"OUR" PLACE - SEE NEW THREAD!

[trolleyboy]

Good evening Tom and all the ships at sea ! A large cr and whatever is edoble off that wonderfull menu CM3 ( Shane posted )[:D][swg]

It's indeed gratifiying tyo see pg 300 before tomorrows big day[tup] I will have an early morning visit before I head into work for the ruining of your whole day 11 to 7 shift then it will be the count routine for me to wind out the festivities I should imagine [sigh] Still one year of mostly ontopic posts and a good deal of good will can only be chocked upto one captain Tom 5 x[tup] salute for Da boss.

[#welcome] Per to our wonderfull piece of sanity here on the forum,meks us even more cosmopolitan around here. No Boris not the drink [alien].

Ted My stars and sainted aunt Harriet ! he lives he liveees,[swg] Thats certainly worth a round or three [tup] A bit annoying that the book has yet to arrive however,it must have gone VIA Austrailia [tdn]

lars and Doug great pictures and info on theme today gentlemen,my humble contribution is upcomming.

Mike Casy Jones and the songs and all the on side urls. good job my friend.And yest my high wire act is now been exposed eh ?At least that photo didn't break the camera[:O] [swg]

CM3 Excellent looking menu there, and a fine supportive post today to boot [tup]

Per intersting first sharing from you today sir, those x2000's seem like an interesting train. I'm sure that BK and yourself will have some notes to compare about it and other current european trains. Again good to have another warm body aboard.


Tom Well sir , looks to be another well received theme day. and yes that photo will allow me not to where a sandwichbard with your name on it when I pick you and Ted up at the airport. LOL Nice to see the S capades collection again up close and personal. Of an interesting IC note the E units that were in that classic scheme as the IC's inspection train have survied into CN ownership. First painted in the classic green black and gold supercontinental scheem and then recently in the satndard CN freight scheme [tup] They are stored currently but are operational.

Catch everyone in a bit.

Rob

[Anonymous]

Good evening Tom and gents! I'll have my usual draught, and buy a round for the house, and kindly chip Per for jumping right in with his experiences on the X-2000. Wonderful stuff! Very impressive IC stuff today gentelmen, and we hit page 300! Hey Mr.Ted ... it's great to see you! Terrific IC menu CM3 ... great contribution! Outstanding IC info and pix Captain Tom, and the song lyrics were perfect! Terrific photos Lars. IC was surely entrenched in steam, and the last real railroad to deiselize. Slick pix links Mike, as always ... and info too! Hi Pete, and thanks for the comments.

Here's another little IC blurb for y'all:

From Railroad History in Photographs Railroad & Locomotive Historical Society

A very early example of sleeping car is represented by the Illinois Central “Amboy.” Though stated to have been built in 1857, the car does no match published drawings of IC cars of that era, but does resemble certain cars of the 1860’s. It was photographed some years later (note the large scale giving height and length). The car had 12 sections and a washroom. Illinois Central operated its own sleeping cars from 1856 until 1878, when a Pullman contract was signed. Illinois Central Photo.


The line-up of evening commuter trains shown is at the Randolph Street Suburban Terminal of the Illinois Central in Chicago. In this northward view, downtown Chicago is to the left, and Lake Michigan to the right. The year is 1893, when the Columbian Exposition World’s Fair was being held in Chicago; Fair trains started at Van Buren St. Station, about a mile south of Randolph ST. Note that all six platform tracks contain trains ready to move out, while express and freight tracks at right are crowded with cars. Today the Prudential Building occupies this site, with suburban tracks below.


[:I] Two male flies are buzzing around, cruising for good looking female flies. One spots a real cutie sitting on a pile of horse manure and dives down toward her. "Pardon me" he asks, turning on his best charm, "...but is this stool taken?" [:I]

[siberianmo]

G'day!

We made it to Page 300! <phew> And to think, it was done without 20 Fingers for the past couple of weeks . . . . . [swg]

Later (maybe!)[tup]

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]

[siberianmo]

G'day Gents!

Thanx very much for the URL, Mike - the Willie Nelson version of City of New Orleans is my FAVORITE! Great URL - played the entire song! Wunnerful ..... [tup][tup][tup]

Good to see ya, Pete. I didn't hear the Zepplin land - quiet as an airship, eh[?][swg]

Here's something just for YOU:

Ballad of Casey Jones, originally by Wallace Saunders & adapted by Lawrence Seibert & Eddie Newton.

Original Air Dates: 1957 (syndicated)

Come, all you rounders, if you want to hear
The story told of a brave engineer;
Casey Jones was the rounder's name,
A high right-wheeler of mighty fame.
Of mighty fame, of mighty fame,
A high right-wheeler of mighty fame.
Casey pulled into the Memphis yard
Fed up, beat down and dog tired,
Another driver had called in sick,
Asking Casey to do a double trick.
Casey smiled, said, "I'm feelin' fine,
Gonna ride that train to the end of the line.
There's ridges and bridges, and hills to climb,
Got a head of steam and ahead of time."
Ahead of time, ahead of time.
Got a head of steam and ahead of time.

Caller called Casey, half-past four;
He kissed his wife, the station door,
Climbed into the cab, orders in his hand,
"Could be my trip to (the) Promised Land."
Through South Memphis on the fly,
The fireman say, "You got a white eye."
The switchmen knew the engine's moan
The man at the throttle was Casey Jones.
Was Casey Jones, was Casey Jones.
The man at the throttle was Casey Jones.
The engine rocked, the drivers rolled,
Fireman hollered, "Save my soul!"
"I'm gonna roll her 'til she leaves the rails,
I'm behind time with the Southern mail.

Been raining hard for weeks and weeks;
Railroad track like the bed of a creek.
Rated down to a thirty-mile gait ---
The Southern mail two hours late.
Two hours late, two hours late.
The Southern mail was two hours late.
Fireman say, "You running (too) fast.
You ran the last three lights we passed.
Casey say, "We'll make it through,
She's steamin' better than I ever knew."
Casey say, "Don't you fret.

Keep feedin' the fire; don't give up yet.
Run her 'til she leaves the rail.
To be on time with the Southern mail.
The Southern Mail, the Southern mail.
To be on time with the Southern mail.
Checked his water, his water was low,
Looked at his watch, his watch was slow.
Put on more water, put on more coal,
Put your head out the window see my drivers roll.
See my drivers roll, see my drivers roll,
Put your head out the window see my drivers roll.
People said Casey couldn't run
But I can tell you what Casey done;
Left Memphis, quarter 'til nine
Vaughn, Mississippi, right on time.

Got within a mile of the place,
A big headlight stared him in the face;
Shout to the fireman, "Jump for your life."
Give my love to my children, say goodbye to my wife.
Casey said, just before he died,
"There's a lot more railroads that I'd like to ride;"
He said the good Lord whispered, "It'll never be,"
The Illinois Central be the death of me.
Headaches and heartaches and all kinds of pain
Ain't no different from a railroad train.
You can take your stories, noble and grand,
All just a part of a railroad man

Alan Hale, Jr. played Casey Jones on the TV series.

Thanx for the round![tup]

Leon the Night Man takes the bar at 9 PM (Central)!

Later (maybe)!

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]

[pwolfe]

Hi Tom and all.

A pint of Bathams, a round and another play of the City of New Orleans great song.[tup].

Another great Railroad of Yesteryear in the Illinois Central. Many thanks TOM MARK DOUG CM3 and LARS. for the info links and photos on what must have been a great passenger road in its heyday. The color scheme of the IC suited the E diesels and cars.

The IC 2-6-6-2s are very impressive engines they must have been a marvellous sight when working hard.

MIKE. Interesting link to the Mississippi loco.the enginge had a long working life for that time, 45 years and you can see the American modifications made to the parts shipped from England.
Thanks for the info on Casey Jones and the Cannon Ball Express. Do you recall the TV series about Casey which was also shown in the UK. I can see the actor who played Casey but I can't think of his name.

TED Thanks for the round and real glad to see you again [^]. Look forward to hear from you tomorrow.

[#welcome]PER Good post on the X2000[tup] Did you get to travel the rails in the UK[?]

