjoyable day – meanwhile I salute your mileage on the Stirling round trip – well done sir!
Finally, Nick – just had time to download and print off the ONR / ACR article from your photobucket – MANY MANY thanks – really enjoyed it and will keep it until I do the run – I wonder what became of the author – he certainly got the red carpet treatment on the ACR run. Nice to see the other pics on those pages too – loved the Dublo scan, and liked the band pics – which one is your good self?. Of course I won’t be logging in to your pics without invitation again. Hope all is OK – I seemed to have a problem ‘logging out’ as the page crashed when I pressed log out – I trust all will be well when you revisit it. Appreciate your kind efforts.
‘my wife left me and I’m going bald’ – it’s a genre with a long tradition. I guess if the guy (Mr Collins) is a railway modeller we should accord him the respect he deserves for that though – the guy needs to fund the hobby somehow no doubt – maybe that is what annoyed the wife?
Finally – spotted this as part of the editorial of the UK Guardian couple of days back (This is one of the 5 so called ‘quality’ national papers in the UK): I’ve pasted it below – not bad publicity for the services Government and the companies that operate them would like to forget:
In praise of ... sleeper trainsLeaderTuesday November 7, 2006The Guardian
Eurostar long ago abandoned plans to run direct sleepers from Glasgow, Plymouth and Swansea to mainland Europe. Demand for luxury cabins was thought to be too low, and there were doubts about whether British engines would be powerful enough to flush the extra toilets. The unused new stock was quietly sold off to a Canadian firm. Like night mail trains, sleeping cars seemed an unviable relic. But that was before environmental concerns and irksome airport security gave them a new lease of life.
Fortunately, Britons still have two overnight routes at their disposal - the Caledonian Sleeper, which will run until at least 2011, and the Night Riviera to Penzance, now safe until 2013. Rumours that the latter could be axed gave it badly needed publicity: the train is full on many nights and First Great Western now considers it "extremely viable". Both services are now smartening up their British Rail-era berths and improving their breakfasts. This minor renaissance comes despite the difficulty of booking cabins online and the fact that the most accessible guide to the Caledonian Sleeper network comes not from its operator, but the rail enthusiast who runs the seat61.com website. Sleepers are unlikely to keep Ryanair's chief executive awake at night, and they are no substitute for a high-speed rail network. Nonetheless, their survival and possible growth suggests a decade-long infatuation with the cheap, fraught and comfortless short-haul flight may be slowing.
The end of the week has arrived. What better way to prepare for the week end than to enjoy some pastries from The Mentor Village Bakery, pour a mug of freshly ground ‘n brewed hot coffee and maybe order a selection from our Menu Board of <light> and <traditional> breakfasts!
I should tell y’all up front that I’m going to be in ‘n out this morning and into early afternoon – so it’s really up to YOU! With CM3 on his federal holiday, perhaps someone will come along to bail us out this AM. We’ll see.
Thanx Lars for communicating with the guys last night on your visit to the bar – hopefully the Email “in” boxes have been checked by now. If there’s anyone who hasn’t figured out what’s going on – send me an Email. If anyone is having problems figuring out how to contact the Forums Manager, here’s “how” –
(1) at the bottom of this page you will find “contact us” – click it
(2) fill out the form; be sure to scroll down to get it all
(3) in the “select the topic of your interest or question ” block – click “forums Manager”
(4) be sure to fill out the “CODE VALIDATION” block
(5) submit
An interesting – but again – slow day yesterday with some increased activity in the evening.
Some acknowledgments:
From yesterday: DL at 9:23 AM – CM3 at 10:35 AM – Lars at 4:27 PM ‘n 7:51 PM – Nick at 6:41 PM – James at 9:32 PM ‘n Pete at 10:17 PM!
From today: Eric at 1:03 AM ‘n DL at 5:32 AM!
Glad to have you aboard and appreciate the business! KaChing, KaChing If I’ve failed to address anything for me, I’ll get AROUNDTUIT! <grin>
Emails received from Mike ‘n Pete – THANX! Responses sent.
I’m going to keep this brief so that I can get to my “kick off” for the Veterans Day – Remembrance Day – Armistice Day Posts that will continue into tomorrow.
