"OUR" PLACE - SEE NEW THREAD!

[coalminer3]

Good Afternoon BArkeep and all Present; fill the thermos, please, round for the house, and $ for the jukebox.

Here's a url which is right interesting. I figured I'd better post otr b4 it got old or BBC took it down. I'll reply to other notes and comments in my usual tomorrow a.m.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/programmes/from_our_own_correspondent/4609450.stm

Have a good evening

work safe

[siberianmo]

Good Morning!


Should make mention that ’”Our” Place will be conducting interviews for a new position. We require the services of a part-time relief daytime bartender. While Cindy was on sabbatical from her university, everything worked out fine.[yeah][wow]<no kidding!> However, now that she’s back to her full-time faculty job, I’m in need of some help for those periods when I’m away from the bar.

Boris has been relegated to return to his normal duties as kitchen help, and odd-job’s man about the bar. It’ll be a snowy day in I’m rather uncertain whether I’ll permit him behind the bar again. Reports are trickling in and from what I’ve heard, Tex the Armadillo sleeping ON the bar is just the tip of the berg. Just got off the phone with the Chair”person” of The Mentor Village Temperance Union and Rosetta Stone Deciphering Circle. Seems that two of her gals ladies came in the other day to collect a few coins from our customers, and left shrieking in horror at the sight of Boris in what they described as “the all together!” I’m not at all convinced that he was down to “bare essentials,” but when questioned about it, he mumbled something about having to wash his cloven feet in the deep sink behind the bar. Seems the detergent really gets in and …. Oh well, I don’t think we need to know anymore than that!<groan>

So, I’ll be putting together an Ad, with the requirements, and will personally oversee this venture. Given our Chandler’s suggestion, I think not. No connections wanted with that bunch from Teutonia.[swg]

A few more acknowledgments this fine day!

coalminer3 CM3
Posted: 17 Jan 2006, 08:12:10

Ever hear of Turtle Pond Parkway[?] We lived right off it, pretty much on the border between Dedham & Hyde Park. The USCG actually bought out a subdivision and used the housing for those of us with families. It was a terrific location and the duplex units were outstanding, especially in consideration of the housing costs in “Taxachusetts” back in those times. The 5 years I spent in the Boston area were good ones, albeit many months away at sea. But perhaps more so in good for the family. We departed right before the outbreak of school violence back in the early 70s. Whereas you moved to WVA, we moved to Tidewater, VA. Amazing, eh[?]

Here’s a pretty good URL to peruse: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_England_Patriots

Those NOSTALGIA ads that I’ve put together really need the accompanying pix. Seems to me that there couldn’t possible be a copyright infringement, given those RRs have folded the tent, so speak. But then again, who knows – perhaps some organization bought up all the rights. I just may chance it. Anyway, glad that you are taking notice and enjoying them.

Railcars with “bleacher seats”[?] Funky looking trains, I’d guess. But given the zeal with which New England loves the sea, I can see it![swg]

Thanx for your continuing contributions to Herr Wurlitzer’s Coal Scuttl! Boris ring the ding, the WVA man has bought a round![tup]

By the by, I’ve had a minor set back with that pix scanning venture we discussed by Email – I should be up and runnin’ today.[tup]

Theodorebear Ted
Posted: 17 Jan 2006, 08:21:46

A good day to you, too! Must admit, I’m a bit “light” on the input for Pike Perspective’s Day! although I can always find something … just a matter of putting it together.<grin> I’m really having a bit of trouble getting motivated to work on the subway system! Hmmmmmm.

Much diversity in jabber lately and it is most entertaining. Hope to see some Classic Trains “stuff” begin to flow again, as we seem to be off on a tangent with social issues, et al. Well, that’s just the kinda stuff one hears at a “brick ‘n mortar” bar ‘n grill, so why not here[?][swg]

Email received and responded to – thanx!

I’m going to try one more time with the RR Book Relay! Not getting the responses I had expected. However, I will get the book sent out – promise. Thanx for the “plug.”[tup][tup]

I don’t recall a follow-up on that ½ gauge Budd Dome either. Anyone out there following this[?]

Next time I go to the track (which is NOT something I do) I’ll have to tap your “crystal ball.”[swg]

LoveDomes Lars
Posted: 17 Jan 2006, 08:59:14

Caught those pix you Posted over at “my other thread.” Sweet! Looks like we are in competition over finding these things. Good job![tup] Don’t forget to re-do ‘em for us on Sunday Photo Posting Day!

Appears that your switch was definitely “flicked” awhile ago, as was mine. Best to let the matter drop – what was said is all that needs to be said. This IS a Classic Trains discussion site and we all need to focus on that a bit more.[tup][tup]

I’ve got a few things put together on the SIRT, but all from internet sources. Sure wish I could’ve found that book by Irvin Leigh & Paul Matus, Staten Island Rapid Transit, 1860-1965. It has been out of print for decades and I haven’t even come close to finding it on amazon.com or similar sites. Nope, I don’t “do” eBay – today or tomorrow. Not my thing.

Anyway, I got a lot from www.rapidtransit.net/net/thirdrail/0201/sirt1.html
and www.forgotten-ny.com/SUBWAYS/SIRT/sirt.html
You may want to give it a looksee.

Your reference to my personal appearance surely has more to do with my “jeans” than my “genes!”[swg] Let’s just consider ourselves brothers in the sense of The Three Horsemen! Watch out Attila, Ivan and Genghis there ain’t room in this here town for allus![swg]

Thanx for the thought regarding the RR Book Relay!. You are correct Sir, a picture book of the world’s trains – and well done at that![tup]

Oh yes – received your Email and response on the way – thanx![tup] Between this thread and Emails I’m runnin’ out of time ……. Arghhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh.[swg]

Rob Just caught your Post BEFORE I set out to Post this one (see GOOD habits work!)[swg]

From the looks of the weather map, your part of the world is having “slop” today![swg] Gotta c’mon down here for a bit. I’m sure we could find lotsathings to do – and there’s a couple of ‘puters hooked up to keep your “oar in the water” with the Forums![swg]

We’re back to browsing around for a trip in mid-May/early June. That Algoma Central sure looks like fun. Now if only we can find a way to get there without having to take out a 2nd mortgage!<groan>

Like sailor talk, eh[?] Well, it could be worse! All talk about trolleys, beer, gals, trains, hockey, work, play, and …… makes one a “dull boy!”[swg] There are a couple of guys that I see from time to time who are REAL sailors in the sense that these guys were absolutely weaned on and of the sea. Mine is more of a “thing that happened,” although I do have a lineage going back to Germany and the Kaiser’s Navy where both Grandfathers served (there’s that word again!) their native land. My father, his brother, my mother’s two brothers and moi, have all found ourselves doing our thing aboard ships. Could be worse I suppose! Sitting around drinking Blue swapping lies (aka: tales) and laughing at ourselves! Sounds to me like the makings for a RENDEZVOUS![yeah]

Thanx for stoppin’ in! Batter you say, batter[?] So THAT’s what that “stuff” is all over his overalls![swg]


Important point regarding Email: I have received two lately with attachments that have been cited by my software as being suspected of containing a virus. Therefore they were discarded. These are the “garden variety” readdressals” that get passed around in cyber space. Just thought I’d let y’all know. Ensure YOUR virus protection software is up to date and has the ability to screen these BEFORE you open ‘em. Otherwise, your computer winds up in drydock, and perhaps destined for the scrap yard.


Later!

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]


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

Those who acknowledge the other guy, get acknowledged!

[trolleyboy]

Good morning Tom < and all the ships at sea > I'll grab a coffee and the light breakfast,maybe a short stack or two ( so long as Boris hasn't mixed the batter )

Cold wet and rainy again today. I noticed yesterday amd this morning that our local collusion corner jumped gas from $.91 a litre to$ .99. Dollars to donut's when I come home from work this evening it will be $.94. Interesting how the same underground tank of gasoline's price can change in an 18 hour stretch. A job for the good inspector should he leave helga alone long enough to come up for air.