TOM I,ll have another and check to see if the special beer for tomorrow was on the Zepplin[tup].

[wanswheel]

Tom, I can't find you Johnny Cash but here's the Willie Nelson, it takes a few minutes to load
http://www.1ryderfakin.com/09%20City%20of%20New%20Orleans.wma

[siberianmo]

G'day Gents!

Feel like singing along[?] Try this one . . . .


The City of New Orleans
by Steve Goodman

Riding on the City of New Orleans,
Illinois Central Monday morning rail
Fifteen cars and fifteen restless riders,
Three conductors and twenty-five sacks of mail.
All along the southbound odyssey
The train pulls out at Kankakee
Rolls along past houses, farms and fields.
Passin' trains that have no names,
Freight yards full of old black men
And the graveyards of the rusted automobiles.

CHORUS:
Good morning America how are you?
Don't you know me I'm your native son,
I'm the train they call The City of New Orleans,
I'll be gone five hundred miles when the day is done.

Dealin' card games with the old men in the club car.
Penny a point ain't no one keepin' score.
Pass the paper bag that holds the bottle
Feel the wheels rumblin' 'neath the floor.
And the sons of pullman porters
And the sons of engineers
Ride their father's magic carpets made of steel.
Mothers with their babes asleep,
Are rockin' to the gentle beat
And the rhythm of the rails is all they feel.

CHORUS

Nighttime on The City of New Orleans,
Changing cars in Memphis, Tennessee.
Half way home, we'll be there by morning
Through the Mississippi darkness
Rolling down to the sea.
And all the towns and people seem
To fade into a bad dream
And the steel rails still ain't heard the news.
The conductor sings his song again,
The passengers will please refrain
This train's got the disappearing railroad blues.

Good night, America, how are you?
Don't you know me I'm your native son,
I'm the train they call The City of New Orleans,
I'll be gone five hundred miles when the day is done.


Nice "subliminal suggestion," Lars![swg] I've had that tune on my mind for most of the day, even B4 you mentioned it. Now it's REALLY there![swg]

Beautiful loco's and yes, those "steamers" are massive, monsterous and magnificent![wow]

Appreciate the "donation" for the 'morrows "doings" - every bit helps, as they say.<grin>

Just thought of something GOOD - one month from today and four of "us" will be in Toronto for the 1st Annual "Our" Place Rendezvous! Now THAT is something special to look forward to - and I am![tup][tup][tup][yeah]


Okay - back to what I was doing . . . .

Later!

Tom [4:-)] [oX)]


THINK April 12th –
The 1st year Anniversary of ”Our” Place!

[wanswheel]

Another round Tom

And hi Ted

City of New Orleans at Carbondale.
http://skipg.homeip.net/gallery/albums/illinois_central_photos/cityofneworleans.jpg

Bridge over Pontchartrain http://nutrias.org/~nopl/exhibits/choochoo/choochootitle.jpg

"The Illinois Central's Panama Limited at Pass Manchac north of New Orleans enroute to Chicago. In 1912, the IC renamed its New Orleans to Chicago route in honor of the opening of the Panama Canal. A few years later, the Panama Limited became an all-Pullman train - the luxury night train to Chicago. With a brief hiatus during the Depression, the Panama continued to provide Chicago-New Orleans service (along with its sister train, the day time coach train The City of New Orleans) until the late 1960s, when night service was discontinued"
http://nutrias.org/~nopl/exhibits/choochoo/girr004.jpg

Amtrak http://www.vistadome.com/postcards/trains/amtrak/panamaltd.jpg

"Union Station opened on June 1, 1892. It fronted on S. Rampart Street, roughly opposite what is now Union Passenger Terminal. The station was used primarily by the Illinois Central Railroad, as the terminus for its main line from Chicago, but, over time, it also served a number of other lines. By the 1940s, a total of 13 passenger trains arrived and departed from the station daily. This photograph was taken in the 1920s." http://nutrias.org/~nopl/exhibits/choochoo/franck122.jpg

Interior American Express car 1912
http://nutrias.org/~nopl/exhibits/choochoo/franck088.jpg

Sunset Limited, off-topic but good old General Motors
http://nutrias.org/~nopl/exhibits/choochoo/rrtb047.jpg
Mike

[LoveDomes]

G’day Tom and fellow travelers at the bar!

Appears as if the bar has been increased by one! [#welcome] aboard Per and hope you find this place as interesting as the first story you left with us![tup] Off to a good start and let me buy you a drink![swg]

Tom set up the bar, if you will, and here’s a ten spot for the tomorrow’s gathering. Should be a great day all around.[tup]

Being your “basic Easterner” I’m not very familiar with the storied IC but surely know of the road. One of my all time favorite RR songs is “City of New Orleans,” and as with you, I too prefer the Willie Nelson rendition. Just love the sound. In fact, I just plunked in a couple of quarters into Herr Wurlitzer and it should be coming up shortly . . .

Anyway, my contributions to the “theme” for this day will be some “steamers” from an era long gone, but the beauty of those beasts lingers on!



IC 2-8-2 #1784 (from: www.yesteryeardepot.com)
Photo: Paul Stringham




IC 2-10-2 #2730 (from: www.yesteryeardepot.com)
Photo: Paul Stringham




IC 2-6-6-2 #6003 (from: www.yesteryeardepot.com)
Photo: Paul Eilenburger




IC 2-8-4 #8049 (from: www.yesteryeardepot.com)
Photo: Paul Eilenburger



It was good to see the guys turn out this morning and here we are, all quiet in the afternoon! Go figger, huh[?][swg]

Got your "message," boss man - it's your call and I'll try to do my part best I can. Zero tolerance for the "pretenders" and that's just me. But you are correct with reference to the two ways one can contribute around here - it's that 3rd bunch that I have little use for![tdn]

That's quite a 'spread' from Coal-what's-his-face for the IC dining car menu! When do we eat[?] Sure makes my humble 2 foot hero sandwich pale in comparison![swg] By the way, I'll have one of my "usuals" along with a pitcher of whatever the draught for the day is.[tup]

Anyway, so the coalminer's name is Shane, huh[?] Why not![swg]

Really liked that write up on the IC and the S-gauge pix go quite well with it![tup][tup][tup] My guess is those cars and loco are like the one's on your S-Capades layout - correct[?] Lookin' good![swg]

Good stuff from Doug 'n Mike too . . . nice to see the support for the "theme" on these Tuesdays. The boss really puts a lot into this and it's the least we can do, in my not-so-humble opinion!<grin>

I'm looking forward to the "Gazette" and will make sure to get an early start, B4 the banter takes over the bar tomorrow! By the way, the revised B'day List looks good to me - lots guys in my age bracket (plus 60) makes me somehow feel a bit more - comfortable.[swg]

Ok guys, PLEASE remember my request to you all - try to visit the place at least TWICE tomorrow, especially for those of you who are "one per day" visitors. You surely don't want to miss out on the happenings . . .

Here's to our 1st Year Anniversary! Boris ring the bell - a round on the DomeMan![tup]


Until the next time![tup]


Lars

[siberianmo]

. . . . . . Mentor Village Gazette . . . . . .

Vol. II, Number 4 . . . . . . . . Wednesday, April 12, 2006 . . . . . . . . . Free
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Anniversary Edition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .


WATCH FOR IT TOMORROW MORNING!


This will be a lengthy Post and not broken into parts because of the anticipated numbers of customers coming and going during the day who may miss all or some of it. I will Post the Gazette immediately following the SUMMARY.


Be sure you are getting the most current information when you log in!
Start our 2nd year smarter! [tup]


Tom [4:-)] [oX)]

[siberianmo]

THEME for the DAY! - THEME for the DAY!

This was first Posted on page 152, but fits well with today's "theme" . . . .

