"OUR" PLACE - SEE NEW THREAD!

[Anonymous]

Good morning Tom, and all my good friends. I'll have my usual 3 light breakfasts, and iced tea.
Howdy to all the regulars and a special welcome to others who I have not yet had the pleasure of meeting. BK, John, Dave, Mike and Don [#welcome] !! I'm just the guy who hasn't had much rail travel, but spends his time working on locos and such at the Illinois Railway Museum in Union Il.

It sure took me a long time to catch-up on the posts of the last week. Tom, Ted, CM3, Rob, Pete, Dave, Dan, Al and Nick have us usual, put forth incredible efforts assimilating stories and information. The aforementioned newer peope have really been contributing as well. Seems everyone is contributing but me!

But what's this? International rug smuggling? Cookware stored in Boris' shack?(I wondered how the bootlace got into my soup). CM3's continuing induction into "POOTS"? "This is a Day, that Will"? Man ... this is my kind of place![^]

Thanks to all who complimented the pic of the Illinois Treminal car I posted last Sunday. It really wasn't much of an effort considering the typical post found here. So here's what I'm gonna do. Here's a reprint of an article from the now defunct Vintage Rail magazine. I will submit this article in three parts, cuz it's too long for me to type in one sitting! If you would like to see more of this, I'll start a series on this thread of more of the same from fallen-railfan magazines.

The following article is reprinted from Vintage Rails magazine 1999 March/April Issue.

The Making of a Railroad Signalman – By Ken Frazer

A railroad signalman’s job in the late 1940’s provided an opportunity to experience the end of the golden era of railroads. Steam power was still pounding the rails. Passenger service, while declining, was still viable, and master craftsmen were still available to pass on their skills to apprentices. I was one of those apprentices who had the good fortune to have caring “old hands” show a novice the way to perform his craft while surviving freezing temperatures, heat exhaustion, and the hazards of railroad work.

Railroading came to me naturally. At one time or another, two uncles, and aunt, two cousins, and my father knew a foreman in the Bridge and Building Department. I was able to get summer jobs when I was 14 and 15 years old, painting the fences between station platforms and working on the railroad’s New York Harbor piers.

The Initiation – After graduating from high school and not being able at the time to attend college, I entered the work world as a helper in the signal department on the Lackawanna Railroad. While having family working on the railroad was responsible for getting summer work and my signal helper’s job, at the same time it made the situation tougher, because I did not want to reflect badly on my family, and the foreman didn’t want to take it easy on me in front of the other men.

It was with this background that I reported to work at the signal construction camp cars in Hackettstown, New Jersey, to foreman Bill Brickman. He had a line crew, a wiring crew, and the subterranean excavation group (digging trenches and burying cable). Foreman Brickman felt that I was qualified for the latter group. It was in this group that I learned the Brickman rule; When digging trenches, you do not have one man pick and another shovel while the first rests. Each man in the trench picks and shovels - continuously.

As we worked our way West towards Washington, New Jersey, I learned how the line crew “grunt” ties material onto the lineman’s ground line so that it won’t fall off. I learned the soft, flat (non-tumbling) toss, chest high, to the lineman up on the pole.

About four to six men would take the end of a line wire to be pulled and head into brush-covered hills and gullies, wherever the line people went, and pulled 1,000 feet of the wire at a time. The line crew boss was Mike Schwartz. A slender, wiry man who was absolutely fearless on the pole. However, he had a thing about pulling the lines up really tight. As Fall approached, we had a cool night after a hot day, punctuated by his calls to “pull it up tighter, men.” The next morning we found some of the lines which had been up tight in the heat of the day snapped like high C on the piano during the cool of the night, causing crossarms to spring sideways. After that, the “pull it tighter” syndrome moderated.

The work of the signal changes associated with the installing APB (absolute and permissive block) single-tracking, replacing style B semaphores with style S, and replacing primary batteries with storage batteries continued on up to Washington, New Jersey, where the camp cars were located. Transportation of men and materials was by gang motorcar and by a ¼ ton pickup truck with benches in the truck bed under a canvas top. Today, canvas-topped truck to transport men is unthinkable, if not illegal, and Hi-Rails have replaced motorcars. But every day, 10 hours a day (in order to get home weekends and an early quit on Fridays for travel), “Cookie” would send us out after breakfast with our lunch bags to load either the truck (mostly line crew) or the gang car for the day’s work. Meals were like those in the Army; simple but nourishing, and some very tasty, especially after a day out on the tracks.

Graduation From Grunt – After my first six months, I began to get assigned to the wiremen. This was a wonderful new world for me. They wired the signals, switches, relay boxes, and other devices. While I would still work with the line crew or cable trench excavation sometimes, I spent an increasing amount of time with Joe Swetz and George Will, two excellent wiremen. Since my father was a telephone lineman/maintainer and radio ham, I had some knowledge of electrical circuits. With this knowledge, I would try to figure out how the signals worked from studying the signal circuit prints until I didn’t understand a symbol of how a device worked. Then Joe or George would explain.

As we worked our way West out of Washington towards the Delaware River, my usual duties were carrying their toolbags, putting eyes on wires, and skinning and potheading cables. I would also stand in back of the relay box and push wires through holes in the backboard identified by the wireman poking a straw through his side of the hole. They also let me wire battery boxes by myself. The fact that the fresh creosote in the new battery box wood, baking in the sun, burned your nostrils and wrists may have had something to do with this generous beneficence! With my rapid progress in learning to read the circuits, and just as certainly good recommendations from my wiremen “mentors”, I was promoted to assistant signalman.

I experienced the serious side of railroading one morning when we left Washington going West on our motorcar with two flatcars of cable reels, while a track gang car pulling two flats with rail left Portland, Pennsylvania, going East. We sighted each other in a curved cut, and with wet morning rails and pulling loaded flatcars, it was clear there was no way we were going to stop in time. Foreman Brickman yelled “Jump!” Our exit was followed by all 250 pounds of Brickman. We were still bouncing along the roadbed when the two gang cars met head-on in a cloud of dust and debris. My lunchbox was transformed into an accordion, but all of our men were OK except for bumps and bruises. Three of the track gang, older men who didn’t jump, had some more serious injuries, fortunately not life threatening. Brickman sent a man back East to flag No. 47, which was about 45 minutes behind us, and we all proceeded to clear the track of wreckage. When 47 arrived, the injured were loaded aboard, and we proceeded to push one of our flats back to Washington to lick our wounds and contemplate the inevitable investigation. It should be noted that in this era, motorcars were not given track warrants, orders, or other rights of track. The were given lineups, which together with the timetable provided information on trains. Other motorcar movements were not necessarily part of the lineup information.

[:I] End of Part One [:I]


By the way ... I am seriously considering joining the Rendevous in Toronto. Could someone send me the current plan and particulars? Thanks!

[siberianmo]

Good Morning!

Another fine day of Posts with a slow start in the AM, but great wind up in the PM. Nice work, guyz! [tup]

I should mention at the get-go that I will be largely unavailable this afternoon …. So guyz, it’s up to you to keep ‘er movin’ [tup] Cindy will have the bar …… Be nice!

I see that the RailImages photo site is still ‘down’ – not to worry, guyz, they are installing upgraded gear and it will be up ‘n runnin’ before ya know it. Just check the bottom of the SUMMARY – when the pix reappears, the site is back! [tup]

So, on to the acknowledgments:

pwolfe Pete Posted: 18 Nov 2005, 22:12:01

Email received, Mate and we’ll see you at the picnic tables perhaps around 1:45 PM … reservations are for 2 PM ……we are looking’ forward to it! [tup]

Always sad news to learn of disaster striking where one least expects it – what a shame. Lost, except in pix and memories. Hopefully whatever was left, can be restored to some semblance of original condition.

