"OUR" PLACE - SEE NEW THREAD!

[siberianmo]

Gentlemen!

Something special for Pike Perspectives Day!



For a larger version, click on this URL:

http://photobucket.com/albums/b222/siberianmo/Novelties/?action=view¤t=f80efa87.jpg

Enjoy![tup][tup]

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]

[siberianmo]

Good Morning Gents!

A better start to the day as the partly cloudy skies are giving way to some blue, temps expected to reach 50 (F) giving things a chance to dry out before the rains return on Friday. <geesh> This is winter and all the precip is supposed to be white! <groan>

After two consecutive slow days, last night’s flurry at the bar was most unexpected, but certainly appreciated <ka-ching, ka-ching!> [swg] I had checked out after my ENCORE! piece, but no one noticed! [swg]

Thanx to all who did take note of my Jessie tribute. One of God’s greatest gifts is the canine and he was indeed a special friend. Appreciate the kind sentiments! [tup][tup][tup]

I’m rather pressed for time this morning, so my comments will respect brevity. To the acknowledgments:

barndad Doug
Posted: 10 Jan 2006, 19:59:48


Theodorebear Ted
Posted: 10 Jan 2006, 20:30:39


wanswheel Mike
Posted: 10 Jan 2006, 22:09:16


trolleyboy Rob
Posted: 10 Jan 2006, 22:33:53 and 22:45:03


coalminer3 CM3
Posted: 11 Jan 2006, 08:16:35

As always, appreciate the Posts, the rounds and quarters for Coal Scuttle!. [tup] I will make specific comments later today – gotta get rollin’. [swg]


Later!

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]


Those who acknowledge the other guy, get acknowledged!

[Anonymous]

Well, good mornin' to all of you who have arisen to face the rigors of the day. Tom, I'll grab a quick Cruller and Java for "cooling my heels" until it's "shoot out time" at the Auto Way Toyota Corral. Don't know what we would do without the Summaries for quick reference.[tup] Earlydiesels Dan, received Book and I'm getting "into it" now, many thanks.[^] Mike, "In the Mood" is probably the most played Standard of the "big band era." And yes, "familiarity does breed contempt" regarding some of the old Chestnuts, no matter what genre of music it may be. The URLs on Costello's baseball team, Traction and South Pass are as enjoyable as they are timely. I added the "History" page to my Favorites for later perusal.[^] Doug, in spite of the world's longest "run on" sentences, W.B. Henderson's plea before the Railway Conductor's meeting "billboards" the grave situation during "The Great Depression" (Circa 1929-1940). As late as the Mid-Forties, I can remember Seniors being relegated to the TLC of their immediate Family's care.[:(] Hearing "the Death Rattle" sounding from households unable to afford proper medical care for their Elders was not uncommon.[V] Very "touching" indeed were those words of a 74 year old retiring Senior facing almost certain financial oblivion.

Rob and Mike, referring to the potential threat of eletrocution of Motormen working the street cars of yore was a definite risk. One of the worst tragedies happened in Chicago during the early 1950s. An ungrounded gasoline tanker truck was illegaly driving on city streets and came in direct contact with a P.C.C. The resulting explosion killed dozens and gutted buildings in a square block area. Life magazine published the hideous photos which gave all cities "pause for thought" about over head electrification. Another tragedy befell a woman passenger in Kcity, MO when the rear folding door closed on her apparel dragging her for several blocks to her death. There are too many such incidents to list, even if I wanted to do so. We must bear in mind that not even Space Shuttle technology has "trumped" risk in travel. "Eat, drink and make Mary be merry...!"

Rob, if either the ex-C.R.T. # 48 or H.C.R. M. #8 are operating come May, it will be a "Lucky Strike Extra" for yours truly.[tup] Yes, although Nick's [bday] is weeks away, certainly we should consider details for a proper wetting down sequence of events. "Pin the Tail on the [alien]" is definately scratched for the future, as is the Black Turnip and Sleeze Bean Gormand Eating Competition![xx(] "Our" Place liability insurance simply will not cover the risks involved.[:O] Okay, I must prepare for hyperventilating at the Toyota Dealer's cashier booth now. Happy rails everyone.

[trolleyboy]

Good morning everyone. Leon I'll have a large coffee and several of the light breakfasts. Doug's comming in this am so I don't want the eggs and bacon to go off.

Tom Just missed you, the cloud of exhaust and mud from your car had yhet to settle oh well. Happy trails in your endevours today

Nice poster of the main guys and gizmo's in the mrring world,gives a nice send off to PP day. [tup]

CM3 A fine post again this morning, glad that it was not "carpool tunnel" causing. [;)] Interesting info on the kerosene refining and coal extraction in WVA.[tup] One gets an interesting perspective on how truly unsafe and likley cutthroat those industries were before wage and safety regulations ( and unions ) came in. Just imagine people slowley cooking the coal in open vats to make coal oil and kerosene. wouldn't happen today. As I said interesting stuff.


So onto wed stuff. I have managed to finish painting the two experimental paint scheme brills. Photo's will be taken eventually. They came out well, and make aa nice contrast to the usual cars. To back up a second, my usuakl paint scheme for the streetcars and interurbans is a Pullman green body with TH&B creame ( more yellow than white creame) for the windows sashes and doors. On the two experimentals they have insignia red bodies with the creame doors and windows. It's not a bright fire truck red so it works quite well. They do compliment each other. I spent a good deal of time planning out "downtown" I want a double tracked streetcar line but that may not be possible. I'll likely need to delete a couple of buildings and then it may work. As alway's it's a work in progress.

I'll pop back in with another info post. Till later

Rob

[trolleyboy]

Hey Ted Just caught your post. I thought that we had been cleared for the black tunip and sleeze bean eating tourney [?] Questions must be posed and answered now. Perhaps a trip to the second national is in order. ( well maybe not [XX(] )

Awfull to hear about tragedy's such as those you mentioned. Certainly for some of the smaller cities such news and storuies were the death nell for overhead traction. The worst similar story I know of from the TTC was in 1924. A Yonge street Witt train ( motor car and trailer ) struck a gasoline tanker with predictable results. The truck driver was at fault for the accident but the resulting fire killed twenty people as they were trapped in the motorcar ( Window rails installed to keep people from falling out also keep people in in dire situations ) As a result all the window guards ( bars ) were removed from all TTC equipment and most of the remaining equipment in the rest of the cities in the country .

