"OUR" PLACE - SEE NEW THREAD!

[nickinwestwales]

Update on gas prices-we are currently paying approx £0.96 per litre,nick[C=:-)]

[nickinwestwales]

Well good evening Tom,gentlemen all,and [#welcome]Jeri, A rare pleasure to have a Lady in our midst. A partner who shares our hobby ( as opposed to the more usual amused tolerance ) is truly a pearl beyond price. Tom-I`ll take a "cold one" from the back fridge,a large one for yourself ( you look as though you`ve earned it !) and a round for the stools,also I`ll try your choice of cold meat sub with a scoop from the pickle jar and a side of Chefs salad,assuming Boris hasn`t touched it-By the way,why is our pet genetic curio nailing the pool tables to the floor ? The only response I could get was "Master say do" . E-Mail received,will respond tomorrow when clarity of thought returns. So,to business, Chris-familiar with O.N. units mentioned,not a great success in the frozen north-designed to run in the somewhat balmier climes of south-west Europe on the Trans Europe Express services,and then wih an onboard engineer (tech. support,not driver)-also brakes operated at 225 lbs PSI (I think ) as opposed to std 180 and various other compatability problems-current Northlander works with G.P.38-2,converted "B" unit for train heat plus 3 cars-not a formation you see every day of the week. Hope you are progressing towards full recovery-as a blues fan I`m sure you are familiar with -"Been down so god-*** long,you know it feels like up to me".......Al,wise words-I shudder to think how much irreplaceable information has been consigned to landfill over the years,to say nothing of landmark layouts that have felt the bite of the Husquvana chain-saw......a sobering thought-Tom,same again all round plus a small shandy for Boris,.....thank you. Rob-No wonder you suffered bruising from the lovely Heather,those beach front tattoo parlours are notorious for poor quality work [:-,] Coalminer3,-recall the article on N&W pass ops,some good stuff on both train formations and switching of cars mid journey as I recall-love the sound of that "car on the back of a coal-haul" working-nice one! Ted-Why buy a Honda ?..-for the same money you can have the entire Rover production line including tools,plant & workforce...R.E. Mattah`s Hungarian banquet,would she prefer gnocci or dumplings with the main course........In your quest for large wheels,have you considered Sir Daniel Gooch`s 96" 4-2-2 broad gauge `Iron Duke` class from 1847-62 m.p.h,London to Bristol-with 100 tons of 6-wheel stock with tallow greased bearings on the hook-with two wooden blocks on the front tender wheels as the only brakes. as to the Schull & Skibereen,will need to do some homework,stay tuned ......Right,enough from the overseas desk,back to you guys,moonlight mile for me,take care,nick [ C=:-)]

[passengerfan]

Just time for a quick hello and I'll have my usual and a round for the house.
Ted that picture ypu have of a Selkirk pulling an all heavyweight Dominion could just as easily have been taken in the late 1940's or even up to about 1953. The Selkirks were good power and i believe their are at least two preserved one in Calgary and the other in Ottawa. Their may even be one at Delson I'm not sure about that one.
Your mention of 6218 brings back many fond memories. Rode on several excursions behind the 6218 and chased the train one winter weekend after a fresh snowd\fall the night before. Got some great slides and a winter cold that was tough to shake but was well worth it. I will have to look for my slides on 6218 as my daughter was allowed in the cab and even blew the whistle. But not her Pop he had to stand on the platform and just watch. Did get into Spadina Roundhouse where she was kept and got slides there. Had a friend that gave me access to Spadina Roundhouse and the coach yard. The friend even arranged for me to get some CN china off a business car they were scrapping at Spadina Still have a full set.
Well must close for now if I want dinner i was just told.

[siberianmo]

Hi Ted

One of my favorite summer drinks is plain and simple Gin & Tonic with a twist of lime, tall glass of course. Back in another time and different life, I used to enjoy those while sweltering in the summer's heat. Really acquired a taste for Gin during my trips to the Caribbean ....... [yeah]

Email received and replied to ........ Thanx [tup] The Rendezvous plans are progressing nicely and I'll have my update included in the 'morrow's SUMMARY.

Glad you checked out the Honda Civic Hybrid. Carol is really pleased with hers. We were fortunate that at the time we looked, there were two on the lot - that was in September 2004. Did you know that there are $2k write offs from your Federal adjusted gross income for purchases of hybrid cars? That made our decision even easier ..... Waiting list, now that gasoline prices are on most people's minds, was sure to follow. Isn't that the way?

The subject of higher gasoline prices in America is a story unto itself. Most people I know haven't the foggiest idea of what Europeans have been paying for years - much higher than in the states. Also, each year when we go "home" to Nova Scotia, it is evident that those prices at the pumps need to be multiplied by 3.8 in order to convert from litres to gallons (I think that's right .....) thereby making gas much higher than here.

