"OUR" PLACE - SEE NEW THREAD!

[nickinwestwales]

Hey Tom-All packed and ready,remember to pack an extra chip/film for the cam,you know you`re gonna need it!!![:D]!!! I`ll take a cold one whilst I`m here please,one for yourself and a round for the ladies to welcome them aboard. Delighted to help the ladies out if there`s a rush.... just thought I`d remind myself of the house rules.....1:all emotional baggage to be checked at the door 2:no ladies of regotiable affection before midnight 3:no w**ing in the spittoons at any time 4:the Ladies are always right,regardless of circumstance5:food available until chef finds the bottle 6;lightly oil & polish barmaids between shifts.....Gotta run She`s back from the gym,safe journey friend,if I miss you before "zero hour" regards,Nick

[CFournier]

Hello to you all.
I was down and out with the flu for 4 days. TKO. My 6 year old son had big time fever and guess who got it ...Well I'm better now and would like something strong against microbes, how about a shot of old Maker's Mark? Bon voyage Tom. Call me if you come to Montreal .
Chris

[passengerfan]

Tom
Have a wonderful trip your picture of Revelstoke Park brings back fond memories, For my wife and I honeymooned in the Drawing Room of the same car in February 1968 from Vancouver to Toronto even though we had to change cars in Sudbury as Revelstoke Park ran Vancouver to Montreal. We traveled on Banff Park between Sudbury and Toronto. Have a wonderful trip and I'll do my part to keep the thread going til you return. In the meantime I'll have a double Crown Royal with water back for the road and whatever you're having as well. Put it on my tab hope my credits good.

[siberianmo]

Evening all ...... this is zero hour ...... time to get crackin' with the suitcases. Juneau (Siberian Husky) has been dropped off at the kennel ... howled like mad in the car, once we arrived, he darned near pulled my arm out of joint trying to get into the place! Guess he likes "camp." [:D]

Hey Chris wondered where you'd been ... have one on me .... and hope all's well. Yes, I'll be in Montreal - tomorrow - Monday and Thursday. But just to catch trains - what else? Somewhere on these posts, I've described my rather busy itinerary which equates to two complete round trips between Montreal and Halifax, plus a "side trip" to Ottawa. One day we shall make some time to visit ....... [tup] [;)]

Nick Those groundrules are GREAT .... I'll have to make 'em "official" and have 'em posted in the back room, where the pool tables are ....... Thanx for your willingness to help the ladies ......... [tup] [;)]

passengerfan Glad that photo brought back a happy memory or three .... that Crown Royal is comin' right up. [tup] [;)]

*** Glad you made it back ... our sandwich menu includes heros/hoagies/subs and grinders. That's it .... the bread is the freshest in town as are the lunchmeats. So, hope you find something to flick your switch.

Appreciate your continuing contributions .... just don't have time tonight to comment ...... [tup] [;)]
-----------------------

Appreciate the bon voyage wishes ...... means a lot. [tup] [tup] [tup]

See y'all in a week or so ...... keep those temporary barkeeps "hoppin' " - never know what may pop out ....... [;)] [}:)]

Tom (Siberianmo)
Proprietor of "Our" Place

[nickinwestwales]

Hey Tom,"management" retired early after the gym session so here we are,back to tell a tale. This may take a while,so I`d best have a couple of Molsons,Landlords choice from the menu,a wee nip for yourself to help you sleep,and a little something for the lovely Ruth on her first night..( Brief digression, names for "the ladies"--my vote,as our host is a dyed-in-the-wool passenger man,how about the coaches on the "Skarloey Railway" in the "Thomas" books.............Ruth,Ann,Lucy,Jemima---------there was also Beatrix,the luggage van,but she went to the bad and now entertains gentlemen behind "Als Store" near the Can/Am depot on high days and holidays...) Right,back to the point,where was I? ah,yes ***, Hi,enjoying meeting you,dont sweat the gin situation,I live in the U.K. where it`s readily available,will keep Tom fully supplied.....Just listen out for the Dodge comin` down Copperhead Road [swg] Glad you enjoyed your trip to the`old country`,nice to know we can still impress!!...In fairness,your trip was on "Brunels Billiard Table"--the flattest,straightest and most level main line in the country {and designed to be so-even in the early 1800`s and working pretty much from first principles on every aspect of design and construction} Are you sure the mine remains you saw in cornwall were from coal and not tin mining ? Pithead gear (where still extant) looks fairly similar ,and a number of them used narrow gauge tramways to shift the ore.. Now then,how did you get to Paddington ?....Cause that Heathrow Express Shuttle is some space age bit of kit!!!.....Not tried it?-go for it next time O.K,back again,R.D.C`s--Well,over here we call `em D.M.U`s,as I`m sure you all know. Well back in the day( about `62 )Tri-Ang Models introduced a 2-car Metro-Cammell D.M.U,one of a number of prototypes that were undergoing long-term evaluation ( I.E. paid for,no guarantee,no comeback) trials on different B.R. regions. It was an immediate best seller and has been in and out of the Tri-Ang and Hornby lists ever since,at one time,almost evey Brit. branch terminus layout had one. Well I caught up with them on what is now ScotRail when,stumbling red-eyed from an overnight bus from London to Edinburgh,on my way to college, I descended the thousand or so steps into Waverley stations cavernous interior. and found the appropriate train. Sat as far from other passengers as possible(all night travelling has never suited me ) at the front of the train,shaken awake by pointwork just in time to cross the Forth bridge with the sun coming up out of the sea,and to realise that these babys were built with glass panels all round so you get a drivers-eye-view from the front seats. This would be enough of a delight already but believe it or not,when I first moved out here to West Wales,the same units had been cascaded down to the Swansea-Milford & Pembroke dock runs so ,for a few years,I was able to enjoy the rare pleasure of riding the same train to different homes in different countries in different decades with different partners,......anyway,the Swansea-Milford run is worth a trip,just for the journey itself-part of it is on a shelf carved out of the cliff face and large parts of it follow the coastline(...Like about 3 feet away from the water ) O.K,Enough already!!, another for me please Ruth,and one for yourself--better send one out back to chef,looks like a quiet one for him. sleep well all,regards,nick