You will thouroughly enjoy riding in the Queen L&PS #8.( she weighs in at close to 55 tons ) She rides like a heavyweight passenger coach and the plush crimson seats don't hurt either. CTA 48 should be up and running by may as well so long as there are no unpleasant suprises when the shop boys get into her control gear. PCC electrical equipment can sometimes be finicky espeacially if they have sat unused for a couple of years. There will be Witt's and open cars apleanty though so it will be a good day at any rate. Hopefully they have a set of trama paddles that the cashier is trained to use at the Toyota dealer [;)], amazing how little repairs end up costing almost as much as a car. [:O]


Rob

[trolleyboy]

Well I'm back again on this bright sunny spring winter morning. Tom you will be unhappy to know that Environment Canada is now predicting ( likely over spilled entrails ) a warmer than usual winter rain as oposed to snow. We have hit the 50 degree mark here today and it hit 50+ for 7 days in december as well. We have even had a couple of thunder storms [?] The upside is that the spike in heating costs won't be as bad as no ones using their heat. The downside is that they are saying that it may be a cool wet summer this year. Might be helpfull if we all by wet suits for may [swg]

As promissed this is the info post for the day then I'm off to do some laundery before I head into work ( that no shirt no shoes no service bit applies to staff as well [swg] )

CLASSIC JUICE # 16 MAJOR AMERICAN SUPPLIERS OF STREETCAR'S & LOCOMOTIVES TO CANADA.


BALDWIN LOCOMOTIVE WORKS

Philidelphia and Eddystone PA- Great steam locomotive builder, producing their frist in 1831-32. Began building electrics in 1895. Formed an alliance with Westinghouse for electrical components but employed Eddison storage batteries for most of it's mine and industrial locomotives. Produced St Clair Tunnel Locomotives ( 1908 ), steeplecabs for BC Electric,(1911-13),and Galt, Preston & Hespler/ Grand River Railway 1904-1930. Baldwin trucks were used for a wide range of candain and US built streetcars and interurbans as well.


J. G. BRILL COMPANY

Philadelphia PA - One of the largerst manufacturers of electric railway equipment. Formed in 1868 ( horse car era ). Developed a full line of trolley's and trolley car components,which were sold throughout the world. Brill bogies (trucks )were used by many Candian car builders. Bought out several competitors,American,Kuhlman,Wason,Danville,John Stephenson, and the Preston Car and Coach companies amd closed most of them. Brill itself closed in 1956.

GENERAL ELECTRIC

Chicago Il -A gigantic orginization,formed in 1892 from a merger of EDison GE and Thomson-Houston Company. A major supplier ofair brake and electrical components to US and Candain streetcar builders. They built box cab electric in Canda and the US and of Coarse now build deisel locomotives as well.


JEWETT CAR COMPANY

Newark Oh -In business from 1894-1918. Famous for it's big classic wood and steel interurbans.Such as those built for the London and Port stanley RY 1915-1917. Our museum's L&PS 8 is one of these beasts.


McGUIRE-CUMMINGS MFG

Chicago Il - Known mostly for it's sweepers in Canada. Began in 1888 as a car and truck builder.( street car bodies and bogies not road vehicles ) Last car built in 1930.The Toronto Civic railway was one of the few candain street railways to own their passenger cars.


NILES CAR CO

Niles Oh- began in 1901. Built mostly large , very heavy wooden cars. Toronto Civic was amongst it's Canadain customers ( # 107 - 112 from 1913 ) Plant closed in 1917.

PRESSED STEEL CAR CO

Pittsburg Pa - Organized in 1896. Only built frieght cars until 1906. produced the first steel streetcar in NA for Montreal in 1907. Closed in 1954

ST.LOUIS CAR CO

St Louis Mo - World's largest and main builder of the PCC type car. Produced earlier type streetcars for Edmonton and other's. Lasted 1887-1975.

JOHN STEPHANSON CO

Elizabeth NJ - A pioneer railway car builder,starting business in 1831, in New york. supplied Vancouvers first four trolley's in june of 1890. No steel cars were produced by them. Bought out by Brill in 1904,closed in 1917.

WESTINGHOUSE ELECTRIC & MFG CO.

Pittsburg Pa -Produced motors and controllers for electric railways in vast quantities. And became one of the leading air brake suppliers in the world as well. Co-produced a famous steeple cab series with Baldwin as well.

Enjoy Rob

[siberianmo]

G’day Gents!

Home again, home again, jigety jog! [swg] Thanx very much to Ted ‘n Rob for answering the call with regard to Posts between 10 AM and 3 PM. [tup][tup]

Now to those acknowledgments that I had to skip earlier today, along with the most recent:

barndad Doug
Posted: 10 Jan 2006, 19:59:48

At the get-go I must comment on that letter regarding the “Order of Railway Conductors,” excellent! [tup][tup] Really a thought provoking series of thoughts – there but for the Grace of God go I, kinds of thoughts.

I would say that whenever anyone feels as if the world is crashing down upon them, or they find their works schedules a bit to much, or the future looks grim – read this letter! How bad can it get? Consider the plight of someone having to work until death, with no hope whatsoever in sight for a pension, for a chance to enjoy the so-called “golden years,” for all the things many of us take for granted in today’s society. A very, very poignant and eye opening essay. Wonder what happened to the gentleman who wrote that letter[?] And now it becomes a bit more clear why the “grumps” of old who worked the trains got that way! Perhaps not all, but it does shed some light.

Glad you enjoyed the Canadian history Posts. I plan to continue them throughout the year – month by month.

Again, thanx for the words regarding my friend, Jessie.

See ya on Thursday – enjoy your day![tup]

Theodorebear Ted
Posted: 10 Jan 2006, 20:30:39

The most difficult experiences in my life have been to witness the passing of a loved one. Saw my son have the “tubes” removed – took more than one loved pet to the “final reward,” and watched my Grandpa depart my life forever. All, very, very difficult and all remain etched in my mind’s eye forevermore.

I’ve seen death in many other aspects well, some rather impersonal as when ships sink and seamen find themselves tossed around in the swells until they are seen no more. I’ve seen remnants of what humans once were from the debris left in the seas by airliners that have crashed, so forth and so on. It is never easy nor anything one wants to dwell upon. But there it is – an inevitibility for all that is alive today. A plant, a bird, a turtle, a dog, a horse, a person, a cat, a gold fish – they all have a life span and then it ends. We don’t know when, but we know it will happen. My friend Jessie enriched my life and I hope that it was reciprocal.

I think BK’s comments regarding my “other thread” had to do with the fact that hardly anyone from this bar ‘n grill has visited. Nothing more. I appreciate his support, as I do yours – they just are package differently! [swg]

wanswheel Mike
Posted: 10 Jan 2006, 22:09:16

As always, great URL selections – enjoyed ‘em all from this time and a few before. (I’ve had a bit of difficult downloading one or two, but ultimately they come through) You, Sir, are quite an innovative “wit” and much appreciated. Now, how come YOUR Natal Day isn’t listed[?] on our Birthday Watch List![?]

Your are so correct regarding our pet friends who really haven’t departed – for I firmly believe in the continuing existence of the spirit, and I just know my “friends” are still with me. [tup]

trolleyboy Rob
Posted: 10 Jan 2006, 22:33:53 and 22:45:03

So you noticed that Helga ‘n Hilda were kept off the main stage of the Emporium, eh[?] Wise move, I’d say! Unleashing those two on our sophisticated crowd would be like dressing up Boris in a tuxedo and passing him off as Mater Dei at Mentor Village’s finest restaurant. Come to think of it – he WAS wearing a tux! <yikes!>

Didn’t know how “close” we may have come to actually having two “standards” for track gauge in North America. In today’s rather contentious relations between yours and mine, why not[?][swg]
Fortunately, back then, common sense ruled – here and there! Glad you enjoyed the “series.”

