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Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, May 25, 2006 7:39 PM
"Strike while the iron is hot." Yes, I'm going to make a real nuisance of myself today as I got a few breaks, finally. Tom, just a snort of Crown in a tall glass w/a twist and a drop of bitters, if you please. Great mounds of molding Moose manure, I did say a quarter of a million Veterans, didn't I? Sorry 'bout that! More like 26 -1/2 million (as you stated) not counting data on the next of kin et al., pardon moi.

Hey, the great stuff just keeps rolling in, however, very soon our strongest contributor will be dodging B-52 mosquitos in "the Land of the Midnight Sun," don'tcha know?[:O] Then, "We few, we happy few..." will feel the burden of a serious void. Maybe a miracle or two will come our way at "Our" Place to "keep the wind to our backsides?" For now, I'm keeping a cool head and a rabbit's foot twix't my typing fingers. Gadfrey, the N.E. Corridor took a bad hit today for reasons I still am waiting to hear about. Somehow, when there is a glitch in rail service which rarely occurs; a flurry of media hysteria gets immediate attention. The same "glitch" occuring on a day-to-day basis with every major airline in the hemisphere seems to go by unnoticed. Okay, so I'm being paranoid probably. Still, we never see much of anything positive regarding this vital mode of national transportation, do we? I only wish I could be around to see the day when the inevitable "turnaround" will be staring the "Jet Setters" and SUVers squarely in the eye.[^] Oh, how the mighty will have fallen as they board reconstituted Pullman style accomodations. And ya now what? They probably will wonder why they had not been doing this years before. As several of you members have stated before: It isn't if, it is when!!! Also, each of us might take a look at these terrific daily entries and summaries in a whole new context? Nice thought, isn' it? Incidentally Boris, by following Cap'n Tom around; what would you do if you caught up with him? BWOONG Okay, just checking. Happy rails all.
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Posted by West Coast S on Thursday, May 25, 2006 7:53 PM
Eveing Al...
I was reviewing some slides from the seventies last night, I had forgotten that the Santa Fe stored a considerable number of retired heavyweight coaches, baggage and cafe cars in Barstow, some still retained well worn Pullman Green or faded two-tone grey, some had been converted to MW duty previously with silver paint and extensive modifications, one ancient baggage car had obviously been re-sided sometime in its life as the truss rods were still intact. In conversation with an official, the cars (perhaps two dozen at the time) were being retained for possible conversion to other duties. No lightweight equiptment was included but some odd ball power and home built conversions were present, F7B units converted to remote control slaves, quite a few Alco RSD-15s and the only Santa Fe rotary i've ever seen.

I can guess as to the ultimate fate of the B units and Alco's , but i've often wondered if any preservation groups discovered this hidden treasure trove of heavyweight equiptment or did they meet the scrappers torch when no longer needed.

Reading your post, caused a bell to go off. Ok, when can I purchase a copy of your book? The line forms here...

Dave
SP the way it was in S scale
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Posted by siberianmo on Thursday, May 25, 2006 8:20 PM
Good Evening!

[wow] What a day, and it isn't over! [tup] Nice turnout guys and just goes to show that where there's a will . . . .

First: You Johnny Cash fans, check out Page 340 for the lyrics to "One Piece at a Time!" Updated, thanx to Mike's comments . . . . [tup]

Dave "We the people" should keep you on duty more often! [swg] Good to see all the Posts and very heartening to have you amongst us - hope it's for the duration! [tup]

Ted Seems like olde tymes 'round the joint! Also great having you stopping by for more than a brief chat. [tup] Boris is beginning to get "that look" in his Cyclops eye! [:O]

Al Figured the Pullman Posts would get you away from writing that book! [swg] But then again, this time I WANT you to finish it - after all, we're talking RDCs! [tup]

Thanx to all who purchased rounds and contrary to what young-Dave may believe - I'm actually gonna stay awake 'til at least 10:30 PM CDST! [swg]

REMINDER:
Leon the Night Man takes the bar at 9 PM (Central)


Tom[4:-)] [oX)]
Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
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Posted by trolleyboy on Thursday, May 25, 2006 9:54 PM
Good evening gents, quite the day has unfurled itself before us this morning and afternoon 5x[tup] for the multiples from Al, Dave,and Ted indeed just like old times. Boris actually has a blister on his finger from all the rounds he's wrung up today. Well big guy ring up another Keith's all around espeacially since I'm digging into that wonderfull St George Arms beer batterd halibut and chips [dinner] I had the cook send the proper recipe to H&H so it is authentic that and the bangers and mash, and steak and kidney pie. Boris was excited to see that entray [:O] [swg]

Tom Great gobs of pullman info that I unwhittingly unleashed on us all today ! [;)] I just liied that piece from BK and it seems like everyone else has as well. As long as you run fast the girlz shouldn't be able to catch up with you at the airport, unless you are goping VIA the mentor aerodome then all bets are off [:O] i actually pulle dout the CD I had and listened to that particular Johnny Cash song great to read the words as I was able to hum along the tune with it.

Ted I'm saddened to hear about the VA records flap, hopefully it will get squared away quickly and porperly for all involved. What and absolute assinine thing to have happened. I'm certainly glad that some of the encore's the last day or two have flicked the odd switch for you. we've got plenty of more to dig out. Everyone dig back into the back pages you will be supprised at what you can find. No Boris we are not going back to find your "Dolly" [alien]

Dave Hey great to see you pop in again today.The official why for CN or CP not purcahsing the first SD's as that both railroads had allot of ultra light rail in the 50's left over from the various component railways they were formed from or took over.Both roads tenede to purchase 4 axle or speacially modified A1A trucked locomotives instead. In CP's case RSC2's in CN's RS13's,RS24's A1A trucked RS18's and a myriad of others. MLW was a well supported manufacterur in Canada.

CM3 great to see you back sir, I'm glad that your trip went well and all survived to tell the tale. Cleveland was quite the PCC and Witt hub as well as the high speed suburban electric lines all connecting to terminal tower. It's unbelievable that all that electric rail failed to survive.It's amazing as to how well the CLRV's and ALRV's have survived in Toronto, they only lost to accidents 3 of the original 300 cars ! and these prders go back to the early and mid seventies when the TTC seriously concidered abandoning all the surface rail routes and just retire the PCC fleet.

Al I'm with dave where do I sign up for both books [wow][:D][tup]


Rob
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Posted by trolleyboy on Thursday, May 25, 2006 10:00 PM
ENCORE ! ENCORE ! ENCORE !

Another of the classic juice car type classics from pages gone by to continue in line with the last couple of encores from me. This was dredged up from page # 162 or last november if one is tracking such things. Enjoy again.

Rob


QUOTE: Originally posted by trolleyboy

Okay Classic Juice #10

The changes in car design and crewing and the comming of the safety car'

A lot of you will remember the Saftey car or the Birney from your own cities systems. Next to the Witt Birney's were likely the most common streetcar type out there, with most major and alot of the minor systems operating them,they came in two main forms the single or double truck models. They were designed for singleman operation as well, hence the safety car moniker.

First a bit of run up back history to the avant of the one man car.

To the uninitiated,the general appearance of trolley'sappearse tio have chaged little before the 1930's. One however can find many subtle changes beginning in the 20's. Monitor roofs , with their small openable clerestry windows, gave way to the arched roof with ventilators around 1910. Rear plateforms were enlarged for the new Pay as you enter PAYE fare system , and doors started to appear more commonly in the centre when Paye as you pass started with the Witt cars.

More common use of bright colours, and the abandonment of fancy lettering and striping in the 20's also occured. Likley the biggest change was construction methods, in the 20's steel replaced wood as the construction medium. At the turn of the century (approx 1906 ) steel was used as an underframe, with a wood body previous to that cars were generally all wood. The first NA manufacturer tp do steel bodies was the pressed steel company of Pittsburgh which delivered it's first all steel cars to Montreal in 1907.

Most companies however beleaved that heavier wood bodied cars ( steel underframe ) gave a smoother ride,some going even as far as to insist on concrete floors for extra added stability ! Nevertheless steel offered more strength ,was less fragile for external panel use, and could be more easily repaired with rivetting or welding. It was also more fireproof and held together better under vibration. As steel's advantages became better known and hardwoods became more scarce,the tide of opinion changed and by 1912 the star of the changeover took place. Wood interiors and wood framed canvas covered roofs remained in vogue for many years yet but after 1917 the all wood car was obsolete.

While double truck cars became increasingly more popular after the turn of the century ,single truck trams continued to be built to the 1930's. Because they were shorter and lighter, and took up less street space,required less maintenance and consumed less energy.They were better suited to single man pay as you pass operations as well for smaller cities and less travelled routes. Money savings were the prime motivation in the 30's to single man cars as well.

The unions of coarse were not happy with the loss off two man crewing. The main crux was what if the motorman passes out ot dies with no conductor who would save the passengers, this is a death trap etc etc. Enter the safety car ( and better motorman wages/ sorry conductors the union got less jobs but, more money for the remaining members )

Significant technical improvements / advances happen just prior to WW1 making 1 man operation safe and practical. With the "safety cars " the first was built by St louis car in 1913 for the illinois traction ( later terminal , thought you would like that Tom ). It featured a combination brake,sand and door mechanism plus a deadmans handle. The latter became the main feature to overcome the objections to one man operation should the operator become unconscious or dead.The handle has to remain depressed,otherwise the brakes and would automatically apply amd the doors would be made openable only by hand. Doors could not be openned while the car was moving nor could the car move if the doors were open. Hence the "safety car" name.