[nickinwestwales]

A last thought for the day; You know you`re getting old when it takes you all night to do what you used to spend all night doing...................sleep well

[trolleyboy]

QUOTE: Originally posted by earlydiesels

QUOTE: Trolleyboy, have you seen Greg Mcdonnell's article about the Montana Rail Link in the latest trains? I like the way he writes about diesels. I do not remember steam in active service so my early memories are of Frisco black and yellow.

Hi I have not read this article.Rairly do i purchase trains magazine.He has a nice easy read style.Excellent photo's and just enough info to let you know whats going on but he doesn't try to impress you with text book descriptions.Even in real life he's a good guy just to talk to and chat about trains over coffee with. He's good people.I mentioned his book heartland before you would find it interesting all US midwest railroads Rock, CNW you name it. His book U-boats is also a good read,heck I don't think he's done a bad train book yet,his latest on CPR is to die for. Rob

[trolleyboy]

Hi all Tom have a safe and healthy trip. Make sure you ahve all the batterioes film/chips etc that you need for your optical equipment we are all expecting some excellent shots to decorate the backroom with. As far as the FA1 goes it's in sergeant stripes.Paint job would have first showed up in the early to mid sixties on the FA1's so will work with the black/white trainsets. I've seen likely have some pictures of CN's 5axle FM C-liners pulling passenger strings in that paint job as well. LL Canada has run the C-liners in the Zebra stripes as well. I'd go to LL's website and there's a link for Life like Canada. they sell on line but drastically more expensive than a hobby shop so look for them in the Nova shops when you get there. I have an FA1 which wouldn't hurt my feelings to part with so you can let me know about that if you have no luck on your trip. well coffee to go. Later gentlemen. Rob

[Anonymous]

Hello all. Nick, what is the redhaired barmaid's name? I am familiar with the Thomas series (been engineer on Thomas trains 3 years running) but can't recall any coaches but Annie and Clarabell.
Since this is Cinco de Mayo, I'll take a large margarita on the rocks. Sometimes I just like to look at steam era pictures to see what railroads used to be like and compare them to today. Everything looks alike and, unlike the 70s, generally it's hard to tell what used to be. When I was a kid then, often foundations,tracks, etc., would give away towers, roundhouses, additional mains,but now even those are gone.
Passenger trains? Tourist trips and very distant memories for me but I really enjoy the experiences all our regulars at Our Place. When Tom returns, I am sure he will have more. Earlier this year, I became really interested in passenger service uniforms and started a thread about that---got some good information. I had no idea what a variety there was in styles and colors.

[Anonymous]

I am late getting back to the Pub because of some uninvited health issues that came my way. Seems an old injury has come back to haunt me in the form of requiring a biopsy on my right index finger. Its nothing a "Royal" and soda won't bring to rights. Ah, that sure beats the "goof pills" from the V.A., thanks Ruthy. I'll try to catch-up on recent posts but can't guarantee something won't go missing. I apologize in advance for not covering a response, it isn't an intentional slight.

Well, since my "business finger" is out of "business" and when I must take a "Goof Ball," it means a trip to "Candyland;" not much R.R.ing has been done. That's okay because we are talking Classic Trains hereabouts, right? "Saved by the Topic!" Rob (trollyboy), I understand the mix-up regarding my present location. "To make a long story short:" I returned to Tulsa, OK when I retired from the military (Balmere a.k.a. Baltimore, D.C., N'apolis a.k.a Annapolis area). I then moved to St. Petersburg Fl after my wife passed away in 1987. I'm still in St. Pete enjoying the Winters and dodging hurricanes in the Summers. You are right, I've been lucky on both counts. Some of my old Army buddies retired here, so finding work and getting a "new life" was relatively easy. Thank heavens for real friends, eh?

