"OUR" PLACE - SEE NEW THREAD!

[siberianmo]

G’day!

Good to see some activity this fine day. Temps ‘round here are in the mid-40s (F), skies partly cloudy, bit of a breeze and just a bit on the chilly side. Petrol is $1.90 (rounded) up at “Collusion Corner.” Makes one wonder about those $3.30 prices not that long ago ……. <grrrrrrrrrrrrrrr>

To the acknowledgments:

passengerfan Al Posted: 22 Nov 2005, 07:45:33 and 13:10:07

City of Las Vegas and Land O’Corn two more Postings destined for your “Corner” on the Monday Index. Nice work and I only wi***hat we had the clientele ‘round here to take advantage of your submissions. Why not do some “duplication” and Post these “Streamliners” over on my other thread on this Forum [?] It would be a real shame to let ‘em go to “waste” so to speak – just floatin’ ‘round in the Ether. Post one a day and if nothing else, it keeps that thread up and runnin’ too. I’d recommend a “caveat” that directs the attention to “Our” Place as the thread to visit if they like what they are seeing, etc. [tup]

Although I previously acknowledged your “Crap Shooter’s Special” it surely was worth mentioning again! [tup][tup]

Thanx for the round! Boris do it! The man is buying …….. [swg]

trolleyboy Rob Posted: 22 Nov 2005, 13:59:54 and 15:11:55

Daytime visits – two of ‘em! [wow] This IS a good deal for the bar – now if we could only get you to part with some of that expendable cash you’ve been hoardin’! [swg]

[yeah] I kinda wondered whether it was too good to be true with the flurry of Posts we had from the new guys (guyz). I had hoped they would stick ‘round. Perhaps it’s just the time of year – who knows. Always nice to have an infusion of new stuff. Looks like our regulars are holdin’ up quite well – not all, but most. [tup]

I’m kinda at wits end regarding how to keep this thread up on the Forum page – so Posting some Encore! “stuff” seems to be about the only thing left. We have quite a few “holes” during the day. Posting in “bunches” is not the answer – spreadin’ ‘em out is the way to go.

I enjoyed your Classic CNR Steam #4 Passenger and Mixed Trains to Niagara Falls and it is a good “read.” Hope that there’s an “audience” for it.

pwolfe Pete Posted: 22 Nov 2005, 15:48:27

A daylight Post from Pete! Always good to see ya, Mate, but even moreso during the daylight hours. Your Email has been responded to …. Thanx! [tup]

So, we’ve got another Amtrak KCity trip lined up. Maybe we should see if they will “sock in” some Bathams for you during the return leg! [swg]

Glad you liked the NOSTALGIA piece. I just prepared six more – gotta keep ahead of ‘em, before ya know it, I’m at the end of the line. Just never ends ……. [swg]

Picked up the 4x8 ft sheet of 2 inch insulated foam board this morning for the subway system. I’m in no rush, but it’s all falling in place – kinda like one step at a time. Next up is to get the bracketing and metal strapping material (previously explained in a reply to [bNick). Then I’ll order the subway station and tunnel ‘stuff.’ <Geesh> I hope my bride can afford all of this! [swg]

Catch y’all later and thanx for stoppin’ by ……….

Tom [4:-)] [oX)]

[Anonymous]

Just wanted you to know I'm searching for another fallen railfan magazine article!
Evening Tom and friends.I'll have a bottomless draught and of course get a round for the house. Really like these fallen flag articles. It's nice to see the Western Pacific and New York Central again. Good job Tom!
Enjoyed your Streamliner corners Al, and passenger train info from Rob. You guys are walking encyclopedias!
I'll write more when I have it. Have a great night!

[siberianmo]

<bonk> <boink> <bonk> (What kinda gavel is this [?])

Oye, Oye – All Rise for the Order of the Stools Selection Committee

We are rized ….

Quiet!

Who let that parrot in here [?]

Right!

Shhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!

You may be seated!

The Selection Committee of the Order of the Stools announces the findings of their November meeting.

Be it known from this day forth that the following customer of ”Our” Place has been distinguished by faithful participation along with willingness to engage in the banter at the bar: barndad Doug who first visited us on July 12th, 2005, has been awarded a Reserved Stool, in the Order of the Stools of the bar known as ”Our” Place!

Congratulations to you, Doug! [tup][tup][tup]


The next meeting of the Committee will be announced at a later date.

This session is now concluded.

<bonk> <bornk <bonk> (We gotta do better than this!)

All Rise as the Selection Committee departs.

We are still rized …

Confound it!

Awk, Awk, Awk

Quiet!

Drinks on the house! Boris ring the bell, twice! [tup][tup][tup]

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

[jdonald]

Evening Tom & all
I'll have the usual Alexander Keiths-one for yourself and a round for the house. Hope the CPR crew has left for the night. Just trying to get caught up on the las couple of days.

Tom Point taken regarding the amount of memory for storing the past posts. Enjoyed pictures of your pike-bet the peple of Can-Am were surprised to see those redbirds fly through!

Rob Enjoying the CNR Steam 3&4. Didn't know there was that much passenger action in the Niagara Peninsula in the 50's.

Al Streamliner Corner going great-too bad there's no pics esp. that Las Vegas Motor Train.

Congrats to Doug on attaining the coveted "Order of the Stool"[:)]

Here is some info taken from "Canadian Rail" mag of Dec/85 entitled "VIA" revival of the "Atlantic"

The government of the day had announced that effective June 1/85 the Atlantic and the Super Contintental would be reinstated. The Atlantic ran from Montreal to Halifax via Maine and Saint John N.B. The first regular run left Montreal's Central Station on time at 8:45 P.M. May 31, 1985. The consist was FPA-4 #6777,FPB-4 #6873 and 11 cars. The last car was "Banff Park" dome observation.
Until midnight on May 31 it ran as Extra 6777 East and became and then became VIA #12 on June 1. Due to a disturbance at Megantic(unspecified) it was already late upon arriving at Jackman, Maine for its stop for Customs inspection. The inspectors showed extra zeal and the train was 1 hr 20 min late departing.
Some time was made up and the Atlantic pulled into Saint John 1 hr 11 min late. Detraining passengers almost drowned as the skies opened up-it was said to be a good omen-a real "baptism" of the new service. /
The authors last sentence -"If passengers continue to use it it will show that those who fought for its re-instatement were right and the "Short Line" service will continue well into the 21st century
Anybody know how long it did last[?]

Bye for now-keepit on the rails[;)]

Don

[Anonymous]

Evening again Tom, and I for sure am buying the rounds tonight. I'll have one of everything!

Omigosh! What an incredible bit of news this is to me. Thank-you selection committee and Awk . I am truely humbled to be in the company of such an esteemed group. I feel most unworthy.
Still, I accept the nomination, and promise to do my best, to do my duty, to God and my country, and to .... wait a second .... I think another group already uses that promise. Hmmmmm
Well, I guess I'll just have to promise to be all I can be .... Hmmmm. That seems familiar too.
Thanks again. I am tremendously pleased!

[pwolfe]

Hi Tom and all.

[tup][tup][tup] DOUG on your Reserved Stool A round please Tom to celebrate.Ring the bell BORIS.Looking forward to the next Fallen Railfan Mag article [yeah].

Thanks ROB for the CNR steam #4[tup] Great details of the trains in the last days of steam The consists and loco duties are especially good.

Another pint to celebrate DOUGs award TOM.We are off to the brides folks for Thanksgiving tomorrow afternoon. If I am unable to get to the bar may I wish all the regulars on this side of the pond a VERY HAPPY THANKSGIVING [tup][yeah] PETE.

[passengerfan]

Good evening Tom and the rest of the gang. Time for a CR and a round for the house. Congrats to Barndad Doug on his induction to the Order of Permanent stools.

Tom thanks for the Western Pacific piece. brings back memories of giving up a chance to ride the CALIFORNIA ZEPHYR from Oakland to Chicago instesd chose to ride the RDC-2 ZEPHYRETTE from Oakland to Salt Lake City then laid over to catch the CZ east. It was a choice I have never regretted. Who else out their can say they have ridden the three longest RDC runs in North America.
WP ZEPHYRETTE
GN Havre/Great Falls/Billings/ Great Falls/Butte. Great Falls/Havre
PG&E & BCR Caribou Dayliners

TTFN AL

[siberianmo]

Good Evenin’ Gents!