This system was designed by J.M. Boisenbury ( Illinois Traction's superintendant of motive power ) he worked in conjunction with westinghouse. A foot positioned deadman's button which had to be stood on at all times was also developed at this time.( PCC's use these )

Safety cars of all shapes and sizes were built to double and single truck models.The most popular was the Birney designed by Charles O. Birney of Stone & Webster. his car standarized on a 28 foot 16,000 pound car first produced by Brill in 1916 ( The KW picture I posted on Sunday ) This was a rougyh riding but cheap to produce car essentilally the model T of the transportion systems.They were no frills minimal heating with rataan seats. The latter double truck models rode better but were still rough 47 feet long 40,000 pounds. The later still witt's and PCC's are also safety cars in that their safety appliances are the same ( deadman handle on the Witt , floor pedal on the PCC ) they were just more civilized to the ride characteristcs and of coarse they wer faster.

Rob
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Posted by trolleyboy on Thursday, May 25, 2006 10:10 PM
ENCORE ! ENCORE ! ENCORE !

Here's a definate blast from the back pages. page 5 to be exact [:O] Our own Cheif chef from before he was the had of the kitchen dungeons here, with a fine recollection of the various and sundry ONR passenger trains.

Enjoy Rob


QUOTE: Originally posted by nickinwestwales

Hey,Tom-another of those cold Molsons please and as it`s payday a round for the house,as and when they straggle in!! Well it`s a day off for me(the best sort-everyone else is working) and blowing a gale out there so time to sit a while. So,Ontario Northland,classic or not?...discuss....[takes me back to schooldays] Well ,first a disclaimer,I`ve never travelled on any of these lines,so all this is "received wisdom" picked up from the (un)official O.N. railfan site,but they caught my imagination. In part because of the manageable size of the outfit (in modelling terms) and partly the off the beaten track,frontier feel of the place. So,the trains, The Northlander runs daily from Toronto up to Cochrane via North Bay ( C.N. trackage to N.Bay ) Normal formation seems to be G.P.38-2,A.P.U (converted "B" unit for car heating ) 2 coaches and a food service car ( coverted G.O.cars ) until fairly recently,power was any one of the last 3 F.P.7a`s dating back to `51 or 2 but retro-fitted with 2000 hp Caterpiller prime movers. Also seen on this service although not sucessful and long withdrawn ,were a number of Dutch built Werkspoor T.E.E units. This service meets bus connections along the route serving the various `branches ` although It`s predecessor the Northland sleeper carried connecting portions and could include virtually anything. Heading north from Cochrane we have the Polar Bear Express,a summer-only tourist run up to Moosonee up in the arctic circle--this is usually a twin G.P38 lashup although Cochrane shed will happily use whats available,usually a dozen plus cars including domes,food service etc ( think these came from B.C.Rail and C.P.R . The Little Bear is the 3-times-weekly mixed to Moosonee--Beyond Cochrane you are in the tree line and the track is the only land route in or out so this is a community lifeline, The little bear runs about a dozen freight cars(lots of flats with big plant,containers etc,fuel tanks,general stores. According to season,a "canoe car" ( bulkhead flat with special racks fitted) and a "moose car" (50` box for dressed carcases) are available. so a thumbnail essay. Thats left me thirsty so same again and i`ll just perch over here at the end of the counter,take care now,nick
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Posted by Anonymous on Friday, May 26, 2006 6:06 AM
Good T.G.I.F. morning to all in "ear shot." Tom, it is the crack of dawn so maybe something lite this a.m., cuppa Joe and toasted English, okay? Al has, once again, pulled the stops with his treatise on the 3 streamliners of the West with their stainless Pullman observations. Personally, I was always partial to the "boat tail" observations with the huge red Mars (ocillating) marker light and the illuminated drum logo on the end.[^] Those cars gave way to the more parctical rounded corners with flat bulk heads which could better accept a mid consist position in a train. They were still "classy" but lacked the distinctive "boat tail" appearance. Strangely, I can't recall ever seeing this modified version any where mid consist, however.

There was some enticing news of vintage Santa Fe Heavyweights lurking about in the Barstow, CA shops. This might send an a.p.b. to Barndad and interested parties for restoration possibilities? Surely their days are numbered when the only role left is for MW duty. I'm wondering if these are of the Santa Fe channeled sides variety or earlier species. The Pullman Green or 2 tone gray could apply to several prototypes of the 20's and 30's. Any rate, steel heavyweights should be of interest, no matter the vintage.[tup]

Good show on the replay of the "Safety Cars" Rob. Do you recall an anecdotal article focused on the clever methods some Conductors devised for "pinching" fares from the traction companies profits? Apparantly this malpractise became so rampant that the PAYE transition was as much for preventing Conductors pilferage as better effeciency. Also, thanks for clearing up the SD diesel conundrum for Canadian roads. I also wondered why the SD's weren't used, especially on the mountain divisions of the C.P, C.N. and B.C. The lighter rail would also explain the absence of articulated (Mallets) steam as well, I suppose? I noticed the use of "double heading" with Pullers, Pushers and Helpers seems more common in Canada than any place below the 49th, no?

It was great to hear from Nick posthumously vicariously again. Our Cheif [C=:-)] and "Rocker" of note has a style "all his own" and we need an occasional "fix" from time to time. Good going Tom Well, I gotta went for now. The Franklin Bridge beckons me forth to the Kamikazi set this day.[V] Boris, don't fool around, just give it a pull, okay? Gadfrey Daniel!!! Tom when will you put that "help wanted" ad in the Gazette?[:(!] Happy rails all.
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Posted by siberianmo on Friday, May 26, 2006 6:39 AM

ENCORE! Courtesy: www.viarail.ca


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


FRIDAY’s INFO & SUMMARY of POSTS


It’s Friday! Join us for some fine pastries from The Mentor Village Bakery – a selection from our Menu Board for a <light> or <traditional> breakfast – and a cuppa Joe![tup]


Daily Wisdom


Don’t point a gun at nobody you ain’t willin’ to shoot, if necessary.



Info for the Day:

Railroads from Yesteryear –
ENCORE: Chesapeake & Ohio (C&O) -
Arrives Tuesday!



* Weekly Calendar:


TODAY: Pizza Nite! & Steak Nite!
Saturday: Steak ‘n Trimmin’s Nite! – and –
ENCORE! Saturday


SATURDAY, May 27th is West Coast S Dave’s B’day Bash! –
Scheduled for NOON to 4 PM (Pacific) – 3 to 7 PM (Eastern)


MONDAY, May 29th is U.S. Memorial Day!



MVP Award Winners



April 2006 . . . LoveDome Lars



[tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup]


Comedy Corner

Yarns from the Barn
(from barndad Doug’s Posts)


[:I] A pastor, a doctor and an engineer were waiting one morning for a particularly slow group of golfers. The engineer fumed, "What's with these guys? We must have been waiting for 15 minutes!" The doctor chimed in, "I don't know, but I've never seen such ineptitude!" The pastor said, "Hey, here comes the greens keeper. Let's have a word with him." "Hi George! Say, what's with that group ahead of us? They're rather slow, aren't they?" The greens keeper replied, "Oh, yes, that's a group of blind firefighters. They lost their sight saving our clubhouse from a fire last year, so we always let them play for free anytime."
The group was silent for a moment. The pastor said, "That's so sad. I think
I will say a special prayer for them tonight.
"The doctor said, "Good idea. And I'm going to contact my ophthalmologist
buddy and see if there's anything he can do for them."
The engineer said, "Why can't these guys play at night?" [:I]


[tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup]



The Mentor Village Emporium Theatre


NOW SHOWING:

Double Features and Three Stooges Short Subject!

. . . Sunday, May 21st thru May 27th: The Pink Panther (1964) starring: Peter Sellers, David Niven & Capucine –and- The Odd Couple (1968) starring: Jack Lemon & Walter Mathau. SHORT: Pop Goes the Easel (1935).

COMING ATTRACTIONS:

. . . Sunday, May 28th thru June 2nd: Patton (1970) starring: George C. Scott & Karl Malden –and- The Eagle Has Landed (1977) starring Michael Caine, Robert Duvall & Donald Sutherland. SHORT: Uncivil Warriors (1935).



SUMMARY

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

(1) siberianmo Tom Posted: 25 May 2006, 06:28:28 (340) Thursday’s Info & 17-Post Summary

(2) Theodorebear Ted Posted: 25 May 2006, 07:23:01 (340) Gulf Coast Report!

(3) siberianmo Tom Posted: 25 May 2006, 08:09:46 (340) ENCORE: Pullman Ad

(4) passengerfan Al Posted: 25 May 2006, 08:28:31 (340) Pullman owned streamlined sleeping cars

(5) coalminer3 CM3 Posted: 25 May 2006, 09:15:53 (340) The return of CM3 & WVA Report!

(6) siberianmo Tom Posted: 25 May 2006, 10:07:15 (340) ENCORE: Pullman Ad

(7) siberianmo Tom Posted: 25 May 2006, 10:51:11 (340) Acknowledgments ‘n Comments

(8) siberianmo Tom Posted: 25 May 2006, 13:04:08 (341) ENCORE: 2005 Canadian Rail Adventure, Pt III

(9) Theodorebear Ted Posted: 25 May 2006, 13:42:23 (341) Gulf Coast Report, Part Deux!

(10) West Coast S Dave Posted: 25 May 2006, 13:45:04 (341) Left Coast Report!

(11) siberianmo Tom Posted: 25 May 2006, 14:16:05 (341) Acknowledgments ‘n Comments

(12) siberianmo Tom Posted: 25 May 2006, 16:41:35 (341) ENCORE: Pullman Ad

(13) West Coast S Dave Posted: 25 May 2006, 18:06:09 (341) Left Coast Report, Part Deux!!

(14) wanswheel Mike Posted: 25 May 2006, 18:11:59 (341) URLMeisterMonster’s comments

(15) West Coast S Dave Posted: 25 May 2006, 18:36:38 (341) and more!

(16) passengerfan Al Posted: 25 May 2006, 19:13:48 (341) Comments ‘n Pullman streamlined obs

(17) Theodorebear Ted Posted: 25 May 2006, 19:39:06 (341) Like olde tymes![tup]

(18) West Coast S Dave Posted: 25 May 2006, 19:53:03 (341) and ONE MORE TIME!

