"OUR" PLACE - SEE NEW THREAD!

[trolleyboy]

Hmmm seem to be doing a Tom today and mostly talking to myself oh well, the thread and the info must go on. [:D][tup]

Doug the Doug specal is just simply two light breakfasts and a coffee,if you don't come in to order it in the morning I try to,keeps the kitchen staff awake and on their toes.

CLASSIC JUICE # 23 PRE HISTORY OF THE TTC PT 3


The Toronto Transportation Commission 1921-1953 & The Toronto Transit Commission 1954 to the Preasant


With four different compnaies controlling nine different systems, of public transportation in Toronto, the city was in utter chaos. The cost to the public for rides to work, and home,was becomming inreasingly difficult to uphold so something had to be done.Citizens exercised their voting franchise on Jan 1 ,1920 and decided that all of Toronto's public transportation systems should be placed under the direction of one organization. By this vote, the Toronto Transportation Commision was created.

On sept 1,1921, the new Commission took over all the operations of the TRC and Civic Lines. It introduced the new Peter Witt streetcars which were a complete improvement over any of the older cars then in service. New Routes were introduced: trackwork was heavily replaced between 1921-23, and routes were aquired from the TSR in 1923, and the T&Y RR in 1927.


Other improvements included the withdrawl of many older cars and old horsecar trailers; the introduction of new Witt trailers on the busy Collage and Yonge street lines and the building of new loops and carhouse properties.Finally a new centralized repair facility was built at Bathurst street and Davenport road known as Hillcrest Shops to replace the worn-out scattered ones of the TRC shops at Front and Frederick Streets.

In 1938, the TTC was instrumental in the introduction of a new streetcar design known as the PCC ( presidents Conbferance committee car )which in one fell swoop,banished other streetcar designs to the past. During the war years, the TTC maintained it's fleet, ordered new cars ( PCC's ), introduced women to the workforce as car operators and trainmen ( even in the shops )and made plans for future expansion of the system.

In 1953, the Metropolitan system of government was introduced to Toronto and the Toronto Transportation Commission, which had the original mandate to run Toronto's public transit gained authority over the transit systems of the entire metro area, so was revamped into the Toronto Transit Commission.

In 1954 the Yonge Subwaysystem openned becomming the forerunner of modern rapid transit in Canda.In 1963came the University Subway,followed by the Bloor/Danforth line in 1966.The Spadina extention in 1978 and the Bloor-danforth extensions in 1968 and 1980. Extensions of the original Yonge line were completed in 1973-74. Other changes continue to this day Shepard Ave subway openned in 2003.b The TTC subsidiary Gray Coach Lines provides bus service outside of the Toronto area.Many of the older surface lines weer abandoned with the oppening of the Bloor-Danforth and yonge subway lines as car and truck traffic impeeded the steady floor of the transit system ( an estimated 1m people a day use the TTC subways alone ! )


Rob

[trolleyboy]

I see that I'm not completely alone this aft. Good stuff [tup]

lars Good gawd man that's awfull news,I would be checking for torpedo holes.I hope that your computer and all other valubles are above the waterline good luck in your bailing. I'll leave a twenty spot at the bar for your personal use and recreation as well as the key's to the [i]Rats Patoot room[.i] so you can vent your frustrations.

Pete Good to see you in already today. I'm glad you enjoyed part 2, part 3's just been posted and is awaiting your purusal at dinner time. H&H are doing the grilling tonight, I told them that only baked potatoes with the trimmings,coleslaw, fries and sauteed mushrooms are the only acceptable sides tonight. They are also not to feed Tex or Boris anything raw we don't need that trouble on top of everything else.

Thanks for the additional steam loco info, I've always found it interesting that the British railway's used 0-6-0's and the like as main line locomotives,they were strictly yard goats over here,I'm guessing that the wider track guages made them ride better than they would have on the "road" here.

TTFN Rob

[siberianmo]

G'day Gents!

I would like to take this opportunity <drumroll> to express my appreciation <trumpets> to trolleyboy Rob <ta-tah> and LoveDomes Lars <bah-buuuuuuumb!> for the extra efforts in keeping us up 'n running this fine day![tup][tup][tup] Also, to pwolfe Pete the timing of your Post, Sir, was just right and of course, the content even moreso![tup][tup][tup]

Really appreciate you guys handling things in my absence. Looks like Cindy kept you all "in check," with the help of Tex the Armadillo and his "Master," Boris![swg]

All went well - or better put, as well as expected, with my travels over to the "local" Air Force Base for my 4-5 week trip to take advantage of the dwindling military retiree benefits. If the "public" only knew . . . but then again, I firmly believe, the "public" doesn't give a Rat's Patoot about the military, after all, "some one else" will take care of things like defending the nation and our freedoms! [soapbox] Ring the bell, Boris and I'll serve 'em up a freebie.

Some really good stuff Posted this day and rather than commenting, line by line, just let me say that the guys who are holding up this Thread in this particular time and place in our "history " are the ones who Posted today. Thanx very, very much - to Al - Doug - Rob & Lars![tup][tup][tup]

If anyone has directed a specific question or comment my way, please forgive me, for I'm kinda preoccupied - bride just got home - Juneau wants "outside" and - well, that' s life in "the fast lane!" [swg]

Hey Lars that's awful news regarding your basement flooding. Wi***here was something I could do to help. The least of your concerns should be this bar - but you know what[?] You've shown your "mettle" to us all by taking the time to help US out. Now that's quite an EXAMPLE to one and all, particularly those who "wear" the label of members of the Order of the Stools but don't seem to find the time to extend themselves other than when convenient to THEM.[tdn] Just want you to KNOW that your efforts are very much appreciated. THANX![tup][tup][tup]

Gotta run .... catch y'all later ..... Cindy STILL HAS THE BAR! Aint that a shame[?][swg]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[Trainnut484]

Good evening Tom and the rest of "OUR Place-en-ites. I'll have a Miller Lite. Glad your trip went alright, Tom. A two [tup][tup] for the NYC Nostalgia piece this morning.

Al, nice job on the Zephyrs [tup]

Lars, hope you and the ship don't go down the drain. We've had our own battles with the blankety-blankety sump pump. It's not a fun job.

Rob, great job on the Classic Juice posts, and filling in the void while Tom was away from the 'puter. Also, thanks to Lars for his timely posts.

Doug, good joke about the sharing old couple joke. I think there was a denture tv commercial featuring an old couple sharing teeth. My wife freaked out about that [:D]

Pete, always glad to see your posts. Maybe one of these days when the wife and I have a future Amtrak trip heading east towards St. Louis, you, Tom, and I can hopefully get together for something.

If I missed anyone this evening I apologize. it's been a rigorous today as it was the last day of classes for this semester. Finals are next week. I'll be okay though. As Segmund from MAD magazine said "What Me Worry?"

Or something like that.

Take care,

Russell

[siberianmo]

Evenin' Gents!

I see we've had another customer - Trainnut484 Russell - Nice Post![tup]

Before turning the bar over to Leon the Night Man on this Friday nite, I want to thank Cindy for the looooooong day she put in![tup][tup][tup] A little something "extra" in the pay check, my dear!<grin>

Now, to Rob, here's to ya, Mate for an extraordinary effort in keeping things on an even keel today:







Remember: Tomorrow is ENCORE! Saturday . . . save the original stuff for Monday thru Friday - please.

Boris Ring the bell - I'm outta here - drinks on the house!