Appreciate the words regarding Jessie.

Regarding our Chief Chef’s birthday – if he doesn’t show himself soon, I’m afraid he’s next to be scratched from the Regulars category. I’m all for a “bash of bashes,” and given the time we have, this shouldn’t be all that difficult to arrange. However, first we need a Nick!

coalminer3 CM3
Posted: 11 Jan 2006, 08:16:35

Another most interesting read in your Coal mining in southern WVA treatise. An overworked word, “interesting,” but indeed is what you have provided one and all. One can never fully appreciate what we have today, unless one has an understanding of what transpired before. This is a great place to learn and thanx to guys like you, we have quite a bit to help us along the way. [tup][tup]

Yes, dog friends RULE! So much has been said and written about them and their devotion to us. Best friends I have ever had came with four feet! [swg]

Theodorebear Ted
Posted: 11 Jan 2006, 10:09:39


Hope your journey to meet with your buddies is an enjoyable and safe one! Thanx for the mid-morning Post!

I’d guess you “missed” my morning Posts – so perhaps next time around you’ll catch my “Pike Perspective’s Day” submission. Gotta use that “refresh/repost” feature along with ensuring that you are getting the most current stuff when logging in. [swg]

Glad you appreciate the Summaries – that’s precisely why I Post ‘em – to serve as an aid, or helper service, for our customers. [tup]

Better hope that the Black Turnip and Sleaze Bean patch remains in tact. Those developers are movin’ in. [tdn] What would a celebration be without the BTSP dip[?][swg]

trolleyboy Rob
Posted: 11 Jan 2006, 10:12:03, 10:27:13 and 11:10:14

You’ve been “busy” today! Three in a row, plus the two from last night – a dynamo, fer sure, fer sure! [swg]

Glad you caught the “poster” of those model railroad logo’s – thought it was an appropriate thing for today. [tup]

Lining up some “activity” for us on Rendezvous Saturday[?] Not a bad idea! We’re getting closer! [swg]

Nothing surprises me regarding the weather, either here or where you are. When we crossed Canada in 2002/2003 the snow cover simply wasn’t. We had a decent amount passing over the “Shield” but the Canadian Rockies really were quite bare. At that time “they” were saying that Alberta and BC were into their 5th year of below average snow fall. So, fast forward to today. It is indeed a changing world, not only culturally, politically, religiously, but weather wise too! Our friend Fergie sent me some great stuff while up in the Arctic on his last two trips – and the alarming absence of thick ice is a story that needs to be told. I’ve seen the satellite shots of what the Arctic looks like, insofar as ice cover is concerned, and it has shrunken considerably. Perhaps the “Canadian Snow Birds” will find reason to “vacation” in Ontario one of these days! [swg

Another fine addition to your Classic Juice! Hope you are keeping track of ‘em, for I gave it up once it became apparent that the three of you couldn’t and wouldn’t cut me some slack. [swg] My guess is that only GE and Westinghouse remain as companies in today’s world and only GE has a connection with railroading. Perhaps someone can enlighten us on that.
*********************************************************************************************

Again - As always, appreciate the Posts, the rounds and quarters for Coal Scuttle!. [tup] I will make specific comments later today – gotta get rollin’. [swg]


Later!

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]


Those who acknowledge the other guy, get acknowledged!

[LoveDomes]

Greetings fellow classic train lovers!

I bring to you some new blood at this establishment created for all who enjoy the love of Classic Trains and appreciate the interaction amongst those who have similar interests.

First, let me give you some brief background: I am not a novice when it comes to the Kalmbach Forums. I have participated in the past and had several of those stars. I gave it all up awhile ago for an assortment of reasons. My return is under a new cyber handle and I am essentially starting over.

You may check me out in my profile, but it is rather brief. I am John Larson and preferred to be called, Lars. As you can tell by my handle, I love domes! Just loved those pix provided by siberianmo Tom and the inputs by passengerfan Al. [tup] Heaven just cannot be as good as sitting in a dome car!

I have checked out this thread from pretty much the onsest of its birth and have followed each of you through the months of its existence. I also visit the thread called, "If you like Classic PASSENGER trains, visit here!" although I have not "surfaced" there, yet.

Why am I here and why have I come back to the forums? I miss the interaction and quite simply would like to know that there are some people still around who enjoy mature, adult conversation, without the absolutely nonsense appearing in so many other places.

I give you fair warning, Gentlemen, I detest rude people and fall very heavily into the camp of BudKarr & Tom when it comes to tolerance for the ignorant and inconsiderate. Those who exploit the good intentions of others belong at the bottom of the sea.

So, Mr. Barkeep - or Captain Tom - or Proprietor, or whatever else you may prefer to be called - hit me with a Jack Daniels, black label, on the rocks and I'll plunk down a twenty for a round on me!

Let's roll, Gentlemen!

Lars

[siberianmo]

[#welcome] Aboard, Lars!

It appears that I will not have to go into my "song and dance routine" regarding the facets of "Our" Place that are necessary to introduce this bar 'n grill to newcomers. You have the requisite understanding and background to hit the ground running, so to speak. That makes it easy, indeed!

As you know, the first drink at "Our" Place is on me - ENJOY! [tup] By the by, thanx for the round - Boris stop staring at him like that and ring the bell! <geesh>

Once passengerfan Al resurfaces from his tax preparation involvements, it wouldn't surprise me that he will drop a few Posts 'round here on domes. He is without a doubt an oracle when it comes to passenger trains and in particular, dome cars. If you haven't done so, I'd recommend an "advanced search" on his cyber name - check out any and all of his Posts where "dome" appears and you'll get an eye-full! [swg]

I too have an ongoing appreciation for those cars, and as Posted throughout this thread, my travels have been with VIA Rail aboard those great Budd stainless steel beauties. I think you hit upon a common theme with me when it comes to what heaven must be like! [swg]

I do offer this bit of advice: Let me handle the situations where it appears that interlopers, the ignorant and rude may wander in. It is far better to keep this under some sort of central control rather than deteriorate into what some other threads have experienced. Every now and then even the best of us get "snookered" into thinking someone is sincere, when in reality they are rather "centric" and have no concept of "us," just "me."

I have no other "words of wisdom" to impart and simply offer you the hospitality that goes along with being a customer at this adult cyber bar 'n grill.

Again, [#welcome] Aboard! [tup]

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]

[LoveDomes]

Thank you Mr. Barkeep and I'll take another hit of that black label Tennessee sipping whiskey if you please. [:D]

When I am in someone else's house, I respect the rules of that domain. This is your bar and you are the man! No need to be concerned from my corner. I am not sure whether my contributions will be along the lines of what many here practice - but I do practice what I preach. You acknowledge me, I acknowledge you. You buy me a drink, I buy you a drink. Works in all the bars I have ever frequented and it appears it will here as well.

I may be just a tad ahead of the curve when it comes to researching some of the posts made by the customers here. I have read passengerfan's chronicles over the years and he is quite the information machine.

