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"OUR" PLACE - SEE NEW THREAD! Locked

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Posted by passengerfan on Monday, July 18, 2005 3:30 PM
Good Afternoon All
Time for a Crown Royal and Water Back and a round for the house.
The two former CN observations moved to Buffalo are 1901 MALPEQUE and 1903 TRINITY information I have states they are part of a restaurant complex nothing about being on a barge is mentioned.
Gateway Rail Tours operate the fully restored COFFEE CREEK ex CN 1902 FUNDY.
The 1904 BADDECK is owned by a private buyer stateside and is undergoing restoration.
1900 MAHONE was scrapped as was 1905 GASPE.
As for the four built as parlor cars at least two survive PRIEST RAPIDS was scrapped CEDAR RAPIDS was restored and presented to the cars designer and was in Denver last I heard.
If i'm not mistaken another survives at the Museum in Duluth I think this one is COON RAPIDS and the DELL RAPIDS I don't have any idea if it survives or not.
I was fortunate enough to ride the COFFEE CREEK when it was in OLYMPIAN HIAWATHA service between Seattle and St. Paul and also rode the same car in CN service as the FUNDY when it was on the rear of the OCEAN between Montreal and Halifax. Neither owner provided a bar in the lounge area of the car, and CN remodeled the lounge areas in more modern up to date colors and materials compared to the staid old Pullman Standard look they were built with.
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Posted by siberianmo on Monday, July 18, 2005 4:56 PM
Ring the bell, Boris drinks all 'round on passengerfan Al [tup]

There must be scores of web related places to research the kinds of stuff that you're into. I know in my own experiences with RDC research, that I soon got bogged down between what appeard to be anecdotal information as opposed to factual.

As these cars pass from owner to owner, from place to place, and even become nothing more than static displays, how do you go about determining what is reliable info [?] For me, pictures have helped a lot, but still there are so many gaps .....

Appreciate your posts ......... [tup]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]
Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
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Posted by passengerfan on Monday, July 18, 2005 6:38 PM
Tom time for another Crown Royal with water back and a round for the house as well Hate to drink alone.
Tom you asked a very good question about research and I must tell you I have notes on many passenger cars going back thirty or more years hand written and kept in binders. As I found more info on a car I added it to the previous notes and the Different railroad societies have been a great help. Some of the information I received was bogus, I don't think intentionally but like me trying to do things from memory it sometimes plays tricks on me. I don't think people intentionally try to mislead the serious researcher. Fortunately I have a very good collection of books and belong to several RR Historical societies as well.
When researching for the tome I am working on I ran into conflicting dates on a number of trains as to their inaugural start date and in some cases the consist information conflicted between sources as well. In most cases I had as many as three or four sources to draw from and the majority wins. In other cases I contacted societies and others who have been good sources of information in the past and went with those. I'm sure when I complete the book and if it gets published their will be conflicts arise. I can only say that I have done the best with the sources I have worked with and leave it at that. One obviously has to enjoy his work or it becomes overwhelming and so far I still enjoy what I am doing and enjoy sharing the information with others. The information is not much good without sharing it. I am going to burn all of the information I have to CDs so their will be a more permanent record than the dozens of binders I have. My computer is equipped with a CD burner I just have to take the time to transfer the information. Many of the pages in my binders are yellowing with age and I used to use a fountain pen to record information and some has smeared so the sooner I get it on CDs the better. I don't really look forward to it as it is a massive undertaking. But with outside temps staying above the century mark for the next eight days at least maybe I will start.
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Posted by Anonymous on Monday, July 18, 2005 7:38 PM
Hello everyone! A Margarita on the rocks, please. Tom, you have such an interest in RDCs I will share something with you. Latest issue of Trainline magazine lists 3 for sale. I have misplaced my copy but when I find it will relay the particulars. You want them in your backyard, don't you?
Been searching for baggage cart paint info on the web. Got some info including some from OUR PLACE regulars. Thanks. Haven't heard anything about the horn theft at the Midland lately. Will be there this weekend--the invitation is open for all the regulars to ride our rr.
Our local museum had donated 2 boxes of books and magazines recently. I brought several old Trains home to read of evenings. One from 1975 had a very interesting article about Amtrak's searching for equipment at startup. There was a nice how-to guide in looking to buy a used passenger car. I learned a lot. Wish I had the article a few years ago when the Oklahoma City diner was for sale. Midland was interested and since the car was here in Spfld I looked it over. Someone else got it, though. Good thing-- like most PS cars the galvanic reaction caused the thing to have significant body cancer.
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Posted by Anonymous on Monday, July 18, 2005 7:40 PM
Hello everyone! A Margarita on the rocks, please. Tom, you have such an interest in RDCs I will share something with you. Latest issue of Trainline magazine lists 3 for sale. I have misplaced my copy but when I find it will relay the particulars. You want them in your backyard, don't you?
Been searching for baggage cart paint info on the web. Got some info including some from OUR PLACE regulars. Thanks. Haven't heard anything about the horn theft at the Midland lately. Will be there this weekend--the invitation is open for all the regulars to ride our rr.
Our local museum had donated 2 boxes of books and magazines recently. I brought several old Trains home to read of evenings. One from 1975 had a very interesting article about Amtrak's searching for equipment at startup. There was a nice how-to guide in looking to buy a used passenger car. I learned a lot. Wish I had the article a few years ago when the Oklahoma City diner was for sale. Midland was interested and since the car was here in Spfld I looked it over. Someone else got it, though. Good thing-- like most PS cars the galvanic reaction caused the thing to have significant body cancer.
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Posted by Anonymous on Monday, July 18, 2005 7:48 PM
Glad to hear there are some survivors from the Milwaukee Road "Classic Trains." In fact, I'll drink to that Al. Perhaps, I can eventually take a trip to Buffalo, see my friends and take them out to dinner on one of those cars.[dinner] While on the subject of the Mlwk. Road, does anyone recall the "streamlined" Pacifics (4-6-2) they sported in the late 40's thru early 50's? Wow, with that "loud" livery, they looked like moving billboards. I won't argue the point because "beauty is in the eye of the beholder." For my money the most sucessful "sreamlined" steam designs were the N.Y.C. Hudsons, the Pensy 4-4-4-4 Class T1, the Frisco's Firefly 4-6-2 Pacifics and SP's GS2 thru GS 4's (Northerns). I'm sure there were many more that I'm not familiar with, so put in your [2c] if you have a mind to. I really preferred the bare essentials in full view before God and man to the sheet metal dresses some Roads dreamed up. You hardly ever see these prototypes on display in public parks, etc. They had a pretty short life so "close on the heels" of Dieselization. I know CN and CP had some streamlined steam but haven't found many pics to date.

I guess I had better make this a wrap for now. I want to get something done to my garage layout in the "cool, cool, cool of the evening" (86 deg. F.). So Boris, if you will remove yourself and combat boots from my exit path, I would appreciate it. BTW Tom, I bought a Pullman Porter's cap for Boris when he needs to Bell Hop tourist's luggage upstairs; sort of a unofficial recognition for one of his many talents.[:-^] So long for now, Ted
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Posted by siberianmo on Monday, July 18, 2005 7:51 PM
Evenin' passengerfan Al Have you noticed that I've been saving up those Crown Royal bags for you [?] Go ahead, take 'em - good for your marble collection! [swg]

Appreciate the willingness to share your thoughts regarding the research aspect of what you are doing. Sounds like a logical approach to what obviously is an exhausting task. To track those vintage cars from birth to present or final destination involves a great deal of trust in the sources.

I agree with you that those engaged in keeping track of these kinds of things would not likely be dishonest or misleading. Why would they [?] However, sometimes the ego factor gets in the way.

As you undoubtedly already know, there's a great deal of ego involved in this activity. Perhaps that's one negative that I've encountered in my rail travels - dealing with the type of person who comes across as the absolute word regarding anything and everything to do with railroading. Can't handle that at all ....... [tdn]

Along with some of the other guys who have commented on your endeavors, I wish you well with them. Of course I'll add your book to my library - but you won't make a great deal of money from me - after all, I'm sure your friends at "Our" Place will get discounts! [swg]

Enjoy trhe evening and thanx for stopping by so frequently today! [tup][;)]
Tom[4:-)][oX)]
Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
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Posted by siberianmo on Monday, July 18, 2005 8:00 PM
Well I'll be ...... it's earlydiesels Dan!! [:D] Where have you been [?] Thought for awhile that you dropped off the Earth ... didn't see you for ***'s Birthday Bash and began to wonder ....... Glad you're back.

So whatillyahave [?]

I'll tell you this - IF I had the place for 'em, I'd buy all three of those RDC's. Don't happen to know their manufacturer's numbers do you [?] I'd be interested in that info ........

Now, you've had to notice that one of your POSTS FROM THE PAST made it to my new feature ....... no charge for the plug! Perhaps a free ride on one of your loco's will do .... [;)]

You've got some catching up to do 'round here, so enjoy your beverage and start checking out those SUMMARIES!