A cause for celebration this Tuesday night, eh [?] Not every evenin’ that we can hoist a tankard or three in honor of a new inductee into the Order of the Reserved Stools. Congratulations to you, barndad Doug, you’ve been with us for quite some time and have really come through in the pinch, several times! Long overdue and well deserved, Mate! [tup][tup][tup]

To the acknowledgments:

jdonald Don Posted: 22 Nov 2005, 20:02:08

Good to see you back again, Don! [tup] [yeah] The inhabitants of Can-Am City and surrounding townships didn’t quite know what to make of those R17 subway cars zipping along the mainline. What was even more puzzling was finding them up on the mountain line. <huh> Glad you enjoyed the pix.

Nice write up on the “Atlantic.” We traveled that route in the early 1990s, one of the last runs through Maine, en route Halifax from Montreal. Of course in those days it was VIA Rail. While I don’t have the answer to your question, my guess is that you’ll get one from one of our regulars.

Somewhere on these pages is a pix of VIA Rail’s Banff Park car taken during one of my trips aboard the “Ocean.” Also experienced that car as part of the “Canadian’s” consist during one of our round trips between Toronto and Vancouver. Love those Park Cars! [tup][tup]

Thanx for the round! Boris ring that bell! [swg]

barndad Doug Posted: 22 Nov 2005, 20:04:00

Party time for you tonight! Are your SURE you want one of everything [?] Oh well, one nice thing about cyber bars, no hangover in the AM! [swg]

Thanx for the round! Boris One more time! [tup]

pwolfe Pete Posted: 22 Nov 2005, 20:07:49

Enjoy the festive holiday, Mate and be sure to check us out upon your return! [tup]

Thanx for the round! Boris Again …….

passengerfan Al Posted: 22 Nov 2005, 20:09:16

Glad you liked the Fallen Flag – WP sometimes they are just as “good” the second time around. [tup]

I’d say you have the market cornered on the longest RDC trips on our continent. (By the by – it’s Cariboo, that’s the way PGE and BC Rail spelled it! [swg])

Hate to correct you twice tonight – but barndad Doug is a member of the RESERVED STOOLS.

Thanx for the round! Boris Do it!

Okay guyz, Boris the Night Man has arrived and I’m outta here! [swg] Ring it again Boris, give ‘em a round on me! [tup]

Later!

Tom [4:-)] [oX)]

[trolleyboy]

Good evening Tom and the boyz. Question why is Boris behind the bar? You haven't givn him keys to the cabinet have you Tom? It will take months to get his hair out of the pickled eggs.

Doug Congrates on becoming a reserved stool [tup][yeah] I think a round for the house on this occation kieth's for me what ever everyone elses favourite poisin is. no Boris don't put that in the glasses ,<sheesh> You see Tom this is why he needs to be locked up at night.


Don Glad you stopped back in. The CNR ran alot pf passenger service in Southern Ontario,several were pool trains like the Maple Leaf pulling CN and foreign cars, LV in this case.

Nice info on the Atlantic as well. I've always loved the FP4's though in the proper CNR passenger green and black super continental scheme. though the Via blue and yellow was a nice second choice. Never cared for them in the zebra paint.

Ted I did a bit of reading tonight. the B&O caried alot of the union supplies and men during the civil war. I've seen some decent pictures from that time period as well.hope you pickup on some more civil war railroading when you get back.[tup]

Pete thank's for reading the CNR steam bit keep an eye out I will do a few more yet.BTW how many seats are the girls saving for you on Thursday ?

Rob

[trolleyboy]

Hello I'm back again. I see my last round is still circulating so I'll jest freshen up my keith's [tup] I think one last CNR calssic steam for the week ( tom will be happy to hear that i'm sure ) This layest tome comes from Ian Wilson's To Stratford Under Steam.

In case anyone familiar with southwestern ontario and is wondering why someone would write a book about the lines around and radiating from a small town like Stratford It's simple. At one time it was a huge cog in CNR's rail scene. The Stratford big shops sat on 19 acres of land and preformed all of Ontario's major steam maintenance and rebuilding/overhauling. Everything from class one overhauls and inspections to class nine complete tear down and rebuilds.The high ceilnged shop building boasted 200t morgan cranes which moverd entire Northern and Mountain type locomotives three stories over the workers heads.

CNR Classic Steam #5 passenger trains on the Brampton and Thorndale
Subdivisions


Yard assignments

Stratford yard
Five regular jobs midnight to 8 am, 6:30am to 2pm, east and west yard shifts from 4pm to midnight, and Big shop switcher from 8am to 4pm. As with any yard or station agency,shifts began an hour earlier during daylight savings time. De-icing job typically ran from 8am to 4pm

Guelph yard

At the beging of the 1950's, there was three yard assignments here 6:30am to 2:30pm , 2:30pm to 10:30pm ,and a straight day shift which was cut off sometime in the forst half of the decade. All shifts marshalled freight cars and worked industries as well as the coal dock,freight shed and passenger trains at the station.

Kitchener Yard job

Three regular assignments; industrial shift 5:30am to 1:30pm morning yard job 9:30am to 5:30 pm and the afternoon job 3:00pm to 11:00pm .

Industrial shift worked to Waterloo subdivision interchange ( Galt side ). It's territory also included the service track ( where extra cars were stored ) and the freight shed.Besides the yard the9:30 assignment handles the waterloo subdivision industries(Galt side ) Schnieders and the Budd plant ( which evenyually needed a dedicated crew). Crew went off duty after switching out cars and lining up lifts for eastbound and westbound pickups. Engine off the industrial shift also handled the afternoon job,spending mostof it's time making up trains switching the freight shed and working the express cars off the passenger trains at the station. They rarly did industrial switching,although they occationally lifted stock out of the stock yards for no 458 en route to west Toronto.

Passenger Trains

number 10
Daily Windsor to Toronto via Stratford,serving as a commuter train between Guelph and Toronto. From Windsor to London train was handles by a heavy pacific. A Hudson . Mountain or Northern of train 83 the night before handled the train to Toronto.The consist swelled at London,then Stratford or Guelph ( commuters )A block of coachres usually 4 which came off of no 11 would be added to no 10. Due to steam heating requirements, in winter this happened at Stratford. In the summer cars were added at Guelph. Generally this was a 10 to 12 car train with heavy express and mail at the head end.

number 11/111/141

Toronto- London via Stratford, served as a commuter between Toronto and Guelph.(see no 10 ). saturday movement was 111 Sunday 141( added in 1950 ) Consist ws baggage car and a few coaches,with an occational express reeferor two from London. Toronto tail end crew returned on no 80. Bullet nose betty or Hudson normal power

Number 27/137

Daily Toronto-Stratford shorthaul train handling mail and express,operating on modified schedule on sunday's as no 137. Powered by a hudson,pacific or mountain which returned in the afternoon as power on 34 or 36 ,136 on Sunday. An RPO was set out at Stratford for Goderich train 35. Otherwise the train consisted of three or four express cars and a coach. Train carried a 30 foot RPO.At guelph there was a heavy mail transfer with number 173 and custimarily an express car would be set out for 173.

number 28

Goderich-Toronto , daily except sunday.Trains 37 and 28 were cut back to Stratford-Toronto in october of 1957. Passengers and express were exchanged with number168 at Stratford. Consist would swell at stratford,RPO would be set off for 172 at Guelph. Crew would change at Stratford, with both legs handled by Stratford head end crew working trains 28 and 37.


Number 29

Toronto-London daily except sunday. Main passenger train between Toronto and Stratford. Passengers at intermediate stations were lifted by number 27. From Toronto to stratford train was powerd by a hudson or pacific. Hudson or heavier betweenToronto and London

Number 34

Goderich-Toronto, daily except sunday,from goderich toStratford train was powered by a pacific of no 35. Heavier engine came on at stratford ( off 27 or 29 ) Train carried a 30 foot RPO,which was transfered to no 36 ,at Stratford a baggage car and the one or two express cars and coaches were augmented by additional baggage or express cars. An express car would be taken off train 174 at Guelph.