Some time back you created a thread on the Staten Island Rapid Transit (SIRT) on another forum. http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=-1&TOPIC_ID=31514&REPLY_ID=317278#317278

That was quite an interesting exchange and one that held my attention. You see, we have something in common, we both know Staten Island. I will send you an email and provide a bit more information about me and my connection with the "Island." Surprised? Don't be, for it is indeed a small world. [:O]

That opening night gala you formulated included some pictures that brought back some great memories. The old Roxy Theater in NYC was the "show case" in my youth, while the rest of the country thought only of Radio City Music Hall. The Roxy was the largest in the nation and essentially the "mold" for the palaces to follow. Ah yes, the good old days. A nice trip down memory lane and I salute you , Sir, for keeping these memories alive.[tup]

I see that my mouth is beginning to run away with itself, so it is time to sit and listen. I'll have another, please.

Lars

[siberianmo]

Hello Lars,

This is almost like "Instant Messenger" with the two of us logged on ....

You gotta be kidding me, right[?] A Staten Islander[?] A transplant or for real[?] Still there[?] I'm eagerly awaiting your Email. [tup]

There were some fine movie houses in Manhattan in "my day" and to bring back those names really is a nostalgia kick for me.[wow]

It appears that your arrival at our bar 'n grill came at the right time. An infusion of new blood and new thoughts is not only welcome, it is healthy.[tup]

Enjoy that JD, there's more where that came from! [swg]

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]

[West Coast S]

Eveing Tom and the gang...Round of Johnny Walker Black, easy on the ice... Been quiet due to that fact that my two old week computer will not allow me to sign onto the forums or the net, so much for nine hundred bucks! Anyhow, plan B is in effect until my HP is built.

Tom wanted to comment on how great photo Sunday is becoming, those Canadian roads sure were a class act and continue to be. Rob, barndad, Love Domes, Passeneger Fan.. keep the good information coming. Tom were are the details of that 1953 trip you mentioned on Saturday?
By the way the lastest TRAINS states that the Santa Fe Southern (Discussed in the recent past with
attached photos at "Our Place") will be a major player on a new regional passenger network that also purchased the BNSF line over Raton Pass. Soon this former SF branch will recieve the upgrades necessary for high speed passenger service. I wi***hem the best of luck in this exciting endevor.

Other news...Vintage SP report, a fellow railfan in Chicago informed me of two Southern Pacific SD7's entrained southbound on the IC this past Tuesday, though marked out, true ownership remains a mystery and why the need to travel.
OL' SDs never die, particulary those of SP vintage, upgrades performed over there service lives added performance and reliability to rival anything built new.

Ok Rob,, have you heard of a California Jewett? Nicknamed "Jiggers" by the PE and beloved by all for there throwback styling to ther era of open air wooden interurbans. I've discovered some facts on these unusual little critters, built in 1903 by Laconia for the San Gabrial and Pasadena Ry, aquired during the great merger of 1906, just shy of thirty feet in length, they were quickly transfered to the Venice, Redondo, Newport beach lines were they could be exploited for the tourist traffic and were a easy fit on the extensive street trackage and complex trackwork. True build numbers are lost to the midst of time, but the final "Jigger", assigned to the Torrance Shops, was not retired untilthe closure in 1953, quite a service history, outlasting the eight, nine hundereds, some of which moved to new owners in South America, others were barged out into the pacific and disposed of in a most cruel manner. I'll post more info on this issue as I uncover the facts.

Will gotta run, catch you all later

Dave

[passengerfan]

Good Evening Tom and the rest of the gang. Time for a double CR and a round for the house.
Sorry for my absence this AM but today was a family funeral. Sad!

I am not going to do a STREAMLINER CORNER today instead I am going to type out a excerpt from the Dome Book I have been working on this is to welcome Domelover Lars to Our Place.

The lightweioght Streamlined Dome car was a new type car that entered the North American rail scene following WW II.

The modern Dome car made its first appearance in June, 1945. The railroad that built the first modern dome car CB&Q was also the railroad that introduced the first streamlined diesel powewred train the Pioneer Zephyrin 1934. Later they would introduce the Gallery car to Chicago - Aurora commuters, and the Slumbercoach first appeared in the CB&Q 1956 version of the Vista Dome Denver Zephyr.

The idea for the modern dome car originated with General Motors Vice President and Electro-Motive Division General Manager Mr. Cyrus R. Osborn.
On a trip aboard an A-B-B-A set of the companies new EMD FT diesels units leading a freight through Glenwood Canyon on the D&RGW, while sitting in the fireman's seat he was awe struck by the spectacular view from the sloping windows of the lead diesel unit and the idea for the dome was born. When he returned east Mr. Osborn discussed a dome car with leaders of other railroads. The one railroad leader Mr. Osborn inspired with the idea of a dome car was Mr. Ralph Budd President of the Chicago Burlington & Quincy. The two men close friends for many years discussed the feasibility of a yet to be named dome car. It was from this meeting that CB&Q 4714 SILVER DOME became reality. Along with Burlington's Chief Mechanical Officer Mr. H.H. Ulrich, and Budd Companies Colonel E. J. Ragsdale SILVER DOME became the world's first modern Vista-Dome Car.

The first Dome was reconstructed from the flat top stainless steel 52-revenue seat Budd built coach 4714 SILVER ALCHEMY. This modern lightweight streamlined coach was built new in June, 1940 and would emerge from the CB&Q Aurora, Illinois shops in June 1945 as the first Vista Dome Car. The number 4714 would remain but the name was changed to SILVER DOME.

Both the CB&Q and Budd Companies referred to the converted car as a Vista Dome.

The conversion of the car was accomplished with the help Budd engineers; the car underwent the transformation from an ordinary streamlined coach in less than two weeks to the most talked about coach in postwar history.

How was the 4714 SILVER ALCHEMY selected for conversion? Believe it or not it was by chance the 4714 SILVER ALCHEMY was in the shop undergoing routine maintenance and inspection, it was simply being in the right place at the right time.

Atop the center of the car after shopping was greenhouse looking affair called the dome. This part raised above the roofline of the car featured windows on the sides, top, front and rear. The standard height of this car before shoppingg was the standard streamlined car height of 13' 6" above the rails. Height after reconstruction to the top of the dome area was 16' 1-1/2" above the rails. This would be the highest short dome car built along with a twin outshopped by the same Aurora shop in 1949 4709 SILVER CASTLE to the same plan as the earlier 4714 SILVER DOME. Those short dome built by the the three major car builders Pullman Standard, Budd and American Car & foundry would never 15' 10-1/2" in height above the rails.