Mike, Tom ,& Lars I'll stay out of the draft talk, we have never had it here other than in 1917,everything is still volentary. I almost signed up for our navy but several physical problems compelled me to civilian life. ( re bad eyes wear glasses and I sink rather than float [:O] not a good thing for a navy guy one wouild suspect ) Still I've a;ways given [tup] for those that do serve.

Ted You never wnat to actually finish it it's always going to need some tweeking. Otherwise who's going to pay the saleries of all those poor hobby shop employee's [swg]

I hate to think what may or may not become of NO's fine traction system. On one hand they could rebuild and become a shinning example of what to do. Or the opposite is true. I unfortunatly have my suspicions as to which will happen...

Heather's not a "sun" person. I'm not either for that matter. I have visited your fine state maybe three times in my life. One obligatory visit to WDW other than that we avoid such places. If I can convince her to travel south I will most certainly do so. Zombie birney's are better than no birney's.


Mike Nice to see those url's. as alway's excellent research my friend.[tup] I imagine that they are changing their over head to strait AC as opposed to DC. No need for rectifier's etc. They would have to convert the motors , controllers and power systems in the cars as well to make them compatable. same as AC traction in diesel locomotives. Less maintenance and more of an instant hit for getting off the mark and going. Nice to see that at least a part of the South shore is still a going concern. Again this could be concidered a shinning example of what should be in our larger cities.

CM3 Yes indeed the GRR had many a name a twist. Not unlike King Henry the Eigth. LOL Most of the system is still intact. Aside from the catenery, trolleybarns and shops most of the stations still stand ( used for other purposes ). CPR still is a going concern switching the Toyota Lexus plant amd soon to add a second plant currently under construction,a large Westinghouse transformer plant a few other auto related supply plants. The speed River bridge groans under the weight of two three CPR GP38-2's and never ending cuts of auto racks and parts cars. Had the electrification still been there, they would have to have raised the height of the overhead for today's oversized freight cars.

Lars The" bad gene's" could always be repaired for the right amount of money. I'm sure that vito has a cousin in the "plastic trade" LOL [swg]

Nothing much to report pikewise for me. I have started cataloging doner cars ( large lot of questionable bachman PCC's and Brills ) as suitable doners for a few scratch building projects I'm contemplateing. A double truck water sprinkler car and a line car of some sort are the first order of business. With Heather's car croaking I've been preoccupied searching out a replacement to do much pikewise lately. QWe pick up the new money pit on Monday though so hopefully I'll be able to egt back in the sadle as it were.

Till later fokls .

Rob

[LoveDomes]

Good Morning Tom and spirited bunch at the bar!

I see some fine contributions this morning and also a "blood pumper."

Thank you, one and all, for making me feel "at home" at this respite from reality. Although I am certainly not in need of a place to seek shelter in this phase of my life, stopping in does provide that "grounding" we all need from time to time.

Mike you hit a nerve with that comment of yours regarding the draftees. I too am a product of the times that Tom speaks of. My number was also at the top of the Draft Board's list. There were no deferments coming my way. In all the days leading up to graduation from high school, the talk around the dinner table when it came to me, was "What branch are you going into?" It was a given that the men of my family and the families throughout the area where I grew up, would all enter the military. I chose the U.S. Navy for perhaps some of the reasons Tom made his selection. Didn't want any part of fox holes and Army life. Four years sailing "the ocean's blue" made much better sense in my young scrambled head.

Knock the draftees? I didn't see that. Mine was a four-year stint and there were all sorts aboard the ship I served in. Some guys were transparent in why they were "in," others were more like me. It was something we all had to do, get it over with, and get started with our lives. I hold everyone in similar esteem when it comes to serving our country in an honorable manner. Only the ones who have served know whether they gave of themselves to the best of their abilities. I tried to do my best, then and throughout the remainder of my working years.

I wouldn't give a "plug nickel" for a draftee who caused grief from the moment of entry until kicked out, or treaded water until discharged. Nor do I hold these types up to the admiration I have for others who have served and served well - no matter what the motivation to join. I'm with you all the way on this, Tom!

Just browsed your other thread and enjoyed the pix! Submitted a few of my own.[swg]

Just want you to know, Tom that I have the book you are advertising for the RR Book Relay!. Highly recommend it guys, it is a picture-book, so don't fret - nothing to worry about regarding a final exam or term paper![swg]

I'll try to get a 2nd installment of my S.I.R.T. series put together before the week's end. And, I'm wondering - when is the next issue of "The Mentor Village Gazette"? Is this a monthly paper? Really enjoyed the three you've put out thus far .....

Twins, you wonder Rob! Hardly. From the pix I have viewed of Tom, he must have come from the "good looking genes" in the family.[swg]

Until the next time - set 'em up on me and Boris Ring the bell! Will a ten spot handle it?

Lars

[Anonymous]

Well, its another day (thank heavens) and we are looking at a possible freeze just north of here.[:O] Tom, a ration of cafe noir, French Toast with Mrs. Butterworth's maple syrup should start the day off with a international flavo(u)r, thank you.[^] Let's see, from Dome cars to the N.F.L./A.F.L., to maritime disasters, to paper routes, to world class R.R. hotels, to "Pop and Rock," to vintage movies: this is definately "My Kind of Town" [the Village is].[^] Its Wednesday so it must be Pikes Perspective Day," right? In that regard, I must report that nothing towards the addition of an El to my HO layout has been done. I'm still elevating the North leg of the ROW to a more reasonable gradient. This entails "moving mountains," not to mention adding an impediment to my work bench area. Oh well, the worst thing that could happen is that I fini***he thing.[(-D]

Thanks Mike for the fine photos of the C.S.S. & S.B. and yes, the older orange cars are the heavy weights I am familiar with.[tup] Street traffic had every reason to be cautious with such Goliaths trundling down the avenues. That is evidenced in the picture of the hapless (1950 Chevrolet?) auto mishap.[xx(] Every manner of bazaar street rail and traffic accidents were prevelant through the Interurban and Trolley "Golden Years."[:(] I am still apprehensive concerning the future of New Orleans traction and, of course, the City itself. Any further oratory from local civic leaders might well bring the "future" for that once dynamic City into question.[V]

Northern Pacific Nostalgia # 58 piece brought back to mind a previous question on the appx. 1/2" gauge model of a Budd dome car along the ROW. Did anyone ever determinne which R.R. and the location of this "display model?" I probably missed it in the concurrent avalanche of posts at the time.[zzz] While dwelling on the neglected past, what has become of the "Book Relay" proposed by our esteemed Proprietor? It sounds a lot more fun than Clearing House Sweepstakes and assuredly more honest. Rob, after reading copius numbers of the "Juice Encores," I must now trek over to Tampa for a sorely needed traction "fix." Granted the "cloned" Birneys aren't Niles or Jewetts but the "moan and droan" of the motors, bell and whislte, plus the vertigo from tight curves is "Mana from Heaven" for me. You should see the elaborate (over-Kill) cross over the Trolley has spanning the CSX ROW. There is even a full time flagman thrown in for good measure. Some cold Winter season you and your lovely family should consider a "get away" 'round these parts.[tup] Nick, what can I say? "Stiff upper lip" and all the rest. Was my post for Pete's call fortuitous or what?[^]

Well, I'm not "there" yet but I'm working on it folks. Boris, you seem no the less for the wear after your trip to the "Old Country."[alien] Hummm, future "Peter Principal" promotion in the offing, eh? I hope no one orders a spoon layered Zombie![8] Happy rails, see ya soon.

[coalminer3]

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

Many things to read in the "overnight mail."

First - Jim Nance came to your house? Egad! I remember him quite well. I recall when the Pats played at Fenway Park and, again I am really reaching back here, but IIRC, they also played at Nickerson Field (BU).

BTW, my last residence in MA, b4 moving to WV was on Washington St. in Dedham. Lots of New Haven history in the area and more than a few artifacts if one knew where to look.

The NYC ad was interesting. Every so often they ran ad campaigns touting the $ saving aspects of train travel. IIRC, they had several ads of a similar type that ran promoting their Sleepercoach service(s).

Hot dog - a regatta! How about a steam division? Nick can provide airborne coverage from the Zep, while the walking beam boats compete. The New Haven, back in the day, used to run special trains for the Harvard-Yale boat races. The consist included cars with bleacher seats so folks could watch the competition as the train ran along the tracks that paralleled the river.