See ya! [tup][;)]
Tom[4:-)][oX)]
Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
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Posted by siberianmo on Monday, July 18, 2005 8:12 PM
Evenin' Ted, didn't notice you come in ...... used the back door [?]

We've had quite a nice evening thus far, our regulars are returning - not bad for a Monday night! [tup]

For some strange reason, I never got into the steam era - although I surely represent it by age! Anyway, diesels have always been my thing - but the most favorite, by far, was the Pennsy GG1 electric. Ahhhhhhhh, love the look and sounds of 'em.

Back to the steamers - I absolutely concur with you about those NYC and Pennsy streamlined steam loco's. The cat's meow ....... as someone said way back when. As Ted requested ... let's get some info going on these great locomotives.

So, YOU are responsible for Boris' antics of late. He's been wearing that hat and found himself a baton. Strutting around here like Gen. Patton - wanting me to salute him! Well, you know how Boris gets ....... [}:)] I seriously doubt that he'll be doing very much Portering - he thinks of himself as the Field Marshall these days! [:0] Nick where are you when we need you the most [?]

See ya! [tup][;)]
Tom[4:-)][oX)]
Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
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Posted by Anonymous on Monday, July 18, 2005 8:24 PM
Howdy all .. and have a drink on me! [:)] Hope you don't mind a little steam shop talk while you're listening to the tunes onthe jukebox.
Gunns, in getting back to you on several things you brought up. 1st .... I asked if we had hidden the builders plates for the 2903, and we did not. We never had them. I'd be very happy to take you up on your offer to replace them (or is it one?). It seems like a labor intense project to me though, and I feel guilty about getting it for nothing. The head guy at our steam shop (Tom Schneider) will double check the work order number (69791?) to make sure we get it right. Then seriously, I'd like to talk about compensation.
I asked about drawing plans for our drop table, and it doesn't look like we have much to see in that area. It was described to me as sketches. The tables were removed from a facility that was being torn down in Chicago (51st street station?), and I guess it was a real rush job to get things out of there fast. The table was owned by NY Central and the Pennsylvania RR, so it was pretty banged up when we first got it. Everything is looking brand new now though!
My offer still stands to heat treat your bearing rings. I would recommend hardening just a few to see how they change dimensionally. Hopefully they would pretty much stay the same.
As far as I know, there are no plans to do anything with our 2903. We've got our Frisco 1630 "Russian" decapod to get going again, our 1900 UP428 to renovate, and then I suspect they'll be looking at the Shay next, as it was running not too long ago and actually came to us under its own steam. Here's a pic of our UP428 (Consolidation) restoration.

As you can see, we're completely rebuilding the cab. I spent my saturday prepping journal boxes for painting, and just moving things around for our new construction, which now looks like this!
. We still don't have our new track, but it's coming!
I see by the look on Toms face that it's time to settle my tab. Take care all!!
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Posted by siberianmo on Monday, July 18, 2005 9:39 PM
Evenin' barndad Ring the bell, Boris drinks all around on the man who just came in! [tup]

Now, those pix are interesting for sure. Must be a labor of love that you guys are into .... but then again, in order to retain in physical condition that which many of us only have mental pictures of - it's a special thing that you do.

With the interests you have in railroading, surely there must be a few Classic Train stories to share. For example a bit of history regarding the loco's you work on would be a great way to break the ice so that all of our customers can share a bit of what you're into.

I was just about to turn the bar over to the night man - Leon. He's kinda unique in that we use him for Christmas cheer 'round here - then we call him Noel! [:D]

See ya! [zzz]
Tom[4:-)][oX)]
Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
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Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, July 19, 2005 7:26 AM
Hi everybody, its good to see ya back earlydiesels. Yes, I think all of us would like to know what will happen on the Midland for replacing the air chime horns. There may be similar (but not exact) horns available brand new from today's manufacturers. It won't be the same but maybe enough to make you legal for public runs? I recall the classic SP Daylight excursion run in the 1980's where California demanded that an air chime horn be mounted on the GS-4 (Northern) or be denied passage through the State. Like the steam chime wouldn't be loud enough, right?[(-D]

Tom, I'm going to dive into the pastry tray and decaf this fine morning. Caffeine is a nemesis to my poor old "floating" kidneys.[}:)] The pics of retoration on the #428 are excellent barndad. Gadfrey, how many projects are going on at once here? The Frisco Decapod #1630 (a favorite of mine), #2903, and the Shay (unknown origin) should keep your team hopping for months to come. Didn't a couple of those "Decs" end up at the Cardin Picher Gypsum mines in Picher, Okla.? I saw them operating in the late 1950's.[^] The C.B.&Q. (E-6?) shovel nose is running under overhead wire, isn't it? Could you tell us where this "shot" was taken? Perhaps Burlington ran some electrification that I'm not aware of? Barndad any info. on this will be interesting to Rob as well, I'm sure.

Can't wait for your book Al and "burning" all that data to discs is a must. I can appreciate Tom's critique on a few "rail boids" I've met in the past (present company excepted). On a steam excursion at Straussburg, PA some "quiz kid" lapsed into a diatribe on Pensy's steam roster. Carol and I had to move to the next car to escape.[O] But, you know what? The worst R.R. Pedants in Christendom will be found at your LHS on a Saturday p.m. when your trying to buy a bag of spikes and get out of there.[V] Its all in the game, I suppose.[:)]

Okay, I can use my hedge clippers now (after 8 a.m.), so I'm off to reclaiming the Jungle before my house falls to the fate of some Incan ruins in Peru. A round for the house please Tom on my way out. Oh, I didn't think Boris would let his new "hat" go to his head...oooh![O] See ya later all, Ted

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Posted by siberianmo on Tuesday, July 19, 2005 8:42 AM
TUESDAY’s SUMMARY of RECENT POSTS (edited)

G’mornin’ Guys! An interesting day we had yesterday –quite a few posts and some good input at that! [tup] to all who took the time to check in and share your thoughts! [swg]

Have you met our night manLeon [?][?] He’ll be ‘round here to close up on slow nights, or when my eyelids begin to bang shut [zzz]. Good ol’ boy I met years ago, bought him his first pair of boots ……. Not to worry, he’s a gentle guy – in spite of his rather large and imposing size. It was time to get Boris a side kick. [swg]

This may be a rather long SUMMARY, so I’ll get right to it – go ahead and dive into those goodies from The Mentor Village Bakery.

As usual – MINIMAL use of smilies, graphics and photo’s ……….

QUOTE: passengerfan Posted: 17 Jul 2005, 20:25:33

Good Evening All , Sorry I had to miss the B'Day bash Friday but I conveniently forgot my VA appointment. Believe it or not got finished in half a day not the usual day or two.
I have just returned from Monterey and checked out the rails that are still in place between Salinas and Sand City the street crossings have been black topped over But the track appeared to be in pretty good shape. What a perfect spot for a dinner train operation or some other type of tourist rail operation. I'm sure with all of the wineries etc. in the area their might be some help available. What a great trip. Temperatures were in the low seventies and it was tough to return to the Central Valley where we are having our sixth consecutive day of 100 plus.
Well must close for now But will buy a round for the house and a crown Royal Water Back for myself Thx.


QUOTE: passengerfan
Posted: 18 Jul 2005, 06:44:41

Well time for coffee and a nice pastry before back to the usual routine.
Trolleyboy. The ex Milwaukee cars you mentioned last I heard they were in Windsor for a restaurant conversion on a rail barge. Did not know they had been moved to Buffalo.
It would be a shame if they disappear as they are significant historically. There were six built by Pullman Standard between November 1948 and January 1949 with 8 Double Bedrooms and the Skytop Lounge Observation. They were 12-ALDER CREEK, 14-ARROW CREEK, 15-COFFEE CREEK, 16-GOLD CREEK 17- MARBLE CREEK and 18- SPANISH CREEK. In addition the Milwaukee shops built four in April - May 1948 with 24-seat Parlor 1-Parlor Drawing Room Sktytop Lounge Observations numbered and named 186 CEDAR RAPIDS, 187 COON RAPIDS, 188 DELL RAPIDS and 189 PRIEST RAPIDS. Those built by Pullman Standard were assigned to the OLYMPIAN HIAWATHA trains and the four RAPID series were assigned to the Morning and Afdternoon Hiawathas. CN purchased the six P/S built cars June 1964 and assigned the following numbers and names in the same order 1900 MAHONE, 1901 MALPEQUE, 1902 FUNDY, 1903 TRINITY, 1904 BADDECK and 1905 GASPE. At first all were assigned to Maritime service from Montreal in the OCEAN SCOTIAN and CHALEUR but later two were transferred out west for service in the SKEENA. In 1977 Transport Canada banned them from further rail use as they had only a single entrance/exit. Three of these cars are in private ownership in the US today and three I have listed as whereabouts unknown. These were the ones that were last seen on a railbarge that you are probably referring to.