Here was the passenger car feature that could not only provide passenger's a nearly unobstructed view to the sides but also ahead over the top of the cars leading, or one could turn to the rear and see over the roofs of the trailing cars. Not to mention the view skyward especially wothwhile in mountainous country or while speeding along the banks of the Mississippi with the Bluffs rising alongside the tracks, or across the river.
The dome of the 4714 SILVER DOME seated 24 passengers arranged in two rows of paired seats facing forward twelve on either side of the center aisle. Above the aisle of the dome was a panel with heating and air conditioning vents with lights down the center for night use at stations. At other times in the night these lights were extinguished leaving only the small aisle lights lining the floor similar to tjose in darkened theaters, these lights did not interfere with night visibility but were visible enough to see ones way to a seat in the dome. From this dome seat at night one could see the locomotives headlight cutting a swath through the countryside ahead of the speeding train. Those night of the full moon the dome seats provided an almost eerie view of the passing countryside.

All future standard or short dome cars from Budd, Pullman Standard or American Car & Foundry would be constructed with a depressed center section below the dome and an aisle running along one side of the car beneath the dome.

To be continued.

TTFN AL.

[siberianmo]

Good Evening Gents!

Set 'em up, Leon a round on me before I check out. Boris ring the bell!

Hello there Dave good to see ya. Isn't the world of computers and computing just wunnerful[?] <grin> They surely can tie one in knots, if ya let 'em ....

Somewhere on these pages is a reference to my 1953 round trip by rail from NYC to Santa Ana, CA. Don't particulary feel like digging it up right now - but here's a brief:

The Boy Scouts held their Jamboree in Santa Ana (Irvine Ranch) in the summer of 1953. I was 15 at time and involved in the Explorer Scout program in NYC.

The NYC contingent traveled in B&O coaches to WashDC - St. Louis, MO - KCity, MO - Colorodo Springs - Santa Fe, NM - the Grand Canyon - to Santa Ana. The Jamboree last about a week, if I remember. The return trip was from Santa Ana to San Francisco - Salt Lake City - Yellowstone Park - Chicago to NYC. There were stops at each of those locations, some overnight. We slept aboard the train as the seats all folded flat to accommodate our sleeping bags. It was a blast fer sure, fer sure.[tup]

Saw a Southern Pacific loco this afternoon pulling a freight along the UP's mainline just west of downtown. Sorry, but I was driving on a very busy Interstate and didn't have the time or inclination to gawk for too long to catch the nomenclature in 5 lanes of traffic! Anyway, another one of those UP/SP paint jobs that so many get their knickers in a knot over. Not me - I think they look "cool."

Glad you enjoy(ed) the pix from Sunday Photo Posting Day! - perhaps we'll be seeing some contributions coming from SoCal, eh[?]

Okay, Boyz - Leon the Night Man has the bar!

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]

[trolleyboy]

Good evening Leon, your looking a bit more bluery eyed than normal, must have been the split shift you worked today[|)] I'll have a CR and a round of the mighty crown for those still standing.

Tom I was happy to help out this morning,I do like seeing the light once in a while[;)][:D]. I have indeed been keeping track of the various speacialty posts I've been making, I will update and repost the index later on this week. Likely saturday. I would say that you are correct, of those companies GE and Westinghouse are the only ones left. GE is still heavily into locomotive building and traction motor and brake system building. I was under the impression that westinghouse was still making brake components as well, through their Wabco affiliates. Ther is a Wabco plant ( Westinghouse air brake company ) here in Ontario in Stoney Creek just outside of Hamilton.

Yes Nick has indeed seemingly joined the legion of the lost. Looks as though Boris and Ted will have to pick up the slack in the kitchen.[:D][:0][xx(]

Lars a hearty "Our Place" [#welcome] To you sir. seems as though the boss has a kindred spirit in the NYC comections as well as your feeling s on rudness of all stripes. something that goes without saying for myself as well. Let me grab your next round as well. [tup][:D] I'm looking forward to yours and Al's dome car interactions as well, always good to add some new perspectives.


Dave Thanks for the Jewett socal style info. A question for you . Were those cars open cars or were they clerestry roofed full passenger cars. I know that when Jewett first started building cars they were the tried and true heavy weight wood over steel Clerestery roofed cars. Jewett was known to make some one offs though. And if they were 30 footers I'm envisioning a single trucked open bench type car.I'm looking so forward to your further PE et al stories.

Sounds like really good news on the SoCal rail passenger front as well,now if only the rest of our two countries would learn from this. Oh well I do hope it all works out for them.

Al If this is a sampling of the book , I can hardley wait for it. As you may or may not know, I have taken on partial control of the museum gift shops managing and buying duties. Two of our main things that we sell are rail biiks and videos ( don't have to be traction related either ) so I guess we will talk.[:)]

Well gents that catches me up fer now. I may pop back in later.

Rob

[siberianmo]

THURSDAY’s INFO & SUMMARY of POSTS

We open at 6 AM, all time zones! (Don’t ask how we do that!)[swg]

Happy 9th Month Anniversary to ”Our” Place on the Classic Trains Forum!
[tup][tup][tup][yeah][wow]

Good Morning! Time to check out the pastries from The Mentor Village Bakery, our <light> and <traditional> breakfasts, along with our freshly brewed coffee (regular and unleaded!) [swg]


Daily Wisdom

If you ask me a question I don’t know, I’m not going to answer. (Yogi-ism)


Info for the Day:

(1) Have you taken the time to read about ”Our” Place’s RR Book Relay[?] If not, check page 215.

(2) Back to our weekly routine (check page 213 for bar hours & food service):

. . . Today is Fish ‘n Chips Nite! and maybe something from Chief Chef [C=:-)] Nick [dinner] Dinner at 5 PM.

. . . Friday is Pizza Nite! - and - Steak ‘n Fries Nite! [dinner] Dinner at 5 PM.

. . . Saturday is Steak & Trimmin’s Nite! [dinner] Dinner at 5 PM.

. . . Sunday is Sunday Photo Posting Day! and the bar is CLOSED!


SUMMARY

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

(1) siberianmo Tom Posted: 11 Jan 2006, 06:50:54 (216) Wednesday’s Info & Summary

(2) coalminer3 CM3 Posted: 11 Jan 2006, 08:16:35 (216) Inclusive Post & Coalmining is Southern WVA

(3) siberianmo Tom Posted: 11 Jan 2006, 08:24:38 (216) Pike Perspectives

(4) siberianmo Tom Posted: 11 Jan 2006, 08:29:12 (217) Acknowledgments

(5) Theodorebear Ted Posted: 11 Jan 2006, 10:09:39 (217) Inclusive Post, ,etc.

(6) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 11 Jan 2006, 10:12:03 (217) Inclusive Post, etc.

(7) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 11 Jan 2006, 11:27:13 (217) etc.

(8) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 11 Jan 2006, 11:10:14 (217) Classic Juice #16, etc.

(9) siberianmo Tom Posted: 11 Jan 2006, 16:08:53 (217) Acknowledgments, etc.

(10) LoveDomes Lars Posted: 11 Jan 2006, 17:15:04 (217) 1st visit

(11) siberianmo Tom Posted: 11 Jan 2006, 18:54:04 (217) reply to LoveDomes

(12) LoveDomes Lars Posted: 11 Jan 2006, 19:23:21 (217) Conversation

(13) siberianmo Tom Posted: 11 Jan 2006, 19:36:21 (217) reply to LoveDomes

(14) West Coast S Dave Posted: 11 Jan 2006, 20:06:50 (217) Inclusive Post, etc.