The Grand River Rys certainly evolved and changed with the passage of time.

And as for the South Shore - a fascinating operation. although I do miss the Little Joes. I spent a fair amount of time around them over the years which sent me back to a 1969 Official Guide.

Back in the late 60s the CSS&SB had belt switching connections in Chicago with the B&OCT, BRC, C&WI, and IHB.

Their other connections were as follows:
South Bend - PC and Grand Trunk
Michigan City - Monon, N&W, PC, and C&O
Miller - B&O
Goff Jct. - EJ&E
Gary - PC, N&W
East Chico - IHB, B&OCT
Burnham - C&EI
Chicago (15th St., and Cottage Grove Ave.) - IC, CRI&P

They had freight sales offices throuighout the country including ones in San Franciso, Seattle, Portland, and Vancouver

Here's a little promo

Route your passengers via CSS&SB - the convenient way to Hammond, Gary, Michigan City, and South Bend.
Special Reduced Rates AVailable for Groups

work safe

[siberianmo]

Mornin' Gents!

So what's it gonna be today[?] Looks like a sunshine day 'round here - temps in the 20s, but expected to rise rapidly into unseasonably warm January. What's new[?][swg]

Sorry, Mate - we don't recognize Elvis 'round here, except on the rarest of occasions. I can still see and hear him on his first appearance with Ed Sullivan. <ugh> First time I actually questioned the "sanity" of my high school sweetheart![swg]

"Knock draftees," where in the world did you get that notion, wanswheel Mike[?] Amazing, simply amazing what one can construe from someone else's thoughts and words.[wow]

Since you brought it up, I have NO sympathy whatsoever for the kids of yesterday who were forced to serve their country. None. Mine was a simple choice: my "number was up," the Army for two, or another service for four. I chose the latter. Motivation: needed a job, a place to sleep and three squares. Serving my country was a 'given' in those days, just a matter of how and when for the people I "hung" with. Can't and won't speak for the motivation of others.

As a careerist, the ending of the draft was a good deal for those of us "in." Much easier to work with people who wanted to be there as opposed to those who didn't. Made all the difference in the world. Insofar as society is concerned, that's a totally different matter. I'd say we lost quite a bit along the way in the socialization of young men, not to mention attitudes in general about what one's "duty" to country is and should be. 'Nuf on that score. Bors Ring 'er up - OJ all around![swg]

[tup][tup] For those fine pix within the URLs! Thanx.

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]

[wanswheel]

Hi Tom and every who. A <light> breakfast and Eight O'Clock Coffee is fine.

I salute all who had the gumption to sign up and serve, but let's not knock draftees gratuitously, please. LBJ withdrew from us the option to turn 20 as civilians, so we were all in the same boat. Well maybe not a boat.

Tom, Elvis sort of "stole" Blue Suede, and the flip side was "Honey Don't," more famously sung by Ringo. According to Paul McCartney, "If there were no Carl Perkins, there would be no Beatles."

Ted, the dope on "the last electric interurban" is that it doesn't go downtown South Bend anymore, rather it begins its route to Chicago at South Bend airport. The CSS&SB chose not to join Amtrak in 1971 so it was obliged to keep the passenger service going. I rode it in 1976. It was interesting to ride a train right down the middle of a street. www.monon.monon.org/sobendpixs3/sobend_sstreet3.jpg The cars on the South Shore Line now were built by Nippon Sharyo Seizo Kaisha Ltd. of Japan and Sumitomo Corp of America, earliest delivery 1982. www.monon.monon.org/railpixs1/soshore_bendix.jpg Constructed of fluted stainless steel, 85 feet long with center doors and 2 pantographs. Top speed 75mph. Usual consist, 4 to 6 cars, sometimes 8 cars at rush hour. Very seldom run as single unit. Hoosiers are wary of brake failure. www.monon.monon.org/railpixs2/11-07framess2.jpg "Railway Age" Jun '01 said the South Shore Line was converting the entire system to continuous welded rail, overhauling cars for conversion to A.C. Propulsion (not sure what that is), and contemplating a new constant-tension catenary system.
www.yackalot.net/ssscans/12-04HudsonLake1975-2.jpg Bix's stop again
www.yackalot.net/ssscans/08-21SS-goodrickD.jpg Studebaker-Packard lark

[siberianmo]

Does anyone see me[?]

WEDNESDAY’s INFO & SUMMARY of POSTS

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


Another a new day! Why not begin it with us by drawing a hot cup of freshly brewed coffee[?] While you’re at it, try our <light> and <traditional> breakfasts along with freshly baked pastries from The Mentor Village Bakery!


Daily Wisdom

This is very poorly unorganized. (Yogi-ism) Is anyone reading these[?]


Info for the Day:

* Weekly Calendar: Does anyone care[?]

Today is Pike Perspective’s Day!
Thursday Fish ‘n Chips Nite!
Friday Pizza Nite! & Steak ‘n Fries Nite!
Saturday Steak ‘n Trimmin’s Nite!


SUMMARY

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

(1) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 17 Jan 2006, 01:20:14 (222) Inclusive Post, etc.

(2) siberianmo Tom Posted: 17 Jan 2006, 01:27:25 (222) Monday’s & Summary

(3) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 17 Jan 2006, 01:30:38 (222) etc.

(4) siberianmo Tom Posted: 17 Jan 2006, 07:42:09 (222) reply to trolleyboy, etc.

(5) nickinwestwales Nick Posted: 17 Jan 2006, 08:15:47 (222) Inclusive Post, etc.

(6) LoveDomes Lars Posted: 17 Jan 2006, 08:49:04 (222) Inclusive Post, etc.

(7) siberianmo Tom Posted: 17 Jan 2006, 10:45:12 (222) Acknowledgments, etc.

(8) Theodorebear Ted Posted: 17 Jan 2006, 12:23:17 (222) Inclusive Post, etc.

(9) coalminer3 CM3 Posted: 17 Jan 2006, 12:57:22 (222) PM check in

(10) siberianmo Tom Posted: 17 Jan 2006, 13:02:57 (222) Acknowledgments, etc.

(11) coalminer3 CM3 Posted: 17 Jan 2006, 13:20:25 (222) oooops

(12) siberianmo Tom Posted: 17 Jan 2006, 13:30:10 (222) reply to coalminer3

(13) Theodorebear Ted Posted: 17 Jan 2006, 13:47:57 (222) Disclaimer, etc.

(14) siberianmo Tom Posted: 17 Jan 2006, 14:54:15 (222) NOSTALGIA #58 – Ad, NP (1947)

(15) siberianmo Tom Posted: 17 Jan 2006, 18:29:05 (222) NOSTALGIA #59 – Ad, NYC (1954)

(16) passengerfan Al Posted: 17 Jan 2006, 19:17:22 (222) Most informative Post!

(17) nickinwestwales Nick Posted: 17 Jan 2006, 21:26:23 (223) Inclusive Post, etc.

(18) nickinwestwales Nick Posted: 17 Jan 2006, 21:34:56 (223) etc.

(19) siberianmo Tom Posted: 17 Jan 2006, 22:05:17 (223) Acknowledgments, etc.

(20) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 17 Jan 2006, 23:04:03 (223) Inclusive Post, etc.

(21) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 17 Jan 2006, 23:36:25 (223) Classic Juice #17


NOW SHOWING at The Mentor Village Emporium Theatre: Is anyone interested[?]

. . . January 16th thru 21st: Disaster on the Coastliner (1979-TV) starring Lloyd Bridges, Raymond Burr & Robert Fuller.


That’s it! [tup][;)]

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

[trolleyboy]

Okay a content post for this evening as well. The CPR electric lines were an important part of the Southwestern Ontario Rail scene. I'll do them in a few installments. I'll put them out in very thin format as they literally can fill volumes. < And do >

CLASSIC JUICE # 17 THE GRAND RIVER RAILWAY BEGINNINGS


It began as one of Canada's first electric street railways, four miles of track known as the Galt and Preston Street Railway. In 1894, it was built from the Grand Trunk station in Galt,following King and Main to the speed river in Preston,and the collection of resort hotels known as Preston Springs. The early years were good ones,and by 1896 the line had expanded to Hespler, and thereby remnamed as the Galt, Preston and Hespler Railway. ( All three towns are now known as the City of Cambridge Ontario ) By 1898 it was carrying 35,000 passengers and 1,000 tons of freight each month,thanks largely to connections with the CPR station at samuelson street in Galt.


