"OUR" PLACE - SEE NEW THREAD!

[BudKarr]

Good day barkeep and I will have one of those turkey sandwich specials advertised on your menu board. Oh yes, today I think a Pabst Blue Ribbon would go down nicely in a cold mug please!

Yes, the Great Northern, now there are some recollections that come to the fore. The 4-8-4 steamer of the "Northern" classification comes to mind. These rather huge locomotives were absolute requirements to haul those heavyweights across the Rockies and Cascade ranges. And what a job they did.

They also operated some fine 2-8-2 Mikados, which on most other roads were used strictly for freight due to the relatively smaller drivers. Great Northern found them more than adequate on the level prairies on eastern Montana and Minnesota where they were regularly used with passenger equipment. Of course, the entry of diesel motive power ended their use.

Then there was the electrification of some 73 miles of right of way through the Cascade tunnel. Box-cabs were used with 5,000hp GE electric motive power painted and streamlined to match the new Empire Builder in 1947. Diesels came along in 1956 to end Great Northern's entry into electrification.

Back to the Cascade tunnels - the original was opened in 1900, with the second in 1929.

The entry of diesel locomotives included the EMD E7's, which when at the head of a smoothsides passenger train looked absolutely marvelous in that great livery.

Thank you Mr. Ted for bringing up this railroad. And of course, to you Tom and coalminer for keeping the subject going. (What is your name, Mr. coalminer? - I am Bud, so you must be .....)

Mr. Pete Wolfe, you sir have a real handle on railroading and your commentary is very much read and appreciated. I thoroughly enjoyed your anniversary offering and got a kick out of how quickly you picked up on the commentary from Rob and Tom regarding the classes of service. Very astute and in keeping with what Tom tries to do with this cyber discussion. A 4.0 effort, indeed (on a 4.0 scale).

Tom, I enjoyed your humor with your parrot, and do read the summaries. In fact, those are what I look at first. Sorry a couple of your number are temporarily layed up - hopefully they will return soon. (I do not engage in electronic mail, except at business and I do not mix the use.)

BK

[siberianmo]

G'mornin' Gang!

Don't know where the time is going, but I'm behind the curve this AM!

Not such good news about our friend earlydiesels Dan and I hope we'll hear that he's up 'n about in no time. Pneumonia ain't anything to fool with, especially if it was left to go untreated for any length of time ..... All the best to you, DAN for a speedy 'n full recovery!

That's two of our number who are on the "binnacle list." Chris has been absent for quite some time and I've received only a brief Email from him over this time. Hope things are progressing positively for you too, mon ami! [tup]

Ted Another "gem" from you this AM, I see. Appreciate your taking the time to start your day at "Our" Place. By the by - Email's sent - one reply received. Thanx!

The info on the Great Northern (GN) obviously spurred the Fallen Flag piece. Though you and CM3 would enjoy it - seemed appropriate given the dialogue you started. [tup] Very informative stuff regarding Mr. Hill's hotels and Chalets. [tup]

Your breakfast request from Nick better go unheeded! [tdn] As we serve <light> breakfasts 'round here - unless of course you wi***o take over that AM job of handling the hungry souls looking for more than what our bill of fare has to offer! [swg]

Well you can chortle all you like regarding winters in Florida while those of us elsewhere may be freezing our respective cabooses off. It's all a matter of what one enjoys - and I like the four seasons, with Fall and Winter the most. It can snow rump deep to an elephant, and Juneau and I would be in absolute bliss. Just love it. Alas, the winters in these parts for about the past 12 years have been merely a shadow of days gone by. I'm hopin' .......... [swg]

coalminer3 CM3 Appreciate the kind words regarding Awk'sstory. Glad you enjoyed it! Never know whether anyone is picking up on these things, glad you did! [tup]

Now I've heard of some rather eccentric practices when it comes to viewing railroads and the like. But isn't it just a wee bit over the top to include jumping off of a bridge as part of the festivities? You are correct regarding the OJT for the EMT's! <geesh>

Appreciate your supplemental info regarding the GN. Awhile back, we had a similar 'thing" going on with the B&O and it really got a few guys involved with some interesting exhanges. That's good stuff and what we try to achieve 'round here.

Now you've got me wonderin' just what did I say to you regarding the Boston subways? [banghead] This could get very circular in no time flat! [swg]

Tammy is wailing away, and for the record, Stand by your man was removed from the Juke some time back. Seems the track gang would go absolutely beserk when that song came on - to say they got rowdy would be an understatement. Can't afford those pool cues and wall repairs. So, out it went. She's got quite a few "good-uns" to select from ... so play away! [tup]

Thanx for the round! Boris do your thing ....... the bell, man (or whatever it is you are) the bell!! <>geesh>

Cindy will be in at 10 AM and watch the bar for a couple of hours while I'm away .... be nice guys! [;)]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[siberianmo]

SOME SERIOUS NEWS: Received an Email from earlydiesels Dan’s wife. Dan is out with pneumonia. She asks that we all keep him in our thoughts and prayers. If you recall he was complaining about feeling poorly during several of his last Posts. For any of you wishing to drop him a note, send me an Email and I’ll forward his address.

The above was contained in today's SUMMARY on THIS page![%-)][%-)][%-)]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[siberianmo]

Ted This one's for YOU! (and of course the rest of the gang) [swg]

Here’s another Fallen Flag for the gang from Classic American Railroads:

Great Northern(GN)

Headquarters: St. Paul, MN

Mileage:

1950: 8,220

Locomotives in 1963:

Diesel: 642

Rolling stock in 1963:

Freight cars: 39,055
Passenger cars: 579

Principal routes in 1950:

St. Paul, MN-Seattle, WA via Willmar, MN and New Rockford, ND
Minneapolis-Minot, ND via St. Cloud, MN, Fargo and Grand Forks, ND
Superior, WI & Duluth, MN-Grand Forks via Crookston, MN
Minneapolis & St. Paul-Duluth & Superior via Brook Park, MN
Barnesville, MN-Winnipeg, MB via Ada and Crookston, MN
Portland, OR-Vancouver, BC via Seattle, WA (trackage rights on NP Portland-Seattle)
Willmar-Sioux Falls, SD & Sioux City, IA
Havre-Great Falls-Helena-Butte, MT
Shelby-Great Falls-Billings, MT
Bend, OR-Bieber, CA via Klamath Falls, OR

Passenger trains of note:

Badger (St. Paul-Minneapolis-Superior-Duluth)
Cascadian (Seattle-Spokane, WA)
Dakotan (St. Paul-Minneapolis-Williston, ND)
Empire Builder (Chicago-Seattle & Portland, operated jointly with CB&Q and SP&S)
Gopher (St. Paul-Minneapolis-Superior-Duluth)
International (Seattle-Vancouver, BC)
Oriental Limited (Chicago-Seattle & Portland, operated jointly with CB&Q and SP&S)
Red River (St. Paul-Minneapolis-Grand Forks, ND)
Western Star (Chicago-Seattle & Portland, operated jointly with CB&Q and SP&S)
Winnipeg Limited (St. Paul-Minneapolis-Winnipeg


Enjoy! [tup]

Tom [4:-)] [oX)]

[coalminer3]

Good Morning All: Round for the house and coffee for me, please. Let's drop some quarters and listen to Tammy Wynette this a.m. We haven't heard from her in awhile. We'll skip Stand By Your Man as everyone plays that - she did lots of other good songs, though.

Re the W&OD, I noticed and will have more to say abt. that later.