(19) siberianmo Tom Posted: 25 May 2006, 20:20:53 (341) Acknowledgments ‘n Comments

(20) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 25 May 2006, 21:54:45 (341) Inclusive Post

(21) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 25 May 2006, 22:00:45 (341) ENCORE: Classic Juice #10

(22) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 25 May 2006, 22:10:23 (341) ENCORE: A Nick Post



That’s it![tup][;)]


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

Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
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Posted by trolleyboy on Friday, May 26, 2006 6:55 AM
Morning Tom, a number 3 and some of the extra strength coffee this am if you please sir. ( should get me to work alive this am )

Ted I do indeed remember reading that about the street railway conductors,much worse when they still used the coffee pot style fare boxes. Montreal as an oddity ran two man cars right to the end, (1956) the two man cars even had a different paint scheme so riders knew which type of car they were getting onto.To your mallet supositions you are correct on that count too. The CPR had 4, which were all rebuilt into 0-10-0 suprsized switchers maybe 10 years into their lives.I believe that these started life as 2-6-6-2's and were used in the BC mountain passes only.

Well time to drop off an encore than I'm away till the late slot.

Rob
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Posted by trolleyboy on Friday, May 26, 2006 7:22 AM
Tom I think I need another eye opener, having trouble reving up this am[xx(] . No Boris stop playing with that expresso machine and frother[:0] That's gonna leave a stain, keep your "toys" in your shed. Bad [alien] Bad no treats for you[:(!]
Anywho back to the job that's at hand this mornings......

ENCORE ! ENCORE ! ENCORE ! [/u]

This little tid bit from October pg 148 to be exact should round out the innovations in streetcar design. I saved the best for last Ted ![;)][:p][^]

Enjoy Rob



QUOTE: Originally posted by trolleyboy

Okay now for the next installment of ...[i] Classic Juice...
The Peter Witt Story

As previously disscussed . Mr Mitten's nearside car improved the continents ( NA) street railway system,by instituting the PAYE or pay enter way of collecting fares. This improved rider safety by where the cars would stop and improved the street railways bottom lines by #1 getting fares ( in the daysof the conductor walking up an down the side running boards with the "coffee canb" fare box was not only inefficient but many a rider could and would jump on or off woth out paying. And #2 by having a fixed farebox the conductor could conduct there by giving better service to the riders, transfers stop information etc etc.


In 1912 a young man by the name of Peter Witt was elcted to the possition of Traction Commissioner for the Cleveland Railways. He was always seeking ways to improve ridership and ruder satisfaction. The one major drawback of the PAYE cars was that they tended to have very long dwell times at stops. With passengers entering amd exiting the cars via the same doors paying the conductor etc. Some people were still amaging to not pay and the exsessive wait times slowed down the flow of traffic and the shcedules of the transit system.

So he devised a car design which modifed the cars in that the rear doors were moved to the center of the car. Passengers would enter the front move back to the conductors position just in front of the centre doors where he collected the fares. The conductor controlled the center doors which were the exit.

Thus pay as you pass came to be. It sped up the dwell times, and ensured that all fares were collected and transfers meeted out.

Peter Witt supervised the first cars construction at the Cleveland railways Lakeview shops in 1914. The first of these new cars came into service on Dec 1 1914. As built they had longitudinal seats in the front section , followed by cross seats in the rear. Thes cars were also built as single ended controls with two man crew operator and conductor. As more and more of these cars enterd service officials from the other street railway systems came to look at them and quickly began producing simialr cars for their own systems. These cars came to be known as "Witt" cars on the major systems of North America. In Cleveland they were known simply as the "Car Riders Car "

Many street railways built there own cars to this design and Brill , Can Car Ottawa car Company , Preston Car and Coach, Kuhlman and others began producing this type of car under license. Peter Witt recieved a royalty of $10 per car built outside of the Cleveland shops.

Thes cars served all the Major and some of the minor systems. Including Detroit ,Chicago,Kansas City,Providense, Toronto ( 375 cars 75 trailers ),Baltimore,Cleveland, Buffalo , Rochester NY ,Toledo,Birmingham,Kitchener waterloo (ex Cleveland Cars) Regina ( EX KW cars ! ),aand likley several others.

Witts came in two sizes. The Large or standard Witt were 53'0" long 8'5" wide and 12' tall ( rail to trolleyboards ) these cars were lower geared and had strait pipping for trailer hauling. They could and did run solo as well. Few street railways used the trailer cars. The small Witt was 47'0" same height and width but were geared for higher speeds. Single service cars( hauled no trailers) used for rush hour and lighter use lines. From what I can gather Toronto was the only company to have the two types of Witts ( as an aside our museum has 4 toronto witt's two large and two small )

The Witt cars ran for years in Cleveland from 1914 to the early 50's in Toronto from 1921 to 1966. Similar life spans were enjoyed else where. Not untill the PCC car came about in 1936 was there such a universal streetcar design. The PCC continued the Pay as you pass method of fair collecting which is still in use today. Most Witts were converted to single man operations in the 30's and 40's with the farebox moubted bus style beside the operator. Rear tredle doors were installed as well as operator control of the rear doors once they were converted to single crew. As with Birney safety cars the tredles or operator center or front door controls could not be operated while the car was moving. Deadman switch controllers were also part of the safety package as well.

So there you have it the Peter Witt, the car and the man. If you got to my railimages account you can see several pictures of our museums Peter witt's. Large witt 2424 ( lovingly refered to as Bertha or the beer car ) and small Witt's 2786 and 2894.

Rob

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Posted by trolleyboy on Friday, May 26, 2006 7:32 AM
Lets see a couiple Witt pictures just 'cause [:D][yeah]



Baltimore Witt at seashore trolley Museum



2786 at rockwood station at the museum



2424 at the Museum


Rob
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Posted by coalminer3 on Friday, May 26, 2006 9:14 AM
Good Morning Barkeep and All Present; coffee, please, round for the house and $ for the jukebox.

Lots of interesting posts and encores this morning.

Wanswheel – I enjoyed the New Haven ad; I have a copy of that one somewhere in the archives.

Al – Thanks for the information on three of the finest western trains.

Theodorebear is in the house! It certainly was a mess in the NEC yesterday. The system worked as it was supposed to do in that when one set of breakers (near Baltimore) tripped, others did as necessary to avoid frying the entire grid. Signals and switches were still operational so they were able to move stuff around with diesels. It’s a case of some new and some old technology in use (some of it goes back to PRR electrification days in the 1930s). Then there was a story on the news this a.m. abt. how Congress wants to cut $400 million from the ATK budget – don’t get me started!

Rob – Thanks for the encores.

Tom – Our mosquitoes magically appeared abt. two nights ago; monsters this year.

Here’s a New Haven encore since we are doing that sort of thing right now. I posted this a long time ago, so it may be new to some folks.

The Providence waterfront combined railroads and ocean shipping along with tugboats into a fascinating mixture of sights, sounds and smells. Aromas of salt air, wet wooden spiles, seaweed, lumber, dead fish, coal smoke and the heavy, tarry fragrance of bunker oil combined into a breathtaking perfume. There were more brick factories along the waterfront where people worked at night to make different things. Rubber companies, paint factories, coal yards, lumber yards and tank farms were all served by railroad sidings.

The tracks were in the street. It was a world where high-hooded Alco switchers prowled at night to pick up and set out cars at shadowy, brooding buildings. It was always better on rainy nights because things were more mysterious. The rain made the streets and rails shiny. The rain ran down the sides of the factory buildings and made the neon signs on top of the buildings seem to shine a little brighter. The streetlights were sharper and brighter, too.

Down the street comes a battered New Haven Alco switcher pushing a cut of cars. A brakeman, electric lantern in hand, perches on the ladder on the side of a Baltimore and Ohio boxcar passing signals back to the engineman. Carefully, carefully they move into a siding between two buildings to pick up a filthy tank car. A “cl-lang” sound with other metal-on-metal noise as they couple on. The brakeman loosens the hand brake on the tank car and flips a signal to the engineman, and the switcher pulls out into the street with a “wheep-wheep-wheep” noise from the locomotive. They cut the tank car and leave it in the street (motorists beware). Now it’s time to shove the B&O car into the siding. There’s a “scrawnch” as the brake sets, then a hard “snap-ah from the airhose as the switcher pulls back a little. The cut lever rattles and then there’s the “ratchet-ratchet-ratchet” noise of the brake wheel being set on the B&O car. Now the brakeman’s riding the end of another car as the locomotive pulls back onto the street. The brakeman locks the plant gate and relines the switch. Now the Alco moves down the street to pick up the tank car. It’s raining harder now, and the brakeman is a hunched figure in a yellow slicker as he bends between the cars to reattach the airhose after the engine couples on. The switcher moves on to the next siding to repeat the ballet throughout the night.

On the other side of town, a mail train pulled by a pair of green and gold New Haven PAs, pauses at the station. These mail cars are incredibly dirty ones from the Pennsylvania Railroad – a mighty presence whose influence is felt even here. The doors on the cars are open and I can see short, muscular, men wrestling with bags of mail. They are unshaven, gloriously dirty men who swear and smoke as they work. Air Flo 63s, Blackstones and Phillies are the brands of choice. I would give anything to be one of them, but I’m only eight years old

Work Safe

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Posted by siberianmo on Friday, May 26, 2006 9:50 AM
ENCORE! ENCORE! ENCORE! ENCORE!

G'day!

Continuing on with the final part of my 2005 Canadian Rail Journey . . . .

QUOTE: Canadian Rail Journey, Part IV and final (initially Posted on page 16)


Wednesday, May 11th, a glorious morning in Bedford (Halifax) Nova Scotia and the time has come to bid adieu to family and friends. Arriving at the VIA Rail station in Halifax, we checked in at the Easterly Class kiosk with plenty of time to spare for our 12:40 PM (ADST) departure for Montreal. The familiar sight of Train #15 and its all Budd consist once again rekindled that feeling of anticipation as we checked our luggage into Bedroom D of the Revelstoke Park car (observation dome). “Claude,” our attendant greeted us with his typically warm and friendly manner and we settled in to our seats up in the dome – front right.