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[trolleyboy]

Evening Leon, I see that the pool hall is in full swing and it looks as though Tex and Boris have the security wel in hand,so I think I'll put me feet up and have a bottomless Keith's.

Tom I'm glad to hear that you got passed for your next half million miles. It was no trouble at all keeping us front and center here.Everyone was on their best behaviour and perfect gentlemen around Cindy ( even with the dress she had on )Thanks for the multy flag and logo salut, kinda puts a lump in my throat.

Russ I'm glad you stopped by, even gladder that yoyu enjoyed the fruits of my labour this day. Hopefully we all can meet in St Louis next year ( I can hear Judy garland singing now." Clang clang went the trolley ")

lars I hope the fact that you weren't able to come back in tonight didn't mean anything ominous. Hopefully the tide has subsided and your pumps have caught up with the flow of water.don't forget money for a couple rounds for you after this ordeal are waiting ijn the cashbox for you.

Well gents i'm away for the night.

See everyone tomorrow

Rob

[siberianmo]

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

SATURDAY’s INFO & SUMMARY of POSTS

Mornin’ All! The best way to start the day is here with us![tup] Some pastries from The Mentor Village Bakery along with a hot cuppa freshly brewed coffee “works” well! Then we have our <light> and <traditional> breakfasts from the Menu Board. So, c’mon and join us![tup]

Anyone watching, aside from Rob[?] We are coming up on the 5,000th reply at ”Our” Place! And there were “those” who said this Thread would fold-up in a matter of several weeks![tdn][swg]

NAME THE CASH REGISTERS! I think we’re going to have to come up with names for our two cash registers (both mechanical) one at each 1/3rd of the bar. So let’s kick that idea ‘round, okay After all, we have Coal Scuttle for the Pig’s Feet Jar “feeding” our Juke, Herr Wurltizer. So, why not a couple of names for the cash boxes So let’s have some ideas, Gents! C’mon, it’s NOT rocket surgery!![swg]

. . . . from Pete “Tilla the Hun” for one of ‘em.


Daily Wisdom

Slump? I ain’t in no slump. I just ain’t hitting.
(yogi-ism)


Info for the Day:

Railroads from Yesteryear: Southern Pacific arrives Tuesday! This will be the THEME for the DAY!

* Weekly Calendar:

Today: Steak ‘n Trimmin’s Nite! – and – ENCORE! Saturday


SUMMARY

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

(1) siberianmo Tom Posted: 17 Feb 2006, 05:21:50 (249) Friday’s Info & Summary

(2) passengerfan Al Posted: 17 Feb 2006, 06:42:04 (249) Streamliner #63 – Vista Dome Silver Zephyrs

(3) barndad Doug Posted: 17 Feb 2006, 07:16:59 (249) Great Strike of 1877, Part II

(4) siberianmo Tom Posted: 17 Feb 2006, 07:31:55 (249) AM comments

(5) siberianmo Tom Posted: 17 Feb 2006, 07:36:39 (249) NOSTALGIA #68 – Ad, NYC (1954)

(6) siberianmo Tom Posted: 17 Feb 2006, 07:52:14 (249) NYC route map (1929)

(7) siberianmo Tom Posted: 17 Feb 2006, 08:21:32 (249) Canadian Railways of the Past #2 – NAR

(8) LoveDomes Lars Posted: 17 Feb 2006, 09:35:28 (249) Pinch Hitter: AM Post & NYC name trains

(9) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 17 Feb 2006, 10:30:10 (249) Pinch Hitter: Inclusive Post, etc.

(10) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 17 Feb 2006, 10:52:19 (249) Pinch Hitter: Classic Ads #4 – Empire State Express

(11) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 17 Feb 2006, 12:05:22 (249) Pinch Hitter: Classic Juice #22 – Pre history of TTC, Part II

(12) LoveDomes Lars Posted: 17 Feb 2006, 14:39:57 (249) Pinch Hitter: PM Post & SOS!

(13) pwolfe Pete Posted: 17 Feb 2006, 14:46:35 (249) Inclusive Post, etc.

(14) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 17 Feb 2006, 14:51:08 (249) Pinch Hitter: Classic Juice #23 – Pre history of TTC, Part III

(15) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 17 Feb 2006, 15:03:01 (250) Pinch Hitter: Acknowledgments

(16) siberianmo Tom Posted: 17 Feb 2006, 16:48:39 (250) Acknowledgments, etc.

(17) Trainnut484 Russell Posted: 17 Feb 2006, 19:00:53 (250) Inclusive Post!

(18) siberianmo Tom Posted: 17 Feb 2006, 20:04:00 (250) Salute to Rob & Nite Cap!

(19) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 17 Feb 2006, 23:10:09 (250) Inclusive Post & Nite Cap!



NOW SHOWING:

The Mentor Village Emporium Theatre
. . . . . Double Features, all of the time . . . . .

. . . Sunday, February 12th thru 18th: Bound for Glory (1976) starring: David Carradine, Ronny Cox & Melinda Dillon – and – Emperor of the North Pole (1973) starring: Lee Marvin, Ernest Borgnine & Keith Carradine.

Coming Attractions:

. . . Sunday, February 19th thru 25th: Fahrenheit 451 (1966) starring: Oskar Werner, Julie Christie & Cyril Cusack – and – Flame Over India/Northwest Frontier (1959) starring: Kenneth More, Lauren Bacall & Herbert Lom.


That’s it! [tup][;)]

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



PLEASE remember that this is ENCORE! Saturday – SAVE those original Posts for Monday thru Friday!

[passengerfan]

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

Hey Tom Lars and Rob did a great job filling in yesterday. Sorry I couldn't help.

Since this is Encore Saturday thought I would resurrect the following.

ARIZONA LIMITED CRI&P – SP Trains 29-30 December 15, 1940 – April 3, 1941 Chicago – Phoenix every other day all Pullman winter only trains. 1,900 miles 31 hours 15.minutes Train numbers 29-30
BY AL

The ARIZONA LIMITED was an all Pullman All Room winter only operation between Chicago and Tucson-Phoenix. The ARIZONA LIMITED provided a deluxe service for wealthy Midwesterners and other people of means who preferred to spend part of their winters in the warm desert climate of southern Arizona. The ARIZONA LIMITED was a truly first class pair of trains for the only two seasons they ever operated. They were finally canceled due to the outbreak of WW II but even then they just about completed their entire second season. The Rock Island assigned diesel power to the ARIZONA LIMITED trains between Chicago and Tucumcari, New Mexico. The Southern Pacific assigned mostly Mountain’s to the ARIZONA LIMITED between Tucumcari and Phoenix. The Rock Island assigned two of their ALCO 2,000 HP prewar diesel passenger units the first season and two EMD 2,000 HP diesel passenger units the second and final season the ARIZONA LIMITEDS operated. The Rock Island also modernized two Baggage 15 Crew Dormitory Cars and two 36 seat Dining Cars for both consists of the ARIZONA LIMITEDS. Both of these cars in each train set were painted two tone gray to match the paint scheme of the Pullman owned Sleeping cars of the ARIZONA LIMITED trains. With two consists the ARIZONA LIMITED was able to provide every other day service between Chicago and Phoenix in both directions. From the ARIZONA LIMITED the Rock Island got the idea for the postwar GOLDEN ROCKET a premier train for service to Los Angeles from Chicago. More on this train later. Both seasons of the ARIZONA LIMITED consists are listed below on the Rock Island.