QUOTE: siberianmo
Posted: 18 Jul 2005, 08:01:57

For: passengerfan Al Glad you made it back and hope all went well for you on Friday ....... My hope is that you've taken the time to review the happenings either through scrolling back or reading the SUMMARY

Sorry - but Sunday's we're CLOSED around here. I'll bet you knew that all along!

Tom


QUOTE: siberianmo
Posted: 18 Jul 2005, 08:16:14

Good Monday Morning passengerfan Al

Yes, now we're OPEN! Help yourself to the fine offerings from The Mentor Village Bakery. Hot coffee, light breakfast - good place to be to start the work week!

Who won the QUIZ you may be wondering [?] No one - pretty much given up on trying to keep this going.

Pleased to see that you're back to providing us with some Classic Trains info ... as of late, it's been rather difficult to get the guys to concentrate on just what this thread is supposed to be about. But, we do have a nucleus who knows, so we'll go with that!

See ya!
Tom


QUOTE: siberianmo
Posted: 18 Jul 2005, 08:21:23

NO MONDAY SUMMARY

G'day all! Hope this fine day finds all of you ready, willing and able to give your all to the start of another work week (for many!).

Given that we are CLOSED on SUNDAY's and there weren't sufficient numbers of posts slipped through the mail slots on either sets of doors, there's no need for me to do a SUMMARY!

So, I'll get about the business of the day and hope to see ya 'round here once or thrice this week!

Oh [yeah], check out the SUMMARIES for the last couple of days and you'll be able to catch up on what's been going on since your last visit.

Tom


QUOTE: Theodorebear
Posted: 18 Jul 2005, 08:36:18

Mornin' everybody, seems the Cyber Crumudgens are conspiring to sabotage "Our" Place! I've been having "issues" with my ISP ever since installing MSN Service Pack 2 many months ago. It reminds me of the phrase: "The operation was a complete sucess but the patient died." Hey Tom, those Elephant Ear sticky buns look too good to pass up. But, "pass up" I will; Dr.'s orders don't ya know!

Rob and passengerfan, if you find any more data on the Milwaukee Observation cars, please pass it down. I have close friends in Buffalo and if the cars ("whereabouts unknown") are indeed now a restaurant; I could arrange a trip for a closer "looksee." Meanwhile, I'll do some "crawling the net" on my own. The fate of the six CN cars doesn't bode well after their being "banned," does it? What a shame that all of the individuality of the former Roads is now relegated to sterile, stereotype "off the shelf" stuff (BORING!).

Speaking of "BORING," I don't want to put the "Restorationists" to sleep with my nostalgic rants on "Classic Trains," when everyone knows all focus should be on current "refurb" efforts alone. Still, now and then, its refreshing to lapse into past Road operations just for the historic value, if nothing else. Okay, we sure miss the original "Regulars" around here with their sage and yet, witty commentary. Perhaps Chris, coalminor 3, Nick and the gang will honor us with their presence more frequently when conditions are more favorable? Gotta' get back to more urban renewal on my (currently) diorama HO status. It will be nice to get back to "up and running" condition this Fall. Take care everyone: "Its hotter than you think!"


QUOTE: siberianmo
Posted: 18 Jul 2005, 10:15:10

Top 'o the Mornin' to ya, Ted! Help yourself to those goodies from The Mentor Village Bakery They are GOOD for you!

[yeah]I miss the discussions on our topic, Classic Trains along with the associated foolishness to keep one and all interested and involved. [yeah]

You bet it's hot -- used to have a friend who would comment to me while I was trying to be in charge while up on the bridge, It's hotter 'n a half f'd fox in a forest fire! That would always break the tension, especially when we were involved with more than simply sailing from point A to B. Ahhhhh, the good old days (daze)! Mischief

Classic Trains [?] I've begun to put forth some POSTS FROM THE PAST if for no other reason than to get something kick-started 'round here. Check out Saturday's posting featuring coalminer 3.

Gotta get back to getting this place squared away for the Monday night crowd. Tonight is the not-so-regular meeting of the Mentor Village Railroad Literary Club and Beer Can Collector's Association, sure wouldn't want to have a messy back room for them!

Enjoy the day!
Tom


QUOTE: Theodorebear
Posted: 18 Jul 2005, 10:58:01

Oh my Gorsh! coalminer 3, please forgive the mispelling of you user I.D. I was watching a news program while typing that Post. The story was on yet another kidnapping "Amber Alert" and for some reason, unknown to me, I typed "minor" instead. BTW Tom and coalminer 3, I really enjoyed the "retread" and second the motion of "more of the same" in the future. Not only are previous Postings "in line" with this Thread but they're darn interesting to read again.

Okay, "liquid lunch" time. Tom, let me try a "good old fashioned" Gin and Tonic with a lime twist, thanks. Oh, I'm not really a Gin "nipper," please choose the brand name for me. How is the sceniking coming along on you S guage? Next question: how do you manage a tunnel without a pretty good sized hill for the train to go through? I can't believe the "Johnny-on-the-Spot" people removed Boris' Shed by mistake.[O] I guess the old saying: "The nose knows" has a lotta truth to it? Gotta close for now. See ya, hopefully, later this p.m., Ted


QUOTE: siberianmo
Posted: 18 Jul 2005, 12:45:28

Afternoon Ted and the gang!

I see the sandwiches are moving along this fine day .... great fresh lunch meats and freshly baked breads ... Ummmmm. Wouldn't a cold beer go down real well with one of those jobs alongside

I don't think coalminer 3 is around these days ... haven't seen or heard from him in some time. Well it is summer, and the guys have other things to do (at least I surely hope so!!) This cyber bar 'n grill can get to be a bit obsessive, if one let's it.

You know, when I began this thread it was with the idea that maybe we could get a group of people interested in a common theme. For the most part that has worked for many of us. So, let's play to the hands we've been dealt, and if some wish not to partake in what we're all about, so be it.

The S-gauge is progressing quite nicely. If you recall the pix on my photo site - the track plan is essentially two ovals. At one end of the 7x8 ft board I've enclosed one of the mainline ovals with a tunnel - about 8" high. The entire IC EMD E8 passenger car consist can hide in it. I've blocked that section of track with insulated rail joiners and a toggle switch, so that the appearance is the train has departed for a long journey.

Landscaping is a slow thing for me. It's a think and do - think and do - approach that I used for the Can-Am HO layout, and works well with this one too. Essentially, the layout will be an operating thing with minimal structures and the like. Scenery will be it in order to provide that rural setting I'm looking for. A friend of mine is big into this kind of thing and wants me to consider putting in a corn field. He's got some nifty looking 1:64 farm vehicles and they would fit quite nicely. Problem is, with limited space, a farm would kind of take over as the focal point. Whereas I want the RR to do that.

Reminds me a bit of the focal point with regard to "Our" Place - I want to keep on with the Classic Trains theme, along with our good times, whereas it appears some have a different bent.

Thanx for asking - I'll get some updated pix on the photo album once I feel the layout is ready for it!

See ya!
Tom


QUOTE: siberianmo
Posted: 18 Jul 2005, 15:15:32

POST FROM THE PAST

From time to time I will post what should serve as examples to all of what this thread is all about.

Here is a POST from earlydiesels Dan back in the early days of "Our" Place You can find the original post on page 4.

QUOTE: earlydiesels Posted: 25 Apr 2005, 13:46:32

Greetings,all from Springburg, Misery. There has been a lot of activity since my last visit. Tom, can I get an order of nachos and a tall,cold glass of water with a lemon, please?
Like the backdated photo. CP only had 3 E8s so to catch 2 together was quite a feat-could'nt read the numbers{they were 1800-02}. Any and all cab units are great!!
There appears to be quite a bit of preservation going in the VA/WV area. Glad to hear about it. For some reason here lately I've been on an B&O kick. Can't explain it unless it might have something to do with the visitor from Baltimore that rode our demonstration railroad last May before we opened the other 5 1/2 miles. Or that a friend who works for a shortline group just came back from helping to start a new railroad in WV that was B&O.
Had a preseason meeting Saturday at the local museum. The caboose interior has been repainted and probably looks as good as built. Since we are trying to find guages to replace the stolen ones and rehab the few we have, we are going to build a door across the back of the steamer's cab so it can be locked. I am not fond about this but being as how so much work has been done to the interior in the last 3 years, I am all for keeping it that way.

Tom, I'd like to hear some old Hank Snow rail songs, please. Maybe Johnny Cash singing the Rock Island Line. That song means more to me now than ever, having had the privilege of operating ex Rock Eunits. Great looking, but slow to load and slippery!Friends of the local library had a book sale to raise funds. Went Sunday and got 7 VHS tapes for $16. Old NKP steam, MILW electrics, ATSF earlydiesels, B&O{there it is again} UP across Mo, and etc.

Trolleyboy, Tom says you're into preservation with empathis on street rrs. All I know about that is that this town had trolleys until 1937 and the wife and I rode a PCC at St Louis's Museum of Transport. Neat ride. Are you involved in operations, maintenance or what?