(15) passengerfan Al Posted: 11 Jan 2006, 20:46:38 (217) Special acknowledgment for LoveDomes – excerpt from book

(15) siberianmo Tom Posted: 11 Jan 2006, 20:52:42 (217) reply to West Coast S

(16) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 11 Jan 2006, 22:17:41 (217) Inclusive Post, etc.

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

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

[siberianmo]

”Our” Place RR Book Relay!





If you wi***o participate, send me an Email with your mailing address and we'll get this idea off 'n running!

I will mail the book to the first person on the list. Within two weeks after receipt, that person forwards the book to the next person, and so forth.

Ground rules:

(1) Additional blank pages have been provided inside the front cover for comments by each recipient.

(2) Comments should include:

. . . (a) Date received and from whom.

. . . (b) What in particular you enjoyed the most.

(3) I will provide the mailing address for the next recipient on the list.

(4) Send me an Email when you receive the book and again when you send it to the next person. That will be our “tracking system.”

(5) The last person to participate, ships the book back to me.

Pretty simple, eh[?]


Enjoy!

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

[siberianmo]

Good Morning Guys!

A new day is about to dawn here in mid-continent USA, one that will see continuing above average temps in the 60s (F), and dry. Tonight however, we’re in for a change, rain, rain, rain. [tdn] Petrol up at “Collusion Corner” was $2.25 (rounded) yesterday afternoon. Dropped a couple of cents [wow]. Up 12 or 14, down 1 or 2. Isn’t that like one step forward, and two back? [swg]


Happy 9th Month Anniversary to ”Our Place on the Classic Trains Forums!


Hey guys, I’m a bit surprised at the rather cold response to the RR Book Relay! [%-)][%-)][%-)]


Received an Email from Nick – he’s still “with us,” but unable to participate right now. Hasn’t abandoned the bar. [tup]


Some acknowledgments are in order from last night and this AM before my dental appointment:


passengerfan Al
Posted: 11 Jan 2006, 20:46:38

Excellent Post on the domes and one that is greatly appreciated! [tup][tup] Good timing in recognition of our newest customer, LoveDomes Lars. That should be one hulluva book. When do you expect a “proof” to go to the publisher[?]

Sorry about the family grief.

Your round for the house was duly acknowledged by the boyz at the bar last night – thanx! [tup]


trolleyboy Rob
Posted: 11 Jan 2006, 22:17:41

Thanx for the round – Leon served a hefty “belt” to one an all! [tup]

Good stuff on the domes, eh[?] Too bad we couldn’t figure out a way to get a “dome of our own” for the Rendezvous in Toronto! A VIA Rail Park Car would do quite nicely – has a bar and two lounges below! [swg]

Now you know what it is like to “talk to yourself” ‘round here during late morning/early afternoon! <chuckle> Slow, slow, slow, isn’t it[?] Just cannot seem to get anyone to seriously move into a time slot to keep us “up” during those times. Oh well ……. Thanx for filling in! [tup][tup]

Your Posts on those industries that “used to be” in Canada and the U.S. have been on my mind. I really hate to see the demise of an entire industry, but understand the dynamics of it all. Just bothers me. I think I was really born a bit too late. Then again, given the world’s situation back then, perhaps not. Comes down to playing the hand you are dealt, eh[?]

Yes, it would appear that we have a “good one” with our newest customer, LoveDomes Lars. However, we’ve been down this road before with others and time will tell – as always! Hope he becomes a frequent visitor and contributor.[tup][tup]


Later!

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]


Those who acknowledge the other guy, get acknowledged!

[passengerfan]

Good Morning Tom and the rest of the gang. Time for coffee and a crumpet from the Mentor Village Bakery.

Dome Article continued Part II

In the case of the CB&Q 4709 SILVER CASTLE and 4714 SILVER DOME there were two aisles down either side beneath the dome and main floor seating, beneath the dome the seating was arranged back to backfacing outward toward the windows. This arrangement cut the revenue seating capacity of these two dome cars to 34 on the main level from the original 52. The 24 seats in the dome were considered non-revenue and this space was not sold, it was open to any passenger who wished to enjoy the passing scenery.

The dome seemed to provide something for everyone to see and enjoy. For the railfan he was virtually over the shoulder of the engineer as the train raced through the countryside and witness the trackside signals turn from green to red as the train broke the track circuit. On certain railroads were semaphore signals were the order of the day not only did one see the light turn from green to red but watched the semaphore arm drop from the upright position to the stop position. One could watch crossing gates drop as the train approached then turn and see them raise once again and the vehicular traffic begin to move once again. Every train meet was witnessed first hand by the railfan sitting in the dome. And what railfan cannot remember riding in a dome when a slower scheduled passenger train or freight was overtaken in double or triple track territory.

For most passengers the attraction of the dome was the viewing of the passing scenery as never seen before from a train. Not even the rounded end observations offered the view provided by the new Vista Dome. In fact no other car type has appeared on the railway scene to provide the view offered by the Vista-Dome.

The short domes from Budd, American Car & Foundry and those UP coach domes built by Pullman Standard in 1958 for the CITY OF ST. LOUIS to AC&F plans provided the best overall dome viewing.

After completion the CB&Q sent the 4714 SILVER DOME on a system wide tour to test passenger reaction to the Vista-Dome and it came back all positive.

The 4714 SILVER DOME did more to influence CB&Q postwar new car purchases than any other car. From this single homemade conversion the CB&Q would become the largest owner cars in the world. This was prior to the with the GN, NP and SP&S that created the Burlington Northern. Only Amtrak would own more domes then the Burlington Northern.

On July 23, 1945 4714 SILVER DOME made its debut, operating to Minneapolis in CB&Q train # 45 from Chicago.

Welcome Domelover Lars hope this article wets your appetite even more for "Our Place" best reading in the forums when it comes to streamliners, traction, photos, and other interesting aricles.

TTFN AL

TTFN AL

[siberianmo]

Good Morning passengerfan Al!

Your Post was made within a minute of mine! Must have checked right out before looking. Remember, use caution at RR crossings and on the Forums - never know what's coming "down the track!" [swg]

Nice fini***o the dome information. Pictures, pix, photos and URLs! [yeah] C'mon, you know how![tup] Too busy[?] Read that Post submitted by barndad Doug on the Conductor. Now, that puts it into an entirely different persepective, wouldn't you agree[?]

Catch y'all later!

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[coalminer3]

Good Morning Barkeep and All Present; coffee, please; round for the house and $ for the jukebox. Warmish here today, supposed to be close to 60 degrees with snow forecast for the weekend. The ski folks in the area will like that, along with the K9 Korps at the house

Many posts with lots of material today and I have copied and saved more than a few of them.