Earlydiesels hit a nostalgic "bone" when he mentioned the Frisco black and yellow. There is a beautiful 4500 on display at Mohawk Park in Tulsa along with a 15 inch guage St. Loius & San Fransisco streamliner (EMD E-7) for the kiddies...like me. The outdoor miniature sports the St.L. & S.F. red and silver (grey-gray?) livery of yore. Frisco went on the cheap when they painted their heavyweights effecting a fluted sides appearance instead of the stainless "McCoy...sneaky, eh? In 1957, I rode the Olkahoman from Tulsa to St. Louis and thence Pennsy to Manhattan, N.Y.C. Yes, that was to be my only ride to Penn Station before its demolition. If only I would have known! I guess I was lucky to have seen it at all...what a gargantuan terminal!

For the R.D.C. (D.M.U. I didn't forgetcha Nick) gang, the Athearn (all metal) kit was the second purchase for my roster back in the 1960's. I had a problem with a sprung shell frame but jerry rigged my way out it, whew! That R.D.C.-1 cost me over $20 BUCKS! Shall we all "eat our hearts out?" Tom, if you peek in, I know you will appreciate the gravity of this statement. Folks, I just want to tell you what a pleasure this "Our" Place thread is bringing "your's truly." I've never met a more "user friendly" Pub place on the Net. Its what it ain't that I like the best, no pressure, no critics, no politicians, just fresh goodies, fresh soda (not flat), fresh dialogue from a not so fresh clientele...what more do we need, eh? Okay, I need to put a "fresh" dressing on me boo boo, so I'll bid everyone adieu for the present. Happy rials, Ted

[West Coast S]

Afternoon Tom and the gang. Dave from the left coast.. I feel guilty being awol from our place for the last week, mosey me something cold on tap, your call please, and i'll fill you in as what my doings have been.

Had to report for requal since my last posting, lotsa fun and a good indicator that i'm not 21 anymore and maybe those extra 20 pounds i've gained weren't such a good idea and maybe I should have more will power to wear my hair at regulation length at all times, never know who you might run into.

On my return to duty ,the lovestruck, but I have to admit , attractive South Korean Air Force Seargent assigned to my department announces "lets be more then co-workers". Advised her can't happen for numerous reasons, reason one: i've been married for 22 years and i'm not seeking any changes to my life, except retirement and seeing 4294 restored.

With all this excitement behind me, and never being one to back down from a subject SP related, became involved in the great SP headlight debate which was raging between several modelers and several self appointed experts, leading me to a source from whom I purchased SP line drawings complied by the Scaramento Shops. With these drawings, the debate was settled with only minor loss of face and a few forced grins. Now I can build those S scale models I need.

Guess it has been an interesting week afterall. Well, I'm going to quiet down and just observe until closing time.

[passengerfan]

Hi to all. Well guess I'll have a double Crown Royal with Water back.Living here in the Golden State much is made of Cinco De Mayo. I burst one poor Hispanic's bubble today when I asked what the big deal was about beating the French, everyone else in the world has done the same and they don't make a big deal of it.
Another interesting train from the fifties I am looking for more information about is the NYC Wolverine operating between New York and Chicago via Detroit. This train crossed southern Ontario in both directions. It maintained a fast schedule inspite of a number of drops and pickups enroute. The train was a mixture of Budd Stainless steel and Pullman standard two tone Gray. When I have gathered the information will post for all. Its always been one of those trains I wish I had the pleasure of riding. Must say I am a bit envious of Tom travelling on the Ocean this evening as I sit here in rainy California.

[passengerfan]

I guess I'll just have to drown myself in double Crown Royals this evening as I ponder the wonderful trip on the Ocean to Halifax that our illstrrious leader is embarked upon this evening. Maybe out of envy I'll run my tab up to the max this evening. Drinks for all!

[nickinwestwales]

Well good evening gentlemen,Im just popping in to cover for Tom tonight,ah Anne,how are you? I trust these gentemen are behaving themselves?? splendid !!! right,a Molsons for me,a little something for you and a round for this bunch of ner`do`wells....now where was I,ah yes,Earlydiesels, the "skarloey" railway runs from "near the works" on Edwards branchline to Skarloey lake.......Or,In the real world,from an end-on junction with the Cambrian Railway at Towyn up to Abergonolwyn......Better known as the Tal-y-Llyn Railway, one of the great little trains of Wales All the engines depicted in the books are real,and for the most part are worked flat out every summer...The line originally had 3 pass. cars plus a bagg. car delivered,with a further pass car delivered later (slightly taller and squarer in profile ) all 4-whl ,about 20 feet long. In Rev. Awdrys world they became Ruth,Anne,Lucy,Jemima & Beatrice [dark blue with cream window panelling] whilst in the real world they are maroon with gold lining (and the engines are mostly green,apart from one of the Corris pair thats in brick red ),right thats me,last person out please turn out the light. Anne,you are doing a wonderful job so far,`night all,nick

[trolleyboy]