Number 36/138
Stratford-Toronto , operating on modified schedule as train 138 on sunday's.See trains 27/137 and 34.handled head end traffic,mainly express.Tenderfre***urkey' producers in Peterberg filled a car with frozen turkey's five days a week,and express reefers of roses weer lifted at Brampton.

Number 37

Toronto-Goderich daily except sunday and monday. Sometime between april and sept of 1953 the train became daily. Powered by a heavy pacific or Hudson.Returned the next morning as no 28. At Stratford , a pacific took over to Goderich returning the next morning on no 28. Consist was typically several cars including an RPO, baggage car and two or more coaches,and sometimes extra head end cars.

number 39

Toronto-London express and mail train via Stratford daily except sunday and monday changed to daily in 1953 ( see 37 ) Powered by a heavy pacific , mountain ,or Northern which continued on to Port Huron on no 17,then back to Toronto on 17 or 20 until they were deiselized in 1957. On some occations a hudson was assigned to number 39,in which case the engine came off at london and returned to toronto on no 82. One Toronto and two London heaa end crews were pooled on trains 39-80-77-40. Toronto tail end crews known as cleanup crews frequently met freight 516 at Rockwood ( this is where the museum is !!![:D] ) or Acton which ment that the passenger train went into the siding!

number 40

London-Toronto via Stratford, daily. Powered usually by a hudson or occationally a Pacific or northern off number 12. On sunday's a pacific or mountain of number 10. Train carried an RPO and a mail storage car ( from conection with the London and Port Stanley radial ) which had been left at london by train 77 and loaded throughiout the day with transfer mail. There were a number of express cars and a couple of coaches. dinning and sleeping cars were often routed to Montreal on this train. Toronto tail end crew came off number 83 a few hopur earlier would return on this train.When train length warrented a flagman came on at London.

Number 168
London-Palmerston , daily except sunday.In 1956 the schedule was changed so that 168 departed and arrived in palmerston before 169 left.Eliminating a scheduled meet at Milverton. A pacific worked from London to Owen Sound on trains 168/173. Equipment off 168 were left on the "dog leg" ( short dead end track on east side of station ) at Palmerston for m329 mixed train to Southampton.The engine took the consist number 173 for Owen Sound.Equipment returned to palmerston from southampton as M330 the following afternoon and spotted on the east leg of the wye for train 171 to London

Train usually consisted of two or three coaches with an RPO and occationally an express car, box-baggage or express reefer. an RPO operated between London an dsouthampton on trains 168,M329/330 , AND 171 until 1956.At that time the RPOwas removed from M329/330

Ubtill sometime in 1953, the engine generally returned the next day on trains 174 and 171; thereafter it usually returned on172,169,or, 29. London head end crews worked from London to Owen Sound. The tailend crews worked from Owen Sound to palmerston and were outposted in Owen sound.

Enjoy Rob[:D]

[siberianmo]

Not a good way to end the night! Boris behind the bar is an absolute NO, NO and ....... <grrrrrrrrrr> [tdn] NOT good ....... Leon, put him in his shed, NOW! [:(!]

So, Rob up 'n causin' problems, eh [?] Pehaps a visit from Vito the Hit will get you back on track! (Pun intended!) [swg]

Meant to mention this earlier, but isn't 6 PM a bit on the late side for Thanksgiving Dinner [?] Received a few <moans> and <groans> over that one - so let's set it at 4 PM (all time zones!) with a SECOND seating at 6 PM. [tup] Sorry, but PHIP 'round here - Proprietorship Has Its Privileges! [swg] Hmmmmmmm, glad that our Bar Chandler concurs that the gals of "Our" Place can have their Holiday off! <grin>

Between you and Al I'm gettin' a bit weary tryin' to keep up with your special Posts! Apparently neither of you received my Email plea for pacing them! <GEESH!> Nice work though - but a bit too late for me to be doin' serious readin' - I'll catch your #5 in the daylight! [tup][tup]

By the by: The R17 subway cars ARE just a smidge higher than the RDCs. Keen eye you have, my man, keen eye! So, both are manufactured by LifeLike as Proto 1000s, so I'd say they are accurately to scale. Perhaps - and this is simply a guess on my part - subway station platform heights are higher than one would have for conventional passenger cars [?] I have no clue and yield to those of you who know. Anyway, they are higher at the roof line only, not higher than the roof vents of the RDCs, and again, very slightly at that.

Thanx for the round - I'll ring the bell and we'll make this last call!

Cindy will have the bar from about 8 AM 'til noon on Wednesday (today!).

Later! [zzz]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[siberianmo]

WEDNESDAY’s INFO & SUMMARY of RECENT POSTS

We open at 6 AM (all time zones, don’t ask how we do that!

Hello All! C’mon in! Coffee’s fresh and hot; pastries from The Mentor Village Bakery are delicious and the <light> breakfasts are waitin’ to be ordered. So, whaddillyahave [?]

Info for the Day:

(1) Today is “Pike Perspectives Day!”
(2) Tomorrow is U.S. Thanksgiving – “special menu” in effect.
(3) Friday is “Steak ‘n Fries Nite!”
(4) Saturday is “ENCORE! Day,” where we repeat some memorable Posts.
(5) Sunday we are CLOSED and it’s Sunday Photo Posting Day!

SUMMARY

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

(1) siberianmo Tom Posted: 22 Nov 2005, 01:16:25 (170) Tuesday’s Info & Summary

(2) siberianmo Tom Posted: 22 Nov 2005, 07:20:13 (170) ENCORE! Fallen Flag – WP

(3) passengerfan Al Posted: 22 Nov 2005, 07:45:33 (170) Streamliner Corner #5 – City of Las Vegas

(4) siberianmo Tom Posted: 22 Nov 2005, 10:11:55 (170) reply to passengerfan, etc.

(5) passengerfan Al Posted: 22 Nov 2005, 13:10:07 (170) Streamliner Corner #6 – Land O’Corn

(6) siberianmo Tom Posted: 22 Nov 2005, 13:11:01 (170) NOSTALGIA #28 – Ad - NYC Xplorer (1956)

(7) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 22 Nov 2005, 13:59:54 (170)

(8) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 22 Nov 2005, 15:11:55 (170) Classic CNR Steam #4 Passenger and Mixed Trains to Niagara Falls

(9) pwolfe Pete Posted: 22 Nov 2005, 15:48:27 (170)

(10) siberianmo Tom Posted: 22 Nov 2005, 16:40:14 (170) Acknowledgments, etc.

(11) barndad Doug Posted: 22 Nov 2005, 17:56:47 (170)

(12) siberianmo Tom Posted: 22 Nov 2005, 18:24:47 (170) Selection Committee Nov. meeting results!

(13) jdonald Don Posted: 22 Nov 2005, 20:02:08 (170) Inclusive Post! Congrats to barndad!

(14) barndad Doug Posted: 22 Nov 2005, 20:04:00 (170) Me? Really?

(15) pwolfe Pete Posted: 22 Nov 2005, 20:07:49 (170) Congrats to barndad! etc.

(16) passengerfan Al Posted: 22 Nov 2005, 20:09:16 (170) Congrats to barndad! etc.

(17) siberianmo Tom Posted: 22 Nov 2005, 21:25:51 (170) Congrats & Acknowledgments, etc.

(18) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 22 Nov 2005, 22:25:24 (170) Congrats & Inclusive Post!

(19) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 23 Nov 2005, 00:02:21 (170) CNR Classic Steam #5 Passenger trains on the Brampton & Thorndale
Subdivisions

(20) siberianmo Tom Posted: 23 Nov 2005, 00:52:58 (170) reply to trolleyboy, etc.