Big doings here tomorrow as it is Bridge Day. This is the one day a year that folks can walk on the New River Gorge Bridge. BASE jumping off the span is a big part of the day's activities which gives the EMTs at the bottom ample opportunity to practice what they have learned. For railroad folks, it gives you a great opportunity to see the C&O main line from above. The New River Foliage trains are running Saturday and Sunday this week and next. This is the annual excursion (RT) between Huntington and Hinton featuring photo runs at Thurmond and, time permitting, Sewell. It's not the same as when they had 614 or 765 pulling the train, but it's still not a bad take, if only for the variety of cars that operate. There's websites abt. the New River Gorge National Park, and you can check out the Collis P. Huntington NRHS site for info. abt the New River Train.

I saw somewhere that the Hickory Creek, recently restored 20th Century Limited obs will be operating out of Chicago to New York via DC. I do not know which route it will be taking, but I am in hopes it'll be on Train 50; the research dept. is hard at work to find the answer as I would like to see that car.

Theodorebear - GN - truly a fascinating operation. A friend from North Dakota sold me on riding the Empire Builder, and all I can say is it lived up to its advertising.

I dug back through the stack of stuff and found that The Builder in 1961 carried a "Great Dome" car, coaches, a ranch-lounge car, a diner and at least 6 sleepers. The sleepers included a 6 rtte/6db/2 cmpartment car, two or more cars that had sections(!), duplex rttes, rttes, bedrooms, and compartments (one of which was a short car between St. Paul and Havre), a 16 duplex rtte/4br car, and a 6-3-buffet lounge sleeper. The train split at Spokane westbound and combined eastbound, of course.

I have been following the dome car comments with interest as well. IIRC, other roads with full domes included the Milwaukee Road and the SP.

There were a few dome routes in the east as well. One which many don't recall was on the N&Ws Pocahontas. It provided a most interesting look at coal railroading as it traversed Mingo and McDowell Counties eastbound in the early a.m. I know I have some notes somewhere abt. that.

BTW, and this is directed to Tom, I don't think I posted material abt. the Boston subway back in the day. I searched through the Our Place archives (in the subbasement beside Boris's secret lab - BTW what's in those barrels with the skull and crossbones signs on them or is getting ready for his birthday?) and couldn't find anything. I know I sent along something abt the subway and Fenway Park, but I don't think I sent the longer post. If I have not done so, I will post this material over a couple of days next week. As my buddy Pogo used to say, "The aheader I go, the behinder I get."

Have a good weekend.

work safe

P.S. Story abt. AWK reminded me abt the story abt. the burglar, the parrot, and the Rottweiler. You might bomb me "off the air" if I posted that one, but I did enjoy the AWK story greatly.

[Anonymous]

Well, here it is Friday again. This week really had wings. Tom, its too early for anything more than Grapefruit juice, a toasted Thomas' muffin and I'll grab the "Joe." Who in the "Sam Hill" keeps stirring their coffee with the sugar spoon?[V] Okay, that's it! Boris, put these paper towels back in the bathroom and bring the serviettes napkins out here. Geeze, this place is slipping into the abyss like a Mt. St. Helen's rock slide.[:(!] Say Nick, how 'bout a nice greasy, breakfast pork chop smothered in country gravy with two sunny sides lookin' up at you?[:D] Hmmm? Disappeared![:O] We've had a darn good "run" this past work week. Hope evryone has a restful weekend. It won't be long before "cabin fever" days are upon you Yanks and I'll still be mowing grass and trimming the hedge.[tdn]

Since I can't find my Trolly Treasures Vol. III, "Tracks to Glory," I thought I'd "kick around" some Great Northern nostalgia. You know, that Road may be the least appreciated of all the "majors." James Jerome Hill (1838-1916) nearly single handedly built the Great Northern from his own vision and genius for organization. Early on Cotton from the Mississippi (St Paul, MN) shipped to the West was the primary idea. That alone wasn't going to sustain the Road J. J. Hill had in mind. Hill had to win some tough legal battles with the eastern Moguls like Harriman and anti-trust suits from tin horn politicians to establish his "dream" empire. He managed this through sheer personal tenacity and he lost some battles but won his war. By 1901, Hill had over 5000 miles of ROW. By 1905, through agreements with Northern Pacific, the Spokane, Portland and Seattle R.R. was formed, expanding into lucrative markets for imported Oriental goods. Through his lobbying efforts, Glacier National Park was created in 1910. By 1913, Hill's first hotel opened its doors (Glacier Park Hotel) and the "Many Glacier Hotel" was opened in 1915. Six Swiss-style chalets followed including the "Going-to-the-Sun" Chalets at Sun Point. Hill retired in 1912 and by that time had aquired or built more ROW than Britain, France and Germany conmbined.

That will do for starters on this singularly outstanding Road for now. I thought I might add more on the Great Northern in serial style installments in future posts. There are so many superlatives and "firsts" with the G.N., this coverage will necessarily be lengthy. I hope most of you enjoy it.

Okay Boris, let's hear it for a early weekend round if there are any "takers." Eh? I didn't hear anything.[:O] You ran out of pans and are using Old 99 for a deep FAT FRYER? Over my dead body![:(!] Tom, you have my "next of kin" data, right? Happy rails all.

[siberianmo]

FRIDAY’s INFO & SUMMARY of RECENT POSTS

The bar closed at midnight and will reopen at 6 AM

Good Day Everyone!

Friday has arrived and it’s time for the wind down for the weekend. Plan on stopping by on your way home this evenin’ ……. Great place to fuel up!

Info for the Day:

(1) SOME SERIOUS NEWS: Received an Email from earlydiesels Dan’s wife. Dan is out with pneumonia. She asks that we all keep him in our thoughts and prayers. If you recall he was complaining about feeling poorly during several of his last Posts. For any of you wishing to drop him a note, send me an Email and I’ll forward his address.

(2) Tonight is Pizza Nite plus Sirloin steak ‘n Fries Nite. [dinner] Dinner begins at 5 PM!

(3) LAST CALL! An Email was sent to all who have expressed interest in our Rendezvous in Toronto, May 2006. Responses requested.

(4) Remember Sunday Photo Posting Day!

INDEX

Generic URL: Just insert the index page in place of “106,” copy ‘n paste ‘n “go,”

http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=106&TOPIC_ID=35270

-or- insert the index page in the address portion of this page (at the top).

Fallen Flags (passenger ops)

106 SP ..………. 106 MoPac ……. 108 WP ………… 109 Frisco
112 CNR ………. 112 Heralds …… 114 ACL ………… 115 SCL
116 D&RGW ….. 118 RI .………… 119 D&H ………… 120 PRR
122 NYC ………. 124 UP.………… 125 AT&SF …….. 127 B&O
128 CM&StP.…. 129 CB&Q .……. 130 Soo Line ....... 133 C&NW
134 SP&S

Passenger Train Nostalgia

112 ………. CNR Ad - Super Continental Time Table
113 ………. Passenger Train Nostalgia #1 ”Start ups” 1800s & early 1900s
117 ………. Passenger Train Nostalgia #2 Ad - Vista-Dome sleeper observation-lounge
121 ………. Passenger Train Nostalgia #3 Ad - CP Hotels & Lodges
124 ………. A tale of Classic Trains BC Rail RDC trip
127 ………. B&O Ad - Strata-Dome
127 ………. B&O Ad – Encor!
129 ………. Passenger Train Nostalgia #4 Ad - CN Hotels, Ltd.
130 ………. Great Britain Nostalgia #1 Poster - East Coast Route
133 ………. Passenger Train Nostalgia #5 Poster - CP 1886
133 ………. Passenger Train Nostalgia #6 Poster - CP 1950s
134 ………. Passenger Train Nostalgia #7 Poster - Washington & Old Dominion Railway
134 ………. Personal RR journey CPR’s “The Canadian”
135 ………. Great Britain Nostalgia #2 LONDON & NORTHWESTERN and CALEDONIAN RAILWAYS