Good evening gents. Passengerfan i'll take you up on the crown but put a dash of coke in mine please.I don't know the train you are talking about to have seen it, but I beleave that the Elgin County railway Museum in St TRhomas Ontario has one of the pullman's that would have ran on it in thier collection.They are in the old Michagan Central shops in St Thomas, an e-mail to them might get you some info from their archives possibly. A spot of light on your query anyway (hopefully not a train in the tunnel) I don't have their web address handy but I'm guessing a google search for Elgin County Ontario should turn them up for you.Tedthanks for clearing up your local,i'm glad that you are enjoying yourself here I am as well,my tails aren't as old as some of the others here but I try to chip in where I can. Hope you mend quickly. Were you able to reserect any of your old Bowser trolley's or is that not a high priority right now? Anyway gentlemen I'm off to the ONR lands tomorrow so i'll likley not be back till Monday everyone enjoy their mother's day weekends and if I can be so bold try to tink of the WW2 vets this weekend with sunday being the 60th anniversary of VE day. We are heading to the cerimonies at the Northbay cenataph while we are away. Rob

[Anonymous]

Hi everybody, I hope all is well and last night's designated drivers stayed, well..."designated." Rob mentioned that V. E. Day (victory in Europe) will be celebrated Sunday May, 8th. From previous posts, it appears that several of our peers are either veterans or related families to W.W. II survivors. Although I was a mere seven years old when Germany surrendered; there are a few things I will always remember from the War years. Number one is the rationing of certain foods, beverages and, of course gasoline. Sugar was a staple that was generaly in short supply. I recall Mom and Dad resorting to Karo Syrup as a coffee sweetener. Beer, wine and booze were "black market" commodities and "Victory gardens" were popular. That is, until poaching vegetables became a major passtime for the "weak of heart." Troop and ordinance trains took first priority on the mainlines and I barely recall being "side-lined" for interminable periods waiting for the next hi ball. Vendors for sandwiches, coffee and soft drinks were allowed on the trains and they were life savers for the weary travelers. Remarkably, any negative remarks from a disgruntled passenger would be met with frowns of disapproval by fellow travelers. Everyone knew that our little inconveniences were for a much greater cause: "winning this ***ed war!" How many times did we hear that phrase? Rail stations were the center of activities in every city and town in those years. I remember civilians giving-up their seats for decorated soldiers on "standing room only" day coaches. The old "All in the Family" lyric, "everybody pulled their weight," spoke volumes for that generation of Americans. It was a "bitter sweet" era that ocassionally will still bring a lump to my throat.

Since gas was measured in ounces rather than gallons, public street transport was a neccessity, not a convenience. Some of the trollys dredged-up from the back of car barns were relics in their own right. It was common to see vintage Brills (clerestory roofs) running along side P.C.C. streamliners. There were cars decorated in "War Bonds" paint schemes and "Liberty" cars (Stars and Stripes- -Red, White and Blue) brought home 'round the clock defense plant workers. For a little squirt, those days were magical; we didn't yet understand the serious side of the war.

Every kid wanted an electric train but due to shortages, there were none to be had. In 1944, my Dad finally found an American Flyer (3 rail) four car freight with an Atlantic (4-4-2) loco. but without a transformer. In 1946, I finally had my first train that would actually run. Not for long however; the power supply wasn't adequate and it soon burned out. Oh well, that only increased my yearning for a proper train set.

Hey, look at the time! I didn't intend to make a saga out of this post. But, when V.E. Day comes around, all of us who can remember will think of those years as very special with sacrifices at the top of the list..."Those were the Days." Regards, Ted

[red p]

QUOTE: Originally posted by passengerfan

Hi to all. Well guess I'll have a double Crown Royal with Water back.Living here in the Golden State much is made of Cinco De Mayo. I burst one poor Hispanic's bubble today when I asked what the big deal was about beating the French, everyone else in the world has done the same and they don't make a big deal of it.
Another interesting train from the fifties I am looking for more information about is the NYC Wolverine operating between New York and Chicago via Detroit. This train crossed southern Ontario in both directions. It maintained a fast schedule inspite of a number of drops and pickups enroute. The train was a mixture of Budd Stainless steel and Pullman standard two tone Gray. When I have gathered the information will post for all. Its always been one of those trains I wish I had the pleasure of riding. Must say I am a bit envious of Tom travelling on the Ocean this evening as I sit here in rainy California.

Well theres a few folks here trying to make a big deal about it here too.
I geuss I never understood what was so special about the Mayonnaise festival.

[passengerfan]

Good day everyone!
Time for another double Crown Royal with water back.
My research project on the 1950's Wolverine seems to be going well so far.
First I have learned that the train numbers were 8 and 17. The westbound number 17 operated with a streamlined Parlor Observation between Detroit and Chicago. Unlike all other NYC trains operating between Detroit and Chicago the Wolverine operated out of LaSalle St. Station the otherts operated from the IC's Central Station. The Wolverine operated with a mixture of prewar streamlined cars and postwar streamlined cars. It still carried at least one heavyweight 12-1 as late as 1950 eastbound only but only as far as Albany where the car was set out and forwarded to Boston by the Paul Revere.
Well so far that is as far as my research has taken me. Will continue updates as I learn more.