Our train was made up of 13 cars and 2 F40PH locos (#6419 & 6418). The consist: one baggage, three coaches, one Skyline dome car – one dining car – six Chateau series bedroom cars and the Revelstoke Park observation dome car.

After snapping off a few more photos, we began our journey along the winding trackage from the station to the shoreline of Halifax Harbor and Bedford Basin. Before to long, the dome filled with travelers as we left Halifax behind and headed up to Truro. The countryside is a pretty sight, replete with large farms, lakes, and lots of new construction. Makes one wonder just where are all the people moving from?

Since there are no departures from Montreal (or Halifax) on Tuesdays, there was no passing train to view as we cleared Truro on the way to Amherst, the last station stop in Nova Scotia. {Back at the Halifax there was another Budd consist sitting across the platform that would become Train #15 on Thursday. This is the same train I came in on Monday late afternoon with the Evangeline Park observation dome car.)

A thought occurred to me as we wound our way through some really great looking scenery, that this may very well be the last time my wife and I travel the “Ocean” in Budd cars, if at all. As I’ve indicated in previous “reports,” VIA Rail will be shifting all the Budd equipment to western service by January 1st thereby making the “Ocean” an all Renaissance equipment train. Having experienced Renaissance in October of 2004, I doubt that I’ll be spending any of my retirement dollars for a repeat performance.

As always seems to be the case, we arrived in Moncton, New Brunswick rather quickly, although “Claude” told us we were running about 10 minutes late. With the elegant depots of Amherst and Sackville behind us, the idea that we were heading home settled in. Another 15 minute stop at New Brunswick so we stretched our legs, took some pix, and checked out the dining car menu. Oh no! Not again – same menu as every trip thus far since leaving home! With just two entrees on the menu, the selection does become rather limited when one has been traveling the route for 4 evenings since May 5th.

“Claude” told us that the Chaleur, VIA Rail’s train to Gaspe, Quebec, may have a schedule change to permit it to make the trip in daylight. Operating on a three day per week departure in each direction, the “Chaleur” is part of the “Ocean’s” makeup at Montreal, with the separation occurring at Matapedia. That same stop is where “Chaleur” meets the Montreal bound “Ocean” as well. For the first time in many, many trips, we did not have the “Chaleur” with us, nor did I on my “solo” round trips earlier in the week. Anyway, they say the scenery along the route to Gaspe is really something. Perhaps some day, unless someone decides to put Renaissance on the line for that as well.

Rogersville – Miramichi – Bathurst (with some snow still visible) – Petit Rocher – Jacquet River – Charlo and Campbellton (last stop in New Brunswick) all were stops where it appeared more passengers boarded than departed. The Campbellton stop also was our signal to call it a day …. Which we did.

Thursday morning found me sitting in the dome at about 5 AM (EDST) as the train backed into the station at Charny, Quebec. I guess I’ll never get used to this backing in, backing out business – and yes, it is railroading – but somewhere in my “socialization” regarding railroads, trains are supposed to pull in and pull out. As I thought about this quirk of mine, it occurred to me that even my model railroad “empire” requires backing in or out amongst the 8 consists of passenger cars accommodated at my Can-Am Union Station. Oh well ….. In a perfect world, it surely would be different!

With no full breakfast to look forward to in the dining car nor a continental breakfast in the Park car (both discontinued by VIA Rail as cost cutting measures (?)) the day began a bit differently than we were accustomed to. The Park car does offer juices, coffee, tea and hot chocolate along with apples and oranges for the Easterly Class folks. Fortunately, I still had some cookies left from my “solo” trip, so we survived on those until reaching Montreal’s Central Station at 8:05 AM (10 minutes early).

Once we reached Saint-Lambert, it was time to get our things together as the journey was about to come to an end. This was a bittersweet conclusion for us in that 15 years of travel along the Montreal-Halifax-Montreal round trip route may very well have ended.

Once inside the station, we had breakfast at our favorite “sidewalk café” table. Again, each breakfast of two eggs, sausages/bacon/ham with toast and coffee/tea cost $5 (Cdn) each. Had VIA Rail offered the full breakfast, it would have cost us $9 apiece and we would have gladly paid it if for no other reason than to have the ambiance of the dining car along with the views along the way. Alas, change is all about …….

So, that concludes my “report” of our rail experiences in Canada 2005.

The intention of these “reports” has been to share my experiences with those of you who appreciate trains – and the “Ocean,” with over 100 years of operation, is a “Classic” in every definition of the word.


See y’all later!

Tom (Siberianmo)
Proprietor of “Our” Place




ENCORE! ENCORE! ENCORE! ENCORE!
Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
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Posted by siberianmo on Friday, May 26, 2006 11:43 AM
G'day!

A late start for Moi on this final day of the work week (for many) and the start of a loooooong weekend for most! [tup]

Just a reminder for those residing in the U.S. to take a moment or three to remember those who gave of themselves in war and peace to help make our lives more secure. [tup]

We know that Memorial Day is more than another day at the mall, auto races, sports events and picnics. All of that is fine, providing we don't forget those who helped make it possible!

A rather busy night, followed by an early start has turned our "doldrums" into an active-affair here at the "Feast or Famine Bar 'n Grill" these past few days! [tup]

I see the comments span the gauntlet of subject matter, with recognitions abounding along with some fine ENCORE! material. [tup]

Acknowledgments to: trolleyboy Rob - Theodorebear Ted 'n coalminer3 CM3 for the most recent Posts . . . along with THANX for the rounds and quarters! [tup]

Mosquitoes in WVA somehow doesn't compute - but I know they are everywhere. The absolute largest I've ever seen were in Alaska! Yes, on the Kenai peninsula back in 1959-60. They were the size of Hummingbirds and were as aggressive as some of our Gals here at the bar! [swg] Peri***he thought, eh[?] Which [?] Mosquitoes of course! [swg]

On reflection, it appears that my 4 part ENCORE! of my 2005 Canadian Rail Journey has gone over somewhat like the proverbial lead balloon. A tough crowd at times. [%-)] Well, at least one or two of you noticed the PULLMAN ENCORES! so all wasn't lost. [tup]

Speaking of lost - I'd say we're witnessing another of those long periods of absence from our Chief Chef [C=:-)] Nick - whereabouts and situation unknown.

Rob YOU have a duty to perform this Sunday - I will Post quite a few Pix from the Rendezvous for Day #2 (the "extra" day) - and it's up to YOU to provide the descriptions.

Given that this is the last day of the week, I should mention ONE MORE TIME - that tomorrow is the B'day Bash for West Coast S Dave and he has requested the timeframe of NOON to 4 PM (Pacific) - 3 to 7 PM (Eastern) for the festitivies. Hopefully SOMEONE will step up to oversee the activities as I will NOT be around during that time.

Later! [tup]

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]
Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
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Posted by West Coast S on Friday, May 26, 2006 12:38 PM
Morning Tom and all, round of the Juan Valdez if you please.

To today's business:

Trolleyboy..

Seems to me that the Canadian roads had perhaps some bias against the SD series in favor of a domestic design and supplier. I base my unfounded idea on the fact the SP too had lines with rail down to 75lbs. and routes with lighty construction timber trestles.
SD's could be customed ballasted and several weight reducing fuel tank options were available. Sure would have looked good Maroon and Grey with the Beaver Crest

Interurban issue..While researching some SN details, the name Niles woodworking and manfacturing, a Niles, Ca. Based builder from the early 1900's as the builders of a certain SN class of wooden combine and trailers used on the third rail lines around
Yuba City ,all were out of service by 1937..Rob, ever heard of this builder?

Theodorebear..

I would suspect that these cars are long gone, BNSF has made major changes to the yard and service area since I was last there, I don't think they would have gone unoticed by officials.

The vast majority were of the channel design, all had the usual decay associated with unused equiptment, some had likely been in MW service for the past fifty years at that time. The re-sheathed baggage car would have been illegal to move as the brake beams were hanging loose and one coupler was missing.

Interesting side note, during this period the SP's Beaumont wrecking train contained a vertible hodge podge of Harriman heavyweight Construction, diners, coaches, RPO's, baggage cars, other then MW paint and some window modifications it could have been 1930 again. Odd, Several years ago, I spied the same Harriman Diner yet again, in storage at Edward's AFB. There's a story there waiting to be discovered..

A big to do to CM3 and AL as well.

Ok Tom, duty calls, I shall be back later.

Dave




SP the way it was in S scale
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Posted by siberianmo on Friday, May 26, 2006 2:48 PM
ENCORE! ENCORE! ENCORE! ENCORE!
first Posted on page 80

Dallas Trip

QUOTE: The Odyssey began at around 8:30 AM when *** Watkins and I departed the Dallas-Ft. Worth Airport en route what was to be a very memorable day. First on the agenda was a ride aboard one of Trinity Rail Express’ (TRE) Rail Diesel Cars (RDC’s).

*** had arranged for us to ride in the cab of the RDC for the 40 mile round trip to downtown Dallas’ Union Station. Following that was a tour of the TRE Inspection and Maintenance facility, LRV rides, Trolley rides a visit to the Trolley Barn, and more walking than one should ever experience in hot, steamy Dallas!

Some points of interest:

In the mid-1990’s, DART purchased 13 former VIA Rail RDC’s for use in their commuter rail system. VIA Rail had a surplus of RDC’s as a result of the discontinuance of two routes in Nova Scotia back in 1990 – the links between Halifax and Sydney to the north, and Halifax and Yarmouth to the south. The cars were refurbished in Montreal by Alstom/ANF in 1996, which entailed a complete breakdown to the frame and rebuild to the specifications required by DART. There probably are no fleets of operating RDC’s to equal or exceed the number owned by DART anywhere in the world.