Here’s another Fallen Flag for the gang from Classic American Railroads:

Illinois Central (IC)

Headquarters: Chicago, IL

Mileage:

1950: 4,779
1995: 2,732 (including rights)

Locomotives in 1963

Diesels: 629

Rolling stock in 1963:

Freight cars: 49,226
Passenger cars: 857

Principal routes:

Chicago-New Orleans via Mattoon & Carbondale, IL, & Grenada, MS
Memphis-New Orleans via Vicksburg, MS & Baton Rouge, LA
Memphis-Jackson, MS via Greenwood, MS
Fulton, KY-Birmingham, AL
Freeport-Centralia, IL via Clinton & Vandalia
Chicago-Omaha, NE
Tara (Fort Dodge)-Sioux City, IA
Cherokee, IA-Sioux Falls, SD
Manchester-Cedar Rapids, IA
Waterloo, IA-Albert Lea, MN
Centralia, IL-Madison, WI
Gilman, IL-St. Louis
St. Louis-Du Quoin, IL
Edgewood, IL-Fulton, KY
Fulton-Louisville, KY via Paducah
Effingham, IL-Indianapolis, IN
Mattoon-Peoria, IL via Decatur
Jackson-Gulfport, MS
Meridian, MS-Shreveport, LA

Passenger trains of note:

Chickasaw (Memphis-St. Louis & Chicago)
City of Miami (Chicago & St. Louis-Miami & St. Petersburg, FL; joint with CG, ACL and FEC)
City of New Orleans (Chicago & St. Louis & Louisville-New Orleans)
Daylight (Chicago-St. Louis
Delta Express (Memphis-Vicksburg, MS)
Green Diamond (Chicago-St. Louis)
Hawkeye (Chicago-Sioux City
Iowan (Chicago-Sioux City)
Irvin S. Cobb (Louisville-New Orleans)
Kentucky Cardinal (Louisville-Memphis)
Land O’ Corn (Chicago-Waterloo, IA)
Louisiane (Chicago & St. Louis-New Orleans)
Magnolia Star (Chicago-New Orleans)
Mid-American (Chicago-Memphis)
Night Diamond (Chicago-St. Louis)
Panama Limited (Chicago & St. Louis-New Orleans)
Planter (Louisville-Memphis)
Seminole (Chicago-Jacksonville, FLA via Birmingham & Columbus, GA)
Southwestern Limited & Northeastern Limited (Meridian-Shreveport)


Enjoy! [tup]

Tom [4:-)] [oX)]


THEME for the DAY! - THEME for the DAY!


THINK April 12th –
The 1st year Anniversary of ”Our” Place!

[siberianmo]

Now arriving on track #1 …..
Railroads from Yesteryear! Number Fourteen


Used with permission from: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Formatting differences made necessary due to Forums requirements. Some heralds from other sources.


Illinois Central Railroad



Locale: central United States

Reporting marks: IC

Dates of operation: 1851 – 1999

Track gauge: 4 ft 8½ in (1435 mm) (standard gauge)

Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois

The Illinois Central (AAR reporting mark IC), sometimes called the Main Line of Mid-America, was a railroad carrier in the central United States, with its primary routes connecting Chicago, Illinois with New Orleans, Louisiana and Birmingham, Alabama. A line also connected Chicago with Omaha, Nebraska and Sioux Falls, South Dakota.


History


1850 map

The IC was one of the earlier Class I railroads in the US. Its roots stretch back to abortive attempts by the Illinois General Assembly to charter a railroad linking the northern and southern parts of the state of Illinois. In 1850 U.S. President Millard Fillmore signed a land grant for the construction of the railroad, making the Illinois Central the first land-grant railroad in the United States.

The Illinois Central was officially chartered by the Illinois General Assembly on February 10, 1851. Upon its completion in 1856, the IC was the longest railroad in the world. Its main line went from Cairo, Illinois, at the southern tip of the state, to Galena, in the northwest corner. A branch line went from Centralia (named for the railroad) to the rapidly growing city of Chicago.

In 1876 the Illinois Central extended its track into Iowa. Throughout the 1870s, and 1880s the IC acquired and expanded railroads throughout the southern United States. IC lines crisscrossed the state of Mississippi and went as far as New Orleans, Louisiana to the south and Louisville, Kentucky in the east. In the 1880s, northern lines were built to Dodgeville, Wisconsin, Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and Omaha, Nebraska. Further expansion continued into the early twentieth century.


Illinois Central Gulf Railroad: 1972-1988


ICG logo

On August 10, 1972 the Illinois Central Railroad merged with the Gulf, Mobile and Ohio Railroad to form the Illinois Central Gulf Railroad. In the 1980s, the railroad spun off most of its east-west lines and many of its redundant north-south lines, including much of the former GM&O. Most of these lines were bought by other railroads, including entirely new railroads, such as the Chicago, Missouri and Western Railway and Chicago Central and Pacific Railroad. On February 29, 1988, the ICG dropped the "Gulf" from its name and again became known as the Illinois Central Railroad.


1892 map

Illinois Central Railroad: 1988-1998


Combined route map of the Chicago Central (red) and Illinois Central (blue) railroads in 1996.


Canadian National Railway: 1998-present

On February 11, 1998 the IC was purchased by the Canadian National Railway; integration of operations began July 1, 1999, though the Illinois Central name continued to be used until after the railroad's sesquicentennial in 2001. As time passes, the IC identity is slowly fading through CN's maintenance and repainting programs, although some CN locomotives retain the IC reporting marks on their cabs.


Company officers

Presidents of the Illinois Central Railroad have included:

• Stuyvesant Fish, 1887-1906
• James T. Harahan, 1906-1911
• Charles H. Markham, 1911-1918
• Charles A. Peabody, 1918-1919
• Lawrence A. Downs, 1926-1938
• John L. Beven, 1938-1945
• Wayne A. Johnston, 1945-1967
• William B. Johnson, 1967-1969
• Alan S. Boyd, 1969-1972
• E. Hunter Harrison, 1993-1998


Preservation

Some historic equipment owned and used by Illinois Central can be found in museums across the United States, including:

• 201, participated in the "Wheels A-Rolling" pageant at the Chicago Railroad Fair. Preserved on static display at Illinois Railway Museum.
• 790. Preserved on static display at Steamtown National Historic Site, believed to be in good condition that restoration to operations is feasible.[1]

Subject of song

The name of the railroad was popularized in the song "City of New Orleans" written and performed by Steve Goodman and covered by Arlo Guthrie among others.


References

• Stover, John F., Purdue University, The Management of the Illinois Central Railroad in the 20th Century (PDF). Retrieved February 9, 2006.
• University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Archives, Wayne A. Johnston Papers, 1945-1967. Retrieved February 9, 2006.


Used with permission from: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Formatting differences made necessary due to Forums requirements. Some heralds from other sources.


Something from the world of S-gauge trains


IC EMD E8A (American Models S-gauge)



IC passenger cars (American Models S-gauge)



IC passenger car (American Models S-gauge)


***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** *****


Enjoy!

Tom [4:-)] [oX)]


Did you miss any of the previous thirteen[?] Click the URL:

#1: Baltimore & Ohio (B&O
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=233&TOPIC_ID=35270
#2: Chesapeake & Ohio (C&O)
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=234&TOPIC_ID=35270
#3: Pennsylvania (PRR)
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=237&TOPIC_ID=35270
#4: New York Central (NYC)
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=240&TOPIC_ID=35270
#5: New Haven (NYNH&H)
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=242&TOPIC_ID=35270
#6: Santa Fe (ATSF) (Two Parts)
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=246&TOPIC_ID=35270
#7: Southern Pacific (SP)
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=253&TOPIC_ID=35270
#8: Northern Pacific (NP)
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=259&TOPIC_ID=35270
#9: Coastline/Seaboard (ACL – SCL – SAL) (Two Parts)
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=267&TOPIC_ID=35270
#10: Southern Railway (SOU)
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=276&TOPIC_ID=35270
#11: Denver and Rio Grande Western (D&RG)
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=282&TOPIC_ID=35270
#12: Great Northern Railway (GN)
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=287&TOPIC_ID=35270
#13: Missouri Pacific (MP)
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=293&TOPIC_ID=35270

[siberianmo]

Good Morning Gents!

Great start to the day with temps expected to be in the high 70s, blue sky peeking out between the white clouds, birds chirping away and all’s well here in mid-Continent USA (at least until I check out the petrol prices up at “Collusion Corner!”)