It sounds like most of Tom's customers were able to ride the great passenger trains when they were still great. I have plenty of books on pass. trains and a few videos but only one memory. My mom and I rode the last Frisco pass. train but being only about 5, I can't remember much. I did save the newspaper article, however.

POST FROM THE PAST

Enjoy!

Tom (Siberianmo)
Proprietor of “Our” Place, an adult eating & drinking establishment!


QUOTE: passengerfan
Posted: 18 Jul 2005, 15:30:39

Good Afternoon All
Time for a Crown Royal and Water Back and a round for the house.
The two former CN observations moved to Buffalo are 1901 MALPEQUE and 1903 TRINITY information I have states they are part of a restaurant complex nothing about being on a barge is mentioned.
Gateway Rail Tours operate the fully restored COFFEE CREEK ex CN 1902 FUNDY.
The 1904 BADDECK is owned by a private buyer stateside and is undergoing restoration.
1900 MAHONE was scrapped as was 1905 GASPE.
As for the four built as parlor cars at least two survive PRIEST RAPIDS was scrapped CEDAR RAPIDS was restored and presented to the cars designer and was in Denver last I heard.
If i'm not mistaken another survives at the Museum in Duluth I think this one is COON RAPIDS and the DELL RAPIDS I don't have any idea if it survives or not.
I was fortunate enough to ride the COFFEE CREEK when it was in OLYMPIAN HIAWATHA service between Seattle and St. Paul and also rode the same car in CN service as the FUNDY when it was on the rear of the OCEAN between Montreal and Halifax. Neither owner provided a bar in the lounge area of the car, and CN remodeled the lounge areas in more modern up to date colors and materials compared to the staid old Pullman Standard look they were built with.


QUOTE: siberianmo
Posted: 18 Jul 2005, 16:56:29

Ring the bell, Boris drinks all 'round on passengerfan Al

There must be scores of web related places to research the kinds of stuff that you're into. I know in my own experiences with RDC research, that I soon got bogged down between what appeared to be anecdotal information as opposed to factual.

As these cars pass from owner to owner, from place to place, and even become nothing more than static displays, how do you go about determining what is reliable info [?] For me, pictures have helped a lot, but still there are so many gaps .....

Appreciate your posts .........

Tom


QUOTE: passengerfan
Posted: 18 Jul 2005, 18:38:23

Tom time for another Crown Royal with water back and a round for the house as well Hate to drink alone.
Tom you asked a very good question about research and I must tell you I have notes on many passenger cars going back thirty or more years hand written and kept in binders. As I found more info on a car I added it to the previous notes and the Different railroad societies have been a great help. Some of the information I received was bogus, I don't think intentionally but like me trying to do things from memory it sometimes plays tricks on me. I don't think people intentionally try to mislead the serious researcher. Fortunately I have a very good collection of books and belong to several RR Historical societies as well.
When researching for the tome I am working on I ran into conflicting dates on a number of trains as to their inaugural start date and in some cases the consist information conflicted between sources as well. In most cases I had as many as three or four sources to draw from and the majority wins. In other cases I contacted societies and others who have been good sources of information in the past and went with those. I'm sure when I complete the book and if it gets published their will be conflicts arise. I can only say that I have done the best with the sources I have worked with and leave it at that. One obviously has to enjoy his work or it becomes overwhelming and so far I still enjoy what I am doing and enjoy sharing the information with others. The information is not much good without sharing it. I am going to burn all of the information I have to CDs so their will be a more permanent record than the dozens of binders I have. My computer is equipped with a CD burner I just have to take the time to transfer the information. Many of the pages in my binders are yellowing with age and I used to use a fountain pen to record information and some has smeared so the sooner I get it on CDs the better. I don't really look forward to it as it is a massive undertaking. But with outside temps staying above the century mark for the next eight days at least maybe I will start.


QUOTE: earlydiesels
Posted: 18 Jul 2005, 19:38:59

Hello everyone! A Margarita on the rocks, please. Tom, you have such an interest in RDCs I will share something with you. Latest issue of Trainline magazine lists 3 for sale. I have misplaced my copy but when I find it will relay the particulars. You want them in your backyard, don't you?
Been searching for baggage cart paint info on the web. Got some info including some from OUR PLACE regulars. Thanks. Haven't heard anything about the horn theft at the Midland lately. Will be there this weekend--the invitation is open for all the regulars to ride our rr.
Our local museum had donated 2 boxes of books and magazines recently. I brought several old Trains home to read of evenings. One from 1975 had a very interesting article about Amtrak's searching for equipment at startup. There was a nice how-to guide in looking to buy a used passenger car. I learned a lot. Wish I had the article a few years ago when the Oklahoma City diner was for sale. Midland was interested and since the car was here in Spfld I looked it over. Someone else got it, though. Good thing-- like most PS cars the galvanic reaction caused the thing to have significant body cancer.


QUOTE: Theodorebear
Posted: 18 Jul 2005, 19:48:03

Glad to hear there are some survivors from the Milwaukee Road "Classic Trains." In fact, I'll drink to that Al. Perhaps, I can eventually take a trip to Buffalo, see my friends and take them out to dinner on one of those cars. While on the subject of the Mlwk. Road, does anyone recall the "streamlined" Pacifics (4-6-2) they sported in the late 40's thru early 50's? Wow, with that "loud" livery, they looked like moving billboards. I won't argue the point because "beauty is in the eye of the beholder." For my money the most sucessful "sreamlined" steam designs were the N.Y.C. Hudsons, the Pensy 4-4-4-4 Class T1, the Frisco's Firefly 4-6-2 Pacifics and SP's GS2 thru GS 4's (Northerns). I'm sure there were many more that I'm not familiar with, so put in your if you have a mind to. I really preferred the bare essentials in full view before God and man to the sheet metal dresses some Roads dreamed up. You hardly ever see these prototypes on display in public parks, etc. They had a pretty short life so "close on the heels" of Dieselization. I know CN and CP had some streamlined steam but haven't found many pics to date.

I guess I had better make this a wrap for now. I want to get something done to my garage layout in the "cool, cool, cool of the evening" (86 deg. F.). So Boris, if you will remove yourself and combat boots from my exit path, I would appreciate it. BTW Tom, I bought a Pullman Porter's cap for Boris when he needs to Bell Hop tourist's luggage upstairs; sort of a unofficial recognition for one of his many talents. So long for now, Ted


QUOTE: siberianmo
Posted: 18 Jul 2005, 19:51:20

Evenin' passengerfan Al Have you noticed that I've been saving up those Crown Royal bags for you [?]Go ahead, take 'em - good for your marble collection!

Appreciate the willingness to share your thoughts regarding the research aspect of what you are doing. Sounds like a logical approach to what obviously is an exhausting task. To track those vintage cars from birth to present or final destination involves a great deal of trust in the sources.

I agree with you that those engaged in keeping track of these kinds of things would not likely be dishonest or misleading. Why would they [?] However, sometimes the ego factor gets in the way.

As you undoubtedly already know, there's a great deal of ego involved in this activity. Perhaps that's one negative that I've encountered in my rail travels - dealing with the type of person who comes across as the absolute word regarding anything and everything to do with railroading. Can't handle that at all .......
Along with some of the other guys who have commented on your endeavors, I wish you well with them. Of course I'll add your book to my library - but you won't make a great deal of money from me - after all, I'm sure your friends at ”Our" Place will get discounts!

Enjoy the evening and thanx for stopping by so frequently today!
Tom


QUOTE: siberianmo
Posted: 18 Jul 2005, 20:00:47

Well I'll be ...... it'searlydiesels Dan!! Where have you been [?] Thought for awhile that you dropped off the Earth ... didn't see you for ***'s Birthday Bash and began to wonder ....... Glad you're back.

So whatillyahave [?]

I'll tell you this - IF I had the place for 'em, I'd buy all three of those RDC's. Don't happen to know their manufacturer's numbers do you I'd be interested in that info ........

Now, you've had to notice that one of your POSTS FROM THE PAST made it to my new feature ....... no charge for the plug! Perhaps a free ride on one of your loco's will do ....

You've got some catching up to do 'round here, so enjoy your beverage and start checking out those SUMMARIES!

See ya!
Tom


QUOTE: siberianmo
Posted: 18 Jul 2005, 20:12:28

Evenin' Ted didn't notice you come in ...... used the back door [?]

We've had quite a nice evening thus far, our regulars are returning - not bad for a Monday night!

For some strange reason, I never got into the steam era - although I surely represent it by age! Anyway, diesels have always been my thing - but the most favorite, by far, was the Pennsy GG1 electric. Ahhhhhhhh, love the look and sounds of 'em.

Back to the steamers - I absolutely concur with you about those NYC and Pennsy streamlined steam loco's. The cat's meow ....... as someone said way back when. As Ted requested ... let's get some info going on these great locomotives.

So, YOU are responsible for Boris' antics of late. He's been wearing that hat and found himself a baton. Strutting around here like Gen. Patton - wanting me to salute him! Well, you know how Boris gets ....... I seriously doubt that he'll be doing very much Portering - he thinks of himself as the Field Marshall these days! Nick where are you when we need you the most [?]