First season consists are as follows.

CONSIST ONE

622 ALCO DL-107 2,000 HP Diesel Passenger Cab Unit (Chicago – Tucumcari)

Streamlined GS-2 4-8-4 Steam Locomotive & Tender (Tucumcari – Phoenix) exact numbers unknown

6014 Heavyweight Baggage 13-Crew Dormitory Car (CRI&P)

8028 Heavyweight 36-seat Dining Car (CRI&P)

IMPERIAL GUARD 4-Compartment 4-Double Bedroom 2-Drawing Room Sleeping Car

IMPERIAL BANNER 4-Compartment 4-Double Bedroom 2-Drawing Room Sleeping Car

CASCADE BANKS 10-Roomette 5-Double Bedroom Sleeping Car

CASCADE BASIN 10-Roomette 5-Double Bedroom Sleeping Car (Chicago – Tucson)

AMERICAN MILEMASTER 2-Double Bedroom 1-Compartment 1-Drawing Room Buffet 27-Seat Lounge Observation

CONSIST TWO

623 ALCO DL-107 2,000 HP Diesel Passenger Cab Unit (Chicago – Tucumcari)

Streamlined GS-2 4-8-4 Steam Locomotive & Tender (Tucumcari – Phoenix)

6015 Heavyweight Baggage 13-Crew Dormitory Car (CRI&P)

8031 Heavyweight 36-seat Dining Car (CRI&P)

IMPERIAL CLIPPER 4-Compartment 4-Double Bedroom 2-Drawing Room Sleeping Car

IMPERIAL THRONE 4-Compartment 4-Double Bedroom 2-Drawing Room Sleeping Car

CASCADE MILLS 10-Roomette 5-Double Bedroom Sleeping Car

CASCADE SHOALS 10-Roomette 5-Double Bedroom Sleeping Car (Tucson – Chicago)

MUSKINGUM RIVER 2-Double Bedroom 1-Compartment 1-Drawing Room Buffet 27-Seat Lounge Observation

The second and final season the ARIZONA LIMITED operated was from December 15, 1941 until April 3, 1942. The two consists that operated the second season were different enough to be listed separately.

CONSIST ONE

630 EMD E6A 2,000 HP Diesel Passenger Cab Unit (Chicago – Phoenix)

6014 Heavyweight Baggage 13-Crew Dormitory Car (CRI&P)

8028 Heavyweight 36-seat Dining Car (CRI&P)

IMPERIAL CLIPPER 4-Compartment 4-Double Bedroom 2-Drawing Room Sleeping Car

IMPERIAL GUARD 4-Compartment 4-Double Bedroom 2-Drawing Room Sleeping Car

CASCADE BANKS 10-Roomette 5-Double Bedroom Sleeping Car (Chicago – Tucson)

ROARING CAMP Streamlined Heavyweight 17-Roomette Sleeping Car

MUSKINGUM RIVER 2-Double Bedroom 1-Compartment 1-Drawing Room Buffet 27-seat Lounge Observation

CONSIST TWO

631 EMD E6A 2,000 HP Diesel Passenger Cab Unit

6015 Heavyweight Baggage 13-Crew Dormitory Car (CRI&P)

8031 Heavyweight 36-Seat Dining Car (CRI&P)

IMPERIAL BANNER 4-Compartment 4-Double Bedroom 2-Drawing Room Sleeping Car

IMPERIAL THRONE 4-Compartment 4-Double Bedroom 2-Drawing Room Sleeping Car

CASCADE BASIN 10-Roomette 5-Double Bedroom Sleeping Car (Tucson – Chicago)

BEAR FLAG Articulated 14-Duplex Single Room 2-Double Bedroom Sleeping Car
CALIFORNIA REPUBLIC Articulated 4-Double Bedroom 1-Compartment Buffet 27-Seat Lounge Observation


TTFN AL

[siberianmo]

Mornin' Gents!

A frigid start to the day here in mid-Continent USA - I'd suspect we're at zero or a bit below here in suburbia, but the "official" temp taken out at the airport (20 miles away) has it at 2 (F). A partly cloudy start with a breeze, which made the AM Juneau Trek even more "delightful".[swg] Still no snow in sight ..... [tdn]

Glad you appreciated your "Salute," Sir Rob and another goes to Skipper Lars of the "good ship Neversink" in hopes that his calamity has abated some.[tup][tup][tup]

I've been doing some browsing in my "archives" and found that we have three Birthdays to celebrate in March - Nick (5th) - Doug (13th) & Lars (31st) - those are DATES not AGES!![swg] Anyway, given that we seem to have considerable difficulty lining up sufficient numbers of us to participate in contests, guessing games and other forms of recognition, much less Birthday Bashes, my suggestion is to schedule one Grand Gala Event for the three of them. So we need these guys to help coordinate a DATE and TIME for it. I'll give it about a week - and if the responses are poor, then I'll pick it and we'll "go fer it!"[tup] Of course, we'll ALWAYS acknowledge a guy's Natal Day with an appropriate Post on the "blessed event date!"[swg]

Thataway, Al - good ENCORE![tup][tup][tup][swg] I'll see what I can find to supplement the Rock Island "theme."

PLEASE remember that this is ENCORE! Saturday - SAVE those original Posts for Monday thru Friday!

Later!

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]

[siberianmo]

ENCORE! Saturday - ENCORE! Saturday


PASSENGER TRAIN NOSTALGIA #20

Here’s something to enjoy regarding the Southern Pacific (SP) from a 1951 advertisement in my personal collection.
previously Posted on page 156



Did you hear what the Cowboy said about the “Golden State”?

”WHAT A RIDE FER DUDES! SHE’S THE SMOOTHEST AND PURTIEST THING ON WHEELS FROM CHICAGO TO ARIZONA OR CALIFORNIA! ANOTHER OF SP’S WONDERFUL WAYS WEST!”

We think, you’ll enjoy our ”Golden State,” especially if you’re an experienced traveler. We have many friends who repeat, winter after winter, “chasing the sun Southwest” on this smooth, extra-fare S.P. & Rock Island streamliner. It’s convenient. Takes you via El Paso and Southern Arizona’s winter resorts to Palm Springs & Los Angeles.

She’s been re-streamlined, too, from stem to stern. We’ve issued a folder to celebrate the event and would like to send it to you. Helps you choose your accommodations, whether Pullman (Drawing rooms, Compartments, Bedrooms, Roomettes) or Chair Car (economical; Coffee Shop).

By the way, the ”Golden State” is extra fast, too – 44 ¼ pleasant hours, Chicago-Los Angeles or vice versa. Fine connecting streamliners. Perhaps you’d like to try another great S.P. route, going home. That way you see twice as much, usually for no extra rail fare. The little map shows how.

Why don’t you plan on the ”Golden State” for this winter or next summer? And meantime, let us send you that folder?

”GOLDEN STATE,” Chicago-Los Angeles, via El Paso, Douglas, Bisbee, Tucson, Phoenix, Palm Springs, 44 ¼ hours. Through Pullmans, Minneapolis and St. Louis to Los Angeles. Through Chair car, Minneapolis-Los Angeles. Connecting service to San Diego.