=======================================
That’s it! [tup][;)]

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

[Anonymous]

Holy Mackrel, can't leave you's guys alone for a few hours: look what happens! Tom, there is nothing "for it" at this hour, I'll just finish my X-word puzzle from the V.A. "down time." The first thing "right-off-the-bat" is CONGRATULATIONS Barndad Doug, you are now "permanent." A well deserved honor and you won't need to "move over" when Tish Gearhardt ("2 stools") comes in selling her Avon crap to the gals. Its good to see new faces and some fresh "slants" on the stuff we all enjoy hereabouts.[tup]

You might have guessed that the M.D.s at the V.A. have changed my RX's to potions which aren't conducive to [zzz]! Just as well, the last batch had me [xx(] after breakfast. I'll do my "catsup" on previous posts (Tuesday) at a more "fit" hour later. Just wanted to let everyone know that I came back with everything I went "in" with.[^] Rob, when will the "hard bound" edition come out with your excellent data?[bow] The "cut and paste" ordeal is making it tough for this Old Timer.[V] BTW, the menu for "Turkey Day" looks fine. Will that Bird come with Maple Leaf stuffing? Okay, I know its too late when Leon's snoring is shaking the walls. See all ya's after Sunrise.

[nickinwestwales]

Help-I claim sanctuary,they`ll never find me here-If needed I will be out back,skulking behind Boris` lair.
Yet another weekend of last-minute "modifications" to the game plan. Extra shifts behind the bar in the rugby club for the autumn internationals ( Jo-Burg girl guides 117,Wales 3 [sigh] ) and a private party ( band so drunk they had to play sitting down,guests so drunk they didn`t notice ) followed by a gig on sunday ( dont ask ) then small demon Hannah`s birthday yesterday,hopefully twitching will stop with appropriate meds.
Rather like the notion of prepping for the ladies back in the galley,gives me a chance to see some authentic American cuisine being prepared-never stop learning [^]
So,to matters of import--DOUG,congrats on your well deserved elevation,drinks are on me !!
SIR THEODORE-glad to have you back the same shape you left,hope the new meds are working for you,nice work on the civil war ( now there`s an oxymoron for you ) piece-a period of history which I`ve never had the leisure to study..P.S-E-Mails rec-I think we know where the Cleveland copper clapper klepto stashed the loot [swg]
CHANDLER ROB-good call on the menu,although having seen our Carpathian castaway`s prowess with firearms the bird may well require sewing back together before cooking...............P.S-enjoying the C.N.R ops [tup]
Ah,[4:-)]TOM-there you are ,a large mug of the finest Darjeeling please whilst I shake down some bacon butties-Will you try a wee drop of something to keep out the cold ?
Have to say,I`m with you on the subway car liveries-to my eye the `box-car` red looks better than the `red bird`-but then us Brits are used to more muted colours.
Couple of questions,-where did you source your F40`s and how many road# were available -very neat job if done `in-house` [tup] also ( await howls of derisive laughter here) those E8`s-Authentic or "In-a-perfect-world"-I only ask as I`ve never seen a pic of one-certainly suits the colour.
By-the-bye,like the VIA caboose-M.O.W service perhaps,or mobile staff accommodation ?
AL-with you leading ( and several others close behind ) this place is aquiring a greater repository of information than some S.I.G`s-we are gonna have to get planning permission for an extension to house the library at this rate [^]
PETE,MIKE & JOHN,-howdy guys,have a beer on me--P.S-PETE-We scored a `moral` victory on Sat. against the All Blacks-they won by 5 points but the first try was from a forward pass [sigh][banghead][:(!]
Right,time to start scraping Barbie-pink cake icing off the furniture rounding up stray balloons,streamers etc and repairing trashed birthday gifts,see you all this evening,take care,nick[C=:-)]
P.S-love the `festive` smilies [^][tup]

[passengerfan]

Good Morning Tom and the rest of the gang. Time for a steaming hot cup of coffee and one of those diet pastries from the Mentor Bakery.

PASSENGERFAN AL'S STREAMLINER CORNER #8

TWIN STAR ROCKET CRI&P trains 507-508 Minneapolis - Houston daily each direction 1363 miles each direction 26 hours 30 minutes either way.

The TWIN STAR ROCKET was the only new streamlined train permitted to enter service during WW II after 1942. The new train became the longest north - south train route in the United States with its northern terminal at Minneapolis, Minnesota and southern terminal at Houston, Texas.

The name of the new streamlined train was TWIN STAR ROCKET and was derived from its terminal states Texas being known as the Lone Star State and Minnesota as the North Star State.

To get the equipment necessary for the new trains the CRI&P assigned the two Rocket train sets from the KANSAS CITY - MINNEAPOLIS ROCKETS since their route would be covered by the new trains. The third train set was one of the the TEXAS ROCKET train sets that had operated between Kansas City and Dallas. This route would also be covered by the new TWIN STAR ROCKETS. The other TEXAS ROCKET train set was then assigned to operate a daily round trip ROCKET service between Kansas City and Oklahoma City.

The new TWIN STAR ROCKET operated the Minneapolis - Kansas City segment in daylight hours so initially no sleeping cars were operated between these points. At Kansas City the southbound TWIN STAR ROCKET added a lightweight 8-Section 5-Double Bedroom sleeping car for the overnight run to Houston. The northbound TWIN STAR ROCKET operated another 8-Section 5-Double Bedroom Sleeping Car between Houston and Kansas City. The two lightweight streamlined 8-Section 5-Double Bedroom Sleeping cars originally assigned to the TWIN STAR ROCKETS were FOREST CANYON and THOMPSON CANYON originally built for the ROCKY MOUNTAIN ROCKET for service between Kansas City and Denver.

Major cities served by the TWIN STAR ROCKETS between Minneapolis and Houston were St. Paul, Albert Lea, Des Moines, Kansas City, Topeka, Wichita, El Reno, Fort Worth, and Dallas.

The Rock Island powered the new TWIN STAR ROCKETS with EMD E6A units from other scheduled trains. Each train set was assigned a heavyweight Baggage 30'Railway Post Office Car and streamlined dining cars taken for the GOLDEN STATE trains they were known as the CACTUS series as all three were named for Cactus 422 YUCCA, 423 SAHUARO, and 424 OCOTILLO. It would be 1948 before the TWIN STAR ROCKETS became fully streamlined.

CONSIST ONE

627 EMD E6A 2,000 HP Diesel Passenger Cab Unit

800 Heavyweight Baggage 30' Railway Post Office Car

404 ARROWHEAD Articulated Baggage Kitchen 32-Revenue Seat Coach
304 CHIPPEWA Articulated 76-Revenue Seat Coach

424 OCOTILLA 47-Seat Dining Car

620 FOREST CANYON 8-Section 5-Double Bedroom Sleeping Car
(Kansas City - Houston)

454 MINNESOTA 28-Revenue Seat Coach Bar 24-Seat Parlor Lounge Observation

CONSIST TWO

628 EMD E6A 2,000 HP Diesel Passenger Cab Unit

801 Heavyweight Baggage 30' Railway Post Office Car

405 MESABI Articulated Baggage Kitchen 32-Revenue Seat Coach
305 IOWAY Articulated 76-Revenue Seat Coach

422 YUCCA 48-Seat Dining Car

621 THOMPSON CANYON 8-Section 5-Double Bedroom Sleeping Car
(Houston - Kansas City)

455 MISSOURI 28-Revenue Seat Coach Bar 21 -Seat Parlor Lounge Observation

CONSIST THREE

629 EMD E6A 2,000 HP Diesel Passenger Cab Unit

803 Heavyweight Baggage 30' Railway Post Office Car

402 CHEROKEE STRIP Articulated Baggage Kitchen 32-Revenue Seat Coach
302 SUNFLOWER STATE Articulated 76-Revenue Seat Coach

423 SAHUARO 48-Seat Dining Car

452 LONE STAR 28-Revenue Seat Coach Bar 24-Seat Parlor Lounge Observation

TTFN AL

[siberianmo]

Active Members - Order of the Stools (rev. Nov. 22nd, 2005)

Permanent Stool Theodorebear TED Manager of “Our” Place and customer with unparalleled good cheer [swg] and determination. Florida connection.

Permanent Stool nickinwestwales NICK Chief Chef [C=:-)] of “Our” Place and customer supreme from West Wales. British Isles connection.

Permanent Stool trolleyboy ROB Bar Chandeler of ”Our” Place If it concerns street cars, talk to me! – and Ontario connection.