Around this time last year I came across an article in a Transport2000Canada newsletter that flicked my switch. I ran it for the guys and thought that since we have some new guys, perhaps they would enjoy it too. Enjoy - either as a rerun or for the 1st time!
Here’s something a bit different that I found in my latest TransportAction newsletter from Transport2000Canada, Vol 27, No. 6, Dec 05, 2005. The article has been retyped with permission from the author, which I profoundly express my appreciation. Hope all of you enjoy it. A Trip to Remember (Marcus Garnet, President, T2000 Atlantic) My wife, Christine, and I had been looking forward to riding VIA Rail’s Remembrance Day Train ever since we had booked our trip from Halifax to Montreal. This train was, in fact, a special expanded version of VIA’s regular Ocean run, and left Halifax on November 9th, two days before Remembrance Day. The general public were permitted to ride in addition to veterans, who were especially encouraged to be part of this historic trip. They would transfer in Montreal to Train 33 to continue their journey to Ottawa the following morning. The idea for the commemorative trip during the Year of the Veteran had arisen many months previously, with a suggestion made at the Halifax ticket office and the dedicated initiative of Ronald Jackson, one of the VIA agents there. Many other VIA staff members and external organizations worked together to make the trip a success. When we arrived at the Halifax station we were greeted by a red carpet. An on-veterans we felt unworthy to tread on it, but this was only the beginning. Many thoughtful touches gave a period feel, including a shoe-shiner offering his services for 25 cents, who later rode on the train itself. The booking hall abounded with uniformed military people and displays of photos and war memorabilia. We were immediately reminded of the personal cost which so many have paid to protect freedom and democracy in Canada and other nations, including my homeland – the United Kingdom. My parents had often told me of the hardships of growing up in England during World War II. More recently, and over in Canada, Christine’s late father was well known and loved by the patients whom he had faithfully visited for many years at the Camp Hill Veteran’s Memorial Hospital. After checking our luggage we took turns to look at the displays, before a staff member exhorted us to get on board. We walked down another red carpet, awed by the ranks of military personnel standing at attention on either side. We gazed along the platform between two endless rows of gleaming stainless steel railcars, each door guarded by a uniformed military person as well as the helpful VIA Rail staff. We heard that the 33-car train (including three engines, two domes, three diners, three coaches and a baggage car) would be the longest to operate on this route since World War II, and would carry approximately 420 passenger once those from Moncton had embarked. Because of its length, the train was parked at the station in two halves and later coupled together. After moving into our double bedroom we hastened to the dome in the Park Car, and watched the enormous train pull out of Halifax, recalling the troop trains that connected with ships to and from Europe so many years ago. Along the historic railway cut, people stood on the many bridges looking down at our train and waved to us. The Halifax Herald printed a special page with the words “Thank You” accompanied by a bright red poppy, and many onlookers held these up as signs while our train passed. There were many media reporters on board with their TV cameras, and some remained on the train for the entire trip. Seated up in the dome, we had a panoramic view and felt humbled by the privilege of participating in such a special occasion. Soon we could see the whole train stretched out alongside the Bedford Basin, reminding us of the wartime convoys which had been assembled there, and which many veterans had helped to protect. Before boarding we had been given a paper assigning us to one of the three diners on the train, which for the occasion were termed “Mess Halls.” There were tow sittings for lunch and three for supper, while breakfast was also available the following morning. Walking down the endless corridors to “Mess Hall 2,” it was easy to see that more than half the passengers were veterans. Signs outside their bedrooms indicated the name and military position, and in our diner there were plenty of uniforms and colourful badges. At one of the meals we made friends with an older couple who told us of family members who had lost their lives while fighting overseas in World War II. It was a reminder than many who fought never returned, and that this train was also a tribute to them. After our first meal on board, we waited for our bill, but it never came. We were told that all meals were complimentary, sponsored by Atlantic Superstore and VIA Rail. The food was very enjoyable, served by an attentive and efficient staff. Throughout