In the meantime, the Preston and Berlin railway was building from the GP&H at east Preston,following a route that took it through Freeport,Centreville,and along King street in Berlin( preasant day Kitchener ) to it's junction with the Waterloo and Berlin Railway at Albert street. It's Waterloo terminus was at Erb st near the site of what was Waterloo's St Jacobs tourist Raiway line. ( This line will likley be part of the New Light rail system building for Waterloo,Kitchener and Cambridge

Service on this new line the PBR began in 1904 and four years laterthe line merged with the GPH itself. Car barns and a station were built at Preston Jct, on the north side of th speed rivernear the entrance to today's Riverside Park. Another station was built on Guelph street at the popular Idelwyde Park,and a terminus added onGuelph street in Hespler. Later still in 1918 the line recieved it's final name the Grang River Railway.

CPR Ownership

In 1921 the route was realigned trough Kitchener between the city limit and Courtland St. To accomodate this new alignment at station was built at Queen st, a wooden structure initially which was replaced by a Tudor style brick station in 1943. In Galt, a new solid brick station built to CPR's " international" flat roofed style wa added at main street.

Although bus service began in 1925,rail passenger service remained largely uninterrupted until 1938 when it was cut back from Waterloo to the Queen st station in Kitchener. And following the war, a new set iof passenger coaches, the first interurban's built in canada since 1930 were put into service betweenKitchener and Galt. More frieght business was picked up at this point with steeple cabs becomming more common sights on the line than the strings of interurban cars.

The booming frieght business was continued as well,feeding the CPR line in Galt. But the post war auto boom soon began to take it's toll and passenger traffic declined,finally ending in 1955. The old GRR track was cut back from Centreville to Ottawa street,while a new link was built from a point south of Centreville to a CN spur on the West side of Kitchener. Electric frieght operations continued untill 1961 when COP pulled the plug a switched the line over to SW1200RS diesels. In the 1990's more trackage was pulled from between Ottawa street and Victoria park. Trains continue to use the GRR tracks between Centreville and Preston JCt where new spurs were built to the new Toyota assembly plant.


Enjoy Rob

[trolleyboy]

Good evening Leon. A crown and a round for any interested parties her at the ole bar.A bit of a quiet day here,but some good conversation nonetheless.

Tom Moi concider H&H as unworthy replacements for Cindy never.[;)] However Trude thier younger ( more attractive cousin may serve ) Other than some minor spills and Tex sleeping on the bar Boris's solo flight on the bar wasn't too disasterous.

To answer your question Mr Lightfoot is comming to the Sanderson Centre either in June or July < the actual date's not been confirmed yet > from what I have heard he's still got it. Several of my friends went to his concert in St Catharines last year and said they had a capitol time. He doesn't sing as long anymore maybe 45 minutes but he's still got it. Saw him on CBC last fall and he seemed allright,mind you he only played one song.


Lars Thanks for the aswer to my question. Amazing how many of the street railway systems and El's all seemed to call it quits in the early to mid 50's. I have to agree with Tom though the two of you have had earily similar lives. Are you sure that your niot Tom's long lost twin [?] LOL

I agree with you guy's on the drivel out there on the forums as well. rarely do I stray from here or my museum thread < which has had it's rash-giving moments as well. >

Nick I have no means of burning or otherwise clandestinly copiing a Lightfoot concert should we be luckey to land tickets. The Sanderson centre is a small but very ornate old theater here in Brantford, but they do not tolerate such antics. In fact they make people leave their cells etc outside the hall before allowing them to enter. IMHO a good policy,I've yet to see something there and had it drwoned out by someone elses inane chat on a cell phone. Glad Pete contacted you [tup] Hopefully if he does head back to your side of the pond in June you caan indeed spend some quality drinking Time with him. I enjoy a good spiked cider myself once in a while. Not common here but if you look hard enough it's there.


Tom & Al The back and forth on the passenger ad's and cars was quite good. I'm looking forward to the Dominion piece Al,<with baited breath as they say >Another sailor to boot too! We could have our own "Our Place Regatta " at this pace,let see heavy fours or single sculls though [?] Throw in my love of everything RCN and I'm sure that we can all twirl quite a tale.


That should mostly catch me up on te commings and goings Back soon.

Rob

[siberianmo]

Evenin' Gents!

Just a quickie to acknowledge the fine Posts by passengerfan Al & nickinwestwales Nick [tup][tup][tup]

Great news regarding contact with pwolfe Pete! Man of his word, indeed![tup]

Al Thanx very much for your continuing support here and on my "other thread." Very much apprecited![tup]

Nick I also heard that Lionel Train rumor, and will offer a bit more once I have a chance to check it out.

Al You are soooooooooo fortunate to have traveled those CPR and CNR passenger trains of yesteryear. [wow] Insofar as the hotels are concerned, both of those RR's surely made their marks.

Nick You sell yourself short, my man. Court jester indeed. Your role 'round here is as vital to the success of our bar 'n grill as mine. Synergy, mate, synergy.[tup][tup]

Al That comment you made regarding "when it came time to go in the service" speaks volumes of the times and people such as you and I. We KNEW that serving was all part of what our duty was, and who wanted to be drafted![swg]

Oh, by the by - my experiment with Boris behind the bar seemed to pass the first test. Everything was in good shape upon my return. No reports of customers running amok in fear of their lives.[swg] He just may work out - time will tell. Plan is to let him handle the bar, a little at a time. I'm still looking for a replacement for Cindy now that she's back at the unviersity. No, no, no Rob don't even go there - not H&H! No way, no how.[tdn]

Time to prepare for that 5 AM reveille!

Leon the Night Man has the bar! Drinks on me - ring the bell Boris!

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]

[nickinwestwales]

Al- sorry I missed you-another case of simultaneous posting,so,another matleau revealed-there seems to be an underlying secondary interest aboard this merry vessel-o.k-hands up anyone who HASN`T spent time behind the mast ?

[nickinwestwales]

Well good evening fellow tipplers,drink up please cos it`s time for a round from across the water [4:-)]TOM-If you would be so kind-I`ll try a Staropramen,one yourself and refre***he company.
Well,I bear glad tidings from our touring member PETE-he called me this afternoon from Swansea,due to cancellations and late running he was unable to make the last 70 miles across to here,but he and his lady wife are both in fine fettle,enjoying their holiday and he is eager to get back amongst it and catch up with the ebb & flow.
He is of the opinion that he will be back over in june for a family wedding and we will definately raise a glass or two together ( We have a tall ships regatta due around then and waterborne high jinks are positively indicated ).
Am late tonight after a 3-way real-time conversation-a facility I didn`t realise this machine possessed-with the remaining members of the band,both of whom are as eager as myself to treat Charlie`s desertion as a positive opportunity and to move onwards and upwards a.s.a.p--splendid stuff [^]
General query-I heard somewhere recently that Lionel Trains are now owned by Neil Young,the well known Canadian troubadour and Steven Spielberg,who I understand is something in moving pictures-I know Young has a huge ( barn sized) Lionel spread which is part of the therapy for his deaf-blind kids,which gives the rumour some substance--can anyone shed any light on this ??
LARS-thank you for the kind words,my function here is largely one of `court jester`-since I have little to contribute in the `Classic Trains` area,I try to flesh out the bar & grill side of things and prevent it all becoming too dry and dusty and technical--aided and abetted by those masters of the surreal MANAGER TED & BAR CHANDLER ROB,without whom....
[4:-)]TOM-Oh yes,us Brits were drinking cider long before you Teutons first turned barley into beer-indeed,I have given the best years of my liver to the stuff-at one stage in my development,it was not uncommon to drink a bottle of T-Bird before going out and to then wash it down with 10 or 12 pints of farmhouse cider-a murky and cloudy brew of about 9% alcohol content-happily missisnick rescued me from that particular evolutionary dead end and I now regard it as a learning experience ( although it would be nice to have retained a few more teeth.........) Pix will be with you as soon as found-will try to put together a `piece` about the R.N.A.D Trecwn railway-given the maritime heritage hereabouts I feel it would probably be relevant
SIR THEODORE-agree entirely with your thoughts re band organisation-at best its like trying to herd cats in the dark,at worst it`s the short route to madness..lets raise a glass to M.L.K jr and freedom-salut,mon ami [tup]
CM3-thanks for kind thoughts also-tis darkest before the dawn and all that--There were still a couple of airship sheds around over here back at the end of the 50`s,when my dad was inducted into the R.A.F ,one of them was used for model glider flying contests since it provided the largest volume of still air in the country.
[4:-)]TOM-that N.P. cruise does sound tempting-they must have employed some very clever writers-very strong imagery...
ROB-if you get Lightfoot tickets,do the decent thing and bootleg it for those of us less fortunate-I`ll do a straight swap for my only-4-copies-ever-made,(including Keith`s) straight-from-the-desk Stones rehearsal session ( scrappy but fun )
O.K-looks like time for my self-improvement class (as advertised in the Gazette)so,starkle,starkle little twink-moonlight mile for me-be good chaps,see you soon,nick[C=:-)]