[Anonymous]

Evening, all. I'll take a Alexander's Ale like what Tom turned me on to earlier. I'm going to play some Johnny Cash over here at the jukebox and relax. The blood work done this morning got me all keyed up.
Nick, appreciate the info on the real railroad where Rev.Awdry got his inspiration. I had heard about the Thomas series but did'nt know that much about it. Until 2002 when our railroad hosted our first Thomas event and we been doing it since. We have one later in the season this year, too. I am usually running the loco that actually does the work so I see all the crowds. I wish we had that kind of patronage the rest of the season!
Maybe that Ale will help me sleep. The railroad is over 200 miles away and we need to be there for a charter so I should hit the sack soon. I need to start the loco around 8 or 830 so we should leave the house around 4. The charter itself is 1000 but we have to deadhead to the midpoint to pick up our guests which will take a half hour or so.
Goodnight all and probably check in on Monday.

[nickinwestwales]

Well good evening gentlemen , sorry I didn`t make it through to the bar earlier,came in through the back door to change a couple of empty kegs in order togive the girls a flying start,what did I find but Chef,flat on his back-well into his third bottle of house red and his second rendition of Stand by your Man,I think he may have some personal issues to deal with.........Anyway,thought as a professional chef meself the least I could do would be to fry a few steaks for the friday night crowd,apologies if the sauce was a little hotter than you are used to,but chef seems very good a t keeping the secrets of the spice jars-not a label to be seen,guesstimates only- So ,now that I am sat down,who`le have a drink with me......Lucy,set them up please,doesn`t look like a busy one so we`;ll have them at the bar please....O.K.-In no particular order,ROB-as i`m sure you know,the talk of the Northland just lately is the "new"G.P40-2`--3 of them,-not sure where they are at the moment-2200+2201 are at Cochrane I think,not sure at all about 2202,----still on "evaluation" tests--only to be used as trailing units until proved,then will be fitted with radar etc.gotta love that O.N.R--never spend a dime they dont have to.... Earlydiesels,whats that again,no problem,Lucy heard me,there you go dear boy,chin up!!!!!! Was taught to read by Dear mother reciting Thomas stories (from the original books) until she got fed up with me correcting her about technical details .....Another Alexanders before you go?--Well, back in the real world,I`ve just come home from a gig across in Fishguard,about 20 miles away, playing to a roomful of completely deranged people.--The louder and faster we played,the more they liked it.....go figure!!...O.K,Lucy,you know where everything goes,switch off the lights on your way out,G`Night gentlemen,It`s all just caught up with me,see you all soon,nick

[passengerfan]

Hello from a certain soon to be rainy California City.
Guess I'll have another double Crown Royal with water back.
Nothing more to report on the Wolverine today waiting to find out more myself.
Will mention a train I do know about first hand the GN International. I probably rode this train more than any other during the 1950's as i lived in Seattle and had many relatives in Vancouver. Every couple of weeks I would spend a weekend at my grandparents place. My dad hated the drive because in those days before I-5 it took four hours on old highway 99. The old highway went through the hearts of all of the towns and cities along the route and all of the traffic signals etc. The train also took four hours but what a comfortable way to travel between the cities between Seattle and Everett the train traveled alongside Puget Sound and one could see the Olympic Mountains on a clear day as well as Washington State Ferries and seaborne traffic up and down the sound. North of Everett the first thing one noticed if they didn't get the doors and traps closed fast enough upon leaving Everett was the stench of a Pulp Mill. Across the tide flats the next town was Marysville a flagstop most often used southbound only. Probably the prettiest part of the entire trip was along the Chuckanut before arrival in Bellingham. By that time the customs and immigration officers had already boarded at Mount Vernon and would conduct there questioning and inspections and checking documents all the way to Vancouver. Any passengers that would not be allowed into Canada were removed at Blaine. Southbound they were generally removed at White Rock last stop on the Canadian side of the border. The trip into Vancouver was interesting as well as the train crossed the lift bridge at New Westminster and made a station stop with part of the train still on the bridge. The trip via the back door of industries for the last few miles to Vancouver was uninteresting and everyone was getting resdy to disembark. Arrival at the GN Station located next to the CNR Station that is still in use today by Via Rail Canada, Amtrak and Rocky Mountain Railtours. I travelled many times to and from this station as well. The GN station was razed in the 1970's and trains ran out of the CN station. The Internationals on weekends always ran with extra cars the normal consists were a 30'RPO Baggage Car, two sixty seat coaches, a 28-seat Coach 24 seat Cafe car, and a streamlined Parlor Observation either Port of Seattle or Port of Vancouver brought up the markers. The Parlor seated 17 in single revolving parlor seats their was a Parlor Bedroom and a Customs Inspection room in these cars . The rear of the cars in the observation end seated another 15 parlor seats and two small writing desks and chairs. As my dad earned more we travelled in the Parlors more and more often on these weekend trips and got to know a number of the parlor car attendants. We were lucky when we booked parlor car seating my brother and I always got the two rear facing seats at the Observation end of the car. Well I guess that is enough rambl;ing for now. Goodnight all.