The two RDC’s that I rode in were built in the 1950’s: RDC #2011 in June ’57 and #2013 in Nov ’57. The original owner of #2011 was CN and CP owned #2013. Both wound up in the VIA Rail.

I saw the fleet of RDC’s sitting idle at the Halifax station back in 1991 – all running from platform power in the snow that wintry day during Christmas week. Seeing them idle and destined for perhaps their final s

Okay – the superlatives have been documented a few times and the photo’s have been provided. So what’s left? Just a run down of the day’s events (all times approximate):

(1) 0835: *** picked me up at Dallas-Ft. Worth Airport
(2) 0850: Quick stop at MacBarf’s for coffee and an egg MacGag.
(3) 0920: A quick familiarization of the area by SUV – aka: trying to find the correct station. [swg] Found it! Centrepoint Station.
(4) 0945: Got to know each other while waiting for the train.
(5) 1015: RDC’s #2011 & 2013 arrived. *** arranged for us to ride in the cab. Engineer was Dave. Rode in cab of #2011, eastbound.
(6) TRE – Trinity Rail Express is the organization that operates the commuter rail services in the area. Their equipment includes 13 RDC’s (formerly VIA Rail) and “a bunch” of Bi-Level equipment (some from Bombardier/GO Transit in Toronto). They also have 6 F40PH’s for use with the Bi-Levels.
(7) As the photo’s should attest, the view was fantastic! Lots of railroading going on, freight ops all along the way.
(8) 10:40: Arrived Union Station. Spent the turnaround time touring the station with *** and Josh Coran, TRE’s Chief Mechanical Officer. Should note that Josh recently arrived in Dallas after a long stint with the Alaska RR – over 20 years. Josh is an absolute font of knowledge regarding passenger cars - with decades of practical experience working on and designing them, his expertise is truly dazzling.
(9) Marvelous and diverse structure is Union Station and in fine material condition. Saw the Amtrak portion – nice, but ……. The station is multi-modal and centrally located. Very modern, very well thought out.
(10) 11:05: In the cab of #2013, westbound. Again, a wonderful experience with some great company.
(11) 11:34: The 40 mile round trip ended as we bid adieu to David, the Engineer.
(12) Drove over to the TRE Inspection & Maintenance facility with *** & Josh. Spent about 40 minutes touring the facility, taking pictures and asking dumb questions. Great fun and really an insight that lots of us would dearly love to experience.
(13) Long lunch break with *** and Josh at Bennigan’s in Irving (right next to the place I stayed at …… how convenient for later on!)
(14) 14:00 Bidding adieu to Josh, *** and I drove downtown to catch the light-rail.
(15) Rode the LRV’s down to Union Station and return. Boarded the McKinney Street trolley (see pix for sure) – visited the Trolley Barn and met up with John Landrum (CEO) who was working on an assortment of restoration projects. This would have been absolute heaven for Trolleyboy Rob – no dooooot aboooooot it! [swg]
(16) Rode the Trolley back to the LRV station – back aboard the LRV to where the car was parked. Worthy of note are those vintage trolleys – one from Australia. Check out this URL and you’ll get an eye full of some good stuff:
www.MATA.org
(17) An absolutely activity packed day in the steaming humidity of August in Dallas. Nonetheless, a trip to remember for the rest of my days.
(18) I must make mention that *** was a long term member of the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) Board of Directors almost from the onset of their entry into being. Once he moved out of the geographic limits required for continued membership, he relinquished his seat at the table. I note that he is also on the Board of Directors of the McKinney Street Trolley organization. He is a treasure trove of information regarding transit in Dallas and ”Our” Place is most fortunate to have yet another person at the bar who know’s what he’s talking about!
(19) 1800: Checked into the hotel and bid adieu to my tour director and new found friend, *** Watkins.

Cheers! [tup][tup][tup]


Dallas Trip 2005 - Tom & TRE RDC 2013



Dallas Trip 2005 - TRE RDC's and the Inspection & Maintenance facility



Dallas Trip 2005 - Tom & David the Engineer



Dallas Trip - RDC 2006 at TRE Inspection & Maintenance facility



Want to see more [?] Click here:
http://www.railimages.com/gallery/thomasweber?page=8
(pages 8 & 9)

Later! [tup]

Tom [4:-)] [oX)]


ENCORE! ENCORE! ENCORE! ENCORE!
Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
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Posted by wanswheel on Friday, May 26, 2006 4:48 PM
Tom, did you ever see Dallas from a DC-9 at night? Never mind, just an old Jimmy Dale Gilmour tune. A round for the house.

Lehigh Valley RDC
http://www.cvrma.org/pictures/MISC/dfrr5_094_lv_budd_rail_diesel_car_hazleton_pa_1959.jpg
New Haven RDC
http://www.trainnet.org/Libraries/Lib003/NH24.GIF

Rob, the Ontario Northland http://paullantz.smugmug.com/photos/34100572-L.jpg changed its old name, Temiskaming & Northern Ontario, in deference to an American railroad, the Texas & New Orleans, according to Mike Robin's colorful website.
Moosonee http://www.onrgallery.com/dec200417.html
ON pics http://www.onrgallery.com/opening.html

CM3, here's a long view of the Providence waterfront a few years before your time.
http://memory.loc.gov/pnp/pan/6a09000/6a09500/6a09555r.jpg
Also, the New Haven at Providence 1957 http://www.cvrma.org/pictures/MISC/dfrr5_134_nynh&h_2_alco_pa_diesels_providence_ri_1957.jpg

Tom, here's an old picture from Bedford, Nova Scotia
http://imagescn.technomuses.ca/industry/index_view.cfm?photoid=1290320172&id=149
Bedford Basin
http://imagescn.technomuses.ca/marine/index_view.cfm?photoid=57413374&id=119

Some links to fill up the space in this post.

Pullman observation cars
http://www.eliillinois.org/30108_87/main/12.I.g.jpg

http://www.eliillinois.org/30108_87/main/10.I.m.jpg

http://www.eliillinois.org/30108_87/main/10.I.q.jpg Santa Fe?

Pullman dining cars
http://www.eliillinois.org/30108_87/main/17.I.i.jpg

http://www.eliillinois.org/30108_87/main/17.I.k.jpg

http://www.eliillinois.org/30108_87/main/17.I.e.jpg worcestershire sauce

Pullman bar car http://www.eliillinois.org/30108_87/main/10.I.d.jpg

Pullman dance car http://www.eliillinois.org/30108_87/main/8.I.b.jpg

Pullman bedroom http://www.eliillinois.org/30108_87/main/12.I.t.jpg

Pullman mustache & hat car http://www.eliillinois.org/30108_87/main/8.I.e.jpg

The Rail Plane http://www.eliillinois.org/30108_87/main/13.I.e.jpg

The Real Plane http://memory.loc.gov/pnp/ppprs/00600/00626r.jpg
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Posted by West Coast S on Friday, May 26, 2006 5:41 PM
If one encore is good, let's do two!! Oldie but goody for August 26, 2005. I do admit to being a bit proud of his post..Grab a cold one and enjoy.


QUOTE: Originally posted by West Coast S


I'd like to contribute to a few recent post, specifficaly those from Trolleyboy regarding electric railway marine operations. The Pacific Electric maintained controlling interest in the White Comet Lines, who's two intercoastal steamers YALE and HARVARD provided overnite connections to San Franciso during the twenties to mid thirties. PE provided parlor car service from downtown to a special boarding dock, the only time PE offered parlor car service. The effects of the depression and the disapearance of the HARVARD during a severe storm, with no survivors forced White Comet into recievership. Ownership of the YALE was assumed by the Catalina Steamship Company and she continued the intercoastal runs until her transfer to the Navy in 1940.

Catalina Steamship Company assumed all debt incurred by White Comet with the help of PE resources. PE was heavily promoting Santa Catalina Island as a relaxing way to spend the summer. When the public took notice, PE instituited the famous Catalina Specials to handle the influx, that as late as 1950 was the chosen means by more then one hundered thousand passengers since the inception of the service. PE built a dedicated line to the Catalina Docks to expidite a smooth transfer from shore to ship, these Catalina Specials were the longest and heaviest trains operated on the system and the only ones that offered checked baggage, the existing infastructure and facalities on Anaheim Street where unable to cope with these trains.

The Catalina Specials were some of the last revenue runs on the PE, only ending upon abandoment of the Long Beach Line in 1960.

PE was also involved in the throughbred horse trade, during horse racing season PE handled hundreds of horse cars, interchanged from the three steam roads, these roads did not have a physical rail connection within the Santa Anita Race track, PE did. These were known as racetrack specials, during racing season every available box motor was put into service to cope with the demands. When a box motor was unvailable, Leased SP power was subsutuited, thus Moguls, Consolidations and diesel power graced the overhead wires. All steam and diesel power leased to PE service were outfitted with overhead trolley poles to activate signals and grade crossing protection.

In the final decade, PE became dependent on leased SP power for freight duty as the unreliable and no longer economical to repair ancient box motors were retired and scrapped. PE envisioned the future as a dieselized freight feeder and carrier with all passenger operations abandoned or sold off and the overhead wires and supporting electrical facalities retired and scrapped. PE had cause to embrace such a bold change, during these years they ranked seventh in the nation in freight revenue generated and fourth in California.

It was not to be, reality would imprint a far different ending for the PE.

Dave [tup]
SP the way it was in S scale
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Posted by siberianmo on Friday, May 26, 2006 5:52 PM
G'day!

First, let's check out this tune, sans music that is! [swg]

QUOTE: Dallas
Jimmie Dale Gilmore

Did you ever see Dallas from a DC-9 at night?
Well Dallas is a jewel, oh yeah, Dallas is a beautiful sight.
And Dallas is a jungle but Dallas gives a beautiful light.
Did you ever see Dallas from a DC-9 at night?

Well, Dallas is a woman who will walk on you when you're down.
But when you are up, she's the kind you want to take around.
But Dallas ain't a woman to help you get your feet on the ground.
Yes Dallas is a woman who will walk on you when you're down.