[passengerfan]

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

Picked up on your CPR ad the othe day and finally got around to commenting. The CPR was another road that helped develope National Parks in this case Canadian Parks. Among them both Banff and Lake Louise. The Hotel at Banff built by the CPR was a world class hotel and summers was booked solidly for the season with many of the guests arriving on the CANADIAN and DOMINION. Today the hotel enjoys more year round use thanks to the excellent sking in the area. Alas the CANADIAN and DOMINION no longer serve Banff in fact the DOMINION exists no more period.
When the tech returns my printer I intend to do a streeamliner piece on the DOMINION one of the most interesting trains to ever operate in Canada. Many passengers preferred the DOMINION over the CANADIAN and it enjoyed better year round passenger loads then the premier CANADIAN.

The NP ad you ran today mentions travel the NP to Seattle and board a steamship for Alaska. Those ads referred to the Alaska Steamship Company. For all of my years in Seattle I was quite familiar with the Alaska Steamship Co. Remember well in the 1950's when the S S DENALI last of the Alaska Steamship Co. Passenger liners made its final run. I believe the ship was sold to one of the South American countries where it operated for a few more years before being scrapped.
Their were weekly freighters from Seattle after that and some of them carried twelve passengers.

Next to make its appearnce in Seattle was the Alaska Ferry COLUMBIA that operated a weekly service to Alaska later the service moved to Bellingham.

Both services were a far cry from the numerous Cruise ship lines now operating summers to Alaska.

North of the US border in Vancouver the CPR and even the CNR operated steamships to Alaska from that port. The CPR Princess ships operated numerous routes in BC waters to Vancouver Island. South from Vancouver to Victoria and Seattle the so called Tri-Angle route. They also operated ships up both sides of Vancouver Island. The last Princess liner to operate to Alaska was the S S Princess Patricia originally built for the Tri-Angle run then remodeled and assigned summers to Alaska service.

Rival CNR operated the S S Prince George to Alaska summers and I believe this ship was sent for scrap just in the last five years.

So much for my rambling time to let someone else have a say.

And how did I get interested in ships. One of my summer jobs as a kid was for Seattle Harbor Water Tours and the owner knew everything about ships their was to know and was only to willing to share that knowledge with the young summer help. Probably the reason I chose the Navy when it came time to go in the service.

[siberianmo]

Good Evening!

PASSENGER TRAIN NOSTALGIA #59

Here’s something to enjoy regarding the New York Central (NYC) in a 1954 advertisement from my private collection:

Easy Does It . . . when the family goes New York Central

Easy on Dad! No traffic to tire him. No white line to watch. When New York Central does the driving, he’s free to read, nap, or enjoy the wonderful Water Level Route scenery that parades past his big picture window.

Easy on Mother, because her mind’s at ease about the youngsters. Not back-seat fidgets. No frequent roadside stops. Everything the children need is right at hand. And they couldn’t be safer at home!

Easy on the Kids! They don’t have to stay put in their seats. There’s plenty of room to move about. And there’s the extra thrill of those famous New York Central meals in the diner, with their own, thrifty Children’s Menu to choose from.

Easy on the Budget! Round-trip coach fares are low. And special Family Tickets cut them so much as 50% or even more. Ask your New York Central ticket agent all about them.

. . . . . NEW YORK CENTRAL RAILROAD . . . . .

. . . . .. . . . . . . . . . The Water Level Route . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .


Enjoy! [tup]

Tom [4:-)][oX)]

[siberianmo]

G’day All!

PASSENGER TRAIN NOSTALGIA #58

Here’s something to enjoy regarding the Northern Pacific (NP) from a 1947 advertisement in my personal collection.



We met these “huskies” near Ikpikpuk!

Why deny yourself

. . . . . . . . . . ALASKA? . . . . . . . . . .

GO THIS YEAR to this fabled frontier land of Eskimos and totem poles, silent fjords and gleaming glaciers. Glide along the lake smooth Inside Passage, up endless aisles of emerald isles, past a parade of snow-capped peaks. We’ll send facts and prices, arrange every last detail, take you to your Alaska-bound ship in Seattle on the streamlined NORTH COAST LIMITED. If interested in this Alaska trip by train and steamer, just write E. E. Nelson, 313 Northern Pacific railway, St. Paul 1, Minn.


. . . . . . . . . . NORTHERN PACIFIC . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . MAIN STREET OF THE NORTHWEST . . . . . . . . . . . . .


Enjoy! [tup]

Tom [4:-)][oX)]

[Anonymous]

Attention! Attention!

Hi Tom and the gang. Discaimer # One: Yes, thank you Tom for the correcrion. "Oklahoma" was indeed a Rodgers and Hammerstein opus. And, just as bad or worse, it is the "Litle Mermaid" in Copenhagen Harbo(u)r, not the "Little Boy on a Dolphin" (I think?). Let this be fair warning to all of you younger members of the "Order of the Stools." Stay well away from "Thunderbird" and all such inexpensive libations lest you follow in my footsteps unto premature C.R.S. Syndrome. Now, having made reparations, where in the Deuce have I left my keys? Boris, get Tex out here and help me find my car keys right this minute.[:(!] Oh...I cam by taxi?[:O] Sorry! Well, ring the bell anyhow, this just ain't my day.[V] Tom, will have mail out a.s.a.p. I bid all of you a bond fondue.[:-^]

[siberianmo]

Yo CM3

But, but, but - Fatyernnon has such a "nice ring to it!"[swg]

Like that AFL stuff, eh[?] Me too. I lived in Dedham during the period of time when the Boston Patriots were moving south to Foxboro. The players actually were going door-to-door, trying to gin up financial backing for their new digs. Could've bought "shares" back then - alas, I was a poor sailor, trying to feed, clothe and house 4 others![swg] I still remember Jim Nance coming to our door!

The AFL really came on strong, in spite of 400 in attendance at the Polo Grounds for NY Titans games. No joke, 400 inside that huge stadium. We had a blast and the media wondered aloud whether any of this was "real." It was. The worst thing that happened - in my humble opinion - was to move those three franchises from the NFL into the AFC. As wanswheel Mike indicated correctly, Cleveland - Pittsburgh and Baltimore gave up "heritage" for the "balance" neeed in the newly formed AFC. That never has sat well with me. Especially when one looks at what happened down the pike - look at the Super Bowls going to former NFL teams. Kinda watered down the original AFL teams, fer sure, fer sure.[tdn]

Okay, Mate - you gotta earn a living!

Later,

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]

[coalminer3]

Hi Tom: As Boris once said, "Starkle, Starkle, Little Twink." I guess I mashed three keys at the same time - you'll see I fixed it.

work safe

[siberianmo]

G'day!