SP AMERICA’S MOST MODERN TRAINS


Enjoy! [tup]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

ENCORE! Saturday - ENCORE! Saturday

[siberianmo]

ENCORE! Saturday - ENCORE! Saturday
first Posted on page 188

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

Vol. I, Number 2 . . . . . . . . Monday, December 12, 2005 . . . . . . . . . Free
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ANNIVERSARY EDITION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

”Our” Place reaches milestone

See Editorial


barndad Doug Inducted into the ORDER OF THE STOOLS

Dec 12th , Mentor Village
By: Verbal Funderburk

barndad Doug was inducted into the Order of the Stools - Reserved on Nov 22nd. With a crowd of free-loaders on hand along with the list of “usual suspects” (aka: customers), the induction ceremonies were carried out by the Selection Committee. This rather nebulous group of societal wannabees commanded about as much attention as a refrigerator salesman in the Klondike.

The induction ceremony was held in the Pool Room of the village bar and grill known as ”Our” Place and was attended by the municipalities leadership, janitorial staff and Bee Keepers society. A rather boisterous gathering toasted the new inductee with song and praise. “Who is this guy [?]” was the overriding theme of the background singers, as the party raged on into the late afternoon. Throughout the ceremony, there appeared to be several distractions, least of which were the “buzzing” of the group by an animal resembling a Parrot, and some “quick steps” by the crowd to avoid being bitten by what appeared to be a crazed Armadillo.

barndad Doug insisted that his acceptance into the group came as a complete surprise, and rejected any notion that his substantial cash “donation” to the Committee’s Railfan Vacation Fund,” had any influence on his selection.

As has been the practice, a spirited bout of pushing, shoving, punching, kicking and gauging broke about amongst the track gangs of the CN, CP and Can-Am railroads. With considerable help from the cloven-footed mutant known as Boris and the rather quiet and somewhat sullen giant of a man called Leon, Inspector Clueless of the Local Constabularly and his sidekick, Mr. Doyle, Private Investigator, restored order by using a tested strategy. Free drinks and a dance with any one of the ”Our” Place staff of beauties. (More on page 17.)


Scandal looms, as inquiry widens
Local Constabulary Caught Out By Typo

Dec 12th, Mentor Village
By: Nickin Westwales (and staff reporters)

Mentor`s finest,Clueless & Doyle are expected to be called in to head office to explain themselves after mobilizing the Counties Armed Response Unit to meet the incoming weekly Can-Am / Cymru Zeppelin service on the grounds that in addition to the usual cargo of beer & deli goods, the Airship was being used as a front for narcotic trafficking.

A measure of confusion ensued before it was realized that the delivery in question was nothing more dangerous than a batch of hand-woven carpeting for local tavern ”Our” Place.
When asked for a quote, a representative from the staff told our reporter " Yes,We are international rug smugglers,now either buy a drink or s*d off,we`re busy tonight."

As first released on Nov 17th, this story has taken on additional ramifications of involvement by some rather prominent officials in Village and County government. The Governor General was unavailable for comment, however, a representative opined, “This nasty business of blatant and flagrant rug abuse has simply got to stop. To purchase these black market floor coverings is to lend credibility to those bent on the destruction of civilized society itself. We must stand as one against the horde! Just say, “No way, Jose, to rug smugglers!”

A Blue Ribbon investigative panel has been assembled to look into the extent of the operation in the Village and County. The names of those serving on the panel have yet to be released, although “unnamed sources” reveal that an academic, a Constable and a business owner will spearhead the effort. An all out push has been undertaken to find sufficient quantities of Blue Ribbon for sashes, emblems and other “badges of office” to distingui***his particular body from any others. [?] It is anticipated that their findings will be released in January.


”Our” Place Rendezvous plans solidified

Dec 12th, Mentor Village
By: Ima Nogo

The First Annual ”Our” Place Classic Trains Rendezvous will take place in the greater Toronto, Ontario, Canada area during the period May 11th through 13th, 2006. Firm commitments have been made by a cast of rather “Unusual Suspects” for this event and include, siberianmo Tom – trolleyboy Rob – Theodorebear Ted and passengerfan Al. Others are expected to join the gathering as the date draws near.

The actual Rendezvous will take place on Friday, May 12th with an all day riding of the steel rails as the highlight. Trains, trolleys and subways are to be the featured attractions. The evening prior to the event will find the group meeting for the first time in person at a local Bistro selected by trolleyboy Rob for the occasion.

There are no provisions for press coverage at this time, as the group of international travelers insists they are not part of any effort to further undermine the relations between the U.S. and Canada. More to follow.


EDITORIAL

”Our” Place celebrates its 8th Month Anniversary today by engaging in something a bit different. The customers have been asked to Post information relating to Christmas and holiday train travel from the past. As we saw with the Veterans/Remembrance Day Postings, some rather poignant and “warm” reminders of days gone by are anticipated.

We congratulate our Village bar and grill for surviving this long and offer this: What state would our village coffers be in if not for the fines paid by clientele and ownership over these 8 months [?]


CLASSIFIED Section

Wanted: One English (as in Great Britain) to English (as in U.S.) phrase translation book for pwolfe Pete.


SPORTS Trivia

Baseball: The Cincinnati Red Stockings were the first pro club , frankly admitting in 1869 that all of its players were salaried. Highest paid were two brothers, Harry and George Wright, $1,400 and $1,200 respectively.

Football: The American Football League (AFL) began play in 1960 with eight teams, in Boston (Patriots), Buffalo (Bills), Dallas (Texans), Denver (Broncos), Houston (Oilers), Los Angeles (Chargers), New York (Titans) and Oakland (Raiders).

Rugby The birth of a sport, thanks to:

. . . . . WILLIAM WEBB ELLIS . . . . .
. . . . . of Rugby College, 1823. . . . . .
This stone commemorates the exploit
. . . . . of William Webb Ellis . . . . .
who with a fine sense of disregard for the rules
of football, as played in his time, first took the
ball in his arms and ran with it, thus originating
the distinctive feature of the Rugby game.
. . . . . A.D. 1823. . . . . .


COMIX

From the Bumper:

* WORK HARDER *
Millions on welfare depend on you!

Driver carries no cash.
He’s married!

Can’t feed ‘em?
Don’t breed ‘em!


Enjoy!

Tom [4:-)] [oX)]

ENCORE! Saturday - ENCORE! Saturday

[siberianmo]

ENCORE! Saturday - ENCORE! Saturday

Here’s another Fallen Flag for the gang from Classic American Railroads:
first Posted on page 151

Norfolk & Western (N&W)

Headquarters: Roanoke, VA

Mileage: 1950: 2,129

Locomotives in 1963:

Diesel: 610

Rolling stock in 1963:

Freight cars: 75,621
Passenger cars: 251

Principal routes in 1950:

Lambert’s Point (Norfolk), VA-Columbus, OH
Portsmouth-Cincinnati, OH
Lynchburg, VA-Durham, NC
Roanoke-Hagerstown, MD
Roanoke-Winston-Salem, NC
Walton-Bristol, VA
Bluefield, WV-Norton, VA

Passenger trains of note:

Pocahontas (Norfolk-Cincinnati & Columbus)
Birmingham Special (New York-Birmingham, AL; joint with PRR and SR; operated by N&W Lynchburg-Bristol)
Cavalier (Norfolk-Cincinnati)
Pelican (New York-New Orleans, LA; joint with PRR and SR; operated by N&W Lynchburg-Bristol)
Powhatan Arrow (Norfolk-Cincinnati)
Tennessean (New York-Memphis, TN; joint with PRR and SR; operated by N&W Lynchburg-Bristol)
Cannon Ball (Norfolk-New York; joint with ACL; RF&P; and PRR; operated by N&W Norfolk-Petersburg)

Of Note: In 1964, the N&W added the Wabash and Nickel Plate road to its system along with the Columbus-Sandusky line of the PRR, which the PRRR sold to the N&W. In 1981, the N&W added selected lines of the Illinois Terminal RR to its system. This Fallen Flag focuses on the pre-1964 N&W.