Well, I came into Dallas with the bright lights on my mind,
But I came into Dallas with a Dollar and a dime.

Dallas is a rich man with a death wish in his eye.
A steel and concrete soul with a warm hearted love disguise.
A rich man who tends to believe in his own lies.
Dallas is a rich man with a death wish in his eyes.


And no, Mike, never from a DC9 - but from an assortment of other aircraft! [swg]

Two visits from West Coast S Dave and one from our URLMeisterMonster Mike! keeps the barkeep awake! [tup] Appreciate the rounds . . . .

Nice "repeat" Dave! . . . and as always, wunnerful URLs. Those Bedord Basin shots must've been taken decades 'n decades ago. Surely doesn't resemble that anymore. "Home" is located right on the basin - but at the end of it where the Sackville River empties into the Basin. Beautfiul scenery and an all around pleasant place to live.

We're sweltering here in mid-Continent USA, however the humidty is LOW - that makes ALL the difference! Noted that Anchorage 'n Fairbanks had temps in the lo-70s yesterday - sweet! [tup]

First trip to Dallas as an adult was a few decades ago. Hooked up with a couple of guys with the Texas DPS along with a bunch of other LE types. Somewhere in the late evening, I rode the mechanical bull at one of those "famed" Dallas beer joints. Stayed aboard but surely don't know how or why!! <ouch>

Hope y'all are enjoying the ENCOREs! - there will be more tomorrow . . . .

Later! [tup]

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]
Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
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Posted by West Coast S on Friday, May 26, 2006 6:02 PM
Return with me now, to those thrilling days of yesteryear, from August 2005..enjoy


Let's revisit Mission Bay on the SP in the days of steam


Mission Bay was located just south of the Southern Pacific's Third & Townsand Street station in San Francisco. Located within a wye, SP located a 110 foot turntable, garden tracks and six stall roundhouse and complete service facalities. Mission Bay was responsible for light repairs and running repairs for all motive power assigned to the commute fleet and served as a overflow shop for non- commute power and in addition, to being home base for several switchers that worked local industries

Mission Bay is best known as the home of the Daylights, GS-2,3,4,5's assigned to trains 98 & 99 the Coast Daylights, were serviced, washed and stagged on specially designated service tracks, Mission Bay was upgraded and improved specifficaly to service the new GS class in 1937.

Daylight crews had a crew lounge built to blatently announce to all their selection to Daylight service next to the garden tracks, complete with plant beds, fruit trees and paved brick walkways. Mission was capable of performing any level of repair, despite the demuntive surroundings and sparse resources. Once servicing was complete locomotives could be held or dispatched to storage tracks located at seventh and Harris Streets, at the approach to the station.

Skilled, selected personal would inspect each arriving GS or other power , perform any required service or running repairs. Hot wash with a kerosene bath, wipe down, steam clean the running gear, turn said engine via turntable or wye and be made ready to depart within three hours. Power used for other coast passenger trains, Lark and the mails for example, were likewise attended to by a assigned pool of Pacifics and Mountains in addition to the GS 4-8-4s that were kept in reserve.

The Mission Bay switcher was unique on the system and deserves mention:
One S12 0-6-0 assigned to hostler duties, was distingushed from all others by a unique Royal Blue boiler jacket, nickle plated rods and other refinements and was renowned for always being immaculate until replaced by diesels in 1942.

Mission Bay and the commute pool became a holdout for displaced steam by the mid 50s, power not normally associated with the Bay Area migrated off traditional districts
now assigned to diesels, to work off the remaining boiler time before retirement and scrapping. Displaced Cotton Belt 4-8-4's, MT2 class 4-8-2s, GS-1 4-8-4's were such examples of exotic power. Cab Forwards and SP Type 4-10-2's were assigned to Mission after Bayshore converted to diesel exclusively and West Oakland was reducing their facalities. The first time freight power was assigned to Mission.



Mission Bay performed it's final steam class 4 backshop repairs in 1957. Later that year the roundhouse was converted to maintain the Trainmasters.. By 1960 Mission Bay roundhouse would be closed with nearby Bayshore assuming maintaince responsibilities for the commute fleet. In 1961 the Mission Bay complex would be leveled and all trackage, except for the wye were removed. Today, the location of Mission Bay is buried under a mass of highway cloverleafs, Third & Townsand station and its associated trackage was torn out in 1975, fallen victim to the same highway project that forever erased any traces of Mission Bay, replaced by a more asture prefab station at Fourth & Townsand.

Dave
SP the way it was in S scale
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Posted by West Coast S on Friday, May 26, 2006 6:29 PM
Once more, just because and to complement Herr Tom's fine RDC encore, for your enjoyment from 03 November 2005.


Towards the end of 1949, losses to trains 1 & 2, The Royal Gorge, prompted WP to seek discountiuance of all secondary passenger service. Anticipating rejection of their application, Budd was contacted regarding the new RDC.. Eventually permission was granted to dicontinue daily service, but WP was required to maintain triweekly service.

An trial RDC-1 was recieved at Salt Lake City on December, 15, 1949..Upon intial inspection, WP officials refused the test unless pilots and a baggage compartment were installed, Budd agreed to perform the temporary modifications. Actual trials commenced on January 17 and continued through the the 26th, operation consited of a round trip from Portola, Ca to Salt Lake City and return.

WP was impressed by the results and on January 23, 1950 placed a single car RDC-2 order with Budd, an additional RDC-2 was soon authorized on June 01, 1950. Both RDC's were recieved the following May and July 1950 respectively and numbered 375-376.

After delivery the cars were put through a series of test which resulted in many modifications over the years, both by Budd and WP personal.. Over ninety signficient modifications were instituted prior to 1954 with a few highlighted below.

1...Installation of nine-two passenger reclining seats immediatly behind the baggage compartment for the comfort of revenue passengers.

2.. Installation of a second toilet in the small compartment adjacent to the baggage compartment.

3...Installation of a conductors desk at the small jump seat

4...Installation of body mounted pilots to both ends of the car

5...Installation of diagonal number board, two per end, both ends of car.

6...Installation of wiring and plug in receptacles to each end of car to furnish power and A/C when hauled by a diesel locomotive.

7...Installation of an additional air horn to both ends of car.

8...A red Gyralite was installed, facing the rear and a white one installed on the front per WP operating practices.

Once in regular operation, additional problems made their appearence, pilots were refastened, reinforced and trimmed, modifications were made to permit greater air capacity, additional filters were installed on the engines to combat alkyline dust and the effects of weeds, common to the right of way in Nevada and Utah with the stock louvered openings being sealed in the process.
The RDC's were unable to actrivate lineside signals when recieved and new circutrity was soon developed and installed by company forces, Budd being unable to provide a solution that meet WP's exacting demands.

In spite of these defiencies, WP considered the ten year RDC expertiment a sucess. Losses for trains 1& 2 exceeded $255.000 dollars a year by 1959. WP sought permission to discontinue all secondary passenger service, this time, permission was easily obtained and the RDC's were retired on October 01, 1960 and stored in the Oakland roundhouse awaitng a buyer, eventually Northern Pacific would assume ownership. Once in service on the NP, one was soon to be demolished in a grade crossing collision, the second survived long enough to be included into the new Burlington Northern roster before being purged.

Ok Boris, set up a round for the night owls among us....

Dave
SP the way it was in S scale
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Posted by siberianmo on Friday, May 26, 2006 7:04 PM
G'day!

Speaking of RDCs . . .

B&M RDC-1



B&M RDC-2



B&M RDC-3


Note: foto credits unknown


Tom[4:-)] [oX)]
Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
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Posted by West Coast S on Friday, May 26, 2006 7:45 PM
Always nice to read about big power, especially BIG SP power, a repost from not so long ago. With this I conclude this evenings presentation...Night all, catch you in the AM for the bash. Ok set up on me for the next two days, i'm buying, no argumements from the Peanut Gallery[:D]



Without further ado..presenting the unremarked SDP45

By 1967, SP was intent on retiring the remaining eighteen Alco PA's who's maintaince and operating cost had become excessive, based upon performance of the SD45, which SP was estatic about, EMD suggested the V20, 3200hp passenger version could be the solution.

Without any additional urging, SP inked an order for ten, sight unsee to be numbered 3201-3209. Upon entering service they exceeded all specifications and quickly sent most of the passenger cab unit fleet to the scrapper. In a matter of months they assumed all remaining intercity passenger runs and accomplished the goal of single unit operation of passengers trains as a cost control measure. The practice of adding extra units to protect from failure was eliminated and all schedules were greatly improved due to the excellent performance of those 3200 horses.

Upon the creation of Amtrak, SP sold the remaining cab units to the power short operation, the SDP45's were not included in the deal, but were leased to help with the transition, all remained on home rails and for time it seemed as if nothing had changed. All knew that their pending reassignment to San Francisco spelled the end for the much beloved trainmasters, but the trainmasters would not fade into retirment without one last fight, a repreive courtesy of EMD themselves: The first SDP45 powered commute runs were a diaster, they proved unable to maintain the schedule and would loose time over the route much to the chigrin of SP and EMD. Bottom line, the units were sluggish and would not transition between severe and light loads under great acceleration variables without roasting the traction motors or inducing turbo backfires.


The failure was due to a design issue with the automatic load regulator, a problem that had existed since the days of the FT and was a familar story to EMD engineers. Unlike EMD, Fairbanks Morse electrical systems employed no load regulator thus full power was available on demand without dammage to wiring or traction motors or suprise under-load shutdown of the power plant that could, and did cause expensive-time consuming repairs on EMD units so equipped.

SP quickly decided to rectify this flaw, and despite EMD's protest , reached the decision to install adjustable regulators, as freight duty in the off hours was a unescapable fact of life for the commute fleet. Thus the generators could recieve ample current when in passenger use for quick accleration and could be adjusted to disapate heat for slow freight drags without meltdown. Western Pacific, which had extensive experience with this ill design and had a ready solution assisted in providing SP with technical guidence throughout the modifications...