I wasn’t a train magazine purchaser back in the mid-50’s. That’s when my military career began. I can tell you that Model Railroader was selling for 50 cents in the early 60’s, if memory serves correctly. So, that’s $6 per year, which does make that “mini” RR officials book seem out of whack. Keen observation, my man! [tup]

Who is the world is “JEAMPK” [?][?] Got your fingers stuck between the keys, didja [?] [swg]

West Coast S Dave Posted: 18 Nov 2005, 23:51:16

Well, the secret must be to keep mentioning your name, and “walla” you will appear! Kinda like the Genie popping out of the jug! [swg] Great to have you back and needless to say, we’ve missed your patronage! Those afternoon time slots (for most of our time zones) really have been hurtin’ since you left. By the by – thanx for the Emails – was beginning to wonder, but now it’s clear. [tup]

Yes, we’ve had lots of “stuff” goin’ on ‘round here, some new folks, and really insightful and well thought out Posts. Remember, the credit for this kinda input goes to guys like you and coalminer3 CM3, for way back when, you two were on top of these extremely interesting and informative Posts. Just a bit more than “facts,” which always makes for great reading (and learning)! [tup][tup]

Hope you are able to catch up and meld back into the fold!

Appreciate the round! [tup][tup]

[trolleyboy Rob Posted: 19 Nov 2005, 00:45:56 and 01:07:31

Good idea for a U.S. Thanksgiving meal – and I’d like to let those of you who do not celebrate it, oversee it! Deal [?] I won’t be ‘round here that day, and expect we’ll have some other absences as well. But for those who do show up, it would be a nice gesture indeed. Go for it, Mate! [tup][tup] Something you and Chief Chef [C=:-)]Nick can surely handle. [swg]

[yeah] I’d say Tex the Armadillo would indeed be a good “rounds deflector”! Between you and Nick that poor beast hasn’t a chance! <grin>

Nice work on that BCR table – looks great! You appear to have “mastered’ the Siberianmo School of Forum’s Posting Preparation (SSOFPP) quite well! [swg]

I found it amazing that my Toronto (downtown) experiences may indeed be more extensive than yours! I counted up my trips (overnights) and they number a dozen over the years. So, yes, I’m familiar with the “territory” and used to have a couple of special places to frequent. However, when it comes to riding the steel rails, I’m limited to VIA Rail and the subway. No matter, we’ll have a blast and the time cannot pass quickly enough for me. [tup]

That ad for the “Guide Book” is all I am aware of. My guess is that it is long gone from the scene as the North American passenger roads bit the dust. Perhaps a web search would reveal some info – but all I got was the stuff available on eBay, etc.

wanswheel Mike Posted: 19 Nov 2005, 07:20:27

Nice Post, Mike – that’s the idea! [tup]

Also, your comments about the train crews brings to mind a Post or two back on the pages. I think BudKarr BK discussed a friend of his who was a Pullman Porter back in the apex of U.S. passenger rail. I also had an acquaintance with a similar background. Color had not entered my mind, other than the reality of what a difficult time men like the guy I knew must have had to content with. Appreciate the thought. [tup]

passengerfan Al Posted: 19 Nov 2005, 08:42:40

Didn’t catch a reply to my question, so I’ll go ahead with naming your “place” on the redesigned INDEX. Better get crackin’ with those books, Mate! [swg]

The name will be passengerfan Al’s Streamliner’s Corner – watch for it Monday.


Okay, time for me to get about the routine of Saturday AM – then I’m gone for a bit!

Later!

Tom [4:-)] [oX)]

[passengerfan]

Good Morning Tom and the rest of the gang. Time for a coffee and afresh pastrie from the Mentor Bakery. Diet oif course.

Just thought I would try and answer Robs question about the KCS cars I mentioned in the original SOUTHERN BELLES. None of the cars in the original trains survived all were scrapped. The postwar SOUTHERN BELLES I will do at a later date several of those cars survive today and the KCS bought the last coaches delivered by P/S in June July 1965 numbered 270-279 as 72 revenue seat cars. These all went to one of the eastern roads for commuter service and it is my understanding several may still be in service in private ownership. Not sure about the fate of any of the other postwar KCS cars except I understand those KCS cars from the NYC and remodeled being Budd cars one or two may have survived.

Time for me to hit the books my finals are monday need to study.

TTFN

[wanswheel]

Morning Tom and everyone. Scrambled eggs and grits? Coffee, please.

Found this note from New York Central System:

"You are cordially invited to take advantage
of the dining facilities provided on this train for
dinner this evening. The diner will be open for
service until 9:30 P.M., Standard Time.

Liquid refreshments may also be obtained in
the diner, as well as in the lounge car.

And by the way, why not enjoy breakfast in
the diner before you detrain?

The dining car will be open for breakfast
service from 6:00 A.M., Standard Time, featuring
a wide variety of tabled'hote selections and a la
carte items.

The porter of your sleeping car will be glad to
accept instructions to call you in sufficient time to
enable you to have breakfast enroute."
_________________________________________

I grew up in the suburbs and there were no black people in my life at all except the porters and the dining car waiters. They were good men, I really respected them. And I was truly amazed how they poured hot coffee in a cup at 65 mph without spilling a drop, always seeming to anticipate every random lurch and sway .

It's a near certainty that this post will disappear into the ether if I don't post it soon. I'll try to catch up later.

Mike

[siberianmo]

SATURDAY’s INFO & SUMMARY of RECENT POSTS

G’day! Saturday has arrived! [yeah] Why not start your weekend with us [?] Check out our freshly brewed coffee, pastries from The Mentor Village Bakery and a <light> breakfast from our Menu Board. [tup]

Yet another fantastic day of Posts – slow start, fine finish! [tup] Way to go …..

Info for the Day:

Nothing special – “routine” for the weekend:

(1) Today is ENCORE! day. This means the Posting of “stuff’ seen before, preferably something from ‘way back’ on the pages.

(2) We are CLOSED on Sunday[/red. However, it is also [red]Sunday Photo Postsing Day! Slip your photo’s and messages through the slots in either set of front doors, and they will be Posted! Replies may be far ‘n few between ……

(3) We open up at 6 AM (all time zones!) on Monday.

INDEX Mondays only!

The INDEX feature will be REMOVED from the daily SUMMARY. Not to worry, it will be Posted every Monday, immediately following the daily SUMMARY. Watch for it!

SUMMARY

Name - Date/Time - (Page#) – Remarks

(1) siberianmo Tom Posted: 18 Nov 2005, 05:38:32 (166) Friday’s Info & Summary

(2) siberianmo Tom Posted: 18 Nov 2005, 05:56:31 (166) Acknowledgments, etc.

(3) jlampke John Posted: 18 Nov 2005, 06:43:23 (166) Inclusive Post!

(4) Theodorebear Ted Posted: 18 Nov 2005, 07:19:33 (166) Inclusive Post!

(5) siberianmo Tom Posted: 18 Nov 2005, 07:29:47 (167) Acknowledgments, etc.

(6) nickinwestwales Nick Posted: 18 Nov 2005, 08:26:27 (167)

(7) nickinwestwales Nick Posted: 18 Nov 2005, 08:29:04 (167)

(8) siberianmo Tom Posted: 18 Nov 2005, 08:40:01 (167) Note on RailImages

(9) siberianmo Tom Posted: 18 Nov 2005, 08:44:29 (167) Hours and Food Service at “Our” Place

(10) jdonald Don Posted: 18 Nov 2005, 11:49:35 (167) Inclusive Post!