[trolleyboy]

Good evening all.Just back in from our trip.Nick no sign of the GP-40's mind you we only went as far north as North Bay. Saw the Northlander passebger train bith days being ably dragged along by GP38's.A couple of the SD75's were by the roundhouse and a couple of high hood GP9's were lurking about the bay as well.You'll be happy to know that Bracebridge and Gravenhurst are both stops again for the Northlander,I know the townsflok are pleased and even more pleased now that the train is running in daylight hours again.Well I'm bushed thanks Ted for your recollections my Dad remembers the shortages during the war as well.He had the added bonus of haveing an uncle that was a mechanic for the NS&T in my hometown of St Catharines his job was to keep the old and the new streetcars somewhat moving of coarse the newest cars the NS&T ever bought were 1920's vintage Cincinati curved siders. I marvel at all the pictures of TTC opertations in Toronto during the war years.Old Toronto Civic and Toronto railway Company wooden cars that were well passed their experation dates soldiering on beside 1920's vintage Peter Whitts& PCC's.As a result our museum has 5 of the old wood cars and 4 Whitt's which otherwise likely would have been scrapped but due to steel shortages theses cars were still existant in the mid fifties when the musem formed.Well folks I'm off for now remember thank your Vets tomorrow and give the mom's a big squeeze as well. Rob

[Anonymous]

Top of the mornin' to all of you. I know its a "tad" early but its a cool, frosty A.M. and just a wee dram of "Royal" in a mug of "Our" place's delicious hot, black coffee would surely "make my day." And, while I'm at it, is there a pennance closet or a hidden "back inner sanctum" where a body could enjoy a smoke after a fine cube steak sandwich? Any place out of the rain will do. I know my Neanderthal nasty habits are reprehensible by today's hypochondriacal standards and I wouldn't think of offending fellow "regulars." So, I'll abide with "house rules;" no questions asked. I would appreciate knowing the bounds so I can maintain a "welcome" status with this great group of thinkers and doers. Thanks for your patients, Ted

[passengerfan]

Morning gents and any ladies that might be reading.
I think this AM it will just be coffee and maybe a Danish or two.
Going south from Seattle during the 1950's and early 1960's there was a choice of three day trains between Seattle and Portland and one overnight for much of that time. This was an example of cooperation at its finest by three different railroads. Those railroads were the GN NP and UP. All three operated one round trip day schedule daily and for periods of I believe three months or maybe four months at a time each operated the overnight schedule. Tickets on these trains were interchangeable from any of those railroads.
The GN day schedule operated with a dining car initially as I recall later replaced with a Snack Coach. Equipment was all heavyweight painted in Empire Builder colors later old 900 series semi-streamlined coaches were incorporated into ther trains and by the late 1960's it was fully streamlined. For a few years the train operated witha Cafe Parlor Observation rebuilt in GN shops from a heavyweight coach originally a heavyweight parlor. This car was identical to the two the GN operated between Minneapolis/St.Paul and Duluth/Superior on the Badger and Gopher trains. For most of the 1960's it was coach only with a snack coach and a GN attendant bringing food and beverages through the train to passengers at their seats. The GN train was the morning train from Seattle to Portland and made connections in Seattle with the Empire Builder, North Coast Limited, Western Star and Mainstreeter. The GN consist returned to Saettle in the early afternoon from Portland arriving before dark in the summer months in Seattle.
The NP departed in late morning from Seattle and this train was streamlined for the 1950's and 1960's. The train made connections in Portland with the SP Cascade for Oakland and the Up City of Poirtland bound for Chicago. This train carried four through sleeping cars for the SP Cascade that were transferred to the waiting Cascade in Portland. They generally operated behind the streamlined Parlor Lounge car an exceptionally fine car on the NP. The NP train offered full dining service in both directions and was the evening train returning to Seattle.
The UP train was the most interesting for it was the only one of the Portland Seattle trains to become a domeliner when beginning in Septemebr 1950 it began operating with the four domes from the Train of Tomorrow consist. The UP purchased the train at the end of its exhibition tour and the four cars and E7 after repainting were assigned to the UP Portland - Seattle trains, becoming the first dome cars to enter scheduled service in the Pacific Northwest. The train was comprised of older modernized heavyweight cars as well as prewar streamlined coaches and the addition of the domes was a class act. there was one dome coach and a premium was charged to ride in the dome. The Dome diner serves as the trains only dining car and the eighteen seats at tables in the dome were always in demand. The Dome Sleeping car was operated as a parlor car with space sold at parlor rates and the dome Lounge Observation was open to first class passengers only. Besides a full older parlor car the first class section of the Northbound UP train carried the four through SP sleeping cars from the Cascade and a through UP sleeping car from the westbound City of Portland. The UP train operated to and from Union Station in Seattle under fourth Aveneu from King St. Station where the GN and NP trains operated to and from. It was interesting to see the SP sleeping cars being switched out when they arrived in Seattle under fourth Ave by a UP switched being handed off to an NP switcher that took the cars to Holgate Coach yard for cleaning inside and out in prepartion for the next mornings departure in the NP train for the return trip to California. The UP train was the morning train from Portland and the evening train returning to Portland.
The overnight trains that were operated jointly were all heavyweights and for sleeping accommodations they were generally 12-1 sleepers. During the early fifties if I recall correctly the overnight trains operated with a Seattle and Tacoma sleeper in each direction.
Well guess it is time to read the morning paper so Ta Ta for now.