A fine time for our Manager Ted to arrive for work! Oh, but wait - these 'staff' positions are really PART-TIME, so I'll cut him some slack. Only really require the services of our "fearsome threesome - Ted - Rob 'n Nick on special occasions and of course during the Thursday thru Saturday meal times. Okay - you're off the hook![swg]

Wait a minute! George Gershwin and "Oklahoma!" Are you certain of that[?] Seems to me that was a Rodgers and Hammerstein endeavor. What say you[?][%-)]

A URL for perusal: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Gershwin

Curiousity getting the best of me - what in the world "happened" yesterday[?] Ship me an Email when you find the time. Thanx in advance.[tup]

Your mention of earlydiesels Dan reminds me that we seem to have lost yet another former regular 'round here. Pity. Can't say we haven't shown concern when "down," and appreciation for submissions. Just the dynamics of life - people come 'n go, interests change, priorities of the day overtake the things we'd rather do, etc. All fully understandable.

Hello CM3 - Figured you'd not be around until this day and appreciate your "checking in."

We'll be here when you're ready to resume your daily acitivites - meanwhile, keep those quarters and rounds comin'!![swg] Thanx![tup][tup]

Did a search on Fatyernnon and came up with zero, zilch, zip. Huh[?]
Later!

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]

[coalminer3]

Good Afternoon Barkeep and All Present; coffee for me, round for the house and $ for the jukebox.

I aploogize for the absence, but things have been a bit crazy at work.

I enjoyed reading through the posts and looking at the pictures. The Wabash domes are the ones I recall riding on the Pocahontas when she ran on the N&W. Also enjoyed the SIRT postings and the Chicago Tunnel material.

Nick - Hang in there. Your remark abt the zeppelin shed reminded me of the time when we were out doing some up close and personal investigation of kilns; those of you who have spent some time around these beasts understand what I am talking about. Gives the word "upset" an entirely new meaning.

Anyway, one of the facilities we visited was in a former blimp hanger. The kiln was big, but the structure was even bigger. One of the more adaptive reuses for a building I have ever seen.

Yesterday, I finished looking through The Electric Way Across the Mountians and found a shot of a fine machine which will satisfy both our MOW and electric factions. It was an electric snowplow. Well, the MILW always got points for being resourceful.

I appreciate your patience and will try and get back to standard with my posts ASAP.

work safe

P.S. AFL - excellent. Although I grew up with the Giants, the Patriots were always interesting. I can hear the broadcast now "Cappeletti sets up - snap back, ball down, the kick is up, it's goood!" Thanks for the memories. We won;t even talk about Johnny mOst doing the Celtics games. Also Buffalo playing at the Rockpile.

[Anonymous]

Good mid-day to all in attendence and those on "ships-at-sea" (radio commentator Walter Winchell, circa 1940-50s). Tom, I think a Canadian Bacon sliced thin w/Swiss on toasted Rye will "do it," thanks. Oh yes and a Dortmunder Union would go down well.[^] Sure, of course, absolutely, I read the "Yogi Bear One Liners" without fail. They are akin to the daily newspaper cartoons that we, too often, take for granted. Given the lunatic "political agenda" of our local Fish Wrap, the "funnies" remain sacrosanct hereabouts.[2c] Yesterday went from the "token" presence of a retired Army Bandsman's counsel to untangling "Alexandr's Knot." These "daze", it seems there is petty politics pesent in the most benign of civic endeavors...truly disgusting![tdn] Any rate, M. L. King Day escalated into a very long day indeed.[#offtopic] Set 'em up please Capt. Tom.

Mike, thanks for the "dope" (no pun intended) on Bix Beiderbeck's old venue, the "Blue Lantern." Please excuse my confusion as to which South Shore Line is under scrutiny in recent posts. I assume it is the Chicago to Southbend, IN commuter trains, no? I may have some worthy input on the cars of that particular ilk if I'm on the proper tack. Surely do enjoy your timely and pertinent links and URls.[tup] BK, good of you to take the time and trouble for staying "in touch." It can't be easy.[tup] Being in the threshold of bureaucratic paralysis, I don't wonder that "change" could cause mountainous waves of controversy. Perhaps if the Little Boy on a Dolphin disappears in a nuclear cloud, some serious thought may surface? Lars, I can attest first hand that New Yaakers didn't take kindly to dismantling the "Toid Avenyew El;" so many came to depend on that "leg" for a fast "shot" between Manhattan and the Bronx. The remarks made on the "state of the forums" couldn't be better stated.[^] Oh, ditto for the observations made on Northern Europe as a "general rule of thumb." I'll dmure from any comments on the minor infestation that occured at "Our" Place recently. As Manager, I've notified "Otto the Orkin Man" and engaged fumigation services forthwith.[swg]

Nick good fellow, having shared similar experiences while booking and managing my own 5 to 16 piece society bands (library and all), may I just add: all that aggravation...for what?[V] Hiring an insinsitive (non-musician) agent caused more problems than it solved. Qiucly I learned working as a "side-man" was far better for my health.[^] I sold my library to a University that was starting a "Lab Band" program and was as happy as the day I sold my first and last boat.[swg] Some endeavors are just plain massochistic.[V] Hopefully, Pete might give you a "pick-me-up" call before departing the Island. I imagine he has a full plate even without the temptations of your peerless culinary expertise.[:D] Personally, I couldn't resist that "temptation." Earlydiesels, the book has inspired me to look back into my U.S. Civil War Library collection. If interested, I'll send you email of same. Doug, one thing on the Russian Decopods I have trouble understanding is how did the main drivers negotiate curves without wheel flanges? I'm assuming only the center three drive (each side) wheels were flangless, right? All of your pieces have been totally absorbing from track gangs to the Royal Indian varnish, just incredible.[^]

I know I'm not "up-to-date" like "things in Kansas City" (G. Gershwin's "Oklahoma"), however, I must defer to some nagging household responsibilities. Best of luck to all of you and happy rails.

[siberianmo]

Good Morning!

Ah, a couple of customers![tup]

Sir Nick! The talk of "Thunderbird" brings me back to 1959 and the "sailor bars" of Seattle, Washington on Pine & Pike Streets. In those days one could leave the ship with a mere 47 cents in your pocket, have a night to remember, and return with the same 47 cents (or more)! Thunderbird was served in the "finest of establishments!"[swg] I wasn't into that stuff, stuck with VO and GInger, beer or whatever was the house special for the night. Now apple cider, as opposed to apple juice, is a staple for the holidays in my family and many others that I am familiar with. At Christmas and [brown]Thanksgiving no table is complete without a glass set aside for the cider. Never thought of it as alcoholic, but I do understand the makeup. Leave it to you to come up with THAT![swg]

Good news about the boat. Those "holes in the water" have caused many a good man to spend far too much time in the Rat's Patoot Room than anyone should![swg]

Please try and get those Sunday Photo Posting Day! pix to me as soon as you can - at least before Friday. I will most definitely add them to your album for Posting! Thanx in advance.[tup]

Nice tid bit of info you provided regarding those brass rails and reason for it. Never heard of that, but it surely makes sense.[tup]

Lars Nice Post this AM and yes, I DID deliver the Staten Island Advance. My bike was a Roadmaster and I had a basket on it! I think my papers totalled a bit over 120 and my tips ranged from nothing to a buck on collection Saturdays. That route, along with cutting grass, shoveling snow, working the A&P and whatever else I could find, kept me in Lionel Trains![swg]

Funny, when I think of Schwinn bikes of yesteryear, they conjure up images similar to those of Gilbert's American Flyer S gauge trains. I had a Roadmaster bike, but thought Schwinns were "cooler." I had Lionel O-27 trains, but "secretely" wished they were American Flyer! Figure that out, Sigmond!<grin>

Somewhere in the past I did the same as you on a Sunday - browsed all of the Forums, making comment here and there, as approrpiate to my interests. I came away utterly disgusted at the crap being put out. It's one thing to dispense some humor, to engage wtih the other guy in good natured banter, but most of what I saw wasn't worth the paper to line a bird cage or garbage can for that matter.[tdn] Once again, I share you point of view.