What a difference a day makes (as the song lyrics go . . . ) as we started this day off with quite a flurry of activity! Yesterday it seemed that we couldn’t “buy” a submission . . .

Interesting spate of URLs from wanswheel Mike along with an interesting “select” time line for the Illinois Central.[tup][tup]


Appears to me that our newest customer, marthastrainyard Per is determined to join us in the info exchange and banter at the bar. That surely makes my day! [#welcome] again! Seems as if you’ve been with us all along . . . Also, THANX for the E-mails – as you can see, I’ve added you to our B’day Watch List![tup]

Good stuff on the X2000! Yes, we’ve had some Posts regarding that train and in fact, it will soon be a subject on my “Euro Railways” series . . . Good job![tup][tup][tup]


barndad Doug doesn’t let us down – right on the “money” with some relevant “theme” information for the IC – way to go![tup][tup] Jokes keep rollin’ along, I see . . . . ohhhhhhhhhhhhhhh <groan>[swg] Actually that last one wasn’t all bad – not good mind you, but not all that bad . . . <grin>


Is it really[?] Could it be[?] You gotta be kidding! It IS – the return of Theodorebear Ted to the bar and perched quite comfortably atop “his permanent stool!” [#welcome] back to the “fold” and it’s been far too long. Not to worry about the catching up – knowing you, it will happen.[tup]

You made “Mama Glockenspiel” over at The Mentor Village Bakery quite happy this morning with the “prune Danish” selection. She’s been in a dither these past weeks wondering, “Vas has happened mit mein Leibling, Ted der baer? He vas der Stammkunde undt now, kaput!”[swg]

Glad to have you back and look forward to seeing you at our 1st Year Anniversary Celebration![tup][tup]


And, a morning Post from coalminer3 CM3!! There surely HAD to be something special going on yesterday, but no one told MOI![swg] Unbelievable difference in days (daze)

Appreciate the contribution to the “theme” and as always, well done![tup][tup][tup] Good lead in to the “arrival” on track #1 – comin’ up soon.[tup]

As indicated in your E-mail, I’ll take that “charbroiled steak” on the menu and at least two “cold ones!”[swg]

Thanx for the quarters and round . . . Coal Scuttle is nearly full and no doubt, Herr Wurlitzer will get a workout tomorrow.[tup]


Just thought of something for the benefit of our newest customer:

Coal Scuttle is our Pickled Pig’s Feet jar that we’ve renamed for the “bank” of quarters used to feed our juke box – Herr Wurlitzer which is a 5-plays for a quarter. If you can’t find the tunes, they don’t exist![swg]

Then there are our cash registers – “Tilla the Hun” and “The Cashinator” – located just about equidistant from the center of the back bar. These are old fashioned, mechanical machines – they go “ka-ching, ka-ching” and one actually is required to THINK while operating them![swg] No dumbing down ‘round this place.<grin>


Okay boyz, I’ll be behind the bar for the day!


Later![tup]


Tom [4:-)] [oX)]


THINK April 12th –
The 1st year Anniversary of ”Our” Place!

[coalminer3]

Good Morning Barkeep and All Present; coffee, please; round for the house and $ for the jukebox.

Illinois Central today - so here goes. Summary of service and then off to the diner.

The IC still had a fair amount of passenger service in 1969.

Trains 1 and 2, the “City of New Orleans” was an all-coach operation between Chicago and New Orleans (two dome coaches as well). The City had a diner-counter-lounge between Chicago and Jackson

Trains 3 and 4, ‘The Panama Limited” was still the pride of the railroad although it now had coaches.

Trains 3 and 4 “Mid-American” was an all-coach train between Chicago and Memphis which had a food-bar-coach as well.

Trains 7 and 8 “The Illini” ran with coaches and a food-bar-coach between Chicago and Carbondale, as did Trains 9 and 10, the “Shawnee.”

We have discussed trains 52 and 53, the “City of Miami” in an earlier post. Trains 105 and 106 ran between St. Louis and Carbondale/

Trains 11 and 12 , the “Hawkeye” were all-coach operations that ran on a God-awful schedule between Chicago and Sioux City.

Last was trains 21 and 22 “Governor’s Special” between Chicago and Springfield. These runs had coaches and a “Palm Grove Café” Car.

Going back to the early 60s we find that the “Panama” was still all-Pullman.

It had the following consist

Sleeping Cars:
Chicago-New Orleans: 10 rtte/6db (2 cars); 4 comp./4db/2 drawing rooms; 11 db
Chicago-New Orleans: 2 db/1dr/2 comp observation car
Chicago-Jackson: 10 rtte/6db
St. Louis-New Orleans: 10rtte/6db (via Carbondale)
Chicago-New Orleans Twin-Unit diner

The IC was noted for its food and the top offering was the Kings Dinner on the Panama.

Here’s what the passenger got for $9.85 in 1965 (*** the blood tests, full speed ahead!)

Manhattan or martini cocktail
Appetizers
Shrimp cocktail or crab
Wine
Fish
Char-broiled steak with mushrooms
Salad and dressing (prepared at your table)
Rolls/breads
Cheese/ apple wedges
Coffee
After dinner cordial

I also found a menu from the City of Miami in my material

Entrees includes

Fried halibut, potatoes and salad - $1.50
Saute Veal, spaghetti Milanese, Lima beans - $1.60
Roast turkey – dressing, potatoes, Lima beans - $ 1.75

Dinner rolls
Pineapple sundae
Chilled melon
Cheese and crackers
Peach cobbler/vanilla sauce
Coffee – tea – milk

When do we eat?

Work safe

[siberianmo]

[tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup]


Railroads from Yesteryear –

Illinois Central (IC) arrives on track #1 at 9 AM today –

WATCH FOR IT!


Tom[4:-)] [oX)]


[tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup]

[Anonymous]

Good morning to one and all. "The reports of my demise have been greatly exaggerated" (Mark Twain). Tom great to see you again after so long an absence.[:D] I think just a cuppa Joe and a Prune Dani***his happy a.m.[^] I'm not nearly caught up with the pages of the past weeks but will be "phantom browsing" until I'm current. As some of you know a horrific responsibility was dumped in my lap that has demanded nearly my every waking moment. It appears that my old friend of 17+ years may be going into intensive care at any time. Although it is a ominous indicator; I can't tell you what a relief it would be for me personally.

I have managed to "keep one eye" on some past postings throughout my absence but simply didn't have the stamina for meanigful contributions.[V] Again, this posting must be brief as I'm not "out-of-the-woods" yet. There have been so many great things happening at "Our" Place recently thanks to the central core of: Mein Kapitan ( Tom), Oberst (Rob), [C=:0] Nick, and all the "regulars," that insures this thread will always be "top shelf." I must hit the hiway very soon this morning but I just need to say that I will certainly look forwared to seeing all of you members and guests tomorrow for the 12 month Anniversary celebration of "Our" Place. I haven't yet received the "Book Relay" so far but snail mail from the Canada to the States is notoriously sluggish.[tdn] Tom, Al, Rob I can't tell you how much the first "Rendesvous" is beckoning to me.[^] I'm going to need our outing like a G.I. needed that first R. and R. after 13 months in Nam.[:O] To every member, guest and new visitors, may I bid all of you a great day today and a spetacular Anniversary Day tomorrow. Okay Boris, to say I missed your countenance would be a gross over statement but the truth is, no one can ring duh bell better.[alien] Set 'em up as they drift in on my tab Tom, if you please. Happy rails, until then, everybody.

[siberianmo]

[bday] 2006 BIRTHDAY WATCH LIST [bday]
(rev. Apr 11th):

March 5th (Nick – 46)
March 13th (Doug – 50)
March 31st (Lars – 66)
April 18th (Al - 64) Next up! Bash: Noon to 4 PM (Pacific)
May 18th (Tom - 68)
May 27th (Dave - 47)
June 3rd (John) – 47)
June 24th (Dan) – 44)
July 30th (Russell – 35) Legion of the Lost
August 11th (Pete – 55
August 16th (Ted – 68)
September 8th (Rob - 35)
September 11th – Per – 61) – just added!
October 18th (BK – 66)
December 29th (CM3 – 60)


Not on the list [?] Send me an Email with your birth date (month-day-year). Corrections too!