Enjoy! [tup]

Tom [4:-)] [oX)]

ENCORE! Saturday - ENCORE! Saturday

[siberianmo]

ENCORE! Saturday - ENCORE! Saturday

Here’s something to ponder with regard to our appreciation and fascination with
Classic Trains. Check these hotel ads (from The Official Guide of the Railways – 1956) [located on the inside, back cover]
first Posted on page 141

OKLAHOMA BILTMORE

in the heart of Oklahoma City

600 Outside Rooms with Bath
600 Free Radios

MARTIN J. REINHART, President
H.P “Johnnie” JOHNSON, Mgr.

”Where courtesy creates its own welcome”

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Where Downtown SAN ANTONIO meets the River

The PLAZA HOTEL
. . . . . . . . . . . Air-Conditioned . . . . . . . . . . . . .

SAN ANTONIO
. . . . . . . . . . . The Venice of Texas . . . . . . . . .

500 Rooms . . . . . . . . . . . TOM L. POWELL, Mgr.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

IN SAN FRANCISCO . . .

KARL C. WEBER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 500 Rooms
President and . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . from $5.00 – Single
General Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . from $7.00 – Double

HOTEL WHITCOMB
Market Street at Eighth

AT THE CIVIC CENTER

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

HOTEL LAFAYETTE

LAFAYETTE SQUARE BUFFALO, N.Y.

Buffalo’s Most Centrally Located Hotel

400 ROOMS WITH PRIVATE BATH
. . . . . . . . . . From $2.75 Single . . . . . . . . . .

Delicious Meals at Moderate Cost

KENNETH A. KELLY, President and Manager

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

IN ATLANTIC CITY IT’S . . .

HOTEL DENNIS

Boardwalk at Michigan Avenue
AMERICAN and EUROPEAN PLANS

Walter J. Buzby, Inc.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

PHILADELPHIA’S VERY BEST!
1200 Rooms – 1200 Baths
The finest of food and entertainment

The BENJAMIN FRANKLIN

A GREAT NAME . . . . . A GREAT HOTEL

JOSEPH F. CONLAN, General Manager. . . . . . . . . WAlnut 2-8600

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

THE CONRAD HILTON

C H I C A G O

World;’s Largest and Friendliest Hotel

3000 ROOMS COMPLETELY REFURBISHED

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

MARK TWAIN HOTEL
. . . . . . . . . . ELMIRA, NEW YORK . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . Elmira’s Finest Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . .

250 OUTSIDE ROOMS WITH BATH
Television and Air Conditioning – Four Restaurants
W. C. EMERSON, President and Managing Director

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

IN NEW ORLEANS

The ST. CHARLES
. . . . . . . . A DINKLER HOTEL . . . . . . . .
Completely Air-Conditioned
J. J. (“Mike”) O’Leary, V.P. & Mgr.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

HOTEL ROBERT TREAT
. . . . . . . . . . ”A KNOTT HOTEL . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . NEWARK 1, N.J.

SINGLE - $5.25 Up . . . . . . . . . . DOUBLE - $8.50 Up
STANLEY J. AKUS, Mgr. . . . .ALBERT W. STENDER, Pres.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

One of the world’s distinguished hotels

The WINDSOR

. . . . . . . . MONTREAL, CANADA . . . . . . . .

MAXIME RAYMOND Q. C.
President & Managing Director

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -


Enjoy! [tup]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

ENCORE! Saturday - ENCORE! Saturday

[West Coast S]

Afternoon Tom and the gang..It's Saturday posting time!!! Round of CR if you please..

Lars...Hope recovery is well underway, several years ago my son flooded the entire house!! Have to wonder what he was tninking!! I was having a new main pipe installed, he proceded to turn on every faucet in the house in a vain attempt to draw water, left for school and while the house was unoccupied, the contractor restored water pressure at the conclusion of the installation, viola..instant flooded house!! On the plus side, insurance paid for all repairs and the wife got new carpet and paint when all was said and done..

Tom..Ah revenge is sweet, the smuck that forced me out of my job several months ago is now himself relieved, after I had a frank discussion with the one star reguarding his manner of command. Possibly, I will be returning to my previous position in a command capacity shortly if all goes well..

On PhotoSunday, the Aerotrain was featured, how many are aware that the Union Pacific placed a set in service for the City Of Las Vegas, aka as The Gamblers Special or the Crap Shooter. One car was converted to Buffet service and named "Howdy Pardner" with all food and drinks gratus. Underpowered, it required a helper engine most of the route, UP was displeased with the rough ride and lack of acceleration and didn't even keep the set through the lease period, returning the train to GM after only one year of a two year lease. UP replaced it with standard equiptment and power which could also handle the mail contracts, the only level unchanged was the food service and the western theme..

I just discovered SP GP-30s were tried in passenger service, true, SP borrowed a UP GP-30 B, steam generator equipped unit to compare operating cost and performance against its E units and PA's. The 30's proved capable but SP had no interest in cabless units and had the order been placed they would have been high hoods similar to those on the southern and N&W but with steam generators. SP deemed it far more efficient to shop the PA's and E's in house rather then purchase new power for obvious declining passenger revenues.


Encore, encore saturday!!! Ok guy's
set um up for all today


Dave

[pwolfe]

Hi Tom and all.

A pint of the usual and if there is any of H&H's last nights very tasty Steak left.[?]

A quick note to say thanks for the encores Al and TOM. The Arizona Limited looks a manificent train it was a shame it only ran two seasons.

The Nostalgia on the SP, the Norfolk & Western Fallen Flag and those grand hotels are always worth reading again. It was great to read issue #2 of the Gazette again to bring a[:D] on a Saturday[tup].

Must say thanks to ROB standing in as bar-keep yesterday and for the TTC #3. I will have to comment on the long life on the British 0-6-0 next week.

RUSSELL It will be great for us to meet in St. Louis if we can. I can get on the Amtrak here.

LARS I hope that the basement problem as been solved and things are back to normal.

DAVE Good to see you again. Great info on the Aerotrain it was a pity the train did not perform as well as it looked.

May I get a round in to celebrate Our Place's 250th page PETE.

[siberianmo]

G'day Gents!

Howdy Dave![C):-)]

Seems like we're seeing you on Saturdays on a regular basis - well it could be worse, none out of seven![swg] Must confess, I saw your 'cyber handle' a few hours ago on another thread and was wondering . . .

I hope you've been following the info in the Summaries for there's "something" coming up that should tweak your interests . . .

You'll have to ship me an Email if you please, to explain how a civilian gets 'command' in a military situation. Other than the President, I've not encountered that situation in my comings 'n goings! Now if you are speaking of "commanding" other civilians - then I understand. Oh the lexicon we use![swg]

Yes - call it what you will - but revenge indeed is SWEET! What goes around, comes around, as the saying goes.[yeah]

I don't envy Lars and what I'm imagining he's putting up with. Depending on just how much water got in - he's undoubtedly not in the best frame of mind right now.[tdn] I shudder at the thought of our basement flooding - that's the Can-Am trainroom. <yikes!>

We thank you for the drinks for the remainder of the day. Now, if we could only get some guys to take advantage of it!