Classic Juice by trolleyboy ROB

116 Classic Juice #1 (The London & Port Stanley L&PS)
123 Classic Juice #2 (The Niagara St. Chatharines Toronto Railway NS&T)
131 Classic Juice #3 (The Montreal & Southern Counties Railway –MS&C)
134 Classic Juice #4 (The Brantford and Hamilton B&H)

SUMMARY

Name - Date/Time - (Page#) – Remarks

(1) siberianmo Tom Posted: 13 Oct 2005, 00:04:28 (135) Thursday’s Info & Summary

(2) Theodorebear Ted Posted: 13 Oct 2005, 07:06:31 (135)

(3) siberianmo Tom Posted: 13 Oct 2005, 07:44:11 (135) 6th Month Anniversary comments

(4) coalminer3 CM3 Posted: 13 Oct 2005, 08:04:32 (135)

(5) nickinwestwales Nick Posted: 13 Oct 2005, 08:19:14 (135)

(6) siberianmo Tom Posted: 13 Oct 2005, 09:11:08 (135) Great Britain Nostalgia #2

(7) BudKarr BK Posted: 13 Oct 2005, 10:21:50 (135)

(8) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 13 Oct 2005, 10:22:52 (135) Inclusive Post!

(9) siberianmo Tom Posted: 13 Oct 2005, 12:00:08 (136) catch up

(10) Theodorebear Ted Posted: 13 Oct 2005, 14:33:41 (136) Inclusive Post!

(11) pwolfe Pete Posted: 13 Oct 2005, 16:59:38 (136)

(12) siberianmo Posted: 13 Oct 2005, 17:21:40 (136) reply to Theodorebear & pwolfe

(13) nickinwestwales Nick Posted: 13 Oct 2005, 18:39:10 (136)

(14) siberianmo Tom Posted: 13 Oct 2005, 21:37:19 (136) Story about Awk

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

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

[siberianmo]

Evenin' Guys,

A little humor before I check out .....

A true story about Awk while staying at Cindy’s place.

Cindy’s dishwasher quit working so she called a repairman. Since she had to go to work the next day, she told the repairman, "I'll leave the key under the mat. Fix the dishwasher, leave the bill on the counter, and I'll mail you a check."

"Oh, by the way don't worry about my bulldog, Spike. He won't bother you. But, whatever you do, do NOT, under ANY circumstances, talk to my parrot!" "I REPEAT, DO NOT TALK TO MY PARROT!!!"

When the repairman arrived at Cindy’s apartment the following day, he discovered the biggest, meanest looking bulldog he has ever seen. But, just as she had said, the dog just lay there on the carpet watching the repairman go about his work.

The parrot, however, drove him nuts the whole time with his incessant yelling, cursing and name calling. Finally the repairman couldn't contain himself any longer and yelled,

"Shut up, you stupid, ugly bird!"

To which the parrot replied, "Get him, Spike!"


Leon the Night Man has the bar .... see ya in the 'morrow! [zzz]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[nickinwestwales]

Hi guys,flying visit tonight-apologies to all,but wiped out-not enough hours in day,will catch up tomorrow,usual Fish+Chip type stuff tonight plus Turkey Madras with Vegetable Biriani, traditional Bubble+Squeak (Pete will explain....[swg] )be lucky,speak tomorrow,Boris has the kitchen-under close supervision by TED & ROB ,regards,nick[C=:-)]...p.s TOM I hear you re pix[tup]

[nickinwestwales]

Hi guys,flying visit tonight-apologies to all,but wiped out-not enough hours in day,will catch up tomorrow,usual Fish+Chip type stuff tonight plus Turkey Madras with Vegetable Biriani, traditional Bubble+Squeak (Pete will explain....[swg] )be lucky,speak tomorrow,Boris has the kitchen-under close supervision by TED & ROB ,regards,nick[C=:-)]...p.s TOM I hear you re pix[tup]

[siberianmo]

G'day Guys!

Thanx Cindy I'm baaaaaaack! [swg]

Some clarification is in order for Ted & Pete regarding that "refresh" option. I thought my draft replies got "lost" too - but all you have to do is use the "back" button and it wil show up again! BUT, here's an even safer way to do it - don't use "refresh" until AFTER you Post. Then do it and see if anyone may have Posted. You can always "edit" your Post, or make a supplement, or "log it" for comment later on.

There's also a third option - highlight your draft reply and use the copy feature (ctrl c). That way if it indeed gets "lost," just hit paste (ctrl v) and there it will be.

NOT trying to change the way you do your thing, just letting you know there are other ways to do it. [swg]

Ted Your Email has been received and responded to. Thanx!

I knew of the tunnel between Detroit and Windsor, but not the "dog leg." Wonder what the "obstruction" was, or perhaps just an engineering "thing." Anyway, mine is more of logistics - how does a traveler get from the Detroit International airport to the VIA Rail station In Windsor, aside from taking a cab [?] Maybe it's just not possible.

Boris' BIRTHDAY is the 31st [?]! Arghhhhhhhhhhhh. What next [?] [swg]

Pete I KNEW you could handle that inquiry of Rob's [tup] Thanx! Glad you enjoyed the Post!

Sorry, Pete there's absolutely NO Hendrix on my Juke! [tdn] Story for 'nother time .... [swg]

Enjoy the evenin'

Tom

[pwolfe]

Hi Tom and all.

A pint of Bathams please and I had better eat some of the turkey.

Many thanks for the kind words on yesterdays piece. I had as much fun writing it as reading the EXCELLENT others. A sucess indeed TOM and TED. Thanks ALL [^][tup].

Another great G.B. passenger train nostalgia.I see the 8 hour agreement was in force when this was issued. The 10.00AM departure became THE ROYAL SCOT, the 2.00PM train was known as THE CORRIDOR as it was one the first trains on the L&NWR to have this facility allowing the use of the Dining car for all passengers. This train was formed of magnificent 12-wheelers and the Royal train was for many years of this slightly modified stock. I believe the livery was called Plum and Spilt Milk. Some of the Royal cars are preservrd in the National Railway Museum at York. this train became The Mid-day Scot.

Talking of the Royal Scot reminds me that in B.R. days it was worked in steam days by the L.M.S. premier locos the 4-6-2 Princess Coronation or Duchess class (SEMIs to us). There was a change of loco between Glasgow and London but for one glorious summer in the late 50s the Polmadie(Glasgow) loco would work through bringing rare locos like Duchesses of Athol and Montrose through Rugby.

As to ROBS query on the 1st and 3rd classes. It was the Midland railway who first abolished 2nd class in the 1870's on its main line trains, I think when they bought some American cars for the newly opened Settle & Carlisle route to Scotland. Most main lines followed suit. 2nd class was still used at the time for commuter trains around London.,It was last used on the Boat-trains to the South coast ports at least in the 50s. it was well into B.R. days that it became 1st and 2nd class.now it is a variation of 1st(Club etc) or Standard.

NICK does the Telecaster play any Hendrix?

Well TOM I'll have another Bathams if Imay and can you put me down for some Fish and Chips for later PETE.