the journey, we appreciated the enthusiastic attitude and helpfulness of VIA employees. This was all the more impressive in view of the large numbers who needed to be accommodated, some of whom had special needs. It seemed that every detail had been anticipated, including the provision of a volunteer paramedic who assisted several passengers enroute. Our train was enthusiastically welcomed at the many Maritime communities we passed through. Some people held up “Thank You” signs in their own yards. Others were parked near grade crossings to anticipate our arrival. One or two stood alone and saluted the train as it passed. At Truro, crowds of children lined their schoolyard fence and waved. Crossing the Tantramar marshes, we were greed by two deer romping in a nearby field with the train curving around almost as a backdrop – a magnificent sight! At each station, a home-grown welcome awaited us, a band, a choir, a troupe of cadets standing at attention. At Moncton, we took a brief walk outside and almost got lost in the crowd following the pipe band marching up the platform. There were poignant greetings at the tiny communities served by flagstops, where people had gone far out of their wa Happy Railroading! Siberianmo LoveDomes Member sinceJanuary 2006 From: northeast U.S. 1,225 posts "OUR" PLACE - Adults talking Classic Trains in a special place since April 12th, 2005! Posted by LoveDomes on Friday, November 10, 2006 9:36 AM Greetings Cap'n Tom and fellow travelers at the bar!Interesting sign-in this morning. First I kept getting rejected, then when I finally got here, all I wound up seeing were the posts from early yesterday. Using the "reload" feature a couple of times, I finally got to the current information. Interesting or frustrating? Take your pick!Ruth my deAH it's time for some breakfast, so I'll take one of those #7s if you please along with a mug of Joe and put a "BK splash" in it, wudja please My email has been sent to the forums manager. Looks like a nerve has been struck with my "TWEET" commentary! Sorry, DL - just that we're used to discipline 'round this joint. Crack that whip and so forth. Of course you can come 'n go as you please - you're a most dependable soul at the bar as of late. However, NO ONE is immune to the wrath of the "TWEETER!" Best to keep that uppermost in mind when frequenting this place. <grin>Wonderful letter from that fellow up in Nova Scotia and it surely fits well with the "theme" you've decided upon for the next two days. 5- Salute to you Cap'n Tom! Can you imagine Amtrak doing such a thing; much less thinking about it! <groan. <double groan>DL - you've really been providing some great posts. B4 we know it, we'll all be disciples of Brit trains! Could be worse, at least you still have 'em! With the departure of 20-Fingers Al from our circle, I hereby annoint you with the moniker of "Brevity Bob" from the UK! Long may you grace our establishment! For those of you who are wondering - "Bob" ???? - I have no idea what DLs name is - but "Bob" just seemed to fit. Kinda like CM3 for coalminer and so forth. <grin>Pete 'n Eric - don't let the TROLL getchadown. Ain't worth it and life goes on 'round our bar. There are ways to track this idiot down; just a matter of resolve on the part of Kalmbach. Going to be interesting to view the comments from my "bookend" BK - I KNOW he's not going to be silent. There's a guy who would delight in . . . best let that go! <grin>I'll hold off posting on your other thread 'til later on - just to give some slack and keep things "up" as you like to say! Boris, best put on those steel toed "boondockers" we gave you for your B'day, for you don't want to get TROLL mush stuck between your cloven footed toes! Stomp 'em boy, stomp 'em! Until the next time! Lars DL - UK Member sinceAugust 2006 280 posts Posted by DL - UK on Friday, November 10, 2006 9:48 AM Good afternoon Tom Thank you for taking the trouble to re-post that excellent article - no more comment necessary - I'll settle for a neat scotch whilost I'm here. Regards to all DL « First«281282283284285286287»Last » SUBSCRIBER & MEMBER LOGIN Login, or register today to interact in our online community, comment on articles, receive our newsletter, manage your account online and more! Login Register FREE NEWSLETTER SIGNUP Get the Classic Trains twice-monthly newsletter Submit More great sites from Kalmbach Media Terms Of Use | Privacy Policy | Copyright Policy
A Trip to Remember
(Marcus Garnet, President, T2000 Atlantic)
My wife, Christine, and I had been looking forward to riding VIA Rail’s Remembrance Day Train ever since we had booked our trip from Halifax to Montreal. This train was, in fact, a special expanded version of VIA’s regular Ocean run, and left Halifax on November 9th, two days before Remembrance Day. The general public were permitted to ride in addition to veterans, who were especially encouraged to be part of this historic trip. They would transfer in Montreal to Train 33 to continue their journey to Ottawa the following morning.