(11) passengerfan Al Posted: 18 Nov 2005, 12:39:30 (167) The Southern Belles

(12) siberianmo Tom Posted: 18 Nov 2005, 13:29:27 (167) Acknowledgments, etc.

(14) siberianmo Tom Posted: 18 Nov 2005, 13:40:53 (167) NOSTALGIA – Ad – List of RR Officials (1956)

(15) BudKarr BK Posted: 18 Nov 2005, 15:51:28 (167)

(16) nickinwestwales Nick Posted: 18 Nov 2005, 18:15:44 (167) Inclusive Post!

(17) siberianmo Tom Posted: 18 Nov 2005, 18:38:46 (167) reply to nickinwestwales

(18) nickinwestwales Nick Posted: 18 Nov 2005, 19:05:49 (167)

(19) earlydiesels Dan Posted: 18 Nov 2005, 20:33:34 (167) Inclusive Post!

(20) siberianmo Tom Posted: 18 Nov 2005, 21:04:01 (167) Acknowledgments, etc.

(21) pwolfe Pete Posted: 18 Nov 2005, 22:12:01 (167) Inclusive Post!

(22) West Coast S Dave Posted: 18 Nov 2005, 23:51:16 (167) He’s baaaaaaaaack!

(23) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 18 Nov 2005, 00:45:56 (167) Inclusive Post!

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

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

[trolleyboy]

So I've come back with a bit of BCR info for everyone. This is a general exerpt from BC Rails Time table # 16. It came into effect at 0001Sunday October 26, 1986

Speed Table
Where speed limit is indicated. Minimum time for any one mile.
05 miles an hour ......................... 12 min 0 sec.
10 miles an hour ......................... 6 min 0 sec.
15 miles an hour ......................... 4 min 0 sec.
18 miles an hour ......................... 3 min 20 sec.
20 miles an hour ......................... 3 min 0 sec.
25 miles an hour ......................... 2 min 24 sec.
30 miles an hour ......................... 2 min 0 sec.
35 miles an hour ......................... 1 min 45 sec.
40 miles an hour ......................... 1min 30 sec.
45 miles an hour ......................... 1min 20 sec.
50 miles an hour ......................... 1min 12 sec.
55 miles an hour ......................... 1min 5 sec.
60 miles an hour ......................... 1min 0 sec.
65 miles an hour ......................... 55sec.

All divisions except Port subdivision. To be governed by Pacific Standard time or Pacific daylight savings time.

M.G. Noris President and Chief Executive Officer
A.G. Sturgeon Senior Vice President
J.C. Trainor Manager-Operations & Maintenance
B.M. McIntosh Chief of Transportation


SAFETY is of the first importance of discharge of duty

OBEDIANCE to the rules is essential to SAFETY

[trolleyboy]

Good evening Leon I'll grab a Keith's and a nice big med/rare sirloin.

Tom I have brought in a selection of ontario wines and micro brews for thanks-giving as well as assorted squash and other fixings,just in case you decide to have an Our Place thanksgiving meal. I figure that we can let Boris and Leon hunt for the main coarse over the weekend when you take them for their day out. One suggestion is keep tex between you and the boyz,he will probalbly deflect any stray rounds.[:O][xx(]

That was an interesting quide book listing , any idea if it's still published ?

Al wonderfull info on the Southern belles as per usual.[bow] Did some of the cars off of them survive to become company inspection trains on the roads involved ? Or were they just absorbed into Amtrak in the 70's ?

BK Glad you made it back,hope your Thanksgiving trip NOB is pleasant, we had a dusting of white stuff today and the temps are becomming more shall we say seasonal. ( pack your long johns ) I find that you are fairly inclusive with your responces and you yourself have added a few well done info posts to our collection[tup] thank-you for enjoying the ramblings I have posted from time to time, always nice to know that it's read and that people are gaining something from them.

Ted I'll send you a dress code email, but for what it's worth dress comfortably, I'm not booking us for any 5 star galas or anything.[swg]

Not to worry I'll make sure that neither Tom or I get into much trouble,if you want we can chaparone you so you don't find yourself dragged to waywardly well in TO. [:-^]



Nick Isn't houswork a joy? Makes you wi***hat you were still living in caves and not nessecarily walking uprigtht. I figure that the Neanderthalls nver had yo sweep out the cave every six months.

Nice url from bayview as well, I liely have chatted with Mr taylor as I used to take alot of shots there myself. If time permits in May I may suggest we spend an hour there we'll see. there is a walkbridge that spans the tracks at the RBG ( Royal Botanical Gardens). Once the railimages is up again you will see several pictures of trains I've shot there,I may add a few more once the upgrades at railimages are finished.


Don yes bayview is a busy hub the third track should make it quite interesting indeed. That's supposed to be finished next summer so time will tell.

In the 60's the"red rockets" would indeed have been PCC cars. By 1965 the TTC was an all PCC car system slightly over 700 cars in total. The boxier cars you saw would have been Peter Witt's, They were the backbone of the TTC from there original purchase in 1921 till their retirement in 1965. To interesting facts about the Toronto Witts are that they were the first cars bought by the TTC. Pre 1921 Toronto had three major streetcar companies. The Toronto Railway company TRC, the Toronto Civic Railway TCR and the Toronto Suberban Railway TSR they were amalgamated along with the North Yonge railways into the TTC in 1921. The Witt cars were also the first cars to be called the" Red Rockets " of coarse that name has continued to the CLRV's today.

If you check the Monday indexes you will find the listing for my Classic Juice series. I did a bit on The Peter Witt cars a few weeks back,it may add a bit of info about the Witt cars that you might find interesting.



Dan & Dave Glad that you both have made it back have a shot of something on me.

Dan glad you liked the CNR diesel thing ( figured you would ) The battle Creek shops did do alot of rebuilding and repair work. alot of it on the specs of the work CN did at the Point Ste Charles shops in PQ. They also did frieght car and caboose rebuilding,again along the lines of the CN built and designed Pte ST Charles cabooses( cabeese )[:D] made from old retired 36' boxcars

Well folks I'll be back in a bit with another BC rail tidbit.

Rob

[West Coast S]

Eveing Tom and gang.. Appreciate the messages, to the gang, i'm, very much alive, just not a computer owner at the moment, soon, very soon that situation will be rectified, if only the employment situtation was that positive! . I see Boris is being his usual self. A round for the house, cause it's been so long, good to be back among friends. I'll post as the oppertunity to borrow a puter permits.

Hope all appreciated the WP RDC piece, it got me thinking and sure enough I have photos of the only RDC-1 SP ever rostered, true, it was in the service of new owners, but the trademark SP features were still present, this operation shut down in the 90's I wonder what became it? . Tom, WP was exacting in their specifications, Budd hoped the positive WP sale would cause other railroads to place orders for a model more durable and suitable for long distance travel, history could have been quit different if such a version had ever left the design stage, by that late date, the passenger train had begun its fade into history and not even the RDC concept could redeem it .


A special round of the best Ale of your choice, for our good friends across the pond and and in the land down under , who else would have the forty two year old parts my car requires? Hip-Hip hurray!

I see, Tom some slight changes have occured, too many kiddies with too much time and nothing constructive to share? Well, obviously I have some catching up to do, I promised Tom i'd be by to say hello and see that all have a tall, cool libation of their choice. Ok Boris set um' up, "I shall return".

Dave

[pwolfe]

Hi Tom and all.

A pint of the usual and[C=:-)]NICKS steak and the trimmings please[tup].