By the way I have the same problem as TED when I try the REFRESH icon

[Anonymous]

Hi Cindy, popped in for a quick Ham-ana-Cheese-a-Sanawich-ana-bucket-a-beer-for-da- woikin'-ganga. Sorry, I lapsed into an old familiar Italian family's accent for a moment there.[:D] Yes Tom, that cross posting can be tricky. Anymore, I go back to my last post and work my way forward to anything new. Once, I hit the "refresh" button before sending and instantly lost my reply.[:(!] Dunno what happened? BTW, the only way I know from Detroit to Windsor is via the river tunnel and WOW, is it weird. There is (or was) a mid-tunnel "dog leg" with little room to maneuver.[:O]

Rob come to think of it, Detroit was the first time I saw Witt's hauling trailers in any city. The Conductor had a key for the folding doors (trailer) and a coin changer strapped to his chest. First he let out the exiting passengers (rear door), then moved forward. It fascinated me how fast those guys were at making change, issuing new and punching old transfers. etc. They could spot an expired transfer in a heart beat, amazing.[^] Hey, you have snail mail that should reach your place in 4 to 6 days. Hope you approve of my selections.

BK, nice you could drop in again after browsing the previous posts. Good of you to recognize Tom's "Personal Experiences" theme also. Nine responses isn't really shabby 'round these parts.[tup]

Say, how is that A.T.S.F. Northern coming along Gunns? We haven't seen an update of your favorite "girl friend" lately? Passengerfan Al, thanks for affirming the domes on the Empire Builder, I knew I wasn't dreaming them up. Good luck on your next publishing project covering the "Domes." You have more than one buyer at "Our" Place. Lookin' forward to your pix on Sunday Nick. Have you and Tom given thought to Boris' Birthday on the 31st?[alien] I guess *** is settling in from his "bitter sweet" trek from London to North Africa and return to "Big D." Hope there were no Chicken entrees during the trip.[V] Well, enough of my small talk. Boris, do we have the original "old 99" now? Okay, let 'er rip! WRIIIPED [:(!]Go to the shed and change your cook's whites NOW! See ya's later.

[siberianmo]

G'day!

Nice to see some interesting dialogue going on this AM, and especially pleased to see Rob during daylight! Gettin' back to a degree of normalcy are you [?] tup] [swg]

A dilemma of sorts - how to log on and catch the most current Posts [?] This seems to be the "bugaboo" on the Forums. How many times have we witnessed the event of a Post being made, with no reference or acknowledgment of one or two Posted before it - even if spaced by as much as an hour [?] Just a baffling situation. In my case, I use the refresh button before and after my Post - just to check to see who is "on." When I log into the Forum, I immediately go to Active Topics and select the last 12 hours for the period of Posts. Works for me.

Rob Your keen eye for detail may have caught something with that LONDON & NORTHWESTERN and CALEDONIAN RAILWAYS Poster. Perhaps pwolfe Pete can better explain it. [tup]

A serious question: Are you aware of how one would get from Detroit's major airport to the VIA Rail station in Windsor [?] Appreciate any info you may have or dig up on it. [tup]

Ted As I stated in my recap, it was a grand day given the 9 of us who participated and successful in all respects. Some notables were missing - especially West Coast S Dave, but ya know - some people just have to work for a living and/or have real lives to live! <geesh> Kudo's my friend for comin' up with the idea!

passengerfan Al Thanx for the continuing dome info ... and of course the ever present round for the house! [tup]

coalminer3 CM3 Gas here is at $2.79 (yesterday PM) and expected to drop a bit before the end of the weekend - given of course someone doesn't sneeze, cough or otherwise make 'noises' in the petroleum extracting business. [tdn]

Thanx for the round and roll of quarters for the Juke. You, Sir, are single-handedly keeping that thing in coins! [tup]=

I'm a bit surprised that my Post on the Washington & Old Dominion didn't get a comment from you. Oh well ...... can't win 'em all. [swg]

I'm sure I mentioned a few pages back that Calvin & Hobbes have been runnin' in our local bird cage liner (aka: newspaper) and will continue on for a month or so until something can be found to fill the space. An entertaing cartoon, for sure! These days (daze) one wonders what the "messages" will be within the all-too-present "unfunny" cartoons that appear in our gazettes. One in particular that just boils my blood has racisim all over it and comes in dead last in the 'surveys' run by the bird cage liner (aka: newspaper). Yet they retain it and drop something else that has a much higher acceptance level. Arggggggggh. Political correctness and politically correct people - I detest 'em all. [soapbox] [#offtopic] Boris go find the REAL bell, get rid of the bike toy, and ring it loud 'n clear! I'm buying. [tup]

Nick Nice seein' ya in daylight as well! That recognition you provided in my direction in the Post before your last was way too much! Nice of ya and appreciated, but hey - I'm just a simple barkeep, trying to keep you guys on the straight 'n narrow! [swg] THANX! [tup]

I have a request, please provide me with any pix you wi***o have Posted for our Sunday Photo Posting Day! before the end of the day tomorrow (Friday). I've got loads of things to attend to Saturday and won't be able to get to 'em then. As it stands now, the pix you sent yesterday (Wednesday) by Email will be provided to the gang.

BudKarr BK Amazing that you've kept contact with those Mounties; that's terrific! You are probably correct in your assessment of winding up in the calaboose should you engage in similar activites in 2005 aboard the train that you did back when you traveled that Action Red CPR. [V]

One day I'd love to take the train up to Churchill from Winnipeg. That would be a blast with a bunch of guys like we have at "Our" Place and I have entertained notiions of "throwing out the idea" to see how many would like to do it.

It's a 2-nighter up and from all reports, is the kind of experience only the uninhibited would (and should) partake in. Of course, as with any of these ventures, they cost - and cost big. Crank in air fares to and from Winnipeg, and it gets really pricey. Just a thought .....

BK Thanx for your comments on my Posts and more importantly, stickin' with us. Your insights are appreciated, even if a bit direct! [swg] Then again, you are preaching to the Choir 'round here - plus the people who need to see 'n reflect on your comments are NOT reading anyway! [censored]

Sorry if I've missed anyone's salient points - but it's time to get going! By the by - Cindy will be watching the bar from 1 to 5 PM! Be nice guys! [}:)][:-,]

Okay Boyz - time for some lunch [?]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[trolleyboy]

Good morning Tom good afternoon Nick. Tom I think i'll just do the coffee and dansih continiental breakfast type thing please. Nithing harder yet I'm into work at 1pm my time.Tom Interesting cart on that British Railroad, I noticed that the first and third class tickets could get food. What of the second class ( maybe there wasn't one )? Or were they doing the cooking and serving? [swg] Nick thanks for the info on that mag, I think I'll decline the download offer though I'm thinking that it would crash my poor elderly PC. Is there a website for the mag / perhaps I can scope the info out there, sounds quite interesting. I know that the magazine will show up over here once and a while but not locally,I would likely have to drive to London or Toronto to purchase it. CM3 You are quite right, I think we all have a hook that keeps us anchored in either the model hobby or the railfan hobby or in most of our cases both. Since your sons alot like Calvin I'm wondering did you or do you get the army of "snow goons" with the first heavy snow of winter. It sounds like quite the piece on the SP as well, I'm assuming that the Kraus-Mafeii's biggest difficulty was the maintenance. ( they had a few more things going on under the hood ) Similar to teh FM's of the world, the more complicated the toaster the more $ it costs to run,railroads more than any other industry will know this to be true, otherwise we still would be graced with the preasance of mainline steam.How late did SP wait to change over to oil on their steamers, I lnow for instance that CNR changed fairly late as they had a ready cheap supply of coal from the appalatians and from Cape Breton, CPR changed over much quicker as the coal was more expensive for them to import.Of coarse both CNR /CPR held oput with the steam much later than the US roads both railways were still building and ordering locomotive classes into the early 50's. This is of coarse mostly due to the locomotive manufacturers up here, they didn't retool for diesel building enmass until the early mid fifties.I see that you to are still suffering high gas prices, ours has just this week dropped below the dollar a litre mark hovering at $0.961/2 cents a litre roughly translated that's still $4.05 a gallon or so. Ted Again you've tied everything up in a nice little package, nice insite on the posts of yesterday,I have to agree with you and Tom I think that the day has to be called a success.Hopefully in may I can rekindle your never lost love affair with the Peter Witt both large and small, seeing as how the beer car large Witt 2424 is now functional again. It gives quite the one two punch with small Witt 2894. Well gentlemen duty calls so Boris wring the round bell for the stools briinngg brinnng okay who gave you the bike bell sheesh. Rob

[BudKarr]

Good morning to you Mr. Tom and patrons of Our Place. Today I think just a cup of coffee with a dash of Amaretto di Saronno would be nice. Nothing to eat thank you.