Greetings Pete! Good to see ya and appreciate the round! Once again - there aren't any guys around to drink 'em . . .<frown>

Always appreciate your positive approach to this Thread and the inclusiveness of your responses. Well done![tup][tup]

Rendezvous 2007 will be decided in Toronto this May by the guys who have committed to the gathering in time and money. Insofar as St. Louis is concerned, we can always have a "mini-Rendezvous" if some other location is chosen. Either way, it will be fun . . .

250 pages - seems just like yesterday when this bar opened.

Later!

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[Anonymous]

Hi tom Just stopped in to say hello. Is trolleyboy into overhead electric wire? I am interested in putting some cantenary up on my 0 gauge layout. I wonder if he could throw his two cents in and may be give me some idea's that he may have. Felix

[siberianmo]

[#welcome] Felix!

So you made it over here from my "other thread" - good for you![tup] Now the idea is to check us out by going back to PAGE ONE - read through a couple of those early pages, then jump back here. Recommend you peruse about 5-10 of our last pages. Doing that will give you a pretty good "handle" on how things are done 'round here.

I don't want to 'swamp' you with too much - just a step at a time! But there are a few things you simply must know:
(1) We are not a model railroad site - this is a Classic Trains discussion group with a whole lot of fun thrown in!
(2) We are interactive in that we acknowledge one another. No hit 'run Posts appreciated 'round here.
(3) READ the daily SUMMARY - best way to know what' s going on.

I'm sure trolleyboy Rob will pick up on your comments . . .

First drink 'round here is one the house - so whatilyahave[?][swg]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[passengerfan]

Good Afteernoon Tom and the rest of the gang. Time for a CR and a round for the house. Continuing the theme of ENCORE SATURDAY this one was originally on page 166.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN ROCKET CRI&P Trains 7-8 November 12, 1939 Chicago – Denver/Colorado Springs daily overnight 1072.8 miles 17 hours 25 minutes
By Al

Running west from Chicago on the same date November 12, 1939 that the NYC MERCURY departed eastbound from Chicago the Rock Island inaugurated a new Diesel powered ROCKY MOUNTAIN ROCKET. Actually the new train required two sets of equipment with one eastbound each night and the other westbound each night in order to provide daily service in each direction. The new ROCKY MOUNTAIN ROCKET was a double destination train at its western end serving both Denver and Colorado Springs from Chicago. The train split at Limon, Colorado westbound in the mornings and was reassembled at the same point in the afternoons for the return overnight run to Chicago. Both Budd and Pullman Standard manufactured equipment for the seven car ROCKY MOUNTAIN ROCKETS in stainless steel finish. Budd constructed the new ROCKY MOUNTAIN ROCKETS Baggage Cars, Railway Post Office 44 seat Coach combinations, 52 revenue seat Coaches, and the 32 seat dining 16 seat lounge Cars. Pullman Standard constructed the four sleeping cars and two sleeping Lounge Observations. Power for the new streamliners was a single EMC E3A unit developing 2,000 hp between Chicago and Denver. The Rock Island assigned a steam locomotive initially to the Limon – Colorado Springs section. Two cars the 30’ Railway Post Office 44 revenue seat Coach combination and the 8 Section 2 compartment 2 Double Bedroom Sleeping Car were through Chicago – Colorado Springs cars. Later as the size of the ROCKY MOUNTAIN ROCKET trains increased the Rock Island would order custom built B units with a cab and Baggage compartment from EMD to power the Colorado Springs Section from Limon to Colorado Springs and back. These units were operated through to and from Chicago as the second unit in the ROCKY MOUNTAIN ROCKET trains. These EMD AB units as they were known began service in June 1940 at the same time the Rock Island added a Kansas City – Denver section to the ROCKY MOUNTAIN ROCKET. These cars were coaches 308 DREAM LAKE operating with Pullman Pool 10 Roomette 5 Double Bedroom Sleeping Car CASCADE MILLS in one direction nightly and Coach 311 JAMES PEAK operating with Pullman Pool 10 Roomette 5 Double Bedroom Sleeping Car CASCADE SHOALS. The two CASCADE Pullman Pool sleeping cars were soon replaced by Rock Island 8 Section 5 Double Bedroom Sleeping cars FOREST CANYON, and THOMPSON CANYON delivered by Pullman Standard in November 1940. The Kansas City cars joined the westbound ROCKY MOUNTAIN ROCKET at Belleville, Kansas having operated as a separate train from Kansas City. Eastbound the ROCKY MOUNTAIN ROCKET set out the Kansas City cars at Belleville to be forwarded as a separate train from that point. The eastbound Kansas City sleeping car space was sold as Parlor car space as the ROCKY MOUNTAIN ROCKET operated as a daytime schedule to that point. The nightly westbound sleeper space was sold as sleeper space. The Rock Island never able to compete with the Union Pacific on the Kansas City – Denver run dropped the Kansas City section of the ROCKY MOUNTAIN ROCKET in September 1943.

CONSIST ONE

625 EMC E3A 2,000 HP Diesel Passenger Cab Unit

850 Baggage Car

375 MESA VERDE 30’Railway Post Office 44-Revenue Seat Coach

309 BEAR LAKE 52-Revenue Seat Coach

420 MOUNT EVANS 32-Seat Dining 12-Seat Lounge Car

650 ODESSA LAKE 10-Section 4-Roomette Sleeping Car

610 GARDEN OF THE GODS 8-Section 2-Compartment 2-Double Bedroom Sleeping Car

476 PHANTOM VALLEY 5-Double Bedroom Buffet 9-Seat Cocktail Lounge 17-Seat Lounge Observation

CONSIST TWO

626 EMC E3A 2,000 HP Diesel Passenger Cab Unit

851 Baggage Car

376 PIKES PEAK 30’Railway Post Office 44-Revenue Seat Coach

310 LONGS PEAK 52-Revenue Seat Coach

421 CENTENNIAL 32-Seat Dining 12-Seat Lounge Car

651 LAWN LAKE 10-Section 4-Roomette Sleeping Car

611 GRAND MESA 8-Section 2-Compartment 2-Drawing Room Sleeping Car

477 THUNDER MOUNTAIN 5-Double Bedroom Buffet 9-Seat Cocktail Lounge 17-Seat Lounge Observation


In the above consists cars 375 MESA VERDE, 376 PIKES PEAK, 610 GARDEN OF THE GODS and 611 GRAND MESA operated Chicago – Colorado Springs. All other cars operated Chicago – Denver. The Colorado Springs cars were deleted and added to the Denver section at Limon, Colorado.

In 1940 a connecting service was operated between Kansas City and Belleville, Kansas with a through sleeping car to Denver. Westbound the service was overnight and eastbound the sleeping car was operated as a parlor car.

Also in 1940 the Rock Island received from EMD two of the strangest critters to ever operate in Passenger service numbers 750 and 751. These two units known as AB units by EMD were essentially EMD E6B units with only a single 1,000 hp engine in the forward half and a baggage compartment occupied the rear half. These two units were assigned to the ROCKY MOUNTAIN ROCKET consists between Chicago and Colorado Springs. They operated as B units behind new EMD E6A units between Chicago and Limon, Colorado where they then became the sole power to Colorado Springs for that section of the train.

In 1943 the Kansas City – Belleville connecting service was discontinued.