Sorry to start with some sad news but in a U.K. Railway Mag. I have just got there is a report of a serious fire that occurred in a Railway Museum in Nuremburg, Germany. About 20 locos were in involved about 10 of which are steam and some Historic cars and railcars, some of which have been damaged beyond repair.[:(]

Thanks for the round AL and the great posts. I find the train consists very interesting,and as ROB says the information gathered at OUR PLACE, especially as a newcomer to N. American railroads is really appriciated[tup].

TED I'm afraid I wasnt very clear about the Double-Track on the G.C.R.Most of the preserved lines in the U.K. are single track with pasing loops mainly at stations.What they have done between Loughbourgh and Rothley is re-instate the track to make it Double-Track all the way(The original track was removed by B.R. when the line was sold to the preserved railway).so that trains can now pass each other at speed. They have also re-signalled the line with semaphore signals it looks superb.On a gala day a few years ago they did have trains running in the same direction with the steam passenger service passing alongside a demonsratation freight train hauled by a steam loco. It was like going back to the steam days 40 years ago on a 4-Track main line.

JEAMPK I think one of the reasons why the use of diesels under the wires is that I believe with privatisation when the tracks were owned by a seperate company and the train operating companies paid for the track use there was a surcharge for using electric traction.Although I read recently that the Goverment is trying to encourage electric traction. At least most of the old passenger electric stock on the Southern and West-Coast lines have been replaced by new electric stock.

NICK This summer the Flying Scotsman was tried without the smoke-deflectors on the York to Scarborough trip but there was a problem with the drifting smoke so they have been refitted.I think that the chimney arrangement must have been changed since the Scotsman was first preserved.

EARLYDIESELS DAN Any railroad Cival-War stories would be great. Was there another staged loco collision in which there were quite a few people hurt when the boiler exploded[?] In the 1980s in the U.K. they staged a collision with a class 46 2500HP 120 ton diesel loco and three cars running at 100 mph in to a container used to carry nuclear materials to test its integraty. It was Container 1 Loco 0.


TOM Liked the ad for the Railraod Officials books 8 dollars a year seems a bit expensive for that time though, what would a railroad magazine cost about then[?].
Over the pond the mags would have been about 25 cents at that time.
Have replied to the E-Mail PETE.

[siberianmo]

Good Evenin' Gents!

Just a couple of acknowledgments, then I'm outta here .....

Nick Received your Email response - thanx!

House colors [?] Hmmmmm, since I haven't customized any of my RR, I would consider the Can-Am to be the same as Via Rail's blue/yellow livery. I am not at all inclined or talented enough to get into that aspect of the hobby .... nope, no Sir, not me! [swg]

I'll put my money on the Armadillo - tougher 'n nails from what I've heard. [yeah]

Given the rather sparse contributions of the weekends, the time has come to "chill" a bit. Saturdays have become the ENCORE! with responses and acknowledgments, but not "timely." Sunday of course is "off day," and I'm lookin' forward to it! [swg] I'll still take the boyz up to the Gorge however - that is a given. [tup]

Can't recall the last time you were 'round here on a Friday night! Great to have you back as a regular! [tup][tup][tup]

Why is it that one's hunger becomes insatiable when one is permitted to eat [?] Oh well, another glass of - errrrrrrrrr - water will have to do! [swg]

earlydiesels Dan

Good to see ya again .... I've sent you a couple of Emails and hope all is progressing well for you. I presume your computer/access difficulties have abated .......

You, Sir, have lots to catch up on .... good luck! [swg]

Yes, we have some new guys at the bar and I'm hoping for even more. We've dropped a few of our regulars given that they apparently have dropped us. One significant loss is that of West Coast S Dave who may or may not return. His contributions rank among the finest and I surely hope his situation gets resolved sufficiently enough to permit his resumption of activities here. Just check the SUMMARIES over the past week or two and you'll see who is still 'round here.

Okay guyz - I'm gone - Boris the Night Man has the bar.

Nite! [zzz]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[Anonymous]

Hello everyone and a warm welcome to the new faces. Tom, I'll take a plate of pizza and just leave the carafe of water here, please. Lot of reading tonight and some notes to help me respond.
Theodorebear, I used to be a Civil War reenactor. I was Union infantry but my love of railroads drove me to collect anything related to that era's railroads. I have several books of mostly personal memories and a few broader histories. Numerous photo books, too. If anyone has any CW rr questions I might be able to help. Nothing much before the war, though.
Pete, I have a book about Civil War in the Cinema around here somewhere. If I get any more books, I'll have to emulate John Barriger and reinforce the floor under the bookshelves.
Jlampke, the Katy staged the headon in Crush, Tx, as a publicity stunt. Obsolete American types were painted one green, one red, and set in motion towards each other while folks watched, and IIRC, an early movie camera rolled. One man lost his life when a large bolt pierced his head. Can you imagine this happening today?
Tom, I loved the name train list. My favorite, Frisco, was well represented for a road its size. Typing that must have truly been a labor of love (or insanity).
Trolleyboy, I enjoyed the diesel list of the CN and related lines. Sometimes I wonder how even the professional bean counters can keep stuff like that straight. GTW had a rebuilding program at its Battle Creek shops that some of the Geeps of these roads were cycled thru.
Passengerfan, enjoying the lists of engine and car assignments on name trains. I looked carefully thru the CRIP post for a familiar engine number and sure enough, you did'nt let me down. E6 630 doing what its designer intended. Midland's webmaster had a job transfer so I do not have any idea what the website looks like now, but used to in the pictures section, was a great shot of yours truly firing the 630. Look for my long skinny arm on the window ledge as we cross a road.

[nickinwestwales]

Hey [4:-)]TOM-that `dillo holds no fears for me !!-as well as small demon Hannah this house plays host to three traditional Llangwm cats-size of a fox,disposition of a drunk Welsh rugby fan-will take on anything up to a small saloon car with a fair chance of winning.
No worries on the pix,even barkeeps need time away [swg].
As it happens,the O.N.R boxes are all in use on the regular run from Smooth Rock Falls down to the New York Times print works,but a couple of Can-Am/Cymru International ( The Zeppelin Route) 50` boxes are in the pipeline-what are the `house` colours ?
Hope all goes well with the blood work,will have a medium-rare 12oz sirloin with fries,onion rings,mushrooms,grilled tomatos,a side of slaw & a salad bowl ready for your return,see ya,nick[C=:-)]

[siberianmo]

Evenin' Gents!

I've got the bar, thanx Cindy! [swg]

Nick You are aware that Armadillos hold grudges, aren't you [?] In this case, I can understand our cloven footed friend, Boris being out of sorts with his Boss - YOU - I'd say you may want to double bolt your doors tonight. <Geesh>

Nice pix on that URL - thanx! [tup] Speaking of pix, I doubt that I'll have anything for Sunday Photo Posting Day! - time for me to take a break ..... and of course for others to pick up the slack. [yeah] So, don't rush any pix right now - if they arrive, I'll Post 'em the following Sunday. [tup]

You have a surplus of ONR newsprints [?] Really [?] Bring a couple with you to the Rendezvous where a transfer can take place! [swg]

Just the sound of a sizzlin' steak, a cold brew and just a few trimmin's makes me hungry. Wouldn't ya know it - I have a 7 AM appointment for some blood work and I'm fasting! [tdn]

Catch y'all later (maybe) - Leon the Night Man takes over at 9 PM 'til closing ....