[nickinwestwales]

Well good evening gentlemen,just got finished cleaning up the kitchen and dining room after last nights shenanigans-perhaps less brandy in the Diane sauce next time,live and learn.....Ted-how are you,another Cafe Royal for you? ( have established line of communication with Zoe & Chloe, -we send shots of liquor as required for the gentlemens pick-me-up`s,they send any coffee`s required here,with a regular tray of Fresh Danish and savouries every morning ) That should take care of the pre-breakfast crowd. Now,Ted,You mentioned smoking,now I dont know our hosts feelings on the subject, but for my money ( and I`m only standing in here )-In the bar,smoke up & enjoy..In the lounge,with the permission of the ladies.....In the dining room,under no circumstances.........If you`ve grown it yourself,in the car park please, O.K.---A grown-up moment here,as has been noted elsewhere on these forums,today is of course V.E.Day. Now I`m sure Tom wont object to a round on the house in order that we can all stand and raise a toast to all our relatives,friends,neighbours and all the folk we never got to meet,for being prepared to take a one-way trip in order to make all the good stuff we have possible. Thank you all,We wont forget O.K.-well,had a "quality moment" with my 4 year old daughter yesterday. Spent the afternoon up in the garden,little jobs all attended to,sit down, have large mug of tea ,quiet ciggie---"DADDY---<yes dear>----CAN I GO AND PLAY IN YOUR SHED?------<yes dear>----DADDY---<yes dear>-----CAN WE MAKE THIS LORRY GO?----<er,what lorry> {duck into shed to find small one hanging by elbow from benchwork,pushing Peterbilt and trailor along the metro west passing siding....}...Went and got an F-Unit and a half dozen cars ( The stock all lives in the house...shed too far away for my peace of mind ) She drove the train for about a half-hour with complete concentration--a first,normally her attn span is about 3 mins.-she even managed to set back through a slightly dodgy crossover with enough care to keep all the wheels on "CAUSE I WANT IT ON THE OTHER TRACK,PLEASE,DADDY"......I may have a convert here,much to her mothers` disgust......Ho ho ho . Well,the girls asked me to pass on their thanks for the drinks and compliments last night,however,whilst none of what was suggested is beyond the realms of possibility, they would prefer to get to know the individuals concerned slightly better first,thank you all for asking. Right,I`m away out back to sort out the beer cellar,check the fridges,sort out the orders for the suppliers and generally burn midnight oil,Jemima will keep your glasses filled,see you all next shift,regards,nick

[passengerfan]

Evening all Make that a double crown Royal with water back.
Traveling east from Seattle one had a wide variety of trains to choose from if only traveling as far as Spokane. There was the GN trains the premier Empire Builder secondary Oriental Limited until June 3, 1951 when this old heavyweight was replaced by the streamlined Western Star. The third trains was the Cascadian that opertaed between Seattle and Spokane daily in each direction this was the all day train between the two Washington cities. The NP operated three trains a day as well their was the premier North Coast Limited, the heavyweight Alaskan replaced by the Mainstreeter and a heavyweight nameless day train between Seattle and Spokane. The NP route was longer between Seattle and Spokane as it operated via Pasco. The third railroad operating passenger service to the east from Seattle was the Milwaukee Road they offered two trains daily the Olympian Hiawatha and Columbian . All of the above trains were Seattle - Chicago trains except for the GN Cascadian and the nameless NP day passenger trains that were Seattle - Spokane trains only.
The CMSTP&P Olympian Hiawatha was the first of the east -west trains to receive domes in December 1952 in time for Christmas. These were the so called Super domes full length dome cars built by Pullman Standard.
The North Coast Limited received an all new Raymond Loewey paint scheme in 1954 and dome cars were added to the train the same year. Thereafter the train was known as the Vista-Dome North Coast limited. Two dome coaches were added to each consist in July - August 1954 and two dome sleeping cars were added to each consisy between september and November 1954. These were Budd domes with 24 seats in each dome.
In May 1955 the Empire Builder consists received three Budd dome coaches for each consist. In October 1954 a Budd built full length dome lounge car was added to each Empire Builder consist for the use of Pullman Passengers. The Empire Builder was the only trains prior to Autotrain to operate both full length and short domes in the same consists.
The Columbian was discontinued in 1958 and the Olympian Hiawatha was discontinued in 1960. The other GN trains and NP trains except for the Seattle - Spokane trains lasted until Amtrak.

[Anonymous]

Thanks Nick for establishing the more than fair protocalls regarding smoking materials. Florida (my present residence) is a "clean air" State which prohibits smoking in public buildings to include pubs that serve meals. Previous to this newest legislation, "designated smoking areas" were allowed. For me this is a "no brainer" but the new ordinance didn't "go down" so well with old established, neighborhood bars and restaurants. Yes please, another "Cafe Royal" would be appreciated and have a "taste" for yourself on me.

Rob, "yes I have no new Bowsers today." However, the "conversion" for the older P.C.C. and purchase of the new release are on the "back burner" only temporarily. As soon as I'm "out of the woods" with these minor health issues, I expect to be "full roster" post haste. I'll probably go with H & R Trains (LHS) for both orders. Thanks again for the copius data on the Bowser product line and "name your own poison" on me. Can't wait to see and run the "new and improved" version. Some day, I'll relate a very embarassing (but humorous) incident in Pittsburg, Pa involving a P.C.C., "yours truly" and the P.T.A. security police. For now, I'll just say: "all is well tht ends well."