Permanent Stool passengerfan AL Walking, talking “Classic Train” aficionado [2c] and author. California connection.

Permanent Stool West Coast S DAVE California man of mystery [8D], real and model rail enthusiast, and West Coast connection. Silver Throttle Award

Permanent Stool coalminer 3 CM3 Northeast rail aficionado [2c] and West Virginia connection. Silver Throttle Award

Reserved Stool earlydiesels DAN Restorations are us! … And train lover at large [2c]. Southwest Missouri connection.

Reserved Stool Trainnut484 RUSSELL AT&SF and rail enthusiast, model railroader [:D] and Kansas connection.

Reserved Stool pwolfe PETE British rail aficionado [2c] supreme, passenger train enthusiast and mid-Missouri connection.

NEW Reserved Stool barndad DOUG Railroad museum enthusiast, aficionado [2c] of steel wheels on steel tracks, and Illinois connection.


For the benefit of those who are new or who have forgotten, the The Order of the Stools is ”Our” Place’s way of recognizing those customers who have demonstrated their willingness to participate and contribute to the success of this cyber bar ‘n grill in an inclusive and continuing manner.

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

[siberianmo]

Good Morning Gents!

Not much time for acknowledgments today - places to go, people to see ' things to do. So, Cindy has the bar from 8 AM 'til my return in early PM. [swg] Be nice! [4:-)][oX)]

Appreciate the Posts: Theodorebear Ted - nickinwestwales Nick - passengerfan Al [tup][tup]

Thanksgiving [dinner] menu and servings will be overseen by trolleyboy Rob and his "staff" of Hilda 'n Helga, et al [wow]

The revised list for the Order of the Stools has been Posted - check it out for those who are new or a bit confused with regard to "who's who." [swg]

Later!

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[jdonald]

Mornin Tom & all
Coffee & a dani***his morning and whatever you're having.

Just a short post this A.M. to wish you fellas south of the border a very happy and safe Thanksgiving. Lotsa turkey & gravey, football and the appropriate spirits[:p][^]

Bye for now-keep it on the rails

Don

[trolleyboy]

Morning Tom. I'm just in quick,before I go to work so I'll grab a tea and a rahter large roast beef sandwich[dinner]

b Those late nights must be getting to you, I was shocked when I had read that you left the "thing" behind the bar. Figured Leon was sick or something.

A 4pm dinner start would be fine , but you will be in the tender mersies of Hilda and Helga unti 6-6:30 when i get in from work. I would never make our girls work they deserve to be waited on for a change. that ought to get th manager and chief chef salivating. [swg]

Darn my keen eyes. Your assumptuion may be correct,subway platforms do tend to be a bit higher ( keeps people from frying on the third rail [swg] ) For my two cemts I do like the all red redbirds better. Just a Toronto thing that paint job is close to the TTC's original subway car paint job.

I did get your email on the speacials. tkaes a while for me to compile i had those two ready to go and the cunstomer count had been low sooo. Next bit likely won't materialize for another week week and a half likely.


Ted Glad that you made it through. Aren't MD's grand. I suppose that if you become a certified night vampire, Loen and I will have someone else to talk to at the bar.

I don't think a hardbound copy will be comming soon. ( Too many copyright infringements I should think )

Nick Glad you came up for air. Also glad that you approve of the menu and staffing for tomorrow. Wouldn't get too close to Helga when she's cooking though, she gets into this trance like state and knives etc start flailing. Also good that hilda is a fair seemstress the bird fragments should look quite whole and appetising,The excess shot has been fashioned into a jewellry line as well.waste not want not. Oh ted Yes indeed maple leaf dressing, house speaciallity don't you know. [tup]


Nick to jump in before other's if the E unit paint job you were commenting on was the CPR Tuscan one's they were indeed real. The only three e units purchased for canada was done by the CPR three E 8's 1800,1801,1802. Initially they were a pool train with the BAR main to Montreal trains. In later life they roamed the system. Spent alot of time as commuter power for Montreal. They later recieved a horribl;e action red and packman paint job. 1802 was wrecked in a grade crossing incident but the other two went to Via in 1976 and recieved an even more awfull rendition of the Via Blue and Yellow paint job.To big of locomotives for that paint scheme, it looked much better on the FPA4's and FP7's and 9's


so long for now. Rob

[Trainnut484]

Good afternoon Tom and all. I'm just taking a break from classes today, so I'll just have coffee.

Congrats to Doug on being in the Reserved Stool Status. Doug, have your favorite poison on me [tup]

I've tried to keep up with the past postings since my last visit, but it's like pulling those "clown hankerchiefs" out of your wrist. They just keep coming and coming [:D]

Dan, glad to hear your're getting better. Hopefully the Midland hiatus is helping in your recovery.

Tom, your subway cars look neat. Are you going to weather them or leave them the way they are?

Ted, it's a good thing you survived your doctor's visit. I came down with a viral infection Monday [xx(]. I'm better today other than a little achyness, stuffyness, and coughyness. The sore throatyness is over. Thank goodness the over-the-counter stuff is taking care of it.

That's about all for now. Got to get on to my next class. If I don't check in by tomorrow, everyone have a HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!

Russell

[wanswheel]

Hi Tom and OUR PLACE gangsters (poots, reservists, regs, dregs) Congrats Doug!
Given that tomorrow is Thursday, a <light> lunch would be in order, maybe a
Dr. Pepper and a maple donut.
Nick any leftover black pudding? I'm curious.

And way behind the [8].
I've lived a few lifetimes as an incompetent scribe. Every time I thought I was near the Pearly Gate there was a sign saying "Go back and fix it!" Let me try my luck once more:

Al, the Twin Star Rocket served the major cities of Albert Lea and El Reno. Right.
I wonder what articulated means. Joint according to the dictionary.
Rob, I now know what a pantagraph is. What's a catenary?
Ted, good to see you made it through another V.A.M.C. ordeal.
Russ, the AFL: your Chiefs, NY Titans (Jets), Boston Patriots, Bills, Chargers, Raiders, Houston Oilers
Pete, did you know that Robert Stephenson of the tubular bridge was the son of George Stephenson, inventor of the locomotive? I didn't.
Don, Happy Thursday!

A poem by Edward J. Phelps (for colo r) (like there's not enough color in OUR PLACE)

Here Boston waits for Ogdensburgh
And Ogdensburgh for Montreal
And late New York tarrieth
And Saratoga hindreth all!
From far Atlantic's wave-swept bays
To Mississippi's turbid tide,
All accidents, mishaps, delays,
Are gathered here and multiplied!
Oh, fellow man, avoid this spot
As you would plague or Peter Funk shun!
And I hope in hell
His soul may dwell
Who first invented Essex Junction!

And long and late conductors tell
Of trains delayed or late or slow
Till e'en the very engine's bell
Takes up the cry, No go! No go!
Oh, let me from this hole depart,
By any route, so't be a lone one,
He cried, with madness in his heart,
And jumped aboard a train, the wrong one,
And as he vanished in the smoke
He shouted with redoubled unction
I hope in hell
His soul may dwell
Who first invented Essex Junction!
_____________________________________________________________________

My grandfather's engine: http://www.rr-fallenflags.org/cv/cv-s602.jpg (no color at all)
He retired with the distinction of having been the only man in engine service on the Central Vermont who had never once in his career had to "give up his engine on the road." He was taken out of his regular turn to run Winston Churchill's special train to the Quebec Conference during World War II, handling the train from White River Junction to Montreal, because of his reputation as a "smooth man with the throttle and brakes."

Mike

[siberianmo]

G'day!

Take a break Cindy - have some lunch.

Only back for a short stay - gotta get movin' on some outside things before the temps drop to the intolerable. Supposed to be near 60 (F) this afternoon, then drop into the teens by early AM. [yeah] That's more like it! [swg] Time to get some outside decorations up ....

Spent the AM with 2 of my grandkids at their school for Grandparents Day. It's a nice "thing" that they put on every year - get to spend some time in the classrooms - then a prayer service (it's a private school) and then some snacks. Nice morning indeed. My other three live in Virginia, so I don't get to see 'em very much ......