See ya!
Tom


QUOTE: barndad
Posted: 18 Jul 2005, 20:24:39

Howdy all .. and have a drink on me! Hope you don't mind a little steam shop talk while you're listening to the tunes onthe jukebox.
Gunns, in getting back to you on several things you brought up. 1st .... I asked if we had hidden the builders plates for the 2903, and we did not. We never had them. I'd be very happy to take you up on your offer to replace them (or is it one?). It seems like a labor intense project to me though, and I feel guilty about getting it for nothing. The head guy at our steam shop (Tom Schneider) will double check the work order number (69791?) to make sure we get it right. Then seriously, I'd like to talk about compensation.
I asked about drawing plans for our drop table, and it doesn't look like we have much to see in that area. It was described to me as sketches. The tables were removed from a facility that was being torn down in Chicago (51st street station?), and I guess it was a real rush job to get things out of there fast. The table was owned by NY Central and the Pennsylvania RR, so it was pretty banged up when we first got it. Everything is looking brand new now though!
My offer still stands to heat treat your bearing rings. I would recommend hardening just a few to see how they change dimensionally. Hopefully they would pretty much stay the same.
As far as I know, there are no plans to do anything with our 2903. We've got our Frisco 1630 "Russian" decapod to get going again, our 1900 UP428 to renovate, and then I suspect they'll be looking at the Shay next, as it was running not too long ago and actually came to us under its own steam. Here's a pic of our UP428 (Consolidation) restoration. //NOTE: Scroll up for pix///

As you can see, we're completely rebuilding the cab. I spent my Saturday prepping journal boxes for painting, and just moving things around for our new construction, which now looks like this!. We still don't have our new track, but it's coming!
I see by the look on Toms face that it's time to settle my tab. Take care all!!


QUOTE: siberianmo
Posted: 18 Jul 2005, 21:39:21

Evenin' barndad Ring the bell, Boris drinks all around on the man who just came in!

Now, those pix are interesting for sure. Must be a labor of love that you guys are into .... but then again, in order to retain in physical condition that which many of us only have mental pictures of - it's a special thing that you do.

With the interests you have in railroading, surely there must be a few Classic Train stories to share. For example a bit of history regarding the loco's you work on would be a great way to break the ice so that all of our customers can share a bit of what you're into.

I was just about to turn the bar over to the night man – Leon. He's kinda unique in that we use him for Christmas cheer 'round here - then we call him Noel!

See ya! [zzz]
Tom


QUOTE: Theodorebear Posted: Today, 07:26:20

Hi everybody, its good to see ya back earlydiesels. Yes, I think all of us would like to know what will happen on the Midland for replacing the air chime horns. There may be similar (but not exact) horns available brand new from today's manufacturers. It won't be the same but maybe enough to make you legal for public runs? I recall the classic SP Daylight excursion run in the 1980's where California demanded that an air chime horn be mounted on the GS-4 (Northern) or be denied passage through the State. Like the steam chime wouldn't be loud enough, right?

Tom, I'm going to dive into the pastry tray and decaf this fine morning. Caffeine is a nemesis to my poor old "floating" kidneys. The pics of retoration on the #428 are excellent barndad. Gadfrey, how many projects are going on at once here? The Frisco Decapod #1630 (a favorite of mine), #2903, and the Shay (unknown origin) should keep your team hopping for months to come. Didn't a couple of those "Decs" end up at the Cardin Picher Gypsum mines in Picher, Okla.? I saw them operating in the late 1950's. The C.B.&Q. (E-6?) shovel nose is running under overhead wire, isn't it? Could you tell us where this "shot" was taken? Perhaps Burlington ran some electrification that I'm not aware of? Barndad any info. on this will be interesting to Rob as well, I'm sure.

Can't wait for your book Al and "burning" all that data to discs is a must. I can appreciate Tom's critique on a few "rail boids" I've met in the past (present company excepted). On a steam excursion at Straussburg, PA some "quiz kid" lapsed into a diatribe on Pensy's steam roster. Carol and I had to move to the next car to escape.[O] But, you know what? The worst R.R. Pedants in Christendom will be found at your LHS on a Saturday p.m. when your trying to buy a bag of spikes and get out of there. Its all in the game, I suppose.

Okay, I can use my hedge clippers now (after 8 a.m.), so I'm off to reclaiming the Jungle before my house falls to the fate of some Incan ruins in Peru. A round for the house please Tom on my way out. Oh, I didn't think Boris would let his new "hat" go to his head...oooh![O] See ya later all, Ted

G’day to you Ted! You’re looking rather chipper this fine Tuesday morning. Looks like a corner has been turned (re: recent Emails) and perhaps we’re seeing an upswing ‘round here! Let’s hope so. [swg][tup]

Today is lawn cutting day – although I don’t know why. The insufficient rainfall and high heat has kept the grass rather short, but scraggly in appearance. So, if I want to live in peace and harmony ‘round here, I better get my Posterior in gear and cut the south forty …… [swg]
Tom

==========================================================
That’s it! [tup][;)]
Tom (Siberianmo) [4:-)] [oX)]
Proprietor of “Our” Place, an adult eating & drinking establishment!


Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
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Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, July 19, 2005 10:19 AM
Holy Toro and weed eaters eveywhere! Tom, a Molsins Pilsner please before I perish from heat postration! I don't know how Gunns and barndad manage in these hot summer days. Crawling around inside a tender or boiler during 90 deg. F. heat is not my idea of "a day at the beach."[xx(] Its probably hotter than 90 F. in N.M., right Gunns?

Yeah Tom, the "Our" in "Our" Place is getting to feel real friendly now. Its really neat when this "Thread" is shared by such a group of dedicated and astute people having common interests, who don't mind having some fun along the way. I haven't found any site quite like this one for having a good laugh at ourselves' or eachother without risking malice or rankor.[tup] Let's keep it that way for some great times down the rails ahead.[:D]

Earlydiesels Dan did you locate the proper shade for R.E.A. green yet? Those freight and luggage wagons used on passenger platforms (as I recall) were the same color green as the R.E.A. {International) delivery trucks. They also had red (Fire Engine) spoked wheels while the underside and tongue was black (if memory serves). Don't let's forget the diamond shaped logo (one on front and one on sides) of the wagon's slat and stake sides. This would be circa 1940 thru 1950's. The original steel wheels were replaced with pneumatic, rubber tires (not sure when?) The small tractors that pulled trains of these wagons where painted yellow or gray at K.C. Union Station during those years. I've seen them (tractors) painted with diagoanal yellow strips on a black grill as well.

Okay, I'm a.w.o.l. for a just quick beer from the "Jungle."[:O] Hope to see all of you later for a nice "tall one" when we can relax and "kick around" some good train stories and legends. Take it easy, its hotter than a Fireman's drawers coaling the El Capitan in the Mojave. Cheers, Ted
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Posted by Trainnut484 on Tuesday, July 19, 2005 12:03 PM
Hello all [:)]. I'll have a sammich and a Miller Lite to wash it down with. Just taking a midday break.

Ted and Tom, don't overdue the safari exploring of the jungle there. If you do, maybe Boris knows CPR[:p][;)]. Still waiting for those KC Union Station pics. I've thought of what the answer could be of the "Mentor quiz", and havent' got there yet.

Dan, have you guys at Midland located replacement horns yet[?] Maybe a GOOOOOGLE search will provide some leads.

barndad and Gunns, [tup] great pics of your hard labors[wow][yeah][^]. The big fantasy is having 2903 and 2926 doublehead, and 3751 joining somewhere in the festivities. I would even settle for a lineup of the three [:D]

Geez Leweeze, like all good things, breaks have to come to and end [V]. Gotta get on with the rest of my day.

All the Way!
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Posted by siberianmo on Tuesday, July 19, 2005 1:23 PM
Yo Ted Back for more, eh [?] [tup]

There was a time, a long time ago in another life, when I considered buying into a bar. It was a local establishment located in a small town in eastern Virginia. Most of the customers were sailors, truckers, and business people. Really an interesting mix. The theme of the place was centered around pretzels, of all things. Hence the name, Pretzel Barrel. It was a beer joint supreme with some great lunch specials and nice steaks in the evening. (Are you noting the similarities [?]) Over time I became fast friends with the owner and his wife (co-owners). We discussed a partnership whereby my wife and I would operate the place for a time, then switch off, etc. Sounded interesting. I was thinking about military retirement back then, so I pursued the thought.

After spending a bit of time with my friend and experiencing what must be done in order to keep a bar not only open, but operating to the satisifaction of one and all - it became apparent to me that one must be married - not to a female human being - but to the bar! Absolutely no way did I want to spend the rest of my working life coming home at 3 AM and getting back to the place by 11 AM to open for lunch. Nope - not for this guy.