I'd appreciate an Email when you have time, to expound a bit upon your seagoing careeer. Love to share some experiences if you are interested.[tup]

Stars[?] [yeah]They surely can evoke two opposing points of view. I think Kalmbach's idea was a good one. However, the unintended consequences rear their ugly heads every time. There are so many people who could care less about convention - protocol - rules - proceudre, call it what you will. These are the ones who wind up ruining "it" for the rest. Happens all the time. Why in the world do we feel so much anxiety when behind the wheel of a car[?] You don't suppose it's because of the driver who is being careful and courteous, do you[?] Ticks me off, fer sure, fer sure![tdn]

Speaking of the S.I.R.T., we used the Elm Park Staton on the north shore line. It was within walking distance from our house in Port Richmond. I really enjoyed taking the train to St. George to catch the ferry over to Manhattan. The bus was okay, but not even close to the experience of the train - the sounds, the movements, the trackside 'stuff.' All made for a pleasant journey - it was special.[tup]

Funny, your mention of Norway and that part of the world also rings true with me! What IS this - parallel lives[?] Rod Serling, where are you[?] You live in a place where I was born and raised - you are a train aficionado - you are a sailor - you are one of the Three Horsemen!, you delivered the Staten Island Advance, and now I learn your preferences in Europe lie in the northernmost climates - same for moi![tup] Uncanny, to say the least.[swg]

And yes - I DO remember the NY Daily Mirror. We used to get the Mirror and Daily News each morning. I remember them when they were 2 or 3 cents apiece. The Advance came in the afternoon. Of course back then - newspapers were a far cry from those of modern times. We had radio, papers and magazines to provide us with the information of the times.

Couldn't have stated the case for "learning facts" any better than you have with your commentary on the Edmund Fitzgerald. Anecdotal stuff can sink the best of conversations![tdn]

Thanx for the rounds, Gents![tup]

Later!

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]

[LoveDomes]

Hello Tom and all assembled!

There’s quite a bit to read this morning and it seems that checking these pages has priority over the morning newspapers![swg] Do recall the NY Mirror, Tom[?] How about the Staten Island Advance[?] Bet you delivered the latter as a kid – I did; basket on my Schwinn and all. [yeah] The good old days!

You really know how to tweak a guy with this talk of the Edmund Fitzgerald. That’s a disaster that ranks right up there with the most notorious in history’s annals. Twenty nine souls is one thing, but the manner in which it happened is quite another.

When RMS Titanic went down, there was time for some to use the lifeboats, rafts and whatever else was available in those frigid waters. However, when the Fitzgerald sank, she went down, like a rock. No time for anything other than to experience that flash of fear, the blackness, the cessation of life itself. Horrible to think about it.

I read the report you mentioned, twice. Also read the USCG official inquiry into the disaster and came away with what I believe must be your conclusions as well. There really is no “bottom line” to this, no “punch line.” The book should be read if one really wants to operate from a baseline of facts, rather than the anecdotal crap so many seem to incorporate into their “knowledge base.” Boris my guess is I am [#offtopic], so in deference to the policy around here, ring that infernal gong of yours and I’ll spring for the drinks!

Got a kick out of the posting from nickinwestwales Nick, all except the opening of course. Shame that set back occurred and about all I can offer is hope that things will begin to curve upward now that adversity has hit home. We haven’t “met,” but I feel I know you from having read all of the pages now. You are really a huge part of what this bar and grill holds for those who frequent it. Tom is surrounded by some good guys and for my money, it is well spent right here![tup]

BudKarr BK you are in a part of the world that I have always enjoyed. In my seagoing career AFTER the U.S. Navy, I spent some time in the ports of call in the countries making up what many refer to as Scandanavia. Norway is my favorite – have family, albeit distant, there. Been as far north as Bergen, quite a remote but really nice place to see. Didn’t and don’t care for the liberal bent and socialism, but politics aside, I have found the people open to Americans and able to conceal any “agendas” they may have. Not so in places like France, Italy, Spain, etc. Just my two cents and a bit dated, as I haven’t frequented a rolling and pitching deck in years.

Glad you enjoyed the S.I.R.T. ramblings, Rob. The elevated lines of NYC didn’t all close up at once. However, the discontinuance of the “Els” in Manhattan occurred pretty much within a decade, with the 3rd Avenue line going out in 1955. In the Bronx, the 3rd Avenue El continued into the 70s. On Staten Island, the S.I.R.T. pulled the plug on the north shore and South Beach surface lines in 1953. More in my next compilation, which isn’t even on the drawing board![swg]

I want to make mention of a guy who has really provided some fantastic information, mainly through the use of URL’s – wanswheel Mike. Appreciate your attention to detail, as Tom as noted several times. Amazing stuff that you find “out there” in the cyber void. Keep it up, really goes with the flow around here.[tup][tup]

Yesterday I did something I swore I’d NEVER do again – went browsing on the forums. Ugh. What a total waste of time. The kids have overtaken these forums, or at least many of them. Then there are the transparent “numbers runners uppers” that are all over the place. Check out “Members” and click “All” then see the names of those with the most stars. Click on their names and check out some of what they are getting “credit” for. It makes me sick to think that “credit” goes to someone for a “single word response” or a “cut and paste job” of someone else’s work without so much as an original thought appended to it. An absolute abomination. I was one in favor of dropping the whole idea of “stars” simply because it sets up a warped competition, which really has no relevance or meaning to what these forums are about. I like that expression, “Didn’t have any toys when he was a kid,” makes sense when applied to those who use this medium for the “recognition” they may never have EARNED in real life endeavors.[tdn][tdn]

Tom, I should append my rant with this note especially for you. Your posts are informative, responsive and in keeping with maintaining a dialogue. That’s far, far different from many who are doing nothing more than running up their tally. There’s a guy “out there” who has been submitting stuff for less than a year and his totals are on PAGE ONE of ALL THE MEMBERS! Good Grief Charlie Brown. What does that say?

[yeah] I know Boris ring the confounded thing again and I’ll wring your neck spring for a round![swg]

I see nickinwestwales Nick has provided another post, which ain’t so bad at this time of day! We can all use a chuckle after my rants and ramblings.[swg]

Until the next time!

Lars

[nickinwestwales]

Good morning Gents,just a quickie-[4:-)]TOM,better stick to Tea for now.
Thanks for heads-up on the Edmund Fitzgerald,another gap filled [tup]
Our boat is happily unscathed ( she`s stripped down for the winter and therefore at minimum weight ).
Personally I have never regarded apples as fruit-they are the raw material of cider,the drink of kings[^] -over there ,I understand this to be a soft drink,in this country it is a fiercely alcoholic beverage which enjoys the same social cachet as Thunderbird & Night train Express do over there-widely found in bus shelters and park benches nation wide
Looking forward to the movie-a little escapism is never a bad thing !!
DOUG-nice piece on the underground,London used to have a similar system owned & operated by the post office & used for rapid mail distribution.
Indeed,I am reminded that the Guinness brewery in Dublin had a similar set-up within the brewery complex-the loco`s could be sat in standard gauge `cradle` wagons to work the exchange sidings-In fact there was also a similar system servicing a Royal Navy armaments depot near here,which,if memory serves,used brass rail within the tunnels to prevent sparks.
I have some pix of stock from this line,now in use on both the Teifi Valley & Welsh Highland lines which I will dig out for sunday.
Good stuff on decapods also-another gap filled [^]
ROB-good to know your country`s defence is in safe hands [swg]-just received latest batch,Canadian humour had me spitting tea all over the keyboard-easy to draw province still causing giggles......
Right,lunch break over,everybody back on their heads ( sorry,old joke ) will try to call in later,have a good one folks,all the best,nick[C=:-)]

[siberianmo]

Mornin' Gents!

Off to a gloomy start on this Tuesday, first work day of the "short" week for many.

Rob Up quite late, eh[?] But not too late to remember us here at the bar![tup][swg] That first Post didn't show after I put out the SUMMARY. Hmmmmm. But then again, perhaps it WAS me - eyelids were slamming shut![swg]

Nice Inclusive Post as always my friend! You surely are a "keeper" 'round here and hope you'll not lose interest.[tup]

Sure was good to hear from the other two comprising the Three Horsemen! yesterday. Otherwise, it would have been a very loooooooong day. Finished up okay, but sure was quiet most of the daylight hours.