Dome cars, dome cars, dome cars. Some of them wandered offline when they were not needed for their regular assignments. I recall riding in an NP dome sleepers (lettered for North Coast Limited) on ATK's South Floridian Wind - or whatever the train happened to be named that week. N&W had ex Wabash domes on the Pocahontas which was a great place to see what was going on, especially given the terrain on the train's namesake division. I also recall riding in domes on the Crescent (I am not sure of the lineage of these cars, however). The last dome ride I got was on the EB Lakeshore out of Chicago. Again a great vantage point at night for doing saome serious rail watching. There sure are a lot of trains out in the evening on the old NYC.

Question for passengerfan re domes: was there not a model of a dome car set up somewhere along the route of the CZ? I remember seeing a picture of it, but I'll be dipped if I can recall where it was - maybe somewhere on the D&RGW?

work safe

[siberianmo]

Good Morning coalminer3 CM3 and everyone else looking in!

Just returned from a pre-root canal exam. No pain - yet - but it will happen on my next appointment. <ugh> This is a strange circumstance, had a root canal done on the tooth nearly 2 years ago. Sensation began over New Years weekend - specialist says there's another canal in the tooth, undetected first time 'round. Great. So, what's wrong with getting it right the FIRST TIME![?] [yeah] I know, [#offtopic] - Boris set 'em up with OJ all 'round![swg]

Domes[?] Check out these URLs if you want a "dome fix" on this fine day:

http://www.trainweb.org/web_lurker/WebLurkersDOMEmain/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dome_car

http://www.coloradorailcar.com/ultradome.htm

http://community-2.webtv.net/web_lurker/

http://www.uprr.com/aboutup/history/histequp/domedinr.shtml

http://community-2.webtv.net/railnewspb/CaliforniaZephyr/

http://www.trainweb.org/ultradomes/arr/05tour1b.html

Of course there are zillions of sites out there, so don't hold me to this being the all-inclusive listing - no way.[swg]

Appreciate the quarters for Herr Wuritzer's Coal Scuttle, and of course the round! [tup]

Later!

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]


Stick around a few minutes AFTER POSTING - The information you MISS may be for YOU!

[trolleyboy]

Morning Tom and the rest who so far haven't assembled[;)]. I'll grab the extra large coffee ( the one that barely fits in Leon's hands ) and a sampling of the best overstuffed danishes and pasteries that the Mentor has produced for this speacial day. Happy 9 month [bday] to all of us here. H&H are bringing in a speacial mid morning Brunch buffet for all those wishing to partake. They will be grilling to your tastes so just ask them what you want and it will be there,upto and yes including BTSP dip and saurkraut ( garnished with sleeze beans, these are the hydroponic variety from Boris's shed [:0][xx(] )

No Ted yet this morning, hopefully Toyota didn't have to take his computer as payment for the car work[B)]


Tom It is amazing as to how many speacialty rail car / passenger car /locomotive and electric railway equipment companies were and have now gone. Remembering I suppose that alot of them were very very tiny jump on the bandwagon type companies that had no hope in surviving the initial purchasing frenzy of the rail companies. I suppose all the big boys are still with us they have just diversified to maintain their economic health. Gives an interesting snapshot to what was though. Alot like CM3's and Dougs last few posts.

<ugh> Indeed about that tooth[:(!][:(] Are you sure that your dentist isn't Vito's cousin Vinny[?] He uses the family dental plan if you know what I mean.[B)][8][xx(]

Al Nice step two to your excerpt my friend. [tup][:D] I think that the book is gonna be a winnah ! So long as the bankrolling does not come from the Second national of Mentor Villiage[:0][B)][8].

My only dome car riding experiance is on the old WP domes that the Algoma Central is operating on their Agawa Canyon tour train and their Tour of the Line Train. In their case you pay a premium to have seating in the domes,they are very much revenue seats. It is a wonderfull railfan experiance though,espeacially through the scenery leading upto the Agawa Canyon.


CM3 Good to see you in this morning again sir. Second hand or third hand domes as in the ACR's case are still fun to ride in and rail fan from. In my humble opinnion anyway.I'll feed the coal scuttle today for you I found a bag of US coin under the bed[;)] My first pick's of the day on Herr Wurlitzer are the Candian Railway Trillogy by Gordon Lightfoot & The TTC Skedattler from Stomping Tom Connors

Have a good morning folks

Rob

[siberianmo]

Morning trolleyboy Rob and gang!

Couldn't tell if you caught my last Post - or - you are "guilty" of "premature ejection" from the web! [swg] ([yeah] I know, you'll probably "steal" that one too!)

Ommigosh, BTSP AND sauerkraut on the same plate![?] Good grief, where in the world DID these two gals come from - and why us[?][?][:O][%-)] I'm going to get Inspector Clueless of the Local Constabularly to run their immigration information - perhaps we can send 'em back to Teutonsbourg![swg]

Been trying to get a "leg up" on the NOSTALGIA pieces for the future - so I'm typing 'em now, checking 'em using the "preview reply" feature here on the thread and editing where required. Time consuming, but for the most part the end product speaks for itself, wouldn't you agree[?]

The absolute best RR song for me IS the Canadian Railway Trilogy, it plays over and over in my trainroom. But the one that gives me the broadest smile is Willie Nelson's City of New Orleans - love it as well. Don't have a clue about TTC Skedattler and perhaps you'll sing a few bars for us when we Rendezvous in Toronto![swg]

Later!

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[trolleyboy]

I see that tom's in so I'll ay Hi! and then continue with my next info piece.

CLASSIC CNR STEAM # 13 THE FORMING OF THE CNR


Tom and I have talked about the various bits and parts of the CNR so here is the short short history of how they came to be. Enjoy Rob.

Sir Robert Borden,who had become Prime Minister in 1911,kept arguing for publi ownership of a nationwide railway system. He pointed out that 90 % of the Grand Trunk's transcontinental ambitions were already publically funded by government loans,and for only 10 % more the country could own and control the system. Faced by the urgent demands of the war,Parliment decided to act on his suggestion.

It began in 1917 by obtaining the Candian Northern, and appointing a board of directors chaired by D.B. Hanna. The following year, the board's jurisdiction was extended over the Candian Government Railways. 15 lines in all, the main one's being the Intercolonial,the National Transcontinental,the Hudson Bay Railway,and the Prince Edward Island Railway.

Then , on June 6,1919, Parliament passed an act incorporating the Canadian National Railway Company and appointed Hanna as President. The first major aquisition made by the new corporation was of the Grand Trunk Pacific the next year.


The first anual report issued by the board was for 1921, the third year in the life of the new railway. They gave details of the assets and liabilities of the component companies as well as those of Canadian National. They reported earnings in 1921 of $47,321.44, compared to the 1920 defficet of $4 million. By 1923 with the takeover of the rest of the Grand Trunk and it's Grand Trunk Western ( american holdings ) they had built a soilid company.

SOME STATS ON THE NEW RAILWAY


Once the govt incorporated the company Canadian National Railway's, it created one of the largest railways in the world, with various railway related services. All for the benefit of it's sole shareholder the people of Canada ( aka the Federal govt ). At the outset it had 105.905 employees , 2078 pensioners, 3268 loccomotives , 138,925 pieces of rolling stock passenger and freight, 21,700 miles of track, and telegraph lines , hotels, car ferries,barges and tugs.