In browsing the pages I see once again that the responses are rather thin regarding your efforts, Mr. Tom. Quite surprised, given how much effort you put into this idea of yours. That posting on the Washington & Old Dominion Raliway is quite interesting and reflective of those times. Nicely done. Also appreciated your efforts with the CPR's Canadian yesterday. That is quite a picture you have and hopefully everyone had a chance to enlarge it.

My take on this thread is that once posted, quickly forgotten. One of the major drawbacks to communicating in this fashion. Your summary idea keeps things in perspective, but unless read they simply occupy page space.

Thank you for the comments regarding my efforts to participate in your sixth month celebration yesterday. I still keep contact with those mounties - both now long retired, and both still engaging folks. We talk of a reunion aboard the Canadian, but quickly da***he idea, given we would all probably wind up in a lock up somewhere. As I mentioned, different times with far different types of people.

I will have another - just skip the coffee.

BK

[siberianmo]

G’day All!

GREAT BRITAIN PASSENGER TRAIN NOSTALGIA #2 from multiple sources

Here’s something to ponder with regard to our appreciation and fascination with
Classic Trains, this time from Great Britain! Check this pre-WWI poster out!

LONDON & NORTHWESTERN and CALEDONIAN RAILWAYS

London (Euston) ……………… 8h. 0m.
Birmingham …… To ………… 6h. 45m.
Liverpool ………. Glasgow ...... 5h. 10m.
Manchester ….. (Central) ….. 5h. 5m.
Bristol .………………………… 9h. 35m.

London (Euston) ……………… 8h. 0m.
Birmingham …… To ………… 6h. 35m.
Liverpool ……… Edinburgh … 5h. 0m.
Manchester …. (Prin. St.) …. 5h. 10m.
Bristol .………………………… 9h. 45m.

London (Euston) ……………… 9h. 55m.
Birmingham …… To ………… 9h. 25m.
Liverpool ……… Dundee …… 7h. 15m.
Manchester …. (West) …….. 7h. 20m.
Bristol ………………………… 12h. 20m.

London (Euston) ...…………… 11h. 15m.
Birmingham …… To ………… 11h. 0m.
Liverpool ……… Aberdeen …. 8h. 20m.
Manchester …………………… 8h. 15m.
Bristol ………………………… 14h. 20m.

LUNCHEON and DINING CARS
for the accommodation of FIRST and THIRD CLASS PASSENGERS are run on the undernoted Trains:

………. From London (Euston)
To ..……………………….. a.m. …. p.m.
Glasgow (Central) ………. 10 0 …. 2 0
Edinburgh (Princes St.) … 10 0 …. 2.0
… Perth ..…………………. 10.0 … 2*0
… Aberdeen .…………….. 10.0 …. 2*0

*to Carstairs

………. From Liverpool
To ...………………………. a. m. …. p.m.
Glasgow (Central) .……… 9^50 …. 5 50
Edinburgh (Princes St.) ... 9^50 …. 5*50
… Perth ..………………… 9^50 …. 5*50
… Aberdeen ..…………… 9^50 ….. 5*50

*to Carstairs; ^Luncheon Car, Manchester (Victoria) to Glasgow,
Liverpool Passengers join at Preston.

……….. From Manchester
To ...……………………… a.m. …. p. m.
Glasgow (Central) .…….. 9 50 …. 5 45
Edinburgh (Princes St.) .. 9*50 …. 5^45
… Perth ..……………….. 9*50 …. 5^45
… Aberdeen ..…………... 9*50 …. 5^45

*to Carstairs; ^Luncheon Car, Manchester (Victoria) to Glasgow,
Liverpool Passengers join at Preston.

New and Improved SLEEPING SALOONS
………………. between …………………….
LONDON (Euston) & SCOTLAND by Night Trains.

(Note: Sorry for the misaligned columns; format differences make it so [censored][banghead])


Enjoy! [tup]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[nickinwestwales]

Afternoon chaps,-nothing for me [4:-)]TOM-just popped in to check the fridges for tonight-suspect that turkey leftovers may feature heavily. Caught up with all the various `journeys` gentlemen all-magnificent !!!-quick note for ROB-Nov Continental Modeller ( Brit mag,published by PECO ) has extensive feature on Nyon-St Cergue-Morez line in Switzerland -overhead electric trolleys up in the mountains. Happy to scan in and forward but runs to about 10 pages with 30+ pix and some line drawings of cars-could be a bit of a machine crasher-Missisnick used to ride this `little red train`as a child and father-in-law has some super-8 cine film somewhere. Anyway,gotta run, all manner of little jobs to attend to,catch you all later,nick[C=:-)]

[coalminer3]

Good Morning All: Coffee and a round for the house and more for the jukebox. Gotta have some tunes first thing in the a.m. Foggy here today and drizzle; gas is $2.86/ gallon.

I enjoyed reading all of the personal posts. To Theodorebear - you can also get to Union Station in Chicago by skating up Adams St. if the wind's right - I have the scars to prove it after an exciting walk/hockey game from the Berghoff to CUS one December evening. Also "Broom Hilda" Excellent! I remember that strip quite well. BTW for Calvin and Hobbes fans, some papers are reunning some of those old strips. Calvin (God help me!) reminds me of my son. Trolleyboy: There's always something that sets the hook; for me it was when I was real small and being exposed to steam locomotives.

I got my copy of the SP Historical Society's Trainline in yesterday's mail. My, my, they do produce a fine publication. The main feature is a 25+ page article on the the switch from coal to oil fuel on the SP. It is excellent nuts and bolts information and well worth getting a copy of the magazine. Also for the diesel folks in the group, there's a well done piece on the Krauss-Maffei locomotives with some interesting insights on why and how they did not work out on the SP. As I tell my folks now and then, ease of maintenance and good engineering counts for a lot.

work safe

[siberianmo]

Mornin’ Guys!