In April 1947 two new 68-seat Coaches were added to the ROCKY MOUNTAIN ROCKET one to each consist.

333 DENVER

334 COLORADO SPRINGS

In December 1954 four new sleeping cars with 8-Roomettes and 6-Double Bedrooms were added to the ROCKY MOUNTAIN ROCKET two assigned to each consist. One of these was a Chicago – Denver car the other a Chicago – Colorado Springs car. These cars were:

630 AIR FORCE ACADEMY

631 THE BROADMOOR

632 RAMPART RANGE

633 TURQUOISE SKY

In 1963 the westbound ROCKY MOUNTAIN ROCKET and GOLDEN STATE were combined between Chicago and Rock Island.

In 1966 the ROCKY MOUNTAIN ROCKET was discontinued no longer able to compete with the VISTA DOME DENVER ZEPHYR or CITY OF DENVER trains.

TTFN AL

[siberianmo]

ENCORE! Saturday - ENCORE! Saturday

PASSENGER TRAIN NOSTALGIA #45

Here’s something to enjoy regarding the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific (Rock Island) from a 1949 advertisement in my personal collection.
first Posted on page 194

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

Now! Beat the Winter Crowds to SUNSHINE LAND!

. . . . . . . . . . The Golden State . . . . . . . . . .
Direct – CHICAGO to LOS ANGELES

Serving El Paso, Douglas, Tucson, Phoenix and Palm Springs

A perfect travel combination for your winter holiday – luxurious Golden State streamliner via the low-altitude Golden State Route!

Here’s smooth Diesel Speed; finest of private room and sectional Pullman accommodations; latest type reclining-seat Chair Cars. Coffee-Shop-Lounge, Dining Car, Lounge Car. Through Sleeping Cars from New York and St. Louis. Extra fare – and worth it!

. . . . . THE IMPERIAL . . . Chair Cars
. . . . . and Pullmans to San Diego – Los Angeles.
. . . . . Tourist Sleepers to Los Angeles. Dining and
. . . . . Lounge Cars. No extra fare.

. . . . . . . . . . ROCK ISLAND LINES . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Road of Planned Progress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .


Enjoy! [tup]

Tom [4:-)][oX)]

ENCORE! Saturday - ENCORE! Saturday

[West Coast S]

Tom..Black market rug trade, are there no limits some will stoop too? Lexicon indeed, commanding civilians, while the military commands me, its an evil cycle you should remember well, I will be more involved with the military this time around as the prior grouped mucked the program so bad that we report directly to a commisioned officer, O5 or above as opposed to a DOD civilian manager as in years past. Drat, I'll have to cut my hair to regulation!!!!!!

Rob, good to see you back, Pwolf greetings as well.

I don't really have any Christmas stories, I've been on many rail trips but the one that stands out was a high speed, baggage door open, ride in the tool car behind 844/3985 on the return trip from railfan 81,I boarded In Laramie and rode over Sherman Hill, dad drove overland and met me at Borie where I deboarded, the gracious crew served lunch enroute, homemade spicy chile and cornbread, i'll never forget, the meal was that good, steam, good food and good company, it was in hindsight, the last railfan event we shared, dad passed away several months later.

I was able to obtain cab rides in SP 4449 due to a memorable set of circumstances: (dad invited the crew of the American Freedom Train for Thanksgiving dinner during its stop in San Francisco , the invitation was accepted where all raved about gradmothers pies and homemade fudge in particular, could that be reason for the cab ride, a way of saying thanks for the hospitlity?) as well as Sou 4501, NKP 759 and countless diesel outings to name a few, through his efforts. I often wonder what his knack was??

Dave

[red p]

Hello Tom,
Long time no see. Im sure everyone has noticed that I dont spend as much time here anymore. Ive been trying to limit my time on the computer. It seems I was sitting on the internet all day and not getting anything done.
Well Ive decided to get back to work on some of my other projects and not spend so much time on the internet. But I will stop in from time to time and I may not always have time to review 5 pages of post, Sorry if I disappointed anybody.
I also want everyone to realize that im going to waste everyones time with a meaningless post. One of the reasons I dont post much is the fact that I dont have much to say,although there maybe another tale of railroad folklore coming.

CM3 While I share your veiw of those who get what they deserve in grade crossing accidents. There are a lot of innocent victims too. I have had school busses blow crossings on me. I have also had near misses so close that I have looked down at 60 miles an hour and seen a baby strapped in a car seat. Nothing pisses me off more than to see some idiot blow a crossing with little kids in the back seat
P

[siberianmo]

Good Evening!

First, I must pass a word or two along to West Coast S Dave:

A definite drawback to no longer being a regular is not being aware of what's going on!

Saturday is ENCORE! day - which means virtually everything Posted is a repeat - ergo, ENCORE!

So, that Mentor Village Gazette was a repeat from December 12th. Any and all material in it surely should have been seen by one and all way before today - it is all old "news"! Sorry, Mate - gotta read the words - that's life in the big city.[swg]

There's just no quick way to catch up 'round here - the Summaries were meant to help, but the rest is up to the individual . . . .

For P Whatever works.

I'll be checking out for the evening in a bit, so:

Leon the Night Man will take the bar!

See some of you tomorrow for Sunday Photo Posting Day! and perhaps the others on Monday.

Later!

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[Anonymous]

Hi Tom Ok I think understand some of the ground rules and I will follow them. First what time does the bar close at night and is it open on sunday's? Just got back from diner and a movie and I am going to look at your earliar threads. good nite Felix

[trolleyboy]

Good evening folks. Leon let me grab a round of keiths for the poolroom brawlers.

Tom& Al Nice to see the repeats of some of the good old stuff.A good goggle with the gazette to start the day off and some decent streamliner info to boot [tupall a round.

Pete Glad that you enjoyed the TTC info, I look forward to Monday's 0-6-0 info.

Dave Nice to see you again sir ! Great news that you may get your old gig back. More regular hours ? Hope so then we can be regalled by more west coast railroading [tup]

Felix [#welcome] I'm actually an HO'r so the traction modelling is even more a chore for me as there is a llot less to choose from. I'm not a "live" overhead guy I will put up non-powered just for the looks however. I am however a member of the Ontario Electric Railway Historical Assosiation and as such operate the cars at our museum so I get the "live wires " there. Always happy to converse however,and I'm glad to see another traction buff in the bar [tup]



Rob

[Anonymous]

Good evening Rob I have been in HO for past 40 yrs. While I was stationed in germany we did a lot of traveling in the US zone. I acquired a lot of fleischmann trains during the time that I spent overseas. I built my layout with mostly european proto type equipment and had a working live electric cantenary system. Felix

[trolleyboy]

ENCORE ! ENCORE ! CLASSIC JUICE # 1 THE L& PS

A definate blast from the past the original inaugeral Classic Juice from way back on page 116


The London and Port Stanley Railway or L&PS




The L&PS was originally chartered by the Great Western Railway in 1853. It's purpose to run freight ie coal to the cities of London, St Thomas, Elgin & Middlesex ( all in southwestern ontario )Originally built to the great western's 51/2 foot guage. Fears of the Great Westerns practice of monopoply pricing the cities purchased the road and leased it back to the Great western to operate for 20 years thus limiting price increases.