The idea for the commemorative trip during the Year of the Veteran had arisen many months previously, with a suggestion made at the Halifax ticket office and the dedicated initiative of Ronald Jackson, one of the VIA agents there. Many other VIA staff members and external organizations worked together to make the trip a success.
When we arrived at the Halifax station we were greeted by a red carpet. An on-veterans we felt unworthy to tread on it, but this was only the beginning. Many thoughtful touches gave a period feel, including a shoe-shiner offering his services for 25 cents, who later rode on the train itself. The booking hall abounded with uniformed military people and displays of photos and war memorabilia.
We were immediately reminded of the personal cost which so many have paid to protect freedom and democracy in Canada and other nations, including my homeland – the United Kingdom. My parents had often told me of the hardships of growing up in England during World War II. More recently, and over in Canada, Christine’s late father was well known and loved by the patients whom he had faithfully visited for many years at the Camp Hill Veteran’s Memorial Hospital.
After checking our luggage we took turns to look at the displays, before a staff member exhorted us to get on board. We walked down another red carpet, awed by the ranks of military personnel standing at attention on either side. We gazed along the platform between two endless rows of gleaming stainless steel railcars, each door guarded by a uniformed military person as well as the helpful VIA Rail staff. We heard that the 33-car train (including three engines, two domes, three diners, three coaches and a baggage car) would be the longest to operate on this route since World War II, and would carry approximately 420 passenger once those from Moncton had embarked. Because of its length, the train was parked at the station in two halves and later coupled together.
After moving into our double bedroom we hastened to the dome in the Park Car, and watched the enormous train pull out of Halifax, recalling the troop trains that connected with ships to and from Europe so many years ago. Along the historic railway cut, people stood on the many bridges looking down at our train and waved to us. The Halifax Herald printed a special page with the words “Thank You” accompanied by a bright red poppy, and many onlookers held these up as signs while our train passed. There were many media reporters on board with their TV cameras, and some remained on the train for the entire trip. Seated up in the dome, we had a panoramic view and felt humbled by the privilege of participating in such a special occasion. Soon we could see the whole train stretched out alongside the Bedford Basin, reminding us of the wartime convoys which had been assembled there, and which many veterans had helped to protect.
Before boarding we had been given a paper assigning us to one of the three diners on the train, which for the occasion were termed “Mess Halls.” There were tow sittings for lunch and three for supper, while breakfast was also available the following morning. Walking down the endless corridors to “Mess Hall 2,” it was easy to see that more than half the passengers were veterans. Signs outside their bedrooms indicated the name and military position, and in our diner there were plenty of uniforms and colourful badges. At one of the meals we made friends with an older couple who told us of family members who had lost their lives while fighting overseas in World War II. It was a reminder than many who fought never returned, and that this train was also a tribute to them.
After our first meal on board, we waited for our bill, but it never came. We were told that all meals were complimentary, sponsored by Atlantic Superstore and VIA Rail. The food was very enjoyable, served by an attentive and efficient staff. Throughout the journey, we appreciated the enthusiastic attitude and helpfulness of VIA employees. This was all the more impressive in view of the large numbers who needed to be accommodated, some of whom had special needs. It seemed that every detail had been anticipated, including the provision of a volunteer paramedic who assisted several passengers enroute.
Our train was enthusiastically welcomed at the many Maritime communities we passed through. Some people held up “Thank You” signs in their own yards. Others were parked near grade crossings to anticipate our arrival. One or two stood alone and saluted the train as it passed. At Truro, crowds of children lined their schoolyard fence and waved. Crossing the Tantramar marshes, we were greed by two deer romping in a nearby field with the train curving around almost as a backdrop – a magnificent sight! At each station, a home-grown welcome awaited us, a band, a choir, a troupe of cadets standing at attention. At Moncton, we took a brief walk outside and almost got lost in the crowd following the pipe band marching up the platform.
There were poignant greetings at the tiny communities served by flagstops, where people had gone far out of their wa Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
Good afternoon Tom
Thank you for taking the trouble to re-post that excellent article - no more comment necessary - I'll settle for a neat scotch whilost I'm here.
Regards to all
Login, or register today to interact in our online community, comment on articles, receive our newsletter, manage your account online and more!
Get the Classic Trains twice-monthly newsletter