Another step forward to the end of the week, which isn’t all that bad for most of us. Most of my career, weekends and holidays were largely for “others,” as the days just seemed to meld into one another. Now as a retired senior citizen, I find that the days all seem to meld into one another! <geesh> The more things change, the more the stay the same! [swg]

In retrospect I think yesterday was a winnah! [tup] Some comments:

Quick on the trigger (submitted a wee bit early) Gunns Kevin kicked off the 6th Month Anniversary Personal Posts! with an accounting of a Southern Pacific trip from Phoenix to Goodyear at age 9. Too brief, but much appreciated! [tup]

The Proprietor offered some nostalgia in the form of a “snippet” from an all too familiar trip aboard CP Rail’s “The Canadian” back in the 50’s thru Morant’s Curve. (Apparently went over like a lead balloon!)

coalminer3 CM3 Treated us all to last (first too?) ride in the cab of a B&M RS3 on a gray late November day. As always, when reading his accounts, it is easy to propel one’s self into the surroundings presented. Well done! [tup]

Theodorebear Ted Entertained us with a rail sojourn involving his going home on military leave by way of the B&O and AT&SF with talk of upper bunks, the diner and of course the club car. [tup]

trolleyboy Rob Talked of his 8 hour round trips on the Algoma Central to the Agawa Canyon. Punctuated by a separation of 15 years, these trips represent much to him in terms of locked in good memories riding long distance trains! [tup]

pwolfe Pete Provided us with a very well done piece concerning an overnight rail trip in England . Talk of compartments, the sounds of the train, the warmth generated by the steam heat, and the mystique of the fog all lent itself to a very warm and thought provoking story! [tup]

Trainnut484 Russell Told of his first cab ride on a yard switcher. Shows that surprises come in many forms and situations! [tup]

BudKarr BK Set up a great accounting of a portion of a CP Rail trip through Saskatchewan Province in Canada. Images of singing Mounties and Imperial quarts of CC & VO danced in our heads! Great job! [tup]

nickinwestwales Gave us a personal story he called, “Tales from the pool room.” Done in only his style, one can easily understand why this guy is one of our most popular of regulars at the bar! Pix will be posted on Sunday Photo Posting Day! Thanx! [tup]

So, we had 9 submissions! How can that be viewed in any other light other than POSITIVE! [?]

Many thanx to all for not only participating, but being attentive enough to know what’s going on ‘round here! [tup][tup][tup]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[Anonymous]

G'mornin' to all and a "hats off" to the fine posts made in response to our little "fireside" chat. Tom, I think just buttered rye toast and a cuppa Folger's Dark Roast this A.M. BK, that is one of those stories that can only happen on the right train at the right time. Imagine this on a commercial bus or flight? Sorry your trip to Norway was cancelled but "Our" Place was the richer for it, thanks.[^] We can look forward to next April for our "full" Birthday and , hopefully, more personal vignettes will be forth coming by then.[tup] Well Nick, that rail sojourn from Pembrokeshire to Merioneth turned out to be a "double dividend" indeed. Is there anything quite as euphoric as the undulating motion and measured tempo of a pullman sleeper on high iron? Pwolfe, "...12 platforms and no soul" and other "mental imagery" you skillfully employed drew us into the scene you portrayed. Indeed, all of those images are now "GONE" save the ones in your "mind's eye." Thank you for bringing those "images" to our "mind's eye" as well. Rob, your narrative would have been excellent if you had ended it with the Algoma Central trek but you "out did yourslef" relating your encounter with the Peter Witt. I know all who read it, thanks you.[^] Trainnut, there is nothing like the first time in the cab of any locomotive, bar none. You brought back vivid memories of my own at about age 12. Mine was a 0-6-0 yard switcher but I'll never forget it and the decent R.R. people I've met in general over the years.

Finally, thanks to everyone who participated and we look forward to another 6 months of enjoying our friends at "Our" Place. Oh, the "Silver Throttle?" As you know, that is an honorary award more like a "honorary" Doctorate from a college. Certainly it isn't a prize or "instant winner" sort of gimmick. Thought must go into choosing and that won't be easy with these fine entries. So, for now, let us return to our erstewhile activities and "business as usual."[tup] Happy rails to all.

[siberianmo]

THURSDAY’s INFO & SUMMARY of RECENT POSTS

The bar closed at midnight and will reopen at 6 AM

Good Morning Guys!

Well, the 6th Month Anniversary is history and the next time we gather for an ”Our” Place Anniversary will be at the one year mark. We’ve pretty much run the course on these things. The positives: Manger Ted had a great idea [tup][tup][tup] and we were treated to some interesting Personal Posts. The negatives [?] No need to expound on them – if you have followed the commentaries, you KNOW where to look and to whom.

Time for some coffee, pastry and a <light> breakfast! [swg]

Info for the Day:

(1) Tonight is Fish ‘n Chips Nite plus whatever our Chief Chef has for his Nick’s Picks Menu Board [dinner] Dinner begins at 5 PM!

(2) An Email was sent to all who have expressed interest in our Rendezvous in Toronto, May 2006. Responses requested.

(3) Remember Sunday Photo Posting Day!

INDEX

Generic URL: Just insert the index page in place of “106,” copy ‘n paste ‘n “go,”

http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=106&TOPIC_ID=35270

-or- insert the index page in the address portion of this page (at the top).

Fallen Flags (passenger ops)

106 SP ..………. 106 MoPac ……. 108 WP ………… 109 Frisco
112 CNR ………. 112 Heralds …… 114 ACL ………… 115 SCL
116 D&RGW ….. 118 RI .………… 119 D&H ………… 120 PRR
122 NYC ………. 124 UP.………… 125 AT&SF …….. 127 B&O
128 CM&StP.…. 129 CB&Q .……. 130 Soo Line ....... 133 C&NW
134 SP&S

Passenger Train Nostalgia

112 ………. CNR Ad - Super Continental Time Table
113 ………. Passenger Train Nostalgia #1 ”Start ups” 1800s & early 1900s
117 ………. Passenger Train Nostalgia #2 Ad - Vista-Dome sleeper observation-lounge
121 ………. Passenger Train Nostalgia #3 Ad - CP Hotels & Lodges
124 ………. A tale of Classic Trains BC Rail RDC trip
127 ………. B&O Ad - Strata-Dome
127 ………. B&O Ad – Encor!
129 ………. Passenger Train Nostalgia #4 Ad - CN Hotels, Ltd.
130 ………. Great Britain Nostalgia #1 Poster - East Coast Route
133 ………. Passenger Train Nostalgia #5 Poster - CP 1886
133 ………. Passenger Train Nostalgia #6 Poster - CP 1950s
134 ………. Passenger Train Nostalgia #7 Poster - Washington & Old Dominion Railway
134 ………. Personal RR journey CPR’s “The Canadian”

Classic Juice by trolleyboy ROB

116 Classic Juice #1 (The London & Port Stanley L&PS)
123 Classic Juice #2 (The Niagara St. Chatharines Toronto Railway NS&T)
131 Classic Juice #3 (The Montreal & Southern Counties Railway –MS&C)
134 Classic Juice #4 (The Brantford and Hamilton B&H)

SUMMARY

Name - Date/Time - (Page#) – Remarks

(1) siberianmo Tom Posted: 12 Oct 2005, 01:04:03 (134) Wednesday’s Info & Summary

(2) siberianmo Tom Posted: 12 Oct 2005, 05:50:36 (134) reply to Gunns & trolleyboy

(3) siberianmo Tom Posted: 12 Oct 2005, 05:52:21 (134) Personal Post! CPR “The Canadian”

(4) siberianmo Tom Posted: 12 Oct 2005, 07:43:43 (134) Silver Throttle Awards

(5) coalminer3 CM3 Posted: 12 Oct 2005, 07:48:38 (134) Personal Post! B&M’s RS3

(6) Theodorebear Ted Posted: 12 Oct 2005, 11:06:55 (135) Personal Post!

(7) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 12 Oct 2005, 14:17:58 (135) Personal Post!

(8) Theodorebear Ted Posted: 12 Oct 2005, 15:52:28 (135)

(9) pwolfe Pete Posted: 12 Oct 2005, 17:10:19 (135) Personal Post!

(10) Trainnut484 Russell Posted: 12 Oct 2005, 18:18:58 (135) Personal Post!

(11) siberianmo Tom Posted: 12 Oct 2005, 18:56:17 (135) comments

(12) BudKarr BK Posted: 12 Oct 2005, 20:33:34 (135) Personal Post!