Nice to see ya jdonald Don - trolleyboy Rob - Trainnut484 Russell and wanswheel Mike I'll get some "specifics" put together later on ...... [tup]

Thanx to all who bought a round! [tup]

I'll Post a NOSTALGIA piece - then I'm gone ...... Be nice to Cindy! [swg]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[siberianmo]

G’day All!

PASSENGER TRAIN NOSTALGIA #29

Here’s something to ponder with regard to our appreciation and fascination with
Classic Trains. Check out this advertisement regarding the Canadian Pacific from 1950:
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . 18 vacation delights seeing . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . EAST-to-West Canada . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . Value-minded travelers go Canadian Pacific! . . . . . . . . . .

Want your vacation sunny and salty? With family fun?

1. It’s waiting in down-east Nova Scotia at the Digby Pines, a picturesque hotel and cottage colony. 2. Your comfort’s in the good care of Canadian Pacific. 3. Like “another world” city? See Old Québec. 4. Ride in a Calèche. 5. Shop winding streets. 6.Visit Ste. Anne de Beaupré, 7. Or Isle d'Orléans! 8. Relax gaily at Canadian Pacific’s great Château Frontenac! 9. Onward! By Canadian Pacific train, notred for food and service. 10. Stop in gay Montréal, queenly Ottawa or colorful Toronto. 11. But stay and Play in Ontario’s lake-and-woods country! 12.Westward! Along the scene north shore of Lake Superior and across rolling prairies. 13. Then through the sky-high Canadian Rockies try Canadian Pacific Diesel train! 14 Stop at Banff Springs and Lake Louise and see unparalleled beauty! 15. Roll on by Canadian Pacific through Evergreen scenery. 16. Visit Victoria and reel in roses! 17. Stay there the Empress set in famous gardens! 18. Golf, swimming, sailing, fishing . . . take your choice!

Ask your travel agent about a world of service: To Europe by White Empress ships. Two Canadian Pacific air routes; to the Far East, or New Zealand and Australia. Across Canada, 19 fine hotels and resorts.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canadian Pacific . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
See your local agent or Canadian Pacific in principal cities in U.S. and Canada


Enjoy! [tup]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

CHECK THE MONDAY SUMMARY and INDEX PAGES FOR MORE GREAT NOSTALGIA POSTS!

[Trainnut484]

G'afternoon again Tom and all. I'm back again just briefly. One more class to get through before the holiday. I'll have a Cola for now.

Wanswheel Mike, thanks for the AFL rundown. Hopefully we can survive this Sunday, otherwise our playoffs hopes are nill. I hope pwolfe Pete doesn't mind me piping in about George and Robert Stephenson. A couple, or few, of interesting stuff about them. George Stephenson was very poor and illiterate during his childhood. He worked in the same coal mines along with his father. At the age of 18, he saved up enough money to hire a home school teacher. George repaired clocks and watches, and soled shoes to make extra money. He drew from experiences from Nicholas Cugnot, a French military engineer, who invented a steam car that traveled on city streets and only did about 2 to 3 miles per hour, and had to resstart the fire every ten to fifteen minutes, and Richard Trevithick, a Cornishman who built the first true steam locomotive in 1804 (for tramways), and other inventors before him about designing locomotives. He concluded that smooth wheels running on a smooth surface would reduce drag and improve traction if sufficient weight was added to the locomotive. George invented the first steam locomotive to be used by railroads. Cugnot Trevithick, and others before him, built steam locomotives for tramways. Another major improvement to steam locomotives that George Stephenson designed were the drive rods. He built his first steamer in 1814, and was called "The Blucher", but it wasn't the smoothest running engine, and later was abandoned.

George's son, Robert, was more successful as an inventor than his father. Both George and Robert built the Liverpool and Manchester Railroad in 1830. Robert became chief engineer, and built the "Rocket" and other steam locomotives for the railroad. His father, George Stephenson, started the railroad revolution, and Robert took the helm from there.

All of this information comes from an essay I did for an English class a few years ago. There's more to this than what I've just typed, but I don't want anyone to [zzz] on me [:D]

Take care for now,

Russell

[siberianmo]

G’day Gents!

Okay, Cindy I’m back and here for the rest of the day. Thanx for your help and I’m sure the guyz enjoyed watchin’ ya back there, rather than who they normally view behind the bar! [swg] Don’t know what in the world we’re gonna do once your sabbatical is over. [%-)][%-)]

Okay, as promised, now I’ll try to address your Posts, briefly though:

Theodorebear Ted Posted: 23 Nov 2005, 03:38:12

So, I’m not the only one who experiences sleepless nights, eh [?] As with you, my meds have been the culprit, only I’ve been puttin’ up with this for over 2 years. Honestly cannot recall the last time I slept through ….. Ain’t it great this thing called the “Golden Years”[?] Well, of course compared to the alternative – sure ‘nuf! [swg]

nickinwestwales Nick Posted: 23 Nov 2005, 05:26:15

Thought perhaps you pulled one of your “gone for a few weeks” capers … thankfully, not the case! [tup]

The F40PH’s are from two sources – Bachmann and Walthers Trainline series. I was able to find two different numbers from each source, giving me a total of four distinct numbers. I did purchase some ‘duplicates,’ just to have a good looking inventory in the yards. There are total of six Via Rail F40’s on the pike and a “slew” of Amtrak’s from Bachman, Walthers and LifeLike.

The EMD E8 A/A units are Rivarossi and I love ‘em. Only thing is they numbered both units the SAME. I have E8’s in other road names, and all of ‘em are duplicate numbers. I guess they simply “don’t get it.” Anyway, they are nicely done, run extremely well and look great with the “smoothsides” consist in the blue/yellow livery. My display case for Canadian passenger ‘stuff’ has the E8’s in CP’s maroon/grey livery with the beaver shields. Couldn’t find any E8’s for the CP Rail “action red,” so I went with F7’s. Good eye – my man – the Via caboose is coupled to an SW that I had painted and numbered to my specs. Just something I wanted for the pike.

The more I think of it, the more I am inclined to push for St. Louis as the site for our 2nd Annual Rendezvous – that way you guyz can check out the Can-Am! [tup] [swg] And of course, the actual bar we call ”Our” Place. It’s the Trainwreck Saloon these days (daze) and is located about 15 minutes from where I live. It’s the structure that was used as the prototype for the saloon building I’ve turned into this wonderful watering hole! [swg] The original name was “The Nine Mile House” given that it was located 9 miles from the city/county line. Original, eh [?]

TheR17 subway cars in the “muted” scheme remind me more of what I used to ride in NYC decades ago. Those rather gaudy red cars (sorry, Rob) are well, gaudy. To each his own; some people prefer chicken. <huh>

passengerfan Al Posted: 23 Nov 2005, 07:26:52

Another epistle – this time on the Twin Star Rocket. Man oh man am I ever behind in my “required reading list.” [swg] Nice job. But gimme a break over this holiday weekend, okay [?]

jdonald Don Posted: 23 Nov 2005, 08:37:11

Thanx for the best wishes! We also observed Canada’s Thanksgiving Day back in October, as this IS after all, Can-Am County! [swg]

trolleyboy Rob Posted: 23 Nov 2005, 11:15:33

Say what [?] <huh> Whutchatalkin’ ‘bout [?] I am not following you with regard to your comment that you read I left that “thing” behind the bar. Where did ya read that [?] I think you’re into the paint thinner again! [swg] Boris is NEVER to be “left” behind the bar … NEV-AH!

Trainnut484 Russell Posted: 23 Nov 2005, 12:26:27 and 15:36:18

Good to see ya! And no – I’m not planning on weathering the R17 subway cars. If they were gonna be sittin’ in view all of the time, perhaps. But given that I’m going to be placing them in a very limited view situation (previously described a few times), nope…..

Good info on the “Stephenson’s.” [tup] Regarding the Chiefs – a shame about Priest Holmes, for sure will be missed. Don’t count ‘em out, Coach Vermeil has been known to pull more than rabbits out of his hat! [swg]

If we don’t see ya tomorrow, hope you and yours have a wonderful family day! [tup][tup]

wanswheel Mike Posted: 23 Nov 2005, 12:31:45

Well, Mike I’d say you mastered the technique of Posting on the Fourms. Nice job! [tup][tup] There’s a little somethin’ for everyone in that Post of yours!