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[nickinwestwales]

Well good evening to one and all,looks like I shall be manning the stove single handed tonight. As it is a full moon,Boris has the evening off to attend the monthly Clan Gathering up in the high country,near the gorge.
Since he appears to be sulking about his pet being used to prevent a cut of cylindrical hoppers from running away he is neither use nor ornament and best out of the way.
I`m sure [4:-)]TOM will `lend` me Cindy if things get too hectic [:-^],Right then Bossman,lets have a couple o`them big green beauties to wet the whistle and the customary round for the house to celebrate the weekend---Happy Thanksgiving to one and all,---health,wealth & happiness in equal measure !
DON-As noted by TOM,over here fries are called chips & chips are called crisps...see-easy really [%-)] ( happily,beer is bier wherever you go [^])-I found some nice shots of operations around Bayview on a site called `Ontario Railways Photos`,the print out I have to hand gives an address @ http://www.michaeltaylor.ca/Ontario/via6541.shtml for the pic which should drop you into the site ( I hope-will check it out directly and report back )-yup,it works ( also [4:-)]TOM there are some VIA R.D.C shots there).
I have some pix somewhere of `Flying Scotsman` running on the Dart Valley line in Devon,sadly,She`s in B.R#60103 guise with `elephant ear` smoke deflectors which really don`t suit, will try to dig some out for sunday pix.
As to the cooking,I first learned how to burn a sausage at scout camp ( the Corn Flakes tend to run out by day two and it`s cook or starve) and the whole process is far less mysterious than it seems-if it`s brown it`s done,if it`s black it`s bu**ered is a pretty good rule of thumb.[swg]
BK-welcome ashore,hope you enjoy your down time-We are all on various learning curves here,the beauty of this place is we all come in as equals,with no patronising or condescention and hopefully all leave a little wiser-works for me anyhow[^]
Glad you enjoyed the Gazette,I suspect it may become a regular feature,editor permitting [:-,]
That reminds me--[4:-)]TOM-now that we have a `print run` to fill,perhaps you will be able to take delivery of some of these Ontario Northland newsprint boxcars that are clogging up my transfer yard [:-^]
Right,lets get out to the galley and beat out some steaks whilst I try and find some train stuff that might be of general interest,see you in a bit,nick[C=:-)]

[BudKarr]

Hello Captain Tom (wherever you are) - so perhaps I should rephrase that to Hello bartender. Today I'll settle for one of your sandwiches and a cold bottle of Moosehead Ale. Thank you.

Why these pages look busy. It took me quite awhile just to get to the point where I felt comfortable with making some comments. Nice to note the presence of some new people. You were absolutely on the mark with your approach. Well done.

I have been back from my rather short trip away and will be gone again next week. My plans are to spend the Thanksgiving weekend with a dear friend, in Canada as a matter of fact. We have been sharing the U.S. holiday for years and sometimes she comes here and it is my turn to head north.

It is difficult and not my style to be as inclusive (as you put it) with my responses. For someone who really is not a rail fan nor a hobbyist, you can well imagine how far down the learning curve I am. My progress is always forward moving, but I have very little of substance to offer, other than expressing my thoughts based on observations.

Sir Nick in Wales, you are quite the wit and I too had to laugh at the continuation of that situation in Captain Tom's Gazette with Inspector Clueless. Very entertaining. Well done.

Msrs. Trolleyboy and Passengerfan your postings are absolutely filled with relevance to what Captain Tom hoped this site (thread) would become. Thanks to the both of you, along with one West Coast S and Coalminer3, I cannot but help learn about trains!

Finally, those nostalgia posts really round out the information exchange. I find them very helpful and they do bring back memories. Very much appreciated here and over on your other site.

Until the next time, then -- enjoy the weekend all.

BK

[siberianmo]

G’day All!

Here’s something to ponder with regard to our appreciation and fascination with
Classic Trains. Check this ad out (from The Official Guide of the Railways – 1956) [located on page 1502]

. . . . . . . . . . The Pocket List of . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . Railroad Officials . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . Containing the Names of Officials in Charge of . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Railroads in the . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
United States, Canada, Mexico, Cuba, Puerto Rico & Dominican Republic
Showing the Gauge of each road, Number of Miles Operated and Rolling Stock in Service of Each Company
. . . . . . . . . . Also List of Private Car Companies . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . PUBLISHED QUARTERLY . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . Distributed approximately the last week in the months of
. . . . . . . . . . . JANUARY, APRIL, JULY and OCTOBER . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . SUBSCRIPTION PRICE (Postages Prepaid.) . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . UNITED STATES and Possessions - - $8.00 Per Annum . . . . .
. . . . . FOREIGN, including Canada - - - - - - $8.50 Per Annum . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . Single Copies - $3.00 . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . For Advertising Rates Address . . . . . . . . . .
The Railway Equipment and Publication Co. – 424 West 33rd St. (11th Floor), New York 1, N.Y.
John A. Patee, Advertising Manger
424 West 33rd Street, New York 1, N.Y.

James M. Fawcett, Western Representative
1428 Lyton Building, Chicago 4, Illinois


Enjoy! [tup]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

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

[siberianmo]

Good Afternoon Gents!

Okay, Cindy take a lunch break - see you in about an hour or so .... [swg]

Temps around here are back to near 50 (F), blue skies, hardly any wind and just a nice fall afternoon. Gotta love it! [yeah]

Nick Whazzup [?] You being a "hit 'n run" isn't at all in keeping with your style! Image, man - image! [swg] We await your return ... by the by, looks like whatever was going on with RailImages is continuing .....

Don

You can buy anything you want - but Cindy is MINE, mine, mine, mine! [swg] Ahhhhh, but she's rather "stuck" on Nick, the Chief Chef [C=:-)] (must be the uniform! [swg]) I know this is hard to believe, but she doesn't drink the spirits - nary a drop. Sorry.

Now about that business of losing your Posts. A suggestion then is to NOT use "refresh" unless you have "copied" everything in the "message block." When you do that, you can always paste it right back. Worth a try. Another way to see if someone has Posted, is to use refresh right AFTER you Post a new message. That way you won't lose a thing. One size just doesn't fit all in shoes or here in the Ether! [swg]

Let me see if I can address your question with a bit of a 'sidestep' - Fish 'n Chips is much more a British 'thing,' whereas steak 'n fries is known more as an American concoction. <phew> Does that "work" for ya [?]

Yes, you can save most anything on the net - just save it to whatever word processing program you use (Word, etc.). You can go back and then edit out whatever you don't want. However, are you SURE you want to do this [?] That's an awful lot of memory you may be using up for the graphics that these forum pages take up. Just a thought .....

I have been Posting some of our "inside" info given that we have some new customers 'round here. I keep that stuff archived and run 'em from time to time. Helps, doesn't it [?] Appreciate the mention! [tup]

Al Given your fantastic offerings with the streamlined trains, I'm going to establish a special place for your Posts within the redesigned INDEX appearing on Mondays. If you have a name you'd prefer for them, let me know - otherwise I'm going to get a bit creative ......

Nice run down on the Southern Belles! [tup][tup][tup] You've picked up quite nicely where my Fallen Flags series left off! [tup]

If you are "out there" Pete there's an Email awaitin'

I'll be here for about another 30 minutes or so ......

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[passengerfan]

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

Todays installement on streamlined trains will cover the first SOUTHERN BELLE trains of the KCS.