Candian National telegraph's had 3852 employee's serving the public and railway needs for messeges along 113,105 miles of wire. The express dept had 3255 employee's, as well as 628 horses , 111 motor trucks, 1095 waggons and sleighs, 2959 platform trucks ( hand dollies ), and 584 safes ( locaated in express buildings, amnd stations ) Among the business handles during the year were 47 million pounds of fish,3500 live foxes and 4400 Horses ( principally the racing type )

Eight major hotels. built by the predessesr companies werw there to serve the riding public in style. These were not operated by a separate company but left in control of the General Manager of Hotels,Sleeping and Dinning cars.

[LoveDomes]

Good Afternoon (in my time zone) Barkeep and all in attendance!

Set me up with a black label Tennessee sippin’ whiskey on the rocks and a ham & swiss cheese hero on hard bread with butter and mustard if you please. Here’s a twenty, buy the house a round on me.

Good stuff emanating from all quarters on the dome cars, looks like some interest has been rekindled on that subject. You were right on the mark, passengerfan Al came out to “play” once he saw the word, “dome!” Thank you Al and everyone else for the [#welcome] to ”Our” Place, much appreciated.

Received your email response and I thought you’d be a bit surprised at the “Staten Island connection!” Once again, it IS indeed a small world. So, we are only a couple of years apart, went to different schools together [swg] and have shared some east coast experiences on the rails. Makes for some interesting stories down the line, not to mention a bit of “check and balance” too.

As I get into this thread a bit more in participation and time, I’ll most probably start talking about some of my interests a bit more. Not really too big on revealing ‘all’ in the web profile page, but I haven’t got anything to hide in the general sense. Never have understood some of these people who try to engage without being engaging. What’s the big deal over a name and some rather periphery information about one’s self. It could all be bogus anyway, but makes for a conversation starter.

So, how about that SIRT[?] Did anyone take me up on the URL I posted[?] Tom put out some great stuff on that electrified surface “subway”. (Sorry, I KNOW it wasn’t a subway, but so many people look at those old cars and swear that is what they were.) If any commuter line could be put in a class as a Classic, put me down for nominating the SIRT!

SIRT – The old and the new (1973)


Take note: from internet sources of the public domain. Credit to: Photo by: Doug Grotjahn Collection of: Joe Testagrose

Until the next time, keep the wind at your back, the sun in your eyes, and watch out for the . . . . . pole![censored] [swg]

Lars

P.S. Thank you Tom for use of your photo album for storage.[tup]

[trolleyboy]

Tom I did not prematurly eject from the forum[:O] I was busy preparing the last piece. Ties in quite well with your last couple of nostalgia bits. BTW bulk of the info came from various encyclopedias and Jf Gardens Railways of Canada> this is the super non detailed therfore non-boring rendition.

As to the girls well they just march to their own drummer. I'd be carefull about checking on their papers though Hilda is dating Vito's cousin vinny ( you can tell by her new gold capped teeth ) and Helga's been courting Mr Doyle. Nuff said

I will certainly not sing the TTC skedattler ( no one needs to be tortured that way ) suffice to say Stompin Tom is a bit of an Ontario thing. If you every watch NHL games from Canada you may hear in the background a song called the good old Hockey game played either between periods or stopages in play. That's also one of stompin Tom's hits, the skedattler sounds 'bout the same, just different words.

Rob

[Trainnut484]

Hello Tom and th' gang. I'll have a midday cup of java please. I just want to thank Rob, Al, Tom, CM3, Ted, Mike, and P for the Get Well wishes. I'm not firing on all 8 cylinders yet, but I'm peddling along.

Looks like the grand reopening of the Mentor Villiage Emporium Theatre was a huge success. I'd like to catch a show there someday. Tom, sad story about Jessie. I had to take my dog, Dusty, to the vet for his final trip. He was a Chow and old age (15) was getting the best of him. His mind, heart, and soul was still in it, but the body just wouldn't cooperate anymore. Here's a link that pet owners, and everyone else, can find warm-hearted.

http://www.petloss.com/poems/maingrp/rainbowb.htm

Pete, great to hear from you. Hopefully you'll check in again soon.

[#welcome] LovesDomes Lars, I believe I've seen your previous cyber name before on the other forums. Great to see you're fitting in.

I'm afraid that's about it for now. Gotta get to another class.

Take care,

Russell

[trolleyboy]

Morning Lars. I'll pass on the sipping wiskey for the moment as shortly I'm off to work. Tom had indeed put a good thread together on the SIRT. ( nice picture BTW ) The older cars have sooo much more character.Since you seem to be in the juice crowd as well, Ted and I will likley have alot to chat about with you as well.[tup] Glad that you stepped aboard again.

Speaking of which Boris ring up Mr lars's round looks as though the track gang has that thirsty look about them.

Russ Glad to see you pop by as well. Nice to hear that you are well on your way to breathing well again. I'm sure that Tom and the other pet lovers out there will find that url helpfull. I had stumbled accross it a while back ( well a friend did when they had to take that final trip with their 16 year old Irish setter ) it's a helpfull site to be sure.

Tom I have bookmarked your latest batch o URL's I will peek at them this evening. Well folk I'm off and running like that herd of turtles. I will likely pop in for a night cap in my usual time slot.

Rob

[siberianmo]

Hey Rob! -and - Lars! A two-fer this morning (or afternoon where you are)!

Sure, sure - you can SAY what you will, but VEE HAF OUR VAYS OF FINDING OUT ZEE TRUTH! Don't be afraid to admit it - you are among friends after all, and these things happen to the best of us. Premature ejection - something we need to get out in the open![swg] Sick, sick sick - I am!

Good photo Lars and those old SIRT cars sure bring back some memories too. But they aren't the "golden oldies" of my youth, but close enough. Never saw the "new" cars. Last time I was on "the Island" was for a 25th reunion of my high school back in 1981. Didn't even think about the SIRT. Although trains factored in for part of my week away; rode the MetroLiner up from WashDC to Newark, NJ where a friend picked me up. That was intentional - as I had to have at least one "train fix." Flew to WashDC by USAF to Andrews AFB. Anyway, once on "the Island," the events took over for a 5-day reunion - yes, 5 days and nights. Was a blast, fer sure, fer sure! Story for 'nother place and time.

Rob Are you actually off today[?] If so, does the boss know[?] I mean, how in the world did THAT get approved[?][swg]

Looks like Lars wants to "engage" a bit with commuter and electrified rail. I'm sure he'll find some "takers" 'round here, wouldn't you agree
[?]

Oh THAT Stompin' Tom seems I did hear him at the old rink for the Leafs between periods. Didn't connect the dots. Love the name - thought perhaps you were either threatening me - OR -referring to me![swg]

You have GOT to be KIDDING about the "connection" those Teutonic beasts gals have with the guyz you mentioned. Is this for real, or surreal[?] To be continued, no doubt ....

Okay - gotta get back to playing get-ahead-of-the-curve!

Later!

Tom[4:-)][oX)]