Nice shot of the steam loco … they were impressive machines fer sure, fer sure! [tup]

Okay, once again – thanx to all who have bought the house a round! [tup][tup]


Later!

Tom [4:-)] [oX)]

[passengerfan]

Good Afternoon Tom and the rest of the gang. Time for a double CR and a round for the house.

Answers for Wanswheel's questions. Re the articulated cars they were two cars operating on three trucks the center truck supported one end of each of the two cars thus articulated. Albert Lea and El Reno major cities exactly the reason the Rock Island went bankrupt from serving towns like these. El Reno was as close as the Rock Island north-south mainline came to Oklahoma City. A doodlebug meant most north-south trains at El Reno to transport passengers and luggage to and from Oklahoma City.

TTFN AL

[nickinwestwales]

Well good evening everybody, I`d like to start tonight with "Ten Green Bottles" and if I can still stand after that,we will play some music for you..................2...3...4--------
Oop`s-sorry,wrong persona....
Try again....
Hi guys,happy half-way-there day,the weekend beckons ( with an added party tomorrow to add zest )
[4:-)]TOM -How are you sir,will you join me in a glass or two ?-Glad you got some quality time with the small ones,as wiser folk than I have said "They change so fast" [^][tup]
Right,lets have the first of those green bottles and attend to business:-
Oh,by the bye-It`s a standing joke amongst local chefs that the local farmboys regard chicken as a vegetarian dish..........
Thanks for detail on F40`s..[tup]..O.K-

BAR CHANDLER ROB--Howdy,first up,hope you keeping warm and dry-spoke to sister earlier and she was somewhat pre-occupied with imminent blizzard & -13+wind chill forecast-a touch more than bracing I would think........
Ah yes,[4:-)]TOMS E-units---looking at them, I think they would look less strange to the eye if the yellow extended further back. We expect to see a certain ratio of blue to yellow on a VIA cab unit,these ones make you look twice [^]
RUSS -Hi-like the clowns hankerchief analogy-catching up no fun during busy cycles[banghead] ,glad you are firing on most cylinders again-Nice hit on the Early Days-Can provide more data on this period if required,have a detailed write-up of Rainhill Trials including eye-witness statements,will try to find time to look it out.
As an odd and almost unbelievable footnote,a little old lady name of Ellen Skyrme,who is a neighbour of mine and ,at 97,our current oldest resident is the Great-Great-Grandaughter of Trevithick and enormously proud of the fact,[tup]
MIKE-We ALWAYS maintain a stock of black pudding-how could we presume to offer a Full English without ?----We also maintain a small stock of curious black pudding,not for the Hoi-Polloi,obviously...
as to catenary,my understanding of the term as used over here is "All the masts and cable work from the junction boxes to the pantographs"-if terminology different over there I`m sure someone can catch me -
By-the way---glorious pic of that "Mountain"-Looks like the South African Railway 3`6" Mountains big brother-----thanks for sharing family stuff with us ,for my part,I am delighted to know that the man who won the war with one speech was in the safest of hands when in your land [tup]
O.K-I think it`s about time I went and fed the Wurlitzer for a bit...any requests chaps..?
no-?-surely your`e not going to trust to my judgement here.....oh well you can always turn off the sound for a while if it hurts that badly......seems like a good moment to sit back and let someone else get a word in,later,nick[C=:-)]

[Anonymous]

Good Thanksgiving Eve everyone. Tom, I've had to recognize a few precautionary steps in my normally "care free abandon" life style. Naturally, this altered bahavior pattern will commence after tomorrow's feasting. If you would, a frothy collared egg nog with a wee dram of Jameson's Irish whisky, thanks.[^] Ah yes, the Western Pacific and those colorful silver, orange and black appointments on the diesels. Perhaps they are seen as a bit "loud" to the more conservative of us. But still, there is something that just "fits" the lines of the EMDs so well, don't you think? St. Louis seems to me, a great option as a second Rendesvous site. Central to the U.S. and not too far distant for above the "49th," there is much on offer in that fine city.

Nick, a happy belated Happy Birthday wish for Hannah and good luck with your restoration efforts about the homestead. Glad you enjoyed the e-mail and "period piece." Russell, thanks for the Stephenson "connection," a little history adds a great deal in our common quest for reasons that made "Classic Trains" well... "Classic."[tup] Passengerfan Al, I had to "catch my breath" when you listed the mileage from Minnesota to Houston. I don't know why but I never really thought about the North to South distances being that impressive. Certainly, the "articulated" trains never seemed to have wide acceptance in the U.S. as their Talgo counterparts did in Europe. As to the Aero Train with its "Turnpike Cruiser" Greyhound bus bodies for passenger cars; little may be said save "nothing ventured nothing gained." Fine posts, as always Al![tup] Mike, you certainly have something to be proud about regarding your Father's faithful service to the Vermont Central. What a singular honor to be chosen as Winston Churchill's chauffeur on the rails while he visited the U.S. and Canada during the war years. The pic of that 4-8-4 is awesome![tup] Are you sure that you aren't related in some way to CM3? Both of you have graced us with superb selections of prose and poetry and it is appreciated probably more than you folks know.

Rob, by Jeeves you've done it again. We can always rely on you for, not only "picking up the ball," but the whole stadium along with it. There is enough research here to earn a doctoral degree for yourself.[tup] Hmmm! Dr. Rob has a true "ring to it." Nick "got it right!" We will definately need a "Our" Place repository for the prolific work being submitted. Not the least of these being our cheif Chef's collection of menus.[tup] Siberianmo's input could fill one building of the Smithsonian in and of itself.

Pete and Don thanks for your holiday greetings and, of course, I would like to echo your good thoughts to all of our Members and Guests. Today was another trip to "sick call" but this time it was trasport for an old friend. Perhaps someday, I'll grow accustomed to that environment but I certainly hope not.[v] Okay Boris, we appreciate your "quick" method of cleaning the bird's feathers using only your K-nines. ("Look Ma, no hands.") However, please keep it "under wraps." Some customers are a tad squimish seeing this method "in the raw."[xx(][alien] Happy Thanksgiving one and all and happy rails.[:D]

[passengerfan]

Good Evening Tom and the rst of the gang. Time for a triple CR and a round for the house.

PASSENGERFAN AL'S STREAMLINER CORNER #9

DIXIE FLAGLER operated over the C&EI - L&N - NC&STL - AB&C - ACL - FEC in its 1,434 mile route between Chicago and Miami operating every third day in 29 hours 30 minutes.

The DIXIE FLAGLER was the name assigned to the former HENRY M. FLAGLER consist beginning December 17, 1940 after the FEC had found the HENRY M. FLAGLER operating a daily round trip between Miami and Jacksonville somewhat less than profitable. The Budd built HENRY M. FLAGLER consist was withdrawn and thoroughly shopped before beginning its new route as the DIXIE FLAGLER.

IN addition to the seven car DIXIE FLAGLER there were two additional Coach Streamliners inaugurated at the same time one owned by the IC the CITY OF MIAMI and the PRR owned SOUTH WIND. The three trains would provide daily service between Chicago and Miami except each would travel a different route over different railroads except for that part of the trip between Jacksonville and Miami that would operate via the FEC.

The DIXIE FLAGLER would be diesel powered only over its own rails between Jacksonville and Miami with each of the other roads providing a Pacific Locomotive and tender for their parts all were streamlined except for the ACL power that was a non streamlined Pacific and tender.

The DIXIE FLAGLER operated over the Chicago & Eastern Illinois (C&EI) between Chicago, Illinois and Evansville, Indiana. Between Evansville and Nashville, Tennessee the DIXIE FLAGLER operated over the Louisville and Nashville Railroad (L&N). The Nashville Chattanooga and St. Louis (NC&STL) operated the DIXIE FLAGLER between Nashville and and Atlanta, Georgia. Between Atlanta and Waycross, Georgia the Atlanta Birmingham and Coast (AB&C) a subsidiary of the Atlantic Coast Line operated the DIXIE FLAGLER. The Atlantic Coast Line (ACL) did the honors between Waycross and Jacksonville, Florida. Between Jacksonville and Miami the DIXIE FLAGLER operated over the rails of its owning road the Florida East Coast (FEC). The DIXIE FLAGLER averaged 48 miles per hour for the Chicago - Miami trip in either direction. Not bad when one remembers their were six engine changes and seventeen stops enroute.