Trains 1-2 the SOUTHERN BELLES were inaugurated September 2, 1940 between Kansas City and New Orleans 872.8 miles in 18 hours 15 minutes each way.
The new trains required three sets of equipment to maintain daily service in each direction. Initially the trains operated with modernized heavyweight 10 section 3 double bedroom sleeping cars only on the overnight portion of the trip between Shreveport and New Orleans, these cars were named SILOAM SPRINGS and SULPHUR SPRINGS.
When Pullman assigned a third modernized heavyweight 10-Section 3 double Bedroom Sleeping car to the SOUTHERN BELLE in February 1941 named BARKSDALE the sleeping cars began operating through between Kansas City and New Orleans. Later in April 1941 Pullman assigned two additional modernized heavyweight 10 Section 3 Double Bedroom sleeping cars to the SOUTHERN BELLES named STATE CAPITAL and MENA. These two cars operated only between New Orleans and Shreveport. A second coach was also operated between New Orleans and Shreveport nightly in each SOUTHERN BELLE.

CONSIST ONE

21 EMC E3A 2,000 HP Diesel Passenger Cab Unit

64 Baggage 30' Railway Post Office Car

234 PITTSBURG 74-Revenue Seat Coach

237 ALEXANDRIA 74-Revenue Seat Coach
(Shreveport - New Orlaens)

SILOAM SPRINGS Modernized Heavyweight 10-Section 3-Double Bedroom Sleeping Car
(Shreveport - New Orleans)

54 KANSAS CITY 2-Day Room Lunch Counter Kitchen 24-Seat Dining 8-Revenue Seat Parlor 8-Seat Lounge Observation

CONSIST TWO

22 EMC E3A 2,000 HP Diesel Passenger Cab Unit

65 Baggage 30' Railway Post Office Car

235 JOPLIN 74-Revenue Seat Coach

238 BATON ROUGE 74-Revenue Seat Coach
(New Orleans - Shreveport)

SULPHUR SPRINGS Modernized Heavyweight 10-Section 3 Double Bedroom Sleeping Car
(New Orleans - Shreveport)

55 SHREVEPORT 2-Dayroom Lunch Counter Kitchen 24-Seat dining 8-Revenue Seat Parlor 8-Seat Lounge Observation

CONSIST THREE

23 EMC E3A 2,000 HP Diesel Passenger Cab Unit

66 Baggage 30' Railway Post Office Car

236 TEXARKANA 74-Revenue Seat Coach

56 NEW ORLEANS 2-Dayroom Lunch Counter Kitchen 24-Seat dining 8- Revenue Seat Parlor 8-Seat Lounge Observation

TTFN AL

[jdonald]

Afternoon Tom & all

I'll have an Alex. K. and one for yourself if your back at the bar. Is it kosher to offer Cindy a drink in your absence or would that just get me a slap?
Sorry I missed the fish & chips yesterday but I will have the steak & fries today. How come its chips with fish but fries with steak?
By the way-thanks for the cast of characters a couple of pages back. I was wondering about BORIS, AWK et al.

Nick - your menu was mouth watering. I don't dare show it to the wife or she will start on about me learning how to cook.

Al - enjoying your pieces on the various trains - the different consists are especially interesting. In my sheltered little world I only knew about the big name trains 20th Century Ltd., Empire Builder etc. Keep em coming!

Rob - Thanks for the update on Bayview Jct. Its a great place to watch trains if you can get to it. A third track will make it even better.
Sorry I can't contribute much to the traction discussion. My only experience is riding the "Red Rocket" in Toronto in the early 60's. I guess those were PCC cars but I do remember sweeing older cars kind of square looking and a lot noisier than the PCC. Dont know that they were called.

Pete - thanks for the update on the GCR. Hope their project with the engine shed gets going. Not familiar with Bathams but certainly willing to give it a try next time over.

Despite Toms excellent instructions, if I preview my post then go back to see if there are more current posts, I am still losing my post. Keep in mind that I am only about 50% computer literate (or is it 60% illerate)
I am also wondering how long these pages will stay in the forum before they are erased. Is there any way of saving them in my computer files?

Oh well, think I will go and take out my frustrations on the "Flying Scotsman" maybe run it into the buffer blocks at Carlisle Station. (This is on MS Train Simulator in case any was thinking I had just derailed on an open switch or something.)

Bye for now, Keep it on the rails

Don

[siberianmo]

The Hours and Food Service at "Our" Place

We open at 6 AM - Monday thru Saturday - close when the last man standing has departed (or fallen!).

CLOSED on SUNDAY's and CHRISTMAS Day

The Food Service at ”Our” Place –

…Monday thru Saturday: Light breakfasts – bakery goods from The Mentor Village Bakery and sandwiches all day long made from the freshest lunchmeats in the county along with freshly baked bread for the grinders/hoagies/heros/subs……
....NO evening meals Monday thru Wednesday.
…Thursday: Fish ‘n Chips nite and Nick’s Picks or whatever our Chief Chef [C=:-)] conjures up!.
…Friday: Pizza nite – steak ‘n fries and…….
…Saturday: Steak ‘n fries and ……..

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

P.S. Cindy has the bar! Behave, Gents! [}:)][:-,]

[siberianmo]

NOTE TO ALL:

For those who use the RailImages.com for posting photo's - they appear to be 'down.' You may recall that I passed the 'word' on their upgrading work to their site. Appears that may be what's going on.

I noted it too - check the SUMMARY no pix at the bottom - when that returns, they are back on line.

Later!

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[nickinwestwales]

Quick note-Don`t seem to be getting the signature pix at the moment-anyone else got this problem ?

[nickinwestwales]

Well afternoon chaps,thought I`d better drop in and check the state of play in the galley-Boris seems to have taken my `advice` on board and there is no sign of Tex about the place-it seems that the C.P. yard crew have hired him as a moveable stop-block for the yard throat.
So-CAROL-many apologies for any health concerns I may have caused R.E. your husband,it`s true what they say--rugs screw you up,just say no kids !!! [:-^]....
O.K,a bit of a `hit & run` for now,seem to have aquired some extra chores ( thats the trouble with housework-you just get the place looking how you (she) wants it then six months later you have to start all over again...)-Back later for some more interactive stuff. Be good guys,later,nick [C=:-)]

[siberianmo]

Mornin' John and whoever else is up and about!

While I live within 15 minutes of the St. Louis Museum of Transport, I am not a frequent visitor - been years. Anyway, can't comment on #4460 - but here's the URL for the museum (I did't see a pix of it) http://www.museumoftransport.org/index.htm

Pete, who lives in central Missouri (Jefferson City - the state Capital) and I are going to visit the museum one day - probably in the spring.

Siberianmo came about quite simply - siberian for my (our) love of those dogs (Husky) and MO for Missouri. That's it - no mystique there, eh [?] [swg] I did spend 18 months in Alaska back in 1959-60 - quite an adventure indeed.

That reference to the Spotted Owl, California Condor and Bald Eagle is the punch line of a joke that could actually be turned into one of those "shaggy dog" stories - goes on and on. [swg] Here in Mentor Village in the heart of Can-Am County one never quite knows what to make of the "things" brought into the back by Boris. Not to worry, we have a "quality control" (of sorts) to ensure that "road kill" and the like doesn't wind up in the stew! [swg]

Regarding your "lost" Post - think long and hard about using a word processing program. At least should the Forums "gobble up" your work - you can always retrieve your efforts from the WP files. Works for me ......

Good selections from the Juke - by the way, that pickled pig's feet jar sittin' on the table next to the Wurltizer is full of quarters. Go ahead and "plunk" in a few - 5 plays for a quarter 'round here and it's all complimentary! coalminer3 CM3 has been a steady contributor to the "jar" and at times we've had to put out a 2nd. Good selections and I like the contrast in music! [tup]

Okay - once again, time to get goin' on my day. Juneau and I have had our one mile trek throughout the subdivision - all's well with the world this fine day! Now watch some SOB come along and upset the cart! [swg]

Oh, I see Ted has snuck one in - so a brief acknowledgment to the guy who keeps us wonderin'! Sure sounded as if you were 'gone' for the weekend ... As the kids say, "Whatever!" You are here and that's what counts ...... [tup]

What's with the "moral policing" [?] To each his own, Mate. There is a difference between banter and seriousness (seriousity, as I prefer to say.) Email is certainly the way to communicate these thoughts if there's concern. Not a good way to start the day ....... [tdn]

Cindy will be takin' the bar a bit later and I'll be Posting at noonish - late afternoon and perhaps late night. Same-o, same-o as yesterday and a few weeks back.