By 1975, all ten had been converted to adjustable load regulators, traction motor wiring upgrades and extensive electrical locker improvements and upon sucessfull testing and acceptance, all sixteen trainmasters were retired at Bayshore. The SDP45's assumed the burden of peak commute service where twelve car trains were the norm on three minute headways , occasionaly the fleet answered the call to company service and officers special. In the summer of 1978 an upsurge in freight business and a lack of sufficient locomotives forced the SDP45's back into the freight pool for the remainder of the year, their place was taken by fifteen leased Amtrak P30CH's until mysterious derailments with these units caused SP to scavage the dead line for suitable home road power where several disused GP35's laguished.

The next chapter occured In 1984, SP sold the commute operation and rail lines to a new operator, CalTrain, it was hoped Caltrain would find use for the big 45's as they were of little use to SP for freight duty due to newer power arriving and strict emission regulations in the Bay Area. Caltrain chose to replace all former SP equiptment. SP immediately retired those awaiting heavy repairs, Seven remained after the takover of the commute operations and stripped of steam generators, moved to fright duty out of Roseville.

Later in 1984, 3207 was repainted in the
dis-allowed SP/SF merger paint the only true passenger unit of either road to display these doomed colors. Seven were available for service at the time of the UP merger and would prove to be of good use for their new owner for several more years before final retirement...


Dave

SP the way it was in S scale
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Posted by siberianmo on Friday, May 26, 2006 8:25 PM
G'day!

Quite a remarkable afternoon, eh[?] A bit short on acknowledgments, but very long on innovative and ENCORE! Posts! [tup]

It's pretty much been The West Coast S Show for the late afternoon. I doubt that Dave has EVER been this active with us. My guess is he's trying to ensure that the B'day gifts come in S gauge markings! [swg]

At last glance, we've had 17 Posts thus far (not counting this one) and Dave 'n I have 5 each . . now THAT doesn't happen very often! [tup] It isn't quantity I'm chortling about, it's the quality, fer sure, fer sure! [yeah]

It hasn't gone unnoticed that Dave's "creative editing" has caused a bit of chagrin for Moi in trying to keep up the SUMMARY preparation! [swg] You'd had to have been here to understand . . . .

Did anyone, other than I, catch that Dave "decreed" the drinks are on him for the next 2 days - BUT we're CLOSED on Sundays!!! Smooth move, EXLAX! [swg]

Okay, I'll ask again: Where's Nick [?]


REMINDER:
Dave's B'day Bash begins at NOON (Pacific) tomorrow - 3 PM (Eastern)
Still need someone to step up to oversee the festivities as I won't be here in the afternoon.


Leon the Night Man takes the bar at 9 PM (Central)


Tom[4:-)] [oX)]
Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
  • Member since
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Posted by siberianmo on Friday, May 26, 2006 10:28 PM
G'day!

Leon I'll take a Keiths and Boris fire up the grill and prepare a small sirloin for me!

The Track Gangs are "at it again" back in the Pool Room; Herr Wurlitzer is belting out the tunes (Hank Jr right now . . . and the large screen TVs are showing all kinds of "live" sports. All we need are some "regulars" to round out the atmosphere . . . [tup]

Been quite a day, both inside this place and out . . . Getting down to the last few days and time to begin putting together "everything" for our trip. Wx forecast is for hot, hot 'n more hot for the coming week. That doesn't bode well for Juneau at the kennel - fortunately he'll be in air conditioning most of the time.,

Finally finished up reading the Posts and checking out all of the URLs - nice work, guys! [tup]

We've been treated to quite a panoply of RR'ding today - covered lotsa ground. Of course, the RDCs "do it" for me - I'd say there's a little bit of "something" there for everyone.

Oh yeah, some very good stuff over on "my other Thread" these past few days. Today is Maine Central - Pix not seen here, along with some ACL, etc. Certainly worth checking out . . . .

Okay - enough of my ramblings. Time to check out - Boris ring the bell!

Nite! [zzz]

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]
Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
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Posted by trolleyboy on Saturday, May 27, 2006 12:35 AM
Good evening / morning Leon, a Keith's to round out the day sir. Quite the interesting day today gents. Indeed it has been the Dave and Tom show but that's not all bad as it's been all wonderfull info fer sure fer sure[;)][tup]

Tom I'm glad to revisit your Canadian rail trips, and your whirlwind no holds barred dallas by rail with Mr *** W.great shots of the RDC's BTW again and always nice to see those B&M ones as well.I will endevour to give some decent names and descriptions to day 2;'s shots on sunday

Dave Wonderfull pile of Encores today, You covered the gamot from RDC's to the PE to big SP diesels [wow][:0][yeah] I know that Tom appreciated the support this afternoon, good show. [tup] I have indeed heard about Niles car. They made many streetcars for city lines as well. They sold more product in thee US, but the Montreal Streetcar system and the Pre TTC Toronto Civic railway had some of their wood cars as well. my undersatnding is that they mad e some steam railway passenger equipment as well. They were known for their interurban cars and express motors for the most part. Labelle Woodworking still makes some HO and O scales models of their cars. CN and CP did support MLW quite heavily. You have to remeber that in the 50's and 60's when diesilization was occuring up here the railroads bought from the Canadian subsidiaries of the big manufacturers. Mostly due to tax laws ( no import duty on homemade product ) GMD was a late starter in Canada and they never catalouged the SD7 or 9 or 18 for that matter. MLW did make 6 axle diesels as did CLC which had the Candian manufacture rights for FM abd Baldwin products.

Mike Another great bunch of URL's sir. I know that if Nick does ever surface again he will like those ONR shots . You are right the name was changed to accomadate the interchange of freight cars. Less confusing when everyone has their own reporting marks.

CM3 Great encore Sir. The NH tends to pull many of the assembled's chains for a favourite NE road. Don't get me started on bugs up here either. The Balck Flies and Mosquitos are being taken down with shotguns up north right now. really bad year this year.

Rob
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Posted by trolleyboy on Saturday, May 27, 2006 12:40 AM
ENCORE ! ENCORE ! ENCORE !

A classic juice encore of the major and minor streetcar builders of Canada. This first surfaced in January on page 212.

Rob[8D]


QUOTE: Originally posted by trolleyboy

Okay. now for the "content" bit for today.I;m still in a traction mood <suprise> so I give you gentlemen another installment of the "juice"

CLASSIC JUICE # 15 CANADIAN ELECTRIC CAR & LOCO CO's

This is an inclusive list. In some cases I do not have start and end date for these manufacturer's as some lasted others were there and gone, and yet other's are still around today only are making much different non rail products.

A. C . LARIVIERE

Located in Montreal they supplied the Montreal Street railway with Cars in 1894( later became the railways shops until operations ended in 1959 )

BOMBARDIER INC.

Located in Boucherville PQ, began as a snowmobile manufacturer in 1926. Entered mass transit field in 1974, with the contract to build Montreals subway cars. Aquired MLW in 1975 and Ontario's UTDC ( ex Hawker Siddeley Ca Thunder Bay ) in 1992. Still make transit equipment and coaches today.

BRITIS COLUMBIA ELECTRIC RY

In New Westminister BC, built many of their own streetcars and interurbans in shopsfrom 1897 till mid june 1913, after that they did rebuilding only.

CANADIAN CAR ABD FOUNDRY

Montreal PQ, Formed in 1909 from Canada Car and Dominion Foundry. Built streetcars and regular passenger and freight cars.Sold to Hawker Siddeley in 1964

CANADIAN GENERAL ELECTRIC

Peterbourough On, Cars and Locomotives built for Guelph,Hull,Kingston,etc from mid 1890's

CROSSEN CAR CO

Cobourg Ontario, Built cars from 1893 to after 1900, for Toronto railway co,NS&T Hamilton Radial RY etc.

CANADIAN VICKERS CO

Montreal PQ, Formed in 1911, as a subsidiary of Vickers of England Bult montreal's first subway cars in 1963

GENERAL MOTORS DIESEL

London On, built diesel and all electric loco's since the early 1950's

GRAND TRUNK RAILWAY

Pointe Ste Charles PQ, built electric cars for subsidiary Montreal and Southern Counties RY. 1914-1917

HAWKER SIDDELEY CANADA

Montreal,Thunder Bay- Derived from A>V>Roe aircraft. Bought Candian car and Foundry in 1964 built streetcars and subway cars for the TTC

MONTREAL LOCOMOTIVE WORKS

Montreal- Incorporated in 1902 Built steam and diesel locos ( Alco designs )Built subway cars for Toronto in 1962. Taken over by Bombardier in 1975

MONTREAL TRAMWAYS CO

Montreal PQ - Built both cars and loco's at the Youville shops, for it's own and affiliate lines in Quebec.

NATIONAL STEEL CAR CO

Hamilton On - Built interurbans for MS&C ( 1913 ) streetcars for Hamilton ( 1927 ), loco's for Ontario Hydro's construction railway ( 1918 ) built CPR's first diesel (1937 ) and the last interurbans for canada ( GRR # 626 1947 ) TTC trackplows (1944 ) Still build general frieght cars today.

NIAGARA ST CATHARINES & TORONTO RY

St Catharines On - Built cars for self plus other Mackenzie/CNR electric lines( Toronto suburban, MS&C, Oshawa railway ) 1896-1959-did in house rebuilding

NOVA SCOTIA CAR WORKS

Halifax NS- Originally Siliker car Co,Built several Halifax streetcars up to 1915

OTTAWA CAR CO

Ottawa On - Canada's largest car builder,Started in 1892,from Wylie Carriage co,. Lasted until 1947, when it built the kast orthidox streetcar design for the Ottawa strreet Railway.