Tom (Siberianmo) [4:-)] [oX)]
Proprietor of “Our” Place, an adult eating & drinking establishment!



NOTE for all: Check the SUMMARIES!

[marthastrainyard]

Good Morning

and thanks for the great welcome, Tom. Not to mention the tequila, that sat well last night [^]

I saw you referred to some emails in the Ether. Is that where the Ether bunny lives? [:D] (OK, it's a bad joke but it goes with the season).

As far as classic passenger train goes, my first regular travel was in Sweden between my home and the summer house we had at the time (that's the "Absolut" branch). These were trains were classic in their own way: short, 2-axle coaches with wooden benches (ouch) and very little in terms of comfort. They did have an open platform, though, and that's where I spent most of the 25 minute trip when the weather allowed. During the Sunday beach-ru***he railroad added some 4-axle coaches with padded seats, and if you were really lucky, a first class coach as well! All of this was in the 50's, before the automobile had taken over. That branch lost its passenger traffic in 1967, I think.

Once I figure out how to post pictures, I will share some of what I have. Unfortunately I don't have any from my first trips, except for one where I'm sound asleep (which happened all the time according to my parents) but I have a model (by Pocher) of the cars I mentioned above and that would give you an idea of what they looked like.

Someone else had written about an X-2000 trip a while back. It took me many years after the introduction of the X-2000 in Sweden before I would ride one, but I did so in style the first time. A first class coach at the price of a second class ticket. Apparently they keep the train sets as they are all throughout the day, and I rode a train that was going up to Stockholm to be positioned for the early evening business commute back south. No need for three first class coaches on that trip, so one was sold as second.

My first visit on board an X-2000 was actually in Los Angeles, of all places. The manufacturer, ASEA, had a demo train here in the US to show off to Amtrak. I took the whole family out to the California desert to take pictures of the train coming in to L.A., and then we went to Union Station to tour the train. Needless to say, everyone in the family was impressed!

Last year I rode the X-2000 in one direction and a regular express in the other the day after. What a difference in ride comfort! The (about) 300-350 mile trip takes 4.5 hours in X-2000 and 5.5 hours in a regular train. Even if the track is welded almost all the way, the tilt feature makes the trip so much smoother in the X-2000 than in a regular train. It's no problem to drink a cup of coffee on the X, but you have to be really careful doing it on the regular train.

The improvement in travel time is not just because of higher speed, there are fewer stops as well. The trains run every hour on that segment (Stockholm to Malmö in the south) and the regular train leaves a few minutes after an X-2000 and arrives a few minutes before the next X. Those trains have revolutionized train travel in Sweden and they seem to be coming on more and more segments.

When I look back on the 50+ years I have ridden the trains over there, I can't help but think about the changes: from small, uncomfortable cars to a ride in great comfort with reclining seats, power ports and Internet access. Free coffee that you can drink at your seat without risking spilling it. The drinks 50 years ago were limited to a glass of water from a water caraff (but yes, it was free). There were two glasses in each car, and you had to share them with whomever had used them before [:O] Granted, that was on a branch line. The mainline had dining cars, of course, with wood fired stoves and a real meal that was cooked on-board . Nowadays you get a plastic wrapped sandwich if you can find a diner/coffee shop car in a regular train. The X has (if I remember correctly) a small assortment of microwavable entrees. A far cry from a steak cooked to perfection when you ordered it. I can still remember the wonderful smell of the wood fire and the steak that came in to the car when we stopped at a station! So while the comfort has ncreased, I'll say the service has decreased during these years.

Enough rambling for one day. See ya'll later,
Per

[Anonymous]

Good morning Tom and friends! I'll have my two light breakfasts and some sunglasses for another bright and sunny day! Thakns for the [tup] Lars .. always appreciated. Great CN April history stuff Tom. Sorry about poting all my pix in one shot on Saturdays, but I rarely get an opportunity to visit through the days. Intering story on the Lion Pete, made better by the fact that you catually got to ride a train pulled by her! Special [#welcome] to Marthastrainyard (who would name their kid that?) Hope to see your "stuff" in the future!

Looks like Mike beat me to the theme this morning. Well done! And now...as Lars puts it ..here is a "borrowed blurb" from me:

From Railroad History in Photographs Railroad & Locomotive Historical Society

Paducah rebuild No. 8037, now designated as a GP10, is seen here at Council Bluffs, Iowa, in 1988. Photo by R.J. Church


Several railroads carried out major locomotive rebuilds and upgradings at their own shops in the late 1960’s through the 1970s. Financial and tax benefits to justify such extensive programs came through ICC and IRS rulings that established the Capital Rebuild Program (CRP). Accounting rules of the program allowed railroads to treat rebuilt locomotives as new locomotives, providing the rebuild cost exceeded half the original purchase of the locomotive.

Practically a standard package of work was developed for CRP work. Candidates were normally EMD GP7, GP9, SD7 or SD9 units. By this time, many older non-EMD makes were out of production of the builders out of business, thus new parts availability was a problem. EMD could still provide new parts for major rebuilds, at reasonable costs. Typically engines, air intakes and filtration, wiring, ad air brake systems were upgraded.

Illinois Central (later Illinois Central Gulf, then IC again) at its Paducah, Ky. Shops was one of the first to set up the program. Other railroads taking advantage of the plan were the Milwaukee Road, Burlington Northern, Conrail, Chicago & North Western, Missouri Pacific, Santa Fe, Southern Pacific and Union Pacific. Many railroads did not have the facilities for such work, and thus contracted CRP rebuilding through Precision National (teamed with ICG at Paducah) or Morrison-Knudsen of Boise, Ida.

[:I] Hellmann's mayonnaise history....
Most people don't know that back in 1912, Hellmann's mayonnaise was manufactured in England. In fact, the Titanic was carrying 12,000 jars of the condiment scheduled for delivery in Vera Cruz, Mexico, which was to be the next port of call for the great ship after its April stop in New York. This would have been the largest single shipment of mayonnaise ever delivered to Mexico. But, as we know, the great ship did not make it to New York. The Titanic hit an iceberg and sank. The cargo was forever lost. The people of Mexico, who were crazy about mayonnaise, and were eagerly awaiting its delivery, were disconsolate at the loss. Their anguish was so great, that they declared a National Day of Mourning which they still observe to this day. The National Day of Mourning occurs each year on May 5th. It is known, of course, as Sinko de Mayo. [:I]

[wanswheel]

Hi Tom and everyone, a round for the house.

Can't believe I'm still here. I must have stepped on a duck.

Great pictures from BarnGranddad's camera! Also enjoyed the train to Council Bluffs story. However the first railroad bridge across the Mississippi was built at Davenport in 1856. April 22 is the 150th anniversay. The first survey of the site for the future bridge was made in 1837, by Robert E. Lee, then a lieutenant with the U.S. Topographical engineers. Incidentally April 12 is the 145th anniversary of the attack on Fort Sumter.

Rob, I think we could spot you in a crowd now. You may be pressing your luck swinging from trolley wires.

Pete, if you like old locos, there's a good one in Chicago, a picture of which:
http://images.library.uiuc.edu:8081/cdm4/item_viewer.php?CISOROOT=/tdc&CISOPTR=1213&REC=2

"During the first year of the new century, a relatively minor collision occurred at Vaughan, Miss., which would have an impact far beyond its significance at the time. In the wake of the accident, engine-wiper Wallace Saunders would write the song Casey Jones, in memory of his colleague, the ill-fated engineer John Luther (Casey) Jones, sole fatality when his Cannonball plowed into a freight. Seven years earlier, Jones had been one of the engineers driving a set of special trains bound for the Columbian Exposition in Chicago. The number of people aboard the specials, plus the commuters traveling on Chicago's suburban trains on the closing day of the Exposition, set a new record for passengers carried by a single railroad in a single day-in all, more than half a million people."