I've seen several documentaries on the sinking and cannot recall for sure whether the one you mentioned was included. However, it is one of those events that I'll surely not forget. When one has made his way in life as a sailor, those kinds of events stick with you.

If you really want something to think about regarding the tragedy, get ahold of a copy of the book I mentioned by Frederick Stonehouse. I read the official USCG report of the sinking way back when it was available to some within our organization. The book's author really did his homework and it is well written - well documented and leaves no stones unturned.

When is Gordon coming to your area[?] Would love to hear him. Wonder if he's the "same" since that terrible health set back he had awhile ago[?] His songs are absolutely spell binding and I surely appreciate 'em all![tup][tup][tup]

Thanx for the endorsement on the "funnies" and Pix Index.[tup]

We'll set up the bar, on you, a bit later today. Too early right now![swg]

Later!

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]


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

Those who acknowledge the other guy, get acknowledged!

[trolleyboy]

Hey Tom keeping lousy hour's again I see. Did you catch the documentary on the Edmund Fitzgerald that was made late last year. The History cable network here ran it several times. Covered the finding and mapping of the wreck by the underwater robots. The science heads best guess was structural failure of the hatches lead to catastrophic flooding and the ultimate demise of the ship and crew. The bnear hurricane force winds in Lake Superior that night didn't help their situation much either. This of coarse is neither here nor there a tragedy no matter what happened. It's one of Gorden's best songs I think as well, I've been luckey enough to see him in concert a couiple of times over the years. He's comming to Brantford later this year as well, I may try to pick up a couple of tickets.

I do read your Yogiisms everyday-a nice giggle to start the daily reading here off with fer sure fer sure [tup][;)]

Nice index of our various Sunday picture day spreads as well. A usefull tool for those,needing the eye candy fix. [tup][8D]

I'm glad that none of Boris's kin came back either. ( the sheds way too small )

Nick Glad you enjoyed those emails. The pictures were sent to me via a freind in the RCN. A sick sick man. Likely comes from his job as a ping wizzard on HMCS Halifax. The stories he's told me, Well him and an ex B-I-L who was at one point XO then CO of HMCS Terra Nova.

Nite All BYW another [#offtopic] round for me.[:D]

Rob

[siberianmo]

Does anyone see me[?]

TUESDAY's INFO & SUMMARY of POSTS

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


A fresh start to a new day! Why not begin it with us by drawing a hot cup of freshly brewed coffee[?] While you’re at it, try our <light> and <traditional> breakfasts along with freshly baked pastries from The Mentor Village Bakery!


Daily Wisdom

I eat apples, but no fruit. (Yogi-ism) Is anyone reading these[?]


Info for the Day:

* Weekly Calendar: Does anyone care[?]

Wednesday Pike Perspective’s Day!
Thursday Fish ‘n Chips Nite!
Friday Pizza Nite! & Steak ‘n Fries Nite!
Saturday Steak ‘n Trimmin’s Nite!


SUMMARY

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

(1) barndad Doug Posted: 16 Jan 2006, 05:40:14 (221) Inclusive Post & Chicago Tunnel Co.

(2) barndad Doug Posted: 16 Jan 2006, 05:52:29 (221) A brief history of Russian Decapods, Part I

(3) Theodorebear Ted Posted: 16 Jan 2006, 07:45:05 (221) Inclusive Post, etc.

(4) siberianmo Tom Posted: 16 Jan 2006, 08:53:44 (221) Acknowledgments, etc.

(5) siberianmo Tom Posted: 16 Jan 2006, 11:14:15 (221) ENCORE! Fallen Flag – BAR

(6) LoveDomes Lars Posted: 16 Jan 2006, 12:16:20 (221) Informative Post & SIRT, part one

(7) BudKarr BK Posted: 16 Jan 2006, 13:40:32 (221) from Copenhagen!

(8) siberianmo Tom Posted: 16 Jan 2006, 15:10:25 (221) ENOCRE! Nostalgia – Ad, CPR (1886)

(9) siberianmo Tom Posted: 16 Jan 2006, 15:40:36 (221) Acknowledgments, etc.

(10) passengerfan Al Posted: 16 Jan 2006, 18:29:46 (221) PM Post & Dome montage description

(11) wanswheel Mike Posted: 16 Jan 2006, 18:35:15 (221) Inclusive Post, etc.

(12) siberianmo Tom Posted: 16 Jan 2006, (221) Acknowledgments, etc.

(13) siberianmo Tom Posted: 16 Jan 2006, 21:07:50 (222) ENCORE! Nostalgia – Ad; CPR (1950s)

(14) wanswheel Mike Posted: 16 Jan 2006, 21:57:12 (222) South Shore Line & AFL

(15) nickinwestwales Nick Posted: 16 Jan 2006, 22:18:34 (222) A Nick Post!

(16) siberianmo Tom Posted: 17 Jan 2006, 01:18:07 (222) Acknowledgments, etc.


NOW SHOWING at The Mentor Village Emporium Theatre: Is anyone interested[?]

. . . January 16th thru 21st: Disaster on the Coastliner (1979-TV) starring Lloyd Bridges, Raymond Burr & Robert Fuller.


That’s it! [tup][;)]

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

[trolleyboy]

Good evening everyone. Since Boris had the bar I figured that I would come in and help him close the place.<good grief > I think we may need the hazmat boy from the villiage come and help clean up behind the bar. [:O] I don't even want to attempt to classify the oozing goo on the floor back there. [XX(]


Tom Lovely redo's pf those classic CPR ads[tup] I'll echo yours and others happiness with yesterdays posting fest. Doug, Lars,Ted & Tom wonderfull shots to be sure.[tup][tup]. I choose not to comment on the unpleasantness of yesterday <IMHO> a not worth it. All I can say is that I think we are all capable of mislabelling our picture descriptions in albums. <nuff said I'm moving on as I have no delusions of personal perfection >


Doug great shots from the IRM [tup] I have also enjoyed the first installment of the Russian Decapod story.Our museum runs with rule "G" firmley in place as well. Really it's a non-negotiable rule if one is to operated such equipment in Canada or as I Understand the US for that matter.

Liked the Chicago underground piece as well. Like Ted I only heard "the rest of the story" after the flood occured. I think I did see the same documentory Ted mentioned as well.

BK Nice to hear from you sir. Thanks for your concern over " the jerk " I prefer to ignore him, he generally goes away in any case.Sounds like one heck of a nice trip ( were it not for the business aspect of it I imagine ) I suppose that once you do retire for good, you could maybe make a collage of all the wierd and wonderfull currencey you've been forced to use over the years.I remeber when I was a kid, we would go down the the Welland canal ( I grew up about ten blocks away from it ) and wave at the ships and crews as they glided by. They used to toss down spare change to the kids. ( this was the seventies before fences and anal safety laws and lawsuits ). Most of us had quite the collection of European and other coinage. [#offtopic] next rounds mine Boris !

Lars Liked the dome pics.[tup] You and Tom are indeed kindred spirits fer sure fer sure. Thanks also for your outrage, but at this point lifes too short to let " the jerks " of life spoil it for you. I went to the rats room and worked over the punching bags so I'm good now. Nice article on the SIRT as well ( hopefully you know who doesn't feel the need to comment there either ) I'm guessing that the two SIRT lines that shut down did so right around the time of the Third Ave RY street operations. Am I correct or way off in that assumpsion [?]


Mike Same truck. The picture on our website is from the historical collection as well. If I recall that is a pictuire from the 40's. Once CPR started operating the Grand River Railway and sister line Lake erie and Northern ( two make up the CP electric Lines ) the paint schemes changed. LE&N used to use a dark green body GRR a colour closer to CP's tuscan passenger cars.They also stuck to their own lines. After the late forties the cars of both roomed freely over each others systems. I'm planning on two classic juices on them in the future. Anyhow the barricade stripes came about in the early 50's. Diagonal strip[es front and back on passenger and freight equipment of the GRR ( alternating yellow and black ) and a yellow and black checkerboard pattern on the LE&N equipment. Work equipment like M6 and bonder M4 got an overall traction orange paint job with the stripe ( how the truck appears today )

Talk to everyone later

Rob