Ring the bell, Boris way [#offtopic], drinks all 'round on me! [;)]

Enjoy the rest of this day, and hope you'll take it slow out in the heat! We're air conditioned ya know! [tup] [swg] Ready for 'nother one [?]
Tom[4:-)][oX)]
Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
  • Member since
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Posted by siberianmo on Tuesday, July 19, 2005 1:31 PM
Howdy Trainnut484 Russell appreciate your stopping by .... Boris bring the man the Special while I pour the brew!

Man was it ever hot out in the south forty this morning. I normally fill 7 or 8 32 gal. containers with grass clippings, today only 2 1/2 - and that's skipping last week. It's really been a different kind of summer 'round these parts. Actually, this old world is experiencing some changes that will surely make life a heck of a lot different for many, many people.

I know Ted is working on putting together some pix for us all - hopefully that KC Station will be the centerpiece. Glad you remembered to bug him, he needs that! [tup] [swg]

Okay - enjoy your break and see ya soon!
Tom[4:-)][oX)]
Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
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Posted by siberianmo on Tuesday, July 19, 2005 2:48 PM
QUIZ question: Where did the Mentor in The Mentor Village Bakery come from [?]

The answer is in this photo: (click to enlarge) [swg]



Thanx to those who gave it a try! [;)]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]
Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
  • Member since
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Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, July 19, 2005 8:03 PM
Duhh, now I get it...I don't think? Mentor Bakery=Mentor mystery+"click=???[banghead] Back again after a relentless battle with creepers, slime vines, punk trees and barking neighbor's hounds.[V] Oh well, just another day in "Paradise." Tom, a Gin (of your choice) and tonic wouldn't kill me when you have the chance please Sir, thanks.[tup] Rarely, do I "come back for more" three times in one day (even Kenny Rogers knows better). However, I decided to plead my own case for the pix I promised.[:I] Here it is: I downloaded early pix digitzed on a Wal Mart C.D. to my P.C. and tried to upload them to "Rail Images." Yes, I opened an account and followed the instructions but somehow "blew it" with every attempt. After a delightful 3 hours of going nearly cross-eyed, I hit the Start button and "skated" not caring if the C.P.U. imploded.[:(!] Am I likely to spend $300 to $400 on a digital camera "rig" so my Pals at "Our" Place can view my mediocre modeling efforts? "...in a Pig's posterior I will!" So, I can use "snail mail" for whom-so-ever wants prints if you e-mail me at my "addy" (no S. or H. charges).

Its late and I still have to WD-40 my lawn implements befor retiring.[zzz] And, Tom, I promise not to buy Boris a Conductor's cap. He would probably think he is Leonard Bernstein.[alien] BTW, who is Leon, your new "night man?" Auf wieder sehen Y'all, Ted
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Posted by siberianmo on Tuesday, July 19, 2005 8:27 PM
Evenin' Ted Three times is a charm, or so it's said. Gin & Tonic - what a great summer drink - tall glass with a slice of lime, of course! [tup] How's Beefeaters strike ya [?]

Okay - let's get this picture thing ironed out. (1) Presume you received the Email I sent you regarding "how to.": (2) Send me an Email describing the difficulties. (3) WE can Do this! [tup][;)]

Leon the Night Man was described in today's SUMMARY Additional info [?] Well, he's a man of very few words (and wardrobe)! He loves the apron for behind the bar - between he and Boris we're sure to have some fun with these guys! The man is a genius when it comes to drinkoglogy the "Our Place term for mixing drinks - we don't refer to it as mixology - much too sophisticated for this joint! [swg]

Thanx for stopping by and chill out for the rest of the evening .........

Tom[4:-)][oX)]
Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
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Posted by Trainnut484 on Tuesday, July 19, 2005 8:27 PM
Evening all. I'll have a Miller Lite please...thanks.

Ted, here's a link for you to create a photo album:

www.photobucket.com

It's easy to sign up. Soon you'll be posting pictures in no time [tup]

Take care,

Russell

All the Way!
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Posted by siberianmo on Tuesday, July 19, 2005 8:40 PM
Evenin' Russell Between the two of us, we'll get Ted up and running with those pix! [tup]

Appreciate the URL for PhotoBucket ... I'm using Railimages as do many folks involved in posting rail pix ... Once established, it's really a piece of cake. Getting that first one done seems to be a bugger - I had similar experiences to those that apparently Ted has experienced.

I've got the Cardinals and Brewers game on large screen TV #2 .... the Cards are really something again this year. Watching Sir Albert at the bat is unreal. This guy is absolutely a wonder ...... KCity product (by way of the Dominican Republic. Nice personality and comes across real well.

Usually I'm listening to the games on the radio while I get some model railroading in .... tonight's the exception. Kinda worked my aging body a bit hard in the heat today with the mowing and trip to the hardware megastore for a zillion pounds of top soil, etc. Should do those things when it's cooler. [censored]

Enough of that ..... have another Miller Lite on the house! [tup][;)] Ring the bell, Boris [#offtopic] again! [banghead]

Ah, I see Leon the Night Man has arrived, so I'll check out 'til the 'morrow.

G'nite! [zzz]
Tom[4:-)][oX)]
Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
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Posted by trolleyboy on Wednesday, July 20, 2005 12:27 AM
Good evening everyone. sorry I missed the monday breakfast Tom er Leon ( I like the overalls straw hat and apron look it suits.) One question though does the health department worry about the fact he's serving food and drink in bare feet though? Where have I been? That's the question I'm sures been on everyones mind( including mine )Well spent Sat evening and Sunday in Niagara-on - the -Lake at Fort george National Historic Site. It was the war of 1812 renactment weekend,amid the rain and thunder and high heat we managed to send the invading yankee hords back south. I'll post some shots once I've loaded them to photiobucket. Long story short as my profile will suggest I'm a history buff from way back. I actually worked at Fort George as an historical interpreter for two summers. This weekend reintroduced me to some old friends ( 600 costumed interpreters with cannons muskets and black powder all weekend long) I may have to rejoin the fray as it were.the Guelph based Glengarry canadian light infantry need more bodies and I did enjoy it as a job so why not as a hobby besides I can use the exercise. Sorry Leon I'm [#offtopic] next rounds mine.passengeralThanks for the info, the last time i saw the Buffalo cars they were on what looked to be a barge just off the I190.No windows in sad shape. This was 1996 or so ( not been back to Buffalo since )The restaurant owner never got off the ground at that point from there on I'm not sure. Gunns & Barndad Nice pictures gents, it puts our shop to shame,much more work happening there than at the HCRY.Dan If you hadn't found your horns or tracked a replacement down yet perhaps a suitable replacement could be had from an existing railway. Most will sell locomotives and parts that are surplus. For instance CN has a leasing arm know as CANAC that sells off old loco's and equipment either to shortlines, museums or scrap dealers. I'm sure the US roads have something similar, a thought anyway. Well I'm on crew tomorrow so to bed I must go. Ted drop me an email on your picture woes as well, if I can figure it out with Tom's help i'm sure that we can get you "posted" Nite guys. Rob
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Posted by siberianmo on Wednesday, July 20, 2005 7:39 AM
WEDNESDAY’s SUMMARY of RECENT POSTS (edited)

Mid-week Greetings Gents! Halfway there – pull up a stool and help yourself to the morning treats, once again provided by The Mentor Village Bakery. Light breakfasts are on the menu, right over there, and the coffee’s fresh …….

No winners in the QUIZ, so I’ll just keep the prize for ‘nother time.

Time for the SUMMARY, again with LIMITED smilies, graphics and photos.

QUOTE: Theodorebear
Posted: 19 July 2005, 10:19:34

Holy Toro and weed eaters eveywhere! Tom, a Molsins Pilsner please before I perish from heat postration! I don't know how Gunns and barndad manage in these hot summer days. Crawling around inside a tender or boiler during 90 deg. F. heat is not my idea of "a day at the beach." Its probably hotter than 90 F. in N.M., right Gunns?

Yeah Tom, the "Our" in "Our" Place is getting to feel real friendly now. Its really neat when this "Thread" is shared by such a group of dedicated and astute people having common interests, who don't mind having some fun along the way. I haven't found any site quite like this one for having a good laugh at ourselves' or eachother without risking malice or rankor. Let's keep it that way for some great times down the rails ahead.

Earlydiesels Dan did you locate the proper shade for R.E.A. green yet? Those freight and luggage wagons used on passenger platforms (as I recall) were the same color green as the R.E.A. {International) delivery trucks. They also had red (Fire Engine) spoked wheels while the underside and tongue was black (if memory serves). Don't let's forget the diamond shaped logo (one on front and one on sides) of the wagon's slat and stake sides. This would be circa 1940 thru 1950's. The original steel wheels were replaced with pneumatic, rubber tires (not sure when?) The small tractors that pulled trains of these wagons where painted yellow or gray at K.C. Union Station during those years. I've seen them (tractors) painted with diagoanal yellow strips on a black grill as well.