IC History http://www.cn.ca/companyinfo/history/en_AboutGenesisoftheIllinoisCentral18321860.htm
IC History highlights http://www.cn.ca/companyinfo/history/HH_BeforeIC.html

1832 West Feliciana Railroad, acquired by IC 60 years later.

1850 Land Grant Act.

1851 IC charter

1853 Abraham Lincoln retained, represents the railroad until 1860.

1855 Coal mines in southern Illinois

1856 Lightning Express, bedroom and berth-equipped 'Gothic' cars.

1861 Troop trains

1866 Refrigeration

1869 Mississippi bridge at Dubuque.

1881 30,000 workers convert 547 miles of track to standard gauge in a single day.

1889 Cairo Bridge

1893 First banana train "Nancy Hanks."

1916 Panama Limited.

1926 Electric commuter trains

1936 Green Diamond.

1947 City of New Orleans

1961 Last steam locomotive.


IC PHOTOS
http://www.cn.ca/images/content/en_history_pop_photo2ic.jpg IC 201
http://www.cn.ca/images/content/en_history_pop_photo4ic.jpg IC 24
http://www.cn.ca/images/content/en_history_pop_photo5ic.jpg 1890s
http://www.cn.ca/images/content/en_history_pop_photo6ic.jpg Panama Limited
http://www.cn.ca/images/content/en_history_pop_photo7ic.jpg Green Diamond
http://www.cn.ca/images/content/en_history_pop_photo8ic.jpg Conrad Hilton
http://www.cn.ca/images/content/en_history_pop_photo11ic.jpg New Logo

IC lawyer http://www.thelastfullmeasure.com/lincoln_image4.htm

Cairo Bridge http://www.kentuckyroads.com/images/ohio_river/020-ic-bridge-over-ohio-cairo-il-03-23-02-770wide.jpg

http://www.icgphotos.com/

http://www.absolutad.com/gallery/kurant-luggage.jpg Per Pullman Welcome
Mike

[siberianmo]

from: www.viarail.ca


We open at 6 AM. (Don’t ask how we do that!)[swg]


TUESDAY’s INFO & SUMMARY of POSTS


Tuesday is upon us! Time again to pour a hot cuppa Joe, order a <light> or <traditional> breakfast from our Menu Board and enjoy some pastries from The Mentor Village Bakery![tup]


Daily Wisdom

Worry is like a rockin’ horse. It’s somethin’ to do that don’t get you nowhere.[swg]


”Our” Place” ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION is Wednesday, April 12th!


Info for the Day:

Railroads from Yesteryear – Illinois Central arrives TODAY!

* Weekly Calendar:

Wednesday: 1st Year Anniversary Celebration!
(Pike Perspective’s Day NEXT week!)
Thursday: Fish ‘n Chips Nite!
Friday: Pizza Nite & Steak Nite!
Saturday: Steak ‘n Trimmin’s Nite! – and –
ENCORE! Saturday


[tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup]

Comedy Corner

Brain Cramps


"I've never had major knee surgery on any other part of my body,"
--Winston Bennett, University of Kentucky basketball forward .


"Outside of the killings, Washington has one of the lowest crime rates in the country,"
--Mayor Marion Barry, Washington, DC.


"I'm not going to have some reporters pawing through our papers. We are the president."
--Hillary Clinton commenting on the release of subpoenaed documents.


[tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup]


The Mentor Village Emporium Theatre

NOW SHOWING:

Double Features and Three Stooges Short Subject!

. . . Sunday, April 9th thru April 15th: The Harvey Girls (1946) starring: Judy Garland, John Hodiak & Ray Bolger –and- The Train (1964) starring: Burt Lancaster, Paul Scofield & Jeanne Moreau. SHORT: Woman Haters (1934).



SUMMARY

Name …..…………… Date/Time …..…..………. (Page#) .. Remarks

(1) barndad Doug Posted: 10 Apr 2006, 05:49:40 (298) Barn Yarn: Silver Engine, joke, etc.

(2) siberianmo Tom Posted: 10 Apr 2006, 05:50:58 (298) Monday’s Info & Summary

(3) marthastrainyard Per Posted: 10 Apr 2006, 08:55:29 (298) 1st visit

(4) siberianmo Tom Posted: 10 Apr 2006, 08:59:25 (298) Acknowledgments, etc.

(5) siberianmo Tom Posted: 10 Apr 2006, 09:06:03 (298) for marthastrainyard

(6) siberianmo Tom Posted: 10 Apr 2006, 12:07:09 (298) Signfiicant Events in Canadian Railroading History (Apr)

(7) LoveDomes Lars Posted: 10 Apr 2006, 14:43:11 (298) Lars Rant Report!

(8) pwolfe Pete Posted: 10 Apr 2006, 15:24:35 (298) Wolfman Speaks!

(9) marthastrainyard Per Posted: 10 Apr 2006, 16:07:56 (298) 2nd visit!

(10) West Coast S Dave Posted: 10 Apr 2006, 19:18:24 (298) Left Coast Quickie!

(11) siberianmo Tom Posted: 10 Apr 2006, 19:22:17 (298) for: marthastrainyard Per

(12) siberianmo Tom Posted: 10 Apr 2006, 20:01:53 (299) Acknowledgments & Comments

(13) siberianmo Tom Posted: 10 Apr 2006, 20:29:32 (299) B’day Watch List!

(14) siberianmo Tom Posted: 10 Apr 2006, 20:36:40 (299) Cast of Characters from “Our” Place



That’s it! [tup][;)]


Tom [4:-)] [oX)]
Proprietor of “Our” Place, an adult eating & drinking establishment!



THINK April 12th –
The 1st year Anniversary of ”Our” Place!

[siberianmo]

The Cast of Characters from ”Our” Place

siberianmo Tom is the Proprietor and head bartender. [4:-)][oX)]

nickinwestwales Nick is Chief Chef. [C=:-)]

trolleyboy Rob is the Bar Chandler.

Boris is - well, he’s Boris who works in the kitchen and anywhere else needed. He was hired by Nick, Chief Chef and is assistant cook. He’s not too hard to spot, as Boris is not of this world. Kinda difficult to maintain eye contact with him. He’s playful and unaware of his strength. We do not permit him to tend bar – however, he loves to ring the bell when a round is purchased.

Tex the Armadillo is Boris’ pet!

Awk the Parrot is Tom's pet!

Leon the Night Man is Tom’s relief behind the bar around 9 PM or so, Central Time. He closes up. He’s easily recognized by his rather large size, enormous hands, and shiny brand new Jump Boots. Leon also serves as Doorman and Bouncer for special events and may be seen in a tuxedo – with Jump Boots of course.

Inspector Clueless of the Local Constabulary and his earstwhile friend and companion Mr. Doyle, Private Investigator make up the security force ‘round here.

The Gals of “Our Place” are:

Ruth the redhead – Ann the blonde – Lucy the brunette and Jemima the raven haired beauty. These gals were found and hired by Tom and named by Nick. They work evenings, pretty much anywhere in the place, Thursday thru Saturday, and special events. Look, but don’t touch – at least not while on duty!

Then there’s Cindy with the auburn hair. She’s a faculty member from the Mentor Village all female University – right up the road. She’s not paid, but loves to volunteer her services either behind the bar – for me – or in the kitchen, with Nick. She’s also active in the local Victoria’s Secret lingerie shows …….

Then of course, there are all of YOU!

Tom [4:-)] [oX)]
Proprietor of "Our" Place, an adult eating & drinking establishment!

[siberianmo]

[bday] 2006 BIRTHDAY WATCH LIST [bday]
(rev. Apr 6th):

March 5th (Nick – 46)
March 13th (Doug – 50)
March 31st (Lars – 66)
April 18th (Al - 64) Next up! Bash: Noon to 4 PM (Pacific)
May 18th (Tom - 68)
May 27th (Dave - 47)
June 3rd (John) – 47)
June 24th (Dan) – 44)
July 30th (Russell – 35) Legion of the Lost
August 11th (Pete – 55
August 16th (Ted – 68)
September 8th (Rob - 35)
October 18th (BK – 66)
December 29th (CM3 – 60)


Not on the list [?] Send me an Email with your birth date (month-day-year). Corrections too!