PATTERSON & CORBIN

St Catharines On - Began as carriage maker in 1874. converted to horse cars to electric cars in the late 1880's.Built equipment using Van Deepole equipment, then built electric streetcars using GE motors in the 1890's. Sold cars widely including the first cars for Victoria but overexpanded and went bankrupt in 1897.

PRESTON CAR AND COACH CO

Preston On - Started in 1908. Built high quality wood cars,but also lead the way in steel car construction.Producing the first steel cars built in Canada. Built railway coaches as well building the TM&O's business cras in 1910. Sold out to JG Brill in 1921 ( built the first 50 Witt's for TTC ) plant was closed in 1923.

RATHBURN & CO

Deseronto On - Produced from late 1880's to 1920's, for Oshawa,Kingston,and possibly other's.

RHODES CURREY & CO

Amherst NS - Built cars for Halifax,Moncton,from mid 1890's to early 20th century.Alsio built railway passenger cars.

ST CHARLES & PRINGLE

Belleville On - Active in the early 1890's,suppliedcars and parts to the Montreal Street Railway

TILLSONBERG ELECTRIC CAR CO

Tillsonberg On- Built large cars( interurbans ) for Windsor Essex
& Lake shore and streetcars for St John NB shortly before WW1, closed in 1917

TPRONTO RAILWAY COMPANY

Toronto On- Produced mostly streetcars ( wooden single and double truck TR cars ) for itself and interurbans for the Toronto suburban and the Toronto and York Radial. 1900-1919

WINNIPEG ELECTRIC CO


Winnipeg MB - Considerable production of streetcars for Winnipeg,and Selkirik & lake Winnipeg Radial cars in the early decades of the 20th century.


Rob

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Posted by trolleyboy on Saturday, May 27, 2006 12:50 AM
ENCORE ! ENCORE ! ENCORE !

This is part two of the encore for this evening, Pidgeon holes along with the last one. This is a list of the major American streetcar builders that sold product in Canada. There were other US manufacturers of street railway equipment , but they did not sell anything north of the boarder so are not on this list. This was aslo first posted back in january on page 217.

Rob


QUOTE: Originally posted by trolleyboy


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


BALDWIN LOCOMOTIVE WORKS

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


J. G. BRILL COMPANY

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

GENERAL ELECTRIC

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


JEWETT CAR COMPANY

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


McGUIRE-CUMMINGS MFG

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


NILES CAR CO

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

PRESSED STEEL CAR CO

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

ST.LOUIS CAR CO

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

JOHN STEPHANSON CO

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

WESTINGHOUSE ELECTRIC & MFG CO.

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

Enjoy Rob
  • Member since
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Posted by siberianmo on Saturday, May 27, 2006 7:42 AM

ENCORE! Courtesy: www.viarail.ca


SATURDAY’s INFO & SUMMARY of POSTS


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


The weekend is upon us! C’mon in – enjoy a cup of freshly ground ‘n brewed coffee – a <light> or <traditional> breakfast from the Menu Board and of course one or two goodies from The Mentor Village Bakery!



Daily Wisdom


Approach a mule the way a porcupine makes love: Slow ‘n keerful.



Info for the Day:

Railroads from Yesteryear –
ENCORE: Chesapeake & Ohiio (C&O) -
Arrives Tuesday!


* Weekly Calendar:


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



[bday]HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Dave (47)![bday]


TODAY, May 27th is West Coast S Dave’s B’day Bash! –
Scheduled for NOON to 4 PM (Pacific) – 3 – 7 PM (Eastern)


MONDAY, May 29th is U.S. Memorial Day!



MVP Award Winners

April 2006 . . . LoveDome Lars



[tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup]



Comedy Corner


Yarns from the Barn
(from barndad Doug’s Posts)

[:I] Chick was on the local beach one day and just couldn't make it with any of the girls. He did notice that Bob, the lifeguard, had no trouble with the ladies at all. So Chick walked over to Bob to find out what his secret was.
"It's obvious, Chick " said Bob. "Do What I do... grab a pair of Speedos - about two sizes too small - and drop a fist-sized potato down inside 'em. You'll have all the babes you want!"
The following weekend, Chick went back to the beach with his brand new, skintight tight Speedos and before he went strolling down the surf, he made sure to drop in his potato as Bob had suggested. To his surprise though, the reaction he got was worse than before. Everybody on the beach was acting disgusted as he walked by, covering their faces, running away screaming, and looking sick! Chick ran over to Bob and asked him what he was doing wrong, and Bob yelled "Chick, you idiot the potato goes in front!!" [:I]


[tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup]



The Mentor Village Emporium Theatre


NOW SHOWING:

Double Features and Three Stooges Short Subject!

. . . Sunday, May 28th thru June 2nd: Patton (1970) starring: George C. Scott & Karl Malden –and- The Eagle Has Landed (1977) starring Michael Caine, Robert Duvall & Donald Sutherland. SHORT: Uncivil Warriors (1935).

COMING ATTRACTIONS:

. . . Sunday, June 3rd thru June 9th: The Great Escape (1963) starring: Steve McQueen, James Garner & Richard Attenborough –and- The Longest Day (1962) starring: 42 International Stars. SHORT: Pardon My Scotch (1935).


. . . Sunday, June 10th thru June 16th: Major League II (1994) starring: Tom Berenger & Charlie Sheen –and- Mr. Baseball (1992) starring: Tom Selleck, K. Taukura & A. Takanashi. SHORT: Hoi Poloi (1935).


SUMMARY

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

(1) Theodorebear Ted Posted: 26 May 2006, 06:06:52 (341) Gulf Coast Report!

(2) siberianmo Tom Posted: 26 May 2006, 06:39:38 (341) Friday’s Info & 22-Post Summary

(3) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 26 May 2006, 06:55:58 (341) B’kfst visit!

(4) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 26 May 2006, 07:22:07 (341) ENCORE: Peter Witt story

(5) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 26 May 2006, 07:32:06 (341) 3 Pix!

(6) coalminer3 CM3 Posted: 26 May 2006, 09:14:12 (342) Inclusive Post ‘n ENCORE: NH in Providence

(7) siberianmo Tom Posted: 26 May 2006, 09:50:20 (342) ENCORE: 2005 Canadian Rail Journey, Pt IV (final)

(8) siberianmo Tom Posted: 26 May 2006, 11:43:57 (342) Acknowledgments & Comments

(9) West Coast S Dave Posted: 26 May 2006, 12:38:08 (342) Left Coast Report!

(10) siberianmo Tom Posted: 26 May 2006, 14:48:44 (342) ENCORE: 2005 Dallas trip & Pix

(11) wanswheel Mike Posted: 26 May 2006 , 16:48:44 (342) URLMeisterMonster URLs – what else[?]

(12) West Coast S Dave Posted: 26 May 2006, 17:41:24(342) ENCORE: PE & Catalina Specials

(13) siberianmo Tom Posted: 26 May 2006, 17:52:50 (342) Acknowledgments & Comments

(14) West Coast S Dave Posted: 26 May 2006, 18:02:53 (342) ENCORE: Mission Bay on the SP

(15) West Coast S Dave Posted: 26 May 2006, 18:29:20 (342) ENCORE: WP & RDCs

(16) siberianmo Tom Posted: 26 May 2006, 19:04:23 (342) 3 B&M RDC Pix!

(17) West Coast S Dave Posted: 26 May 2006, 19:45:52 (342) ENCORE: Unremarked SDP45

(18) siberianmo Tom Posted: 26 May 2006, 20:25:10 (342) Acknowledgments & Comments

(19) siberianmo Tom Posted: 26 May 2006, 22:28:49 (342) Comments




That’s it! [tup][;)]


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

Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
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    April 2003
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Posted by Anonymous on Saturday, May 27, 2006 8:37 AM
Good morning to all on this beautiful Saturday in May. For all of you serving in the Armed Forces and those with friends, relatives or family in service to our Country (past and present) may I bid you a heartfelt thank you.[tup] X infinity. It only takes a moment to remember them but a lifetime to appreciate their sacrifice. Well Tom, let's have one in honor of your 30 + and my 20 + years, whada'ya say? Did'ya ever think we'd make it Cap'n? Right, the decorations are up and the mass bands of the 4042nd National Guard & Mentor Village Volunteer Fire Fighting Fusiliers will open the festivities promptly at Noon (Pacific), 1:00 p.m. (Mountain), 2:00 p.m. (Central) and 3:00 p.m. (Eastern) on the occasion of Westcoast Dave'S boithday. There is talk of a guest appearance by an "imported" Rock band some where from the U.K., however, British Airways will not divulge the origin or the flight number[:O] So folks, come hungry and thirsty for this gala event and check all combustibles with Leon at the door, if you please. Unfortunately, yours truly will be otherwise engaged showing a "reverse mortgage" Rep. about the premesis for a "yea or nay" on its feasability. No great loss as Boris has volunteered to "fill in" during my absense.

Yesterday, was a "winnah," to be sure.[:D] Our guest of hono(u)r made a "tour de force" of S.P., S.N., and R.D.C., EMD, Alco memorabilia and vital stats. That, in turn, cranked up a malstrom of response from our resident Mentor and R.D.C. aficianado, Cap'n Tom. Not since Lewis and Clark has there been such a on rush of exploration from a duet.[tup] Yesterday, CM3 got us in "high gear with more N.H. vinettes with Mike inspiring everyone on with his fine URL "cornicopia." Rob really began Today with traction "holding its' own" when he umleashed a salvo of crtically acclaimed "Classic Juice" #15 and #16, well done Sir. BTW, I sucessfully managed a "sound-on-sound" (over dub) of excerpts from the Trolly L.P. to the train "master tape" for the Pike.[^] I still can't get the sights, sounds and smells of the Trolley Museum out of me system.[tup]

I have a few thousand things to do around the "hooch" before the I. G. arrives today. SOoo, it is "23 skidoo" ( OUCH ) for now. If they don't "tie me down" too late for the [bday] action, I'll breeze by again later. Boris, what's with the hole in the roof? Oh I see...you heard Dave likes Daylights.[:(!]

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