Okay, I'm a.w.o.l. for a just quick beer from the "Jungle." Hope to see all of you later for a nice "tall one" when we can relax and "kick around" some good train stories and legends. Take it easy, its hotter than a Fireman's drawers coaling the El Capitan in the Mojave. Cheers, Ted


QUOTE: Trainnut484
Posted: 19 July 2005, 12:03:49

Hello all . I'll have a sammich and a Miller Lite to wash it down with. Just taking a midday break.

Ted and Tom, don't overdue the safari exploring of the jungle there. If you do, maybe Boris knows CPR . Still waiting for those KC Union Station pics. I've thought of what the answer could be of the "Mentor quiz", and havent' got there yet.

Dan, have you guys at Midland located replacement horns yet[?] Maybe a GOOOOOGLE search will provide some leads.

barndad and Gunns, great pics of your hard labors . The big fantasy is having 2903 and 2926 doublehead, and 3751 joining somewhere in the festivities. I would even settle for a lineup of the three

Geez Leweeze, like all good things, breaks have to come to and end . Gotta get on with the rest of my day.


QUOTE: siberianmo
Posted: 19 July 2005, 13:23:31

Yo Ted Back for more, eh [?]

There was a time, a long time ago in another life, when I considered buying into a bar. It was a local establishment located in a small town in eastern Virginia. Most of the customers were sailors, truckers, and business people. Really an interesting mix. The theme of the place was centered around pretzels, of all things. Hence the name, Pretzel Barrel. It was a beer joint supreme with some great lunch specials and nice steaks in the evening. (Are you noting the similarities [?]) Over time I became fast friends with the owner and his wife (co-owners). We discussed a partnership whereby my wife and I would operate the place for a time, then switch off, etc. Sounded interesting. I was thinking about military retirement back then, so I pursued the thought.

After spending a bit of time with my friend and experiencing what must be done in order to keep a bar not only open, but operating to the satisifaction of one and all - it became apparent to me that one must be married - not to a female human being - but to the bar! Absolutely no way did I want to spend the rest of my working life coming home at 3 AM and getting back to the place by 11 AM to open for lunch. Nope - not for this guy.

Ring the bell, Boris way [#offtopic], drinks all 'round on me!

Enjoy the rest of this day, and hope you'll take it slow out in the heat! We're air conditioned ya know! Ready for 'nother one [?]
Tom


QUOTE: siberianmo
Posted: 19 July 2005, 13:31:44

Howdy Trainnut484 Russell appreciate your stopping by .... Boris bring the man the Special while I pour the brew!

Man was it ever hot out in the south forty this morning. I normally fill 7 or 8 32 gal. containers with grass clippings, today only 2 1/2 - and that's skipping last week. It's really been a different kind of summer 'round these parts. Actually, this old world is experiencing some changes that will surely make life a heck of a lot different for many, many people.

I know Ted is working on putting together some pix for us all - hopefully that KC Station will be the centerpiece. Glad you remembered to bug him, he needs that!

Okay - enjoy your break and see ya soon!
Tom


QUOTE: siberianmo
Posted: 19 July 2005, 14:48:06
QUIZ question: Where did the Mentor in The Mentor Village Bakery come from [?]

The answer is in this photo: (click to enlarge)
//Note: Scroll up for pix//

Thanx to those who gave it a try!

Tom


QUOTE: Theodorebear
Posted: 19 July 2005, 20:03:57

Duhh, now I get it...I don't think? Mentor Bakery=Mentor mystery+"click=??? Back again after a relentless battle with creepers, slime vines, punk trees and barking neighbor's hounds. Oh well, just another day in "Paradise." Tom, a Gin (of your choice) and tonic wouldn't kill me when you have the chance please Sir, thanks. Rarely, do I "come back for more" three times in one day (even Kenny Rogers knows better). However, I decided to plead my own case for the pix I promised. Here it is: I downloaded early pix digitzed on a Wal Mart C.D. to my P.C. and tried to upload them to "Rail Images." Yes, I opened an account and followed the instructions but somehow "blew it" with every attempt. After a delightful 3 hours of going nearly cross-eyed, I hit the Start button and "skated" not caring if the C.P.U. imploded. Am I likely to spend $300 to $400 on a digital camera "rig" so my Pals at "Our" Place can view my mediocre modeling efforts? "...in a Pig's posterior I will!" So, I can use "snail mail" for whom-so-ever wants prints if you e-mail me at my "addy" (no S. or H. charges).

Its late and I still have to WD-40 my lawn implements befor retiring. And, Tom, I promise not to buy Boris a Conductor's cap. He would probably think he is Leonard Bernstein. BTW, who is Leon, your new "night man?" Auf wieder sehen Y'all, Ted


QUOTE: siberianmo
Posted: Today, 20:27:17

Evenin' Ted Three times is a charm, or so it's said. Gin & Tonic - what a great summer drink - tall glass with a slice of lime, of course! How's Beefeaters strike ya

Okay - let's get this picture thing ironed out. (1) Presume you received the Email I sent you regarding "how to.": (2) Send me an Email describing the difficulties. (3) WE can Do this!

Leon the Night Man was described in today's SUMMARY Additional info Well, he's a man of very few words (and wardrobe)! He loves the apron for behind the bar - between he and Boris we're sure to have some fun with these guys! The man is a genius when it comes to drinkoglogy the "Our Place term for mixing drinks - we don't refer to it as mixology - much too sophisticated for this joint!

Thanx for stopping by and chill out for the rest of the evening .........

Tom


QUOTE: Trainnut484

Evening all. I'll have a Miller Lite please...thanks.

Ted, here's a link for you to create a photo album:

www.photobucket.com

It's easy to sign up. Soon you'll be posting pictures in no time

Take care,
Russell


QUOTE: siberianmo
Posted: 19 July 2005, 20:40:43
Evenin' Russell Between the two of us, we'll get Ted up and running with those pix!

Appreciate the URL for PhotoBucket ... I'm using Railimages as do many folks involved in posting rail pix ... Once established, it's really a piece of cake. Getting that first one done seems to be a bugger - I had similar experiences to those that apparently Ted has experienced.

I've got the Cardinals and Brewers game on large screen TV #2 .... the Cards are really something again this year. Watching Sir Albert at the bat is unreal. This guy is absolutely a wonder ...... KCity product (by way of the Dominican Republic). Nice personality and comes across real well.

Usually I'm listening to the games on the radio while I get some model railroading in .... tonight's the exception. Kinda worked my aging body a bit hard in the heat today with the mowing and trip to the hardware megastore for a zillion pounds of top soil, etc. Should do those things when it's cooler. [censored]
Enough of that ..... have another Miller Lite on the house! Ring the bell, Boris [#offtopic] again! [banghead]

Ah, I see Leon the Night Man has arrived, so I’ll check out ‘til the ‘morrow.

G’nite! [zzz]
Tom


QUOTE: trolleyboy
Posted: 20 Jujly 2005, 00:27:09

Good evening everyone. Sorry I missed the Monday breakfast Tom er Leon ( I like the overalls straw hat and apron look it suits.) One question though does the health department worry about the fact he's serving food and drink in bare feet though? Where have I been? That's the question I'm sures been on everyones mind( including mine )Well spent Sat evening and Sunday in Niagara-on - the -Lake at Fort George National Historic Site. It was the war of 1812 renactment weekend,amid the rain and thunder and high heat we managed to send the invading Yankee hordes back south. I'll post some shots once I've loaded them to photiobucket. Long story short as my profile will suggest I'm a history buff from way back. I actually worked at Fort George as an historical interpreter for two summers. This weekend reintroduced me to some old friends ( 600 costumed interpreters with cannons muskets and black powder all weekend long) I may have to rejoin the fray as it were.the Guelph based Glengarry Canadian light infantry need more bodies and I did enjoy it as a job so why not as a hobby besides I can use the exercise. Sorry Leon I'm next rounds mine.

Passengeral Thanks for the info, the last time i saw the Buffalo cars they were on what looked to be a barge just off the I190.No windows in sad shape. This was 1996 or so (not been back to Buffalo since )The restaurant owner never got off the ground at that point from there on I'm not sure.

Gunns & Barndad Nice pictures gents, it puts our shop to shame, much more work happening there than at the HCRY.

Dan If you hadn't found your horns or tracked a replacement down yet perhaps a suitable replacement could be had from an existing railway. Most will sell locomotives and parts that are surplus. For instance CN has a leasing arm know as CANAC that sells off old loco's and equipment either to shortlines, museums or scrap dealers. I'm sure the US roads have something similar, a thought anyway. Well I'm on crew tomorrow so to bed I must go. Ted drop me an email on your picture woes as well, if I can figure it out with Tom's help I'm sure that we can get you "posted" Nite guys. Rob

Hi Rob Well, given that it is summer, it’s to be expected that those of you with enormous amounts of free time (and wealth) would be taking off for some fun! [swg]

So, you kicked some Yankee butt did ya? Not very many people that I’ve met in my country know about the War of 1812 insofar as the U.S. and Canada were concerned. Most of the focus is elsewhere – and perhaps rightly so. The Brits did burn the White House after all, etc. Nevertheless, Revisionist Historians tick me off – kinda like (1) Warm beer (2) Wet toilet paper and …….. fill in the blank! [swg]

Not to worry about Leon – ‘round here it’s plainly stated, No shoes, no shirt, no service! – that goes for behind the bar as well! He wears the boots I gave him nearly ‘round the clock. Just loves those boondockers.