Passengerfan, your last Post verifies that your I.D. is certainly a well earned title. My only Pacific North West encounter was on the Great Northern "Empire Builder" when our 4 Pullman charter (B. & O.) "lashed up" in Chicago bound for the Seatlle World's Fair. You can imagine the shock horror of the "Empire" passengers when the G.N. Conductor opened the vestibule door exposing civilized passengers to a horde of thirsty Army Bandsmen "hell bent" for the Club Car...not a pretty sight! It was a "rail movement" this Cowboy won't soon forget. Unfortunately, we traversed the prettiest scenery in the Cascades during the night. Still, when the flood lights were turned on (vista dome), some hint of that awesome grandeur could be imagined. Except for some "run-outs" on my own e.g., San Fran to San Mateo et al., the West Coast has eluded my rail experience...darn it! The hospitality shown by the G.N. staff was outstanding and forever memorable. I envy those who enjoy those Roads on a daily basis.

Well, the Rx (pain killers) from the V.A. have disoriented my biological clock so as to render me unaccountable for over-staying my welcome. Tom certainly made some good choices in staffing his place for "Our" place, did he not? I hope the word of mouth concerning my "availability" is known to our Hostesses. Jemima, in particular, seems amicable, friendly, perhaps even intriguing? Its late, so good night all until next time.

[trolleyboy]

Giood morning everyone. Ted I'm looking forward to the PCC story,so hopefully you will share it,in the not so distant future.Nick thank-you for the toast to the vets,I have to say that watching the cerimonies for VE day from Ottawa we did them proud again.A wonderfull ceremony and the unvailing iof the new national war museum to the public.Over 3000 vets wre on hand for the parade and I must say not to many dry eyes on the vets the crowd or in our basement.As a topper the CWPH museums Lancaster Bomber made three fly by's of capitol hill and the war museum.Happily it drowned out the PM's speach and the crowd vets, and young alike cheered like it was VE day all over again. Passengerfan were you eber able to ride the Hiawtha tail cars that came over to CN from the MLW.I always liked the looks of them the really neat tailend lounge made them quite unique.I have noticed that two of them are still around in Buffalo thought the proposed restaurant tobe made from them still hasn't materialized. Well folks I'm taking a coffee to go as I'm off to work this aft. Rob

[CFournier]

Hello Rob.
The Lancaster really flew over Ottawa??? Boy if I had known, I would have made the 2 hour drive to see that! When I was a little boy, my best friend's father told us a story about when he was a sniper in the army (nasty job...). He said that one day, in France I think it was, he was running and fell into an ennemy trench. When he stood up, he was facing 6 or 7 germans in the trench. But they where surprised by his sudden appearance in the trench and decided to surrender! He walked them to the rear in front of his mesmerized commrades!
Chris

[nickinwestwales]

Well good evening Gentlemen and welcome,large crown royals all round it is...Passengerfan,heres your`s with water back,Ted,one for you with a caf. of Jamaica Blue Mountain on the side and an ashtray,Rob,yours went in the take away cup (have a nice day now!!! ) Chris, you didn`t actually order, but I took the liberty of pouring you one so I`m sure you can join us and kick back for a while, and I`ll break my own rules and join you for a shot myself. Good Health one and all! Right ,It`s the girls night off and we havn`t seen chef since he found out his beloved Angelique was actually christened Nigel..........Poor lad took it very badly,so if you guys want food let me know in plenty of time,I`m spread a bit thin tonight,thanks! So then,Passengerfan ( may I call you pass? )-as a U.K. resident,who has only ever seen these beautiful machines in pictures,I`m finding your "tales of the rails" fascinating,please,keep `em coming-when this bottle`s gone I can soon find another!! Ted,here`s Jemima`s phone number,indeed an intriguing young lady,it seems she has a weakness for large rare steak dinners,distinguished looking gentlemen in uniform and experimental yoga.............see you in a week or two............Rob & Chris-seem to remember a recent coffee shop conversation about Lancs,so will restrict myself to "love them Rolls-Royce Merlins" Rob again,thanks for heads up on doings around the bay-any sign of the"cats" around the yard? Believe they were parked up (dumped,more like ) out by the two burned out pass. cars ,rumour has it that some company `out west` has made an offer for the cats and some other power as a job lot-may be something on the O.N.site,havn`t caught up in a while. Maybe you can help me here,as you are ,more or less,on the doorstep. Now,I`m trying to put together a model of the Newmarket sub,but the only site where I`ve found anything useful is Ian Wilson`s Canadian Branchlines,which falls rather outside my era of choice (late 70`s) Could you point me in the right direction here,I dont even know when C.N. withdrew services,light my darkness please!!!........O.K.,looks like that Can-Am track gang at the other end of the bar are ready to order,so,same again all round? ( when it comes to spirits,I`m with the Scots-anything less than a double is not a drink,it`s a damp glass and an insult to the guest ) Splendid,back in a bit,just holler if you need anything,nick