Tom (Siberianmo) [4:-)] [oX)]
Proprietor of “Our” Place, an adult eating & drinking establishment!



NOTE for all: Check the SUMMARIES!

[siberianmo]

G'day Gents!

While there hasn't been a whole lot of activity today, it has been rather interesting here and through the Ether in the form of E-mail. Not sure I can do "justice" to it all . . . .

Appreciate the Posts from Lars 'n Pete - aside from reinforcing the notion that all of this effort is 'worth it.' the dialogue is always of interest! Good job, guys.[tup][tup]

Dave, appears as if you've caught us on the "run," but that's fine - at least you thought of the place![swg] I missed more than one train running for the platform, spotting my favorite "watering hole," and then saying - I can catch the next one! (Boston 1968-73) . . .
The old "Iron Horse" bar 'n grill was a great place to wet the whistle along with a few other things!<grin>

A day without CM3 is almost like a day without sunshine. Hopefully he's not "sequestered" in some dank, dark and dreary place in the hills of WVA![swg] "Come back, Shane . . . . " Ooooops, did I give away his "real" name[?] How about it, Doug - what do YOU think[?]

A request from the Proprietor that falls within the category of "If the shoe fits . . . . "

I appreciate the support from those who take the time to offer it. Believe me, every now 'n then it really is a "pick me up." However, there are other times where "venting" and the like can really cast a shadow on the bar. We need not do that, so let's keep the criticisms to the E-mail route. Now, I'm not talking about "general" stuff - but if anyone has a "bone" to pick, do it directly - E-mail to E-mail. Much better for all of us.

Everyone who frequents this place does so within the personal limitations each of us has. Some contribute in terms of providing reading material or Pix in support of our "Classic Trains" theme, while others are more inclined to observe and make comments. Both sets of customers are appreciated. [tup]

Now here's where the rubber separates from the road - I will not bend an inch when it comes to those who use the "hit 'n run" Post technique nor will those who fail to recognize others get acknowledged from me. [tdn] That remains "standard bill of fare" 'round here.

So, bottom line - let's all try to keep it as light and lively as possible and if there are days of gloom, we'll just use the bright lights![swg]

Leon the Night Man takes the bar at 9 PM (Central)!

Later!

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]


THINK April 12th –
The 1st year Anniversary of ”Our” Place!

[siberianmo]

Special for marthastrainyard Per . . .

[#welcome] Aboard! One Tequila, Reserva comin' right up![tup][swg]

Received your E-mail and appreciate very much your willlingness to join us. Obviously, there's lots to "do" and "learn" with this Thread - and it doesn't cost a thing, other than time.<grin>

We would love to hear about your train travels and if they even come close to falling within the parameters of Classic Trains we'll be delighted. (Even will like 'em if they don't! We're "flexible 'round here . . . )

Wednesday at the bar is a "big day" - our 1st Year Anniversary on the Forums. Once you get some experience with the Forums and associated Threads, you'll see that most topics come 'n go - this one has survived. So, things 'round here should be "festive" and probably not at all on "target" for that day![swg] You, of course, are most welcome to join in . . .

We have a few "international" customers, so your travels in Sweden and elsewhere will fit right in. As you check through the pages of this Thread you will come across all kinds of "stuff" about Euro trains - so I recommend that you take full advantage of the potpouri awaiting you!

Feel free to drop me an E-mail anytiime help is needed, or a suggestion in mind.

Glad to have you with us![tup][tup]

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]

[West Coast S]

Afternoon.. Can't stay for long, gotta catch the shuttle in about 15 mins.. Coming up on page 300!!! I'll have to pass on round tonight, but I do have some comments from photo Sunday, love the waterbourne boxcar, that is indeed different, tugboat as switchers, bet on that road it took a real man to throw switches. Good job all on the discussions. Well, gotta go, i'll be back in LA late tomorrow in time for the festivities.

Until Wendsday, keep well all

Dave

[marthastrainyard]

G'day again,

Now that I've updated my profile with a little bit o'stuff, maybe I should let y'all know who that grey-haired guy sitting at the end of the bar is.

I am originally from Sweden (hejsan - got that language in as well [;)] ) where I grew up right next door to a small freight yard (I know - nasty freights but the main depot was just at the other side of the block). I spent the summers across the tracks from a nice little depot on a small branch line, so I have been around trains for as long as I can remember. That branch line went down to the birthplace of Absolut (the vodka - but you guys would know about that, wouldn't you [;)] )? My first cab ride was at the age of 6 in a K-class switcher (0-6-0T). It wasn't very far, only a few yards, and not very fast (I doubt the speed exceeded my age), but it was a cab ride nevertheless. I took over 30 years until I had my second. That was in a Swedish commuter train, and I actually got to turn the speed knob - How about that? [^]

I've spent some time in Australia looking at, and riding in, trains (while doing some work also), in California and now in Texas. I am fortunate enough to travel a lot for my work and everywhere I go I try to get some rail fanning time. And if my schedule allows, riding trains as well.

My main interest is passenger trains. Right now I am trying to build the City Of Los Angeles from 1950 (see my progress on my web site) and my contributions (or rather questions) will most likely be about that train and its siblings. But if I see anything that tickles my interest I will let you know about that too.

It's getting late and I'm sure my boss wants me to do some useful work today, so I'll climb down from the stool and wander over to my desk for a little work.

And, oh by the way, that first drink on the house, make that a Tequila; Reserva, please [:D] A bad habit I picked up in Mexico.

Cheers,
Per

[pwolfe]

Hi Tom and all.

A pint of Bathams and a round to keep the 12th fund up.

ROB Great selection of photos. [tup][tup]. I had a look at the Portage Flyer web-site it looks a great museum.Lovely Saddle tank.

DOUG Interesting story of America with a very sad ending. The engine certainly deserved a better fate. A more fortunate loco was one which MIKE had a link to on Friday,(Page 295).This was the loco LION built by Kitsons in 1838 for the Liverpool & Manchester Railway (L&M). It was used to haul goods and remained in service until 1859, when it was then used in the Mersey docks Liverpool as a power for a pump. It continued until electric power was used for the pumps in 1928. This could have been the end but a commitee was formed to save the loco.
This was successful and Lion was sent the LMS works at Crewe to be put back into working order and the boiler, believed to be of 1845 vintage, was found to be in very good order.Lion then took a starring role in the 1930 exhibition to mark the Centenary of the L&M, as shown in MIKE's link.

It then was used in other events. LION appeared in a couple of supporting roles in films, Victoria the Great(1937) and Lady with the Lamp(1951) before becoming the star of The Titfield Thunderbolt (1952) which as had the ultimate accolade of appearing at the Emporium.

Lion last steamed in 1992. I was fortunate to have a ride behind her at the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway In a replica 4- wheel open car.
The sun was setting and there was a great photo of us in outline published in a steam magazine at the time.
Lion is currenly at the Manchester Science Museum while her normal home at the Liverpool Museum is under renovation.
Reading the story of the Rock Island loco America makes one realise how lucky the loco and we are.

TOM Thanks for posting my photos yesterday, I am using up the film in the 35mm camera and i will get the pics on disc and onto the puter hopefully.
Great Canadian Railroad History for April [tup] It was good to see mention of the LMS Royal Scot. It is a shame that there isnt the great Exhibitions especially featuring railroads any more [:(]

LARS Just caught your post. Hermann is a bit nearer Jefferson City than Toms house. We go to the 1847 winery which has great German style food and a nice honey beer. It is set on a hill over looking the town with a mavellous view. Hermann is still a stop on Amtrak with two trains each way. The railway runs next to the Missouri to Jefferson City. there is no crossing of the missouri between Hermann and Jeff City. Hopefully I will have a photo of the railroad at Hermann soon.
I was wondering if there is a problem with the web as I lost a post yesterday. PETE.

[LoveDomes]

G'day Tom and fellow travelers at the bar!