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[Anonymous]

Mornin' folks, Tom I'll hook a "lead sinker" and a Master Blend for now. Well, well, yet another Nick's Picks to add to the cullinary archives at "Our" Place.[^] I sneaked in late last night and sampled from each of the delectible entrees. Leon was kind enough to escort me to my car on a hand truck.[:D] "Rug trafficking?" Surely no one here would be involved, not when we have the LCBO around the corner![swg] It does put a new diminsion on the cliche "chewing the rug" however, doesn't it?

Rob, great information on the fading interfacing of U.S. and Canadian Rwys., thanks for that and the e-mailis as well.[tup] Pete, I must need to renew my reading glasses RX. Did I misunderstand or is there only one "leg" (Loughboruogh-Rothley) in the U.K. where two steam trains may pass one another? Does that refer to running in the same direction? Don and Mike, it is certainly a pleasure to welcome you both aboard with your interactive posts and meanigful contributions.[tup] Al, I don't know what we would do without your "final word" expertise on passenger rolling stock. Sometime, I would be interested in knowing how you will manage your "ground transportation" to Toronto. Either via Thread or e-mail, which ever is more convenient. I poured over the Amtrak time tables here and found going by rail (from Tampa, FL) to be nearly absurd.[:O]

Well gentlemen, we have heard from the distaff side of the Weber and Austin households. Let this "Rendevous" not become a game of: "When the cats away the mice will play." The only possible exception would be myself, lacking the constraints of matrimonial ties. Right, those aren't the only "ties lacking." Speaking of "ties," Rob, how do Torontoans (?) dress where ever our motely crew may venture? E-mail will be fine for such banter but I don't want to appear the "Ugly American" if it may be avoided.[xx(] Gadfrey Boris, what is that on your head, a Cornucopia?[:O] Yes, that will be fine for Thanksgiving but for now it is ridiculous, put it away.[alien] Happy rails.

[jlampke]

Evenin' Tom, I see you've got the watch, so to speak. I'll take an Absolute and please, a Keith's for yourself. If the stove's still hot and one of the chef's [C=:-)] are still around, the chicken *** & asparagus sauce sounds pretty tasty (it's 2330 here), and $$ for a couple old favorites of mine: Tom Jones "What's New Pussycat", and Johnny Cash "Ring Of Fire". [tup]
Can I make a suggestion for the menu?[?] Spotted owl. A couple friends tell me the taste is a cross between that of California Condor and Bald Eagle. [dinner] [;)]

I've been printing out the posts for the last few days from OUR place so I could highlight and make notes........ Hmmm... looking at the growing pile of paper here, maybe that's not such a good idea for the long-term. [oops] To jump back and forth from page to page is VERY slow here, as I'm on a satellite connection.
Pete & Rob, I had read of various lines attempting to electrify their operations, then switching back to diesel, and wondered about that. Wonder what the problem was?
Nick, Rob, Tom, thanks for the tips on the smilies. Like everything else, I printed out the pages and will pratice a little when I get a breather here before actually using them in my (comparatively rare) posts. One thing I did learn the hard way: The other day I was ready to submit a post I had typed, but decided to look at one of the gang's profiles first. I went to the profile, then when I went back to the topic page, my message was gone. [sigh]
I had wondered, Tom, how you came up with siberianmo. Your time in the Arctic? I am partial to and most comfortable in the cold myself. You can always put on another shirt, is what I tell anyone who complains about the low setting on the AC here. Pete, Bossman, I see you gents call MO home. How healthy does my fav loco 4460 look? Are they keeping the rust in check there at the museum? I'd be thrilled to see her returned to Portland and restored some day. I am equally fond of 4449, but she gets all the attention she needs, I think. I made it down to the roundhouse a few times last summer when the ship was at Cascade General Shipyard in Portland for some routine dry-dock work and a paint job, and was also able to see it steam into Sherwood for the auto show. What an impressive sight........ [wow] [tup] [8D]

BTW Boss, VERY impressive list of passenger trains!!! [bow] [tup] I have to ask the same question Nick did: How the heck do you get anything else done??? [?] Does that list include branch line named trains? Anyone ever hear of the Coos Limited? (SP) [?]

I see Ted just stepped in. Tom, please put that "lead sinker" and Master Blend on my tab.

Well boys...... time to rest. The rock pile seems to get bigger with each passing day. [|)] [zzz]

[siberianmo]

Good Morning!

Just wanted to keep ahead of the acknowledgments from last night before this day begins:

Rob Thanx for the mention of the AVIS Ad - you are the only one who did! Glad you enjoyed it. Thanx too for mentioning the "Gazette." Don't know how often I'll Post those - but there WILL be more! Whaddyatalkin'bout - bumper stickers seen elsewhere [?] I HOPE so - they ARE bumper stickers! [swg]

By the by - check out page 149 - that's where the HERTZ Ad was Posted - the AVIS Ad was not a "reroll" as you referred to it. Well, it IS understandable how one gets easily overwhelmed and confused at YOUR advancing age. [swg]

[yeah] I know the gals are watchin' us - they tend to be like that! <grin>

Al Nice one on the Arizona Limited!. As always, the round is appreciated too. [tup]

Gotta get movin' - the temps here in mid-continent USA are above freezing - about double of what it was this time yesterday. Juneau is rarin' to go! So am I ....

Later Gents!

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[siberianmo]

FRIDAY’s INFO & SUMMARY of RECENT POSTS

Good Morning! The end of the week is upon us once again. Time to join us for some freshly brewed coffee, pastries from The Mentor Village Bakery and a <light> breakfast from our Menu Board. [tup]

Yesterday began rather slowly, but did we ever pick up steam as we got into the late afternoon. Check out the Posts if you weren’t ‘round. One has to check in a few times a day to keep up with what’s goin’ on ‘round here lately! [tup][tup][tup]

Info for the Day:

Nothing special – “routine” for the week:

Today is “Pizza Nite” and “Steak ‘n Fries Nite.”
Saturday is “ENCORE!” day.

INDEX Mondays only!

SUMMARY

Name - Date/Time - (Page#) – Remarks

(1) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 17 Nov 2005, 00:01:37 (165) CNR Steam #3 – Trains on the Strathroy Subdivision

(2) siberianmo Tom Posted: 17 Nov 2005, 05:25:31 (165) Thursday’s Info & Summary

(3) wanswheel Mike Posted: 17 Nov 2005, 05:47:27 (165)

(4) siberianmo Tom Posted: 17 Nov 2005, 08:08:17 (165) Acknowledgments, etc.

(5) Theodorebear Ted Posted: 17 Nov 2005, 08:44:54 (165) Overwhelmed!

(6) siberianmo Tom Posted: 17 Nov 2005, 09:08:41 (165) Mentor Village Gazette #1

(7) coalminer3 CM3 Posted: 17 Nov 2005, 11:24:08 (165) C&O connections with CN/CP

(8) passengerfan Al Posted: 17 Nov 2005, 12:58:06 (165) Rocky Mountain Rockets

(9) siberianmo Tom Posted: 17 Nov 2005, 13:10:10 (166) NOSTALGIA – Ad AVIS (1956)

(10) siberianmo Tom Posted: 17 Nov 2005, 14:18:41 (166) Acknowledgments, etc.