(13) nickinwestwales Nick Posted: 12 Oct 2005, 20:39:33 (135) Inclusive Post! Personal Post!

(14) passengerfan Al Posted: 12 Oct 2005, 20:55:26 (135) domes

(15) BudKarr BK Posted: 12 Oct 2005, 21:07:05 (135) uh-oh!

(16) siberianmo Tom Posted: 12 Oct 2005, 21:23:50 (135) comments

(17) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 12 Oct 2005, 21:49:15 (135) Inclusive Post!

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

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

[trolleyboy]

Good evening again Tom, and Leon I'll help you with the cleanup i need to do an inventory anyway. Tom I.ve personally seen to the replacement of Awk's perch, least until the next "big event" [swg] Thanks for adding the classic juice to your summery. I'll try to occationally post them at more normal hours of the day. BK [tup] loved your recollection of what seemed to be a memorable trip minus the ugly paint scheme. For myself as well the Pacman and action red never should have happened. [sigh] Still it was nice to see that CP still was doing their darndest for good customer service [tup]. By the way have you kept in touch with the singing mounties, could be a new career there for all of you ! [swg] Pete& nick thanks for the toasts and wonderfull stories of travel from the old country ! Nick I'm looking forward to the pictures on Sunday. Russell Nice story as well, I've not had the pleasure of a cab ridein anything but the cars we operate at the museum, you must admit that the veiw from inside really completes the p[icture for railfans, Sadley in the times we now live in this is a practice that's pretty much extinct. Well folks Boris wring up another chime for another round for the stools and all who posted in line with this six month aniversary. Here's to another six months of solid rail fun. Rob

[siberianmo]

Gentlemen!

The last first - BK it is quite simple, you just don't let the "wonkers" getcha down. It's really that simple. You can lead a horse to water ..... One can provide all of the hints, directions, instructions, et al ...... There just are those who will not participte fully. It is not in keeping with our policy to chase people away - unless of course they are absolutely out of line, rude, insulting, etc. We have more than one who prefer to make their statements and leave ... no matter how many tiimes I make mention of "hit 'n run" posts, it just doesn't sink in. My guess is that rather than reading the Posts - these people skim to where they think the interests are, then Post - if even that. So, BK, chill m'boy chill. But, thanx for your support - that is APPRECIATED. [tup]

Oh [yeah], I enjoyed your Personal Post! Thanx! [tup]

Nick I have been away for most of the day and your Emails were read within the hour. Sorry, just don't have the energy to pursue them tonight .... I'll post your pix on our Sunday Photo Posting Day! if that's okay with you.

Thank you for being so supportive of "Our" Place and participating in our 6th Month Anniversary Personal Posts! [tup]

As I said earlier, I'l respond to today's Posts in the 'morrow. Rather tired and it's time for me to check out for the night. Leon the Night Man has arrived! [yeah]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[BudKarr]

Not to be a damp rag, but what in the world do domes have to do with the celebration of the Sixth month anniversary of this bar and grill ? I am astounded. It is good information but not at all even close to the theme for the day. It is no wonder Tom gets frustrated.

Sorry Mr. Tom, but this must drive you crazy.

BK

[passengerfan]

Good Evening Tom and the rest of the gang.Time for a CR and a round for the house.
There were only two dome carrying trains in North America prior to Autotrain that carried both a full length dome and at least one short dome they were the GN EMPIRE BUILDER and the CN SUPER CONTINENTAL. The latter was only between Edmonton and Vancouver and the former was between Chicago and Seattle. The SUPER CONTINENTAL operated with one of the former Milwaukee Road Super Domes and one of the leased B&O sleeper domes. At the same time as the SUPER CONTINENTAL was operating with domes between Edmonton and Vancouver the PANORAMA the CN's other transcontinental was operating with former Milwaukee Super Domes between Winnipeg and Vancouver. The PANORAMA was not a true transcontinental as the SUPER CONTINENTAL was, as the PANORAMA was actually two separate trains one operating between Montreal/Toronto and Winnipeg the other operating between Winnipeg and Vancouver. There was no through cars between the eastern PANORAMA and the western PANORAMA and their was several hours between arrival of one in Winnipeg from the east and departure of the other to the west. In any case the six former Milwaukee Road Super Domes spent little time at rest.
The train's that operated with the most dome seats in their consists were the Auto-Trains. They also operated with full length domes(ex AT&SF) and short domes (Ex UP and WP) in their consists on their nightly runs between Lorton, Virginia and Sanford, Florida.
Today the train with the most domes is the DENALI of the Alaska Railroad during summers. This train operates with former UP short domes and a growing number of Ultra Domes on the rear of the regular train. These Ultra Domes are actually owned by different cruise ship companies and operate summers only. Winters the Ultra Domes take a lesson from the Bears and hibernate until the next summer cruise season.
The Ultra-Domes some of which stand 18' from top of rail are the only new domes being constructed today and the factory is located in Colorado. These seem to be growing in popularity and even the Alaska Railroad received a pair this year.
Enough of my rambling will say goodbye for now.

[nickinwestwales]

Hi Guys,[4:-)]TOM-beer for all if you please,a tray of shot glasses and that bottle of rich golden Jamaican nectar tucked away on the top shelf,behind the domino trophy shield...good man,right lets get `em filled,..well as its a special occaision,better give Boris a small mug of something fairly innocuous-judging from the faintly glazed look of him,He`s either met H & H socially or we`ve got the "blue pill" dosage right at last[swg]--Gentlemen all,please be upstanding and raise your glasses-the toast is,-Captain Thomas Weber U.S.C.G,for outstanding hard work,tolerance,hospitality,enthusiasm and all those things that make a good bar great,in whatever medium....also,whilst we`re about it,I think an appreciation for MANAGER TED Kramer & BAR CHANDLER ROB Austin and ,I suspect,PASSENGERFAN AL,who as "first footers" got the place moving is in order....Gents-we thank you for providing a small space free of the wider world-we all need somewhere to go sometimes...........nice one guys,long may we continue-Happy half-birthday to one and all [^][bday][tup][swg].....................O.K-I`m going to go straight for the "Tales from the pool room" train story before responding `cos there`s so much good stuff there I`d get bogged down and run out of steam before getting properly started.......O.K-Is everybody sitting comfortably,...then I`ll begin--My thinking here is that most of you will have main-line journeys to describe,overnight trips on the high iron and such,so It occurred to me that something a little more bucolic might make an interesting contrast--Thus it was--An unexpected offer from missisnick to take a trip up the coast from Pembrokeshire to Merioneth to ride on the Tal-Y-Lyn Rly ( a long-term strategy that resulted in Hannah ,age 4 & a half..............) brought us to Tywyn,where the line connects with the former Cambrian Rlys (later G.W.R ,B.R,etc) std gauge line from Dovey Jn to Pwehelli,For those who have neglected their studies of Welsh narrow gauge lines of late,[swg],scroll back,a description of the line has been posted on a (much)earlier page-so,where was I-right,arrived at wharf station,eager & ready,train waiting in platform-loco #7-Tom Rolt 0-4-2t (Andrew Barclay 1949 for 3` gauge,rebuilt Pendre works 2`3"),train included original 1865 coach stock,plus former Glyn Valley Tramway 1st class car(supplement payable). Also in the yard,former Corris Railway #4 "Edward Thomas"-0-4-2t-Kerr-Stuart "Tattoo" Class(1921),in Corris Railway livery,waiting to rotate with next down train -onto train and away,through the impossibly narrow bridge at the top of the yard and into a deep,dark but mostly damp cutting,between slate slab fences held together with baling twine,climbing up between the cottage yards to to Tywyn Pendre (Town ) stn-the main depot of the line..here we found #2 "Dolgoch" ( 1865,Fletcher-Jennings) in light steam at the end of the headshunt,diesel shunter#5 " Merseysider" and others on the shed roads,off quickly-As you leave Tywyn,you are following the right side of the valley of the avon Fathew,on a gentle rise to Rhyd-Yr-Onen,steepening up to Dolgoch Falls,then turning across the watershead into the Dysinni valley,up to the new terminus at Nant Gwernol,about a half mile beyond the old pass. stn at Abergynolwyn.At the first passing point (Brynglas) we crossed with #1 " Tal-Y-Lyn" (Fletcher-Jennings,1864) and at the next (Quarry siding) #3 "Sir Hadyn ( ex -Corris 0-4-2t,Falcon wks,1888 ) Arrived at Nant Gwernol (one-engine-in-steam on extension) and decided to"do the tour" of nature walks etc and get the following train down ( a secret plot to get a ride behind "Tal-y-lyn"-a little beauty of an engine) arrived back at staion to find #4 "Edward Thomas" on the point,but managed to get my all-time favourite pic on the run back down-#1 "Tal-y-Lyn" pulling into the bottom of the loop at Abergynolwyn--have sent pixs to [4:-)]TOM-may well appear on sunday,gentlemen its been a joy to read the tales from the poolroom so far-PETE-that was the most recent line I travelled on,and yes,I do remember the old Metro-Cammells-in fact, I used to ride them from Edinburgh to Leuchers in Fife before they were cascaded down,--I`m sure you will be pleased to hear that large amounts of the route west of Swansea are still controlled by lower-quadrant semaphore signals,including the principal junction at Whitland--COALMINER 3-You got the MoJo my friend,no doubt about it-I found myself wanting to wander over and offer to help out,guys,I`m fading fast here,will catch up with you`all later-Boris has a couple of trays of light snacks and delicacies to tempt the jaded palate,although for a night as momentous as this I feel that only wild and irresponsible drinking will do..on which note.............[4:=)]TOM..same again for the stools,the band are ready to go,there is a Fender Telecaster over there with my name on it,if I might be excused from duties for the next hour or so................................................................................." I was born in a cross-fire hurricane,and I smiled at my Ma in the driving rain---but it`s all right now,in fact it`s a gas-Yeah it`s all right. I`m Jumping Jack Flash it`s a gas,gas ,gas "---happy half-birthday guys,lets keep doin` it ! sleep well,nick[C=:-)]