CONSIST OF DIXIE FLAGLER

1008 (C&EI) Streamlined K2 4-6-2 Pacific Locomotive and Tender
(Chicago - Evansville)

277 (L&N) Streamlined K5 4-6-2 Pacific Locomotive and Tender
(Evansville - Nashville)

536 (NC&STL) Streamlined K-2d 4-6-2 Pacific Locomotive and Tender
(Nashville - Atlanta)

79 (AB&C) Streamlined J-1 4-6-2 Pacific Locomotive and Tender
(Atlanta - Waycross)

(ACL) 4-6-2 Pacific Locomotive and Tender (Number unknown)
(Waycross - Jacksonville)

1001 (FEC) EMC E3A 2,000 HP Diesel Passenger Cab Unit
(Jacksonville - Miami)

STUART Baggage 13-Crew Dormitory 22 Revenue Seat Coach

HOBE SOUND 60-Revenue Seat Coach

DELRAY BEACH 53-Revenue Seat Coach with Stewardess Room

FORT LAUDERDALE 48-Seat Dining Car

HOLLYWOOD 60-Revenue Seat Coach

MELBOURNE 60-Revenue Seat Coach

LAKE WORTH 32-Seat Tavern Lounge Bar 21-Seat Lounge Observation

TTFN Al

[Anonymous]

Good evening Tom! I'll have an Old-Style with bromo-seltzer. Please set the boys up too.

Thanks to Don, Pete, Al, Rob, Ted, Nick, Russell, Mike, and our bartender Tom, for the congratulations on becoming a ROOT member! Al, kudos on another fine Streamliner Corner, and Rob entertained with more Classic Steam. Nice poem Mike, and I really enjoyed the picture of your Grandfathers loco! Thanks Tom, for another nostalgic look at the CP!

Now for my contribution. Here is part I of another article a swiped from a fallen railfan magazine. This is my Bridge Engineer series:

Through Thick and Thin by Bland Osborn – From Vintage Rail magazine Sep/Oct 1998

Jobs weren’t all the plentiful in the summer of 1946. Because of the trouble everyone was having adjusting to peace, only a few companies had interviewed on campus for civil engineers. I talked to all of them and managed to get two offers. The first was from Martin Aircraft to work in Baltimore for $225 a month as an engineering trainee in aircraft structural stresses. The second was from the Atchison, Topeka $ Sante Fe Railway. The Sante Fe interviewer said that the company needed a junior designer for the Bridge Department in the Chicago office, but first it would like the candidate to spend a year as a steel-bridgeman with System Steel Bridge Gang No. 1. This gang maintained (and sometimes built) steel bridges on some 8,500 miles of trackage in Kansas, Colorado, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California. The pay would be $1.02 an hour, and the gang normally worked 54 hours a week. WHOOPIE!!

I was so happy to receive an offer that would get me out of buildings and away from drafting boards that I would have consented to even less princely stipend, and I accepted so fast that the interviewer was somewhat nonplused – he hadn’t gotten around to such goodies as the five paid holidays and the five days vacation after the first year. I didn’t care: Just point me in the direction of the wild, wild West! So on Labor Day I packed my kit and the next morning climbed on the Grand Canyon Limited, headed for Chambers, Arizona. The Sante Fe had given me a pass for the trip, and Dad and Mom had staked me to the extent of an upper berth and 100 bucks. The Limited was one of our no-extra-fare Chicago to L.A. trains (the hotshots being the Super Chief and the El-Capitan) and was generally pulled by a steam locomotive clear up until the time I left the railroad. The engines used in the flatlands between Kansas City and La Junta, Colorado, had drivers some seven feet in diameter – three on each side. To start even a 10-car passenger train, these engines usually had to take slack. However, once it got moving, the engine traveled 22 feet each time the wheels went around. Only 240 revolutions took you a mole! I’ll tell you right now that although I have been up in a jet night-fighter and a hot air balloon, down in scuba gear and a hard-hat diving suit, driven over 100 mph in an automobile, and done aerobatics in airplanes, nothing in the world has been as satisfying to my soul and senses as really rollin’ in a high-wheeled steam locomotive. Not that I rode up front that first trip west, you understand; but if the Hereafter lasts an eternity, I hope it bears a striking resemblance to the cab of a Baldwin passenger engine.

Dad did his usual fantastic job of accommodation selection, and I discovered that my seat mate, and thus the person who would occupy the berth below mine, was an absolutely gorgeous blonde, just my age, named Sue. On the other hand, Dad typically made sure I didn’t even try to go astray by arranging for Sue’s mother to have the lower berth just across the aisle. In any event, the three of us had a most congenial time until, the following afternoon, the conductor announced that the next stop would be at a sidetrack named Chambers – just for me.

Now here is one of my mental snapshots, and we’ll see if you can share it. First, picture a teenager in a gray gabardine suit complete with white shirt and tie standing alone on a railroad track. Picture a train, trailing black smoke, disappearing down the track toward the descending sun. Conjure up the northern Arizona semi-desert composed of sand, sagebrush, and outcroppings of rock shimmering in the heat – and imagine an absolute absence of any sound or sign of life or human habitation. Got it?

I must have stood there for five minutes, Dad’s old World War I bedroll and my suitcase at my feet, before I finally heard a sound. It was a truck about a mile away on Route 66 (that fabled highway of song, story, and even a TV series) that paralleled the Sante Fe from Texas to the Coast. Thus reassured that I was not totally alone in the world, aware that I was at the eastern end of a sidetrack, and knowing that the train had not passed anything as it slowed and halted, I picked up my kit and started westward on the ties. Very shortly I could see, dancing in the distance through the heat waves, what appeared to be a string of boxcars – and so it was. My home for most of the current year.

When I arrived, sweated-out and cotton-mouthed, it appeared that the outfit was deserted; but no, I could hear the sound of a hammer, and I found Louie forge-welding spud wrenches in the tool car. This ancient is the first of a group of unforgettable characters you will meet in these pages, and he made me welcome as his rough nature allowed, offering me a drink from an oak cask equipped with dipper and filled with water, moss, and chunks of ice. By the time the rest of the gang arrived home from the job that evening, I had put on my bib overalls; learned most of what Louie knew about welding; and, by cranking the blower on the forge, admiring his handiwork, and submitting humbly to considerable criticism, found my first friend.

Jim – small, taciturn, and in his fifties – was the gang’s foreman. He decided that I should move into a car with Fred, Sherman, and Bill; and I was to be very happy with that decision. Our bunk car, like all the rest, was essentially a converted wooden boxcar. It was divided into three rooms by two partitions, each partition with a door in the middle. The rooms at each end of the car contained four steel cots and four wooden lockers. Luckily, Jim almost never assigned more than four men to a car, so Fred and I shared one end and Sherman and Bill the other. There was a small, screened, double-hung window near the head of each cot. Walls, floor, and ceiling were of wood which had, in some previous life perhaps, been painted green. The middle room had several windows and, centered on each side, doors which lead out into thin air about 4 1/2' feet off the ground. To get in or out, one climbed a vertical steel ladder attached to the car under each door while holding onto handrails that ran up each side.

At one end of the central room were two large wooden closets, one on each side of the door to Fred’s and my bunk room. One closet contained coal for the stove. The other held a vertical piece of 12-inch pipe (that looked down upon the ties) with a toilet seat bolted on the upper end. We naturally never used this arrangement unless the outfit was on the move, so that compartment was used to store the mop, the broom, and various junk. Our only source of heat was a potbellied, cast-iron caboose stove located in the center of the car. Near the door to Sherman and Bill’s room was a wooden table with four wooden chairs, over which hung a single, bare 60-watt light bulb. Each bunk room had a similar 40-watt light. Not exactly plush quarters!