(11) jdonald Don Posted: 17 Nov 2005, 14:37:57 (166) Inclusive Post!

(12) siberianmo Tom Posted: 17 Nov 2005, 16:58:52 (166) reply to jdonald

(13) Theodorebear Ted Posted: 17 Nov 2005, 17:21:56 (166)

(14) passengerfan Al Posted: 17 Nov 2005, 17:35:53 (166)

(15) siberianmo Tom Posted: 17 Nov 2005, 18:33:22 (166) Special Note

(16) siberianmo Tom Posted: 17 Nov 2005, 19:00:48 (166) Acknowledgments, etc.

(17) wanswheel Mike Posted: 17 Nov 2005, 19:11:48 (166)

(18) nickinwestwales Nick Posted: 17 Nov 2005, 19:27:22 (166) Must read!

(19) pwolfe Pete Posted: 17 Nov 2005, 19:30:38 (166) Inclusive Post!

(20) Mrs. siberianmo Carol Posted: 17 Nov 2005, 21:25:33 (166) Special: for Nick

(21) siberianmo Tom Posted: 17 Nov 2005, 21:37:53 (166) Acknowledgments, etc.

(22) passengerfan Al Posted: 17 Nov 2005, 21:58:04 (166) The Arizona Limited

(23) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 17 Nov 2005, 22:39:51 (166) Inclusive Post!

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

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

[trolleyboy]

Good evening Tom and the boyz. I think a nice cr and the lamb,though I like fish and chips lamb is something I do enjoy[tup]

Tom Wow your snowing me under with more siberianmoism's than my poor addeled brain can process. The gazette is a nice touch. Just don't let Conrad Black hear about it you may have an unwelcome hostile takeover.

Glad that you approve of the continued steam and such I keep adding to the mix,I can't be known as strictly a wirehead afterall.

thanks for the reroll on the Avis rent a car piece, always nice to compare the passenger rail service of your to whats now the norm for airlines.

Also wonder where I have seen some of those bumper stickers before.[swg][:-^]
I'm sure that we will see many a pud or LCBO store in our travels in May not to worry. Remember Carol and Heather are watching so no rug smuggling allowed [swg]



CM3 Nice follow on info on the C&O / Canadian conections.Just goes to show really how closely tied the two countries have always been. CSX still handles the conections in Sarnia just not as frequently,with CN and CP owning so much US trackage now they have tended to ship along their own lines more than interchange at the boarders.

Don Hey I know what you mean hibernation is the thing, I actually had to scrap some snow and frost of the old windsheild this morning. Like you I don't function with out at least one Tim's a day.

The Sarnia boarder trains and the way they were handled was quite an interesting operation. Can't think of too many places where electric and steam power were swapped with in throwing distance of rail ferry transfers as well.

The Bayview junction operations were and still are an interesting ballet of both CN/CP trains. you don't see all the backwards passenger train movements any more as Via does not call on the Hamilton station and neither does the Hamilton Go trains. they instead ( Go ) run up to the old TH&B Hunter street staiton in downtown Ham. on the now CP trackage. Still an absolute cush of frieght traffic through there. They are actually starting to grade for a third thrack through the junction on the CN to clear up the backlogs on the Oakville & Dundas subs.Thank's for digging up the onr sites as well, really some wonderfull shots there[tup]


Al What can I say you've come through again great info on the Rock. Mike nice to see you pick up on it and through a few tidbit's in again. You have only begun to see the full power of Al's passenger train knowledge [bow]


Pete Some nice brit rail info again there to my friend always apreciated,just think of how much rail info we have ammased from sooo many parts of the world here in just 7 months, absolutly mind boggeling.


Ted I'm always ready to help Tom bring his layout up to date,who can say no to a fine commuter rail service based of of surface and subsurface traction[?]

Nick An amazing tour de force menu as always[tup] and Boris and the kitchen canning I'm sure went well.Hope the local consatbulary didn't damage the zeplin in their forcable confinment of it. Just for that I think we should serve them Boris K ration rattatoulie that he has whipped up. Might want to scrub out the soup pot though, I beleave he was exparimenting with that particular resipe in it last week when I inadvertantly found the crates of ex army K rations.On the up side he and Tex love that stuff so his usual diet has been changed somewhat. His coat ( Boris's ) seems more glossy since that dietetic change, and we haven't needed to tranquilize him as often.

Later gents Rob

[passengerfan]

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

For two winters the CRI&P/SP operated an all pullman train that is still talked about to this day. That train was the ARIZONA LIMITED trains 29-30 between Chicago and Phoenix every other day. The trains covered the 1,900 miles in 31 hours 15 minutes each way.
All sleeping cars were the property of the Pullman Company from their pool. The first two cars in each consist were Rock Island owned a Baggage Crew Dormitory and a 36-Seat dining Car.

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 becoming the first all Room All Pullman Streamliner to operate west of the Mississippi River. For a pair of trains that only operated for two winter seasons they were a victime of WW II the reason for their cancellation after only two seasons.

The Rock Island assigned diesels to the seven car trains between Chicago and Tucumcari and the SP assigned mostly Mountains to the ARIZONA LIMITEDS for their part although GS Northerns are known to have headed the train as well. The Rock Island assigned two ALCO 2,000 HP prewar diesel passenger units to the trains the first season and a pair of EMD 2,000 HP passsenger disels were assigned the second and final season.

The Rock Island modernized two Baggage 15 Crew Dormitory cars and two 36-seat dining cars for the ARIZONA LIMITED consists. The two Rock Island cars in each consist were painted in the two tone grey scheme to match the Pullman Sleepers operated in the ARIZONA LIMITED. Two consists were all that was necessary to provide every other day service between Chicago and Phoenix in each direction.

From the ARIZONA LIMITED the Rock Island got the idea for the postwar GOLDEN ROCKET a premier train to operate between Chicago and Los Angeles.
The first season trains operated between December 15, 1940 and April 3, 1941. The two consists are listed as they operated.

CONSIST ONE

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

Streamlined GS-2 Steam Locomotive and Tender
(Tucumcari - Phoenix) Exact number unknown on inaugural train

6014 Modernized Heavyweight Baggage 15 crew Dormitory Car (CRI&P)

8028 Modernized 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-Drawingg Room Sleeping Car

CASCADE BANKS 10-Roomette 5-Double Bedroom Sleeping Car

CASCADE BASIN 10-Roomette 5-Double Bedroom Sleeping Car

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 Steam Locomotive & Tender
(Tucumcari - Phoenix) Exact number unknown

6015 Modernized Heavyweight Baggage 15-Crew Dormitory Car (CRI&P)

8031 Modernized 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

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

The second and final season of the ARIZONA LIMITED operated from december 15, 1941 until April 3, 1942.

CONSIST ONE

630 EMD E6A 2,000 HP Diesel Passenger Cab Unit
(Chicago - Tucumcari)

6014 Modernized Heavyweight Baggage 15-crew Dormitory Car

8028 Modernized Heavyweight 36-Seat Dining Car

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

CASCADE BANKS 10-Roomette 5-Double Bedroom Sleeping Car

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
(Chicago - Tucumcari)

6015 Modernized Heavyweight Baggage 15-Crew Dormitory Car

8031 Modernized Heavyweight 36-Seat Dining Car

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

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
The first season trains were for a maximum passenger load of 93.
Consist one second season 90
Consist two second season 92

TTFN AL.