[BudKarr]

Good evening and I will have one of those Moosehead Ales please. I recall seeing that your food service is sandwiches on Monday thru Wednesday, so perhaps a hoagie – ham and swiss, butter and mustard should do it, on a hard roll. Oh yes – how are you barkeep? It seems that your Anniversary celebration has fizzled, but I concur with your accolades for those who took the time to participate.

And yes - my Scandanavian trip was aborted with most of what I had to do handled by teleconference. Makes more sense, but hardly any pleasure.

I am not one for the type of story you may be looking for, but here is something I recall from several years ago – too many in fact.

It was a dark and stormy night ….. no, actually it was a very clear and star filled night crossing the plains in Saskatchewan Province en route Vancouver. I had boarded the train in Winnipeg, having completed my business there and decided to kill off my free weekend by taking CP Rail’s “The Canadian” to the west coast. The train in those days was in the livery of the CP “Pacman” logo and in that “action red” color. Did not care for either very much, but the cars were what was important to me (and for you too Tom, as I understand it!). My bedroom was in a Chateau series sleeping car and I wound up with a double at no extra fare. I had requested to know what the fare was for a double room for single occupancy and the ticket agent simply booked one and that was that. Nice gesture I thought.

During that era it did not seem as if the tourist trade had taken over the route the way it has since VIA Rail entered the picture. Cutting back those trains to 3 departures per week has added to the crowded trains. But I digress.

I spent a bit of time back in the Park car (Strathcona seems to ring a bell) and was having a rather spirited conversation with two RCMP officers who were on holiday, having come down from Churchill and also en route Vancouver. Well, by the time the last call was sounded, we had pretty much emptied the inventory of the “spirits” we preferred. That did not dampen the enthusiasm for my new found companions, as they begged their leave, to indicate they would return shortly. And that they did – with each holding an Imperial quart of Canadian Club and VO whiskey. Where did it come from and how? Why from the baggage car, where else?

It was a grand time in the lounge until the wee hours, as one of them furnished a guitar and the other a banjo. Before too long a crowd gathered and the “song fest” began with all in attendance joining in. The car attendant and train conductor re-opened the bar, as we were in need of ice and “chasers.” I could go on with this, but I think you get the message.

It was a grand time aboard “The Canadian,” one perhaps never to be experienced again anywhere else. Times and people are far, far different these days.

Best of good times to all at Our Place.

BK

[siberianmo]

Evenin' Guys!

I'm baaaaaaack, finally! Cindy you've "done good," and I appreciate having you 'round here as my relief bartender! Too bad that sabbatical you are on is only for one semester! Anyway, I can handle it from here on 'til Leon the Night Man ambles in. [swg]

First and foremost, a hearty THANX! to those of you who have participated on our 6th Month Anniversary Personal Posts!. It's a great idea, Manager Ted, and given the track record we've had lately with these celebrations I'd say all's well. Just a bit surprised we haven't seen Dave , but he's on the "left coast," so there's still ample time ........ Let's not concern ourselves with those who are seemingly always "too busy" or simply do not read.

I want to assure one and all that these Personal Posts are in no way designed to be a competition. That's not at all what Ted had in mind. Just a sincere outpouring of one's personal experiences with real trains. Nothing more. So, let go of any thoughts of winning this or that .... if you've Posted, you've already won (the respect of us all)! [tup][tup][tup]

For all who have bought the house a round - many thanx! And by the by - Boris change out that bell and do it NOW! Put that gold plated clapper back in Awk's cage and let's get back to normal 'round here. Bwooooooooooong, Gwoooooooong - there it goes again! Argggggggh. [swg]

Regarding today's Posts, I'll make my comments tomorrow in that perhaps we've got some others yet to come ..... [yeah]

Thanx very much, Ted for pickin' up the slack .... And to those of you who have responded to my Email regarding our Rendezvous in Toronto, they are interesting and we'll be communicating further .... [tup]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[Trainnut484]

Hello Tom and everyone [:)]. Happy 6th month anniversary [yeah] to "OUR" Place. I'll have a ML and a round for the house on moi.

Finals are here for me, and just registered for fall '05 semester, which begins Nov 1. I'll cheri***he time in between.

Ted, looks like that rubber mallet is working out for Boris. Damage should be kept to a minimum.

I've already told my AFT story, so this one will have to do. About ten years ago I was trackside, and just about to leave due to traffic dwindling down. A good sign of that is when the local yard job hauls a cut of empties out to the grain mill. The yard and grain mill are on opposite sides of the mains, so the yard crew has to quickly cut across and into the mill. I knew the engineer (now retired) on the local yard job. On that evening, he called "Hey Russell" on my scanner, and I looked across and he motioned me to come on over. I thought he was wanting to shoot the bull while waiting for the green signal out of the yard. Instead he invited me up in the cab and a ride to the mill and back. It was my first cab ride, and it was fun.

Oh, Okay Boris you want to use your old hammer, go ahead and ring the thing. BWOONNGG GWOONNGG! Sheesh, I guess Tom hasn't changed it back yet. Here's another round for the house...ok Boris, now with the rubber hammer...BRINK BONK Ahh yes that's better.

Another ML please.

Russell