A nice, tall, "cold one" if you please! Rupperts should be fine along with my "standard" sandwich - ham, swiss, buttAH & mustard hero with two large pickles from the barrell - and please make sure the bread is hard. Don't know what it is these days, but most rolls and Italian & French bread seems to be too blasted soft for my likes![swg]

Good thing this place isn't into the "political" because I'm so bent out of shape over this ILLEGAL immigration stuff that I want to "do" something about it. No point in getting my knickers in a knot though, since my representatives in Congress will surely "work it out." Yeah - and monkeys will fly out of my butt one day![V]

Trains - yeah - that's what we talk about, huh[?] That and "fun" at the bar. I'm all for it. BUT, where is everyone these days[?][?]

It was a lousy weekend insofar as the bar is concerned and to paint it any other way is a distortion of reality.[tdn] That's NOT to take away from the guys who did make an effort to join in and keep the place moving forward in light of Tom's repeated notices that he'd be doing other things over the weekend.

Sorry, Tom - I know you work hard this. Just seems a rotten shame that for whatever the reason, we've simply stopped pretty much dead in the water - and that's right before the first year bash. &%#*# [banghead][censored]

What a time for our formerly dependable guys to avoid us like the plague. Not even a "howdy" lately from 20 Fingers. I nevAH thought I'd say it - but I'm "almost" beginning to miss those loooooooooooooooong posts.[:O] Not really![swg]

If it wasn't for Doug, I wonder what this thread would look like[?] He surely provides one and all with so much in terms of great pix and those "borrowed" blurbs from RR books and magazines are really "spot on!" Good job, Doug! A five-[tup] Salute to you, Sir! [tup][tup][tup][tup][tup]

I sent an email out to everyone I could find an address for - took quite a bit of "doing" I'll tell ya. I asked for the guys to post at least twice on Wednesday - especially the ones who pretty much post and split for the day. I would expect that we'll have some guys show up who we haven't heard from in some time - so it would be wise to check back during the day to see who's been in. So, Mr. Proprietor that's about "it" for me insofar as trying to get things moving forward. I can surely see where the exasperation comes from . . . amazing how one's mind begins to work when guys don't respond to direct requests. It isn't hard to accept that several really haven't got this place in their minds as much as others.

BK sent me an email to say that they are having all kinds of problems with their internet connectivity. Apparently is more of a 'service thing' than anything they can remedy. The email was sent out through an alternative means - dialup no doubt. Anyway, he's determined to check in with us on Wednesday, even if he has to drive a few hours to the nearest library with a reliable internet connection. Now THAT says something, huh[?]

Looks like that page 300 is becoming more and more elusive - but still attainable by Wednesday. Who woulld've figured that the contributors would become so scarce in these last weeks[?] I give up. Lemme have another one of those brews! Take the ten spot and stick in the "Lars Box" to help pay for Wednesday's shindig.[tup]

Sorry this got off to such a negative bent. This is precisely what happened some time back when I decided to stay away from this kind of stuff. My tolerance for it all is being sorely tested - again. Hopefully, we'll see a resurgence of interest B4 too long.

Those "Canadian Dates in History" are quite interesting and I've thought about putting together something similar for U.S. RRs. Then I stop and think a bit - with the dwindling numbers lately, I'd be spending a heckofalotoftime pretty much talking to the ether. We'll see . . . and I surely don't give a "Rat's Patoot" over how many of those "stars" I get - or don't get.[swg]

I'm still a bit sore from my weekend of helping my #1 son with his roof problems. We wound up continuing yesterday afternoon. "Pay back" time for all the help he gave us during our flood! Not really - but as much as I wasn't looking foward to destroying my knees, at least we got the leaks (plural) located and repaired. Now, when it comes time for a new roof - he can hire some guys that are here legally to do the work! Imagine that novel concept[?]

Liked those trolley pix, Rob and it was good to "see ya!" Now there's a face to go along with the monikAH (that's New York for name!). Anyway, I wasn't much into street cars back "when" as where I'm located it was the S.I.R.T. or a very reliable bus system. Nevertheless there were places in the city where the streetcars operated and my dad or grandfather used to make sure that we'd ride 'em - just to ensure that I'd have a "recollection." That's the kind of men they were. I was a fortunate kid in being brought up in a family with love of one another and the country. I shudder to think what they'd say given the events of these times.

Nice stuff from you too, Pete! Also seems that you and Tom are able to get together now & then, which has to be fun. So what do the gals talk about while you two are "off somewhere" discussing trains[?] Actually, I don't wanna know!![swg] So, where is this place you guys call Hermann[?] I looked at a Missouri map and saw the "dot," but in relation to where you guys live is what I'm referring to. Sounds almost like it must be a midway point. Sweet![tup] Hope you had "one for me" while you were 'at it' . . . [swg]

Ommmmigosh, look at me. I've rambled so much that it's time for me to have "one more," then I gottta scram outta here! Great hero sandwich, by the way![tup]

By the way - I really "dig" that pix on this week's Summary!! Says it all . . .


Until the next time![tup]

Lars

[siberianmo]

Significant events in Canadian RR History during the month of April.


Caveat: Much of the information appearing was gathered from internet sources, with credit to “Colin Churcher’s Railway Pages” at http://www.railways.incanada.net/


*April 26th, 1875: The first scheduled train makes its inaugural run from Charlottetown to Georgetown on the Prince Edward Island Railway.


*April 1885: Second Northwest (Riel) Rebellion. Van Horne moves troops to the west through northern Ontario entirely over Canadian soil. This efficient military movement demonstrated the advantages to Canada of a completed transcontinental railway and prompted the government to grant temporary aid to the CP to enable completion of the line.


*April 7th, 1914: Grand Trunk Pacific Railway main line is completed between Winnipeg, Melville, Edmonton, Jasper and Prince Rupert. The last spike was driven at a location 93 miles west of Prince George, BC.


*April 2nd, 1933: CN & CP pool certain passenger services as a result of the Canadian National Canadian Pacific Act, 1933.


*April 21st, 1933: London, Midland and Scottish Railway (UK) 4-6-0 steam locomotive Royal Scot arrives in Montreal with eight passenger cars en route to the Century of Progress Exhibition in Chicago.


*April 1st, 1949: Newfoundland becomes the tenth province of Canada and the Newfoundland Railway becomes part of the Canadian National system. This narrow gauge system had been operated by the island government since 1923.


*April 1953: Canadian National inaugurates its Museum Train with three steam locomotives and six cars.


*April 25th, 1955: Canadian Pacific inaugurates its new stainless steel, scenic-domed transcontinental passenger train "The Canadian" between Montreal/Toronto and Vancouver.


* April 25th, 1960: Locomotive number 6043 makes the last scheduled run of a steam locomotive on Canadian National on train 76 between The Pas and Winnipeg.


* April 21st, 1970: Canadian Pacific unveils Canada's first double-deck passenger train comprising nine air-conditioned cars built by Canadian Vickers Limited at a cost of $2.8 million. The cars went into operation April 27 on the Montreal Lakeshore suburban service.


* April 30th, 1970: The first CP coal unit train, with 88 cars and carrying more than 9,000 tons of coking coal destined to Japan, arrives at Roberts Bank superport after a 700-mile run from Sparwood, B.C.


* April 1st, 1972: Pacific Great Eastern Railway makes a name change to British Columbia Railway.


* April 22nd, 1976: The turbo train achieves the Canadian rail speed record of 140.6 mph.


* April 18th, 1977: The Hall Commission Report on Grain Handling and Transportation is published. This recommends limited branch line abandonment on the prairies.


* April 30th, 1985: CN and CP take over the Canada Southern (Michigan Central/New York Central/Penn Central/Conrail) line through southern Ontario.


* April 13th, 1992: The Goderich Exeter Railway begins operations over the former CN line between Stratford Junction and Goderich and from Clinton Junction to Centralia in Ontario.


* April 1st, 1996: Last train travels the full distance of the former Canada Southern route between Detroit and Buffalo.


Enjoy! [tup]

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]

Did you miss the previous three “Significant events in Canadian RR History”[?] Click the URL:

(1) January, page 215:
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=215&TOPIC_ID=35270

(2) February, page 243:
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=243&TOPIC_ID=35270

(3) March, page 271:
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=271&TOPIC_ID=35270



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