Don’t be a stranger ……[tup]
Tom
==========================================================
That’s it! [tup][;)]
Tom (Siberianmo) [4:-)] [oX)]
Proprietor of “Our” Place, an adult eating & drinking establishment!

Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
  • Member since
    April 2003
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Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, July 20, 2005 9:26 AM
I'm not sure Tom, but I seem to recall (vaguely) the missing blank to be something akin to A-holes?[:-^] Mid-Wednesday a.m. and at least I've opened an account with 'photobucket.' So far, so good![^] Still, I'm not quite to the "uploading" stage and must take a break for helping some Seniors with transportation hassles. I won't take up space on the Thread for further instruction but Russel, Tom and Rob; you may have "mail" very soon. Please, just an iced tea for now, whilst I get the A/C running for my "mission of mercy."

Yes, there certainly are a lot of PHD's out there with "blue pencils" hacking away at everything from the Old Testament to the Kennedy Family; the former being discredited, the later- -Sainted. Don't want to go "beerserk" on politics though, it just "ain't worth it!"[tdn] Hey Boris, hit the gong, this one is definately "on me."[#offtopic] Please excuse the hasty exit.[:I] I'll return this p.m. for proper greetings and salutations[:D] And one of those excellent Beefeater's Gin, tonic and a twist Tom.[^] See you's guys a.s.a.p.!
  • Member since
    February 2004
  • From: Chesterfield, Missouri, USA
  • 7,214 posts
Posted by siberianmo on Wednesday, July 20, 2005 9:41 AM
Mornin' Ted Iced Tea [?][?] - [yeah] Well, that'll rot your pipes - but I'm sure we can find some 'round here! Boris check in and under your shed, must be some fixin's in there somewhere ..... [}:)]

Oh [yeah] (3) is always and forever more, A-holes - but every now 'n then, I like to slide in a new one ....... [swg]. You are correct, of course, this thread ain't about politics nor should it be. Wasn't necessarily intended to go down that road, but there surely is a tie in. Revisionists, no matter what the persuasian, seem to have made some drammatic inroads into text books, et al. Why, we've got generations of people who actually BELIEVE that when Hollywood puts out a movie depticing an event from the past, that it is Gospel. Man oh man .... I think I need an Iced Tea - with a double shot of JD! [}:)]

Good luck with your photo posting and perhaps that URL Russell provided may be a bit more friendly than RailImages. Hope so ...... [tup]

See ya later!
Tom[4:-)][oX)]
Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, July 20, 2005 2:02 PM
Hello everyone! A Margarita on the rocks, please. I have been watching from a distance so now I have some replies to respond to.
Tom, I still haven't found my newest Trainline magazine. I can't even remember which rr was selling the RDCs.
Trolleyboy, I haven't heard anything about replacing the stolen horns. A temporary replacement was cobbed from exATSF 44 ton GE #460 which needs new trucks. It is a single note horn that I am told sounds like a pregnant moose. We are required to have horns and bells to operate over crossings. BTW, I used to do American Civil War reenacting. I was Union infantry and also was on the cannon crew at Wilson's Creek National Battlefield several years ago.
Barndad, loved the pix of the E5 and the Nebraska Zephyr. I would really love to tour this train and the loco. Does the E5 have 24 air or does it have that HSC air? With the 1630 around, do you all have any self guarding frogs??
Theodorebear, those Frisco Firefly Pacifics were quite the lookers. They were rebuilt here in Springfield. The shops here were full of very gifted artisans. Even if I wasn't from Spfld I would declare Frisco steam the cleanest, most balanced, and best maintained in the country! The Espee 4449 came from Lima with a air horn. Look on the skyline cowl near the stack. I observed this in 1976 when she pulled the Freedom Train and I also have a vinyl album from the time in which Doyle Mccormack alternated between the steam whistle and the single note horn.
According to my collection of books and other stuff, 5 Russian Decapods exist from the Frisco. I have seen 1621 @ MOT in St Louis and 1632 at Smoky Hill Ry in Belton, Mo. I haven't heard about if we are going to replace the stolen air horns. Both locos are privately owned so it may be a matter of liability. Both the Eunits were on auction until 5July but the owners did not get the price they wanted so we still have them for the meantime.We are still looking for the correct shades for the baggage cart. I posted this question on all 3 of Kalmbach's forums and just received a handful of replies.
Tom, thanks for the plug from the past. Come ride the rr when I'm engineer and you will get a cab ride. Talked to the rr's General Manager last night. We had over 17,000 riders for Thomas this time. That should help the budget. Now if we could get the dinner train going. We will be at the Midland this weekend and I will be running. The monthly meeting of the Board of Directors will be Saturday evening on the train. Talk about pressure! I will really have to watch my train handling skills!
Well, I've babbled enough for now so I will leave with this somber note. James Doohan, who played Scotty on the original Star Trek, died at age 85. He was a veteran of Canada's armed forces and a wounded veteran of DDay.
  • Member since
    January 2001
  • From: WV
  • 1,251 posts
Posted by coalminer3 on Wednesday, July 20, 2005 2:14 PM
Back at last! Round for the house and here's a roll of quarters for the jukebox. We're back after our trip north. I've been reading a few of the recent posts talking abt. Buffalo and all I can say is that there was day after day of 90 degree heat while we were there - worst I've seen in a long time for that part of the country. Can't wait until we go back up in November. The lake is so warm now that it'll be a giant snow machine when cooler weather reappears. There was record-breaking cold for this time of year while we were in New England. I won't even discuss the Red Sox except to say that it's a lot easier to win games now instead of having to deal with that sort of thing in October...

Did some looking around at the remains of the BR&P while I was in NY. It's hard to find it in the weeds north of West Valley, but it's still there if you know where to look. It is sad, however to see all of the rr crossbucks with "exempt" signs on them. Also, for other coal folks in the gorup, there's an interesting map of L&NB-served mines in the most recent trains; brought back more than a few memories.

Well, glad to be back, and I'll get out of here for now.

Work safe
  • Member since
    February 2004
  • From: Chesterfield, Missouri, USA
  • 7,214 posts
Posted by siberianmo on Wednesday, July 20, 2005 3:59 PM
G'day earlydiesels Dan Looks like your back with us ... two days, two visits! [tup] Glad to know you are taking the time to catch up .... hope the SUMMARIES make it easier. [swg]

A Margarita on the rocks - comin' up! Boris have you seen Margarita lately [?] [}:)]

Just curious about those RDC manufacturer's numbers. I like to keep track of there whereabouts, especially the ones that were run on the B&M - CP - CN - VIA Rail and BC Rail. Oh yeah, Dominion Atlantic (CP) too.

One of these days I'm going to take you up on your offer of a cab ride! I've never had the opportunity and surely would love it. Tried to pry Ted out of Florida for an Amtrak trip to KCity with me .... thought for awhile that we might do it ... but. Anyway, I'll be sure to let you know when I can get away and perhaps our schedules will work out - like to hook up with Russell too, of course.

Enjoy the day!
Tom[4:-)][oX)]
Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
  • Member since
    February 2004
  • From: Chesterfield, Missouri, USA
  • 7,214 posts
Posted by siberianmo on Wednesday, July 20, 2005 4:09 PM
G'day and [#welcome] back coalminer 3 been wondering where in heck you've been! [swg] That cold one over there is for you ....... Thanx for the quarters by the way; Boris put them in the jar over by the Juke, will ya please [?] By the by, as a regular 'round here, we haven't got a name to attach to you, other than your cyber handle. So, what do you prefer [?] [;)]

You've got lots of catching up to do, and as with my advice to earlydiesels Dan check out the SUMMARIES they should help speed up the process ......... [yeah]

In a life a long time ago, I recall being in Oswego over a longer weekend than planned. A buddy and I met a couple of gals in NYC back in the 50's who were going to the teacher's college in Oswego. As one thing led to another, we accepted their offer to spend a weekend with them.

So, off we drove from NYC to that far away place - can't remember if there even was a NY State Thruway back then - if there was, it was realtivey new. Anyway, we got there - tired, but being young and all of that - rarin' to go. We had a great time.

End of story [?] Not quite. On the morning that we were supposed to leave, we awoke to snow right up to the SECOND STORY windowsill of the place we were staying at. All we could see outside was white and the TOPS of telephone poles and some wires. Needless to say, we were going to be AWOL and no way could we get back in time.

All worked out well - but I'll never forget the first experience with what today is pretty well known as Lake effect snow.

[yeah] Boris you can ring the ding-dong bell, I KNOW I'm [#offtopic]! Ain't no way I'm making money lately ........ [:(]

See ya and nice to have you back! [tup]
Tom[4:-)][oX)]
Happy Railroading! Siberianmo

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