In 1872 this steam road's lease was up and also the great western as well ( swallowed by the greed of it's owners ) A second 20 year lease was granted to theLake Erie and Detroit river Line( this became the Pere marquette) They ran as a mostly coal hauling road with summer passenger trains to the beaches. As the second Lease was comming to an end the Ontario government was activly pursueing a Scheme to build a province wide electric interurban net work under the ospices of one Sir Adam Beck ( London on MPP and father of the hydro electric commission.Indeed the hydro plants in Niagara falls are still Adam Beck 1 and 2 )


In 1913 when the second lease was up the L&PS was electrified new 80lbs rail and a 1500vDC system and catenery was strung. Five steel motor cars with monitor roof were ordered from Jewett in Ohio. 59 feet long 92,900 lbs cars with 4 125hp GE traction motors. cars 2,4,6,8 &10.Three wooden trailers non powered but with mu controls for train operation were ordered from Preston car and coach in Preston on. cars # 1,3,5. The L&PS interchanged with CN and CP in London and with the Michigan central in St Thomas.


Later in 1915 three electric boxcabs electrified the frieght operations these were built by Preston and numbered L1,2 and L3. Each was capable of moveing 50 loaded coal cars or other general merchandice ferried from conneat ohio. in 1917 two more steel motors were purchased 72 feet long #12 and 14. For forty years the L&PS ran electric service only loosing money twice. Once in 1933 the next time in 1953. Hourly service was run on the 40 mile round trip road with three to 6 car passenger trains common. All cars were geared and capable of 70 miles an hour and mostly ran at those speeds as the L&PS was 90% private ROW with a few under/overpasses for hwy 3 etc.


In 1956 Ontario Hydro was begining to change the power system in the area from25 to 60 cyclesand the city of London which still owned the ROW couldn't afford the rectifier upgrades as passenger numbers were decreasing. As a result in Feb 1957passenger service north and south of St Thomas was ended.frieght operations were dieselized in 1960 although up till 1963 electric service still ran on in the express service London to St Thomas.


In 65 the city discontinued ownership and all power was shut off. Todays port stanley terminal operates whats left of this line in their excursion service. Several cars are still with us. Our Museum has #8 and trailer # 3. We also have locomotive L 2. The Delson Museum in Quebec has # 10 & # 12. And the Elgin county museum in St Thomas has # 14 and freight engine L 1. Photo's of these can be found in our Museums website my rail images account and in several hard bound books. Hope everyone enjoyed. Rob

[trolleyboy]

ENCORE ! ENCORE ! CLASSIC STEAM # 2 THE ALLISTON SUB
This is another true blast from the past , first found on page 163. Enjoy again.

Good evening again gentlemen. I figure that with the unpleasantness hapening on our fare frum this evening that I would through in another piece for my barn.This will be the abrieviated tale of the Alliston Subdivision. Today this subdivision still caters some auto trains for the new car plants but is mostly known for it's steam powered resident the South Simcoe Railway thatruns steam excursions in the summer.Between Tottingham and Beeton Ontario.

CNR Steam The Alliston Subdivision Trains


Beeton to Collingwood Mixed Train

Alliston - Team track ( frieght shed plus stock pens )Peter Thompson & Sons,Gibson feed Mill , coal and lumber yard. team Track shipments included tobacco,potaotoes, and when in season Christmas trees.

Everett - team track ( served Alderson Coal, Gibson's elevator and grist mill )

Glencairn - team track ( local produce & animals )

Avening- team track ( same as above )

Creemore- team track ( frieght shed lcl , grain elevator, cattle pen ,Peter Thompson planning mill shipped from freight shed ) H. P. Shepard & Sons grain mill spur.

Glen Huron - team track ( Hamilton Brother's shipped / recieved feed , lumber , hardware and coal )

Duntroon - team track ( grain elevator , cattle ramp )

Nottawa - team track ( cattle pens ) Stock day once per week , later served by Meaford way feight.

Untill the time table change in april 1930 the second mixed train M393/392 leaving Beeton in the evening returning to Collingwood the following morning.After the early 1940's only mixed trains M391/394 were run on this sub. In the 30's and 40's the power was the ancient moguls 593,607,& 633. Once they were retired in the early 50's custmary power was by ten wheeler's 1287,1207,1358,1360,1363,1364,1390,&1397. Once in a while Allandale mogul's 87 or 88 would handle these trains their last runs were in 1955 however.Thes trains usually had one or two old wood coache/combines for the passenger compontent and handled mail a all the station's until 1955.

It was jokingly sadi that on the Alliston subdivision, trains went 20mph foreward,20mpf sideways and 20mph up and down due to the rural nature of the sub and it's 56 lbs rail ! All old ex Canadain Northern 10 whelers and moguls were used on this line due to it's delicate light rail.The only regular non mixed passenger train to ply this line was in the form of train 661 from Hamilton this train ran through to collingwood normally powered by D-1CNR's infamous first diesel powered doodle bug which was more off than not out of service and replaced by a light pacific or 10 wheelers.The mixed trains would have an old wooden baggage and a coach all of ex CnoR fame.


Rob

[trolleyboy]

Hi Felix nice to see you in again. Drop me an email through the forum and we'll chat. I;m certainly not the worlds best model railroader but if I can I'll see if i can't help you out.I know of at least one museum member who uses North American prototype live catenery in HO ,so i can always check with him as well for you.I don't imagine that O scale catenery is any harder to set up than HO just bigger.

Rob

[trolleyboy]

ENCORE ! ENCORE !

One last encore for today Classic steam # 9 originally posted on pg 191. That wraps up the viewing day for today,I'll pop in tomorrow for one stick of photo's for photo day, then I will see you all when the bar re-opens bright and squirrley on Monday.

Rob




CNR Classic Steam #9 Speacial Steam Frieghts on the Niagara Frontier

Thorrold Switchers

Niagara Falls to Thorold and return same day. Originally one morning assignment. Between sept 30,1945,and april 28, 1946 a second switcher was added. Both ran in the mornings,several hours appart. Circa oct 28 1957 this was cut to a single train during the navigation season. Main task was to serve the Ontario Paper company at lock 7 of the Welland Canal. train would also interchange traffic with the NS&T's electric frieght division in Thorold and Merriton.Heaveu Consolidation main locomotive of choice.


The St Thomas Way Freight

Circa april of 1940 , switching extras that left Fort Erie Tues, Thurs,& sat, for Jarvis and return.Re-classed as a way frieght in april of 1945.Frequency doubled and the territory was expanded to St Thomas so train began leaving Ft Erie M,W,Fri and leavung St Thomas Tues,thurs,& Sat. This assignment was handled by a 1600 series wabash class J2 Pacific. In the 50's 1951 on Wabash SW8's 122-127 handled this run.The train carried a CNR caboose and was jointly operated,CNR and Wabash alternated crewing this train every six months.Effective 1953 Wabash with drew their crews for the local swtiching on the St Thomas division in favour of all CNR crews. Served all local industries. CNR operated train with heavy consolidations until dieselized in 1957 wwith SW1200RS's and GP7's.

Welland way freight

Niagara Fall's to Welland way freight or switcher,returnung the same day. Became known as a way frieght in april of 1945. A joint CNR/Wabash service ( ie CN could handle the Wabash cars ), although this was infrequent as the line handled very little Waba***raffic. Main jop was to service the Cyanamid plant in Port Robinson. Train only operated as far as Port Robinson after 1959. Consolidations in the 2300/2400 series were the power of choice,dieselized after 1958 by SW1200RS's and GP7's.

Enjoy more later.

Rob








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