I read somewhere that we pay more for a gallon of this or that, compared to what we pay for gasolline. For example: bottled water - soda pop - mouthwash - milk - beer - etc. Just think about it ....... Okay, I'm [#offtopic] - ring the bell, Boris DRINKS ON THE HOUSE! [yeah]

Enjoy your evening. [swg]
Tom

[Anonymous]

Hi everybody, its been a real "sponge" today with dew point in the mid 70 deg. range. Too warm and wet for anything brewed! Tom, how's about fresh soda draped over Resolute Vodka swimming in real ice cubes, a lime twist and two drops of Angostura? I'm not ignoring Boris but his rendition of this order came with shaved ice, (as in "snow cone") and a tiny parasol.[:O] Checked into the Honda hybrid (18 month waiting period), so, I may be looking into that Can-Am private car ["too good to be true?"]

While boning-up on "above 40" action, I ran into a "love at first sight" CP steam loco: Selkirk type, 2-10-4 [63 in. drivers). In the "snap," she is # 5927 hauling "The Dominion" along the Bow River in Alberta with 13 heavy stds. in tow. I understand this Montreal Locomotive Works genre to be the "largest and heaviest...in the Commonwealth." Any, condescending votes gentlemen? No date given but the Loco's 1938 birth and mointor roofs on cars suggests early 40's. Smashing landscape! In these days of parallel vertical and horizontal lines, the graceful slope of say: CN's #6218, Northern class 4-8-4 (last steam to run) is a sonata to the eyes. I'm told she still runs excursions but no details given. Nick [C=:-)], I meant to ask before about the narrow gauge operations around Skibbereen, Ireland. I was there a couple of years ago and "blew it" for follow-up. If it "rings a bell," maybe some enlightenment?

It is approaching the dinner hour and I had best perform this duty at home lest the thawed Cornish game hens (these 4 days) turn into the stuff of: "in aspic." I bid one and all a pleasant sleep with dreams of a rail journey somewhere, sometime. Ted

[siberianmo]

For: passengerfan Al Crown Royal for you - Crown Royal for me! [yeah] I need it today ....... boy, do I need it. One of those days .......... [banghead]

Yes, I've given considerable thought to what happens to my model railroad and railroad memorabilia once I'm gone. The roadmap is there and those close to me have been told .....

Nothing like planning ahead - it's not like the end of the line isn't there for all of us. Why leave these details to those left behind[?]

Good subject and even better advice! Thanx .... [tup] [tup] [;)]

Tom

[passengerfan]

Good morning all First my apoligies for my lack of manners early this AM . Now its time for a Crown Royal with a water chaser and a round for the house. i was just on my way out the door when I was online earlier and my mind as usual was on passenger trains. My wife says if it came to a choice between her and a passenger trains she thinks she might be in second place. Not So I constantly assure her.
I mentioned in my earlier post about leaving anything regarding trains to the Museum and i can't emphasize how important that is. How many times have we known someone with large collection of train memorabilia who passes on and everything goes to the dump. My suggestion is let the museum or historical society sort it out and they will keep whatever they can use and sell the rest for the benefit of the museum. I don't know how many times I have heard of even model railroad collections just tossed after the owner passes. The museums always need support and the donations will benefit many. I honestly even know of a bras locomotive collection numbering over 200 pcs that went to the dump when the owner passed. The kids had no idea what their dad had spent on the hobby and none had an interest in the trains. I contacted one of the family members after about six weeks had passed and almost had a heart attack myself when I heard what had happened to the brass collection. I didn't have the nerve to tell hime what they had done. I have it all layed out in my will what will happen to my railroad memorabilia when my time comes and the wife understands as well. It is all going to the California State Railroad Museum. Have any other Our Place regulars thought about their collections when the time comes.

[trolleyboy]

good morning everyone. I'll have a quick brunch before I go to work(no Boris , no beer for me this time thanks) Ted thank's for the tid bit, it's interesting how similar the smaller interurban's were like in both countries.I can think of two in ontario like the one you have discribbed. The Hamilton and Grimsby which ran Hamilton to grimsby a 20 mile up and back type operation,and the Hamilton and Brantford. Both were owned by Dominion Electric ( now ontario hydro) they ran from the early teens 1915-16 to the early forties.All wood over steel cars but they had railway or clerestory roofs.Both ran express motors for mail which from what I understand was a main sorce of income with the CNR handling the friut traffic which was (is) the main agricultural stapple in the area.An interesting side bar is that my subdivision in Brantford is built beside the old Brantford barge canal( Mohawk waterway) if I walk upto the embankment three hundred yards from my houde I can wander along the old Brantford and Hamilton ROW.Suprisingly i didn't know what this was when we moved in.Any way work beckons so I'm off for now everyone have a good day. Rob

[Anonymous]

Good morning Y'all. Boris, could I have a big cup of coffee. If you have any Blue Mountain I will take that.

Chris-Glad that you hare recovering well and by now you should be out of the hospital. Lung problems can be severe. I never had pneumonithorax (spelling??) and hope I never have it. Had garden variety viral pneumonia a couple of times, but have bounced back from it without any problems.

Jamacian Blue is great coffee. Once bought 1/4 pound of it for $12.50 at Central Market in Dallas. It was good, but we could not distingui***he extra cost for it over any other premium coffee costing about 1/4 of what Jamacian Blue costs. Our quarter pound was a double purchase-our first and last.

I too dabble in model trains. My first set was a post war 1946 Lionel freight set. Added several cars and stuff over the year and finally gave the set to my son as it would be durable for the grand children to try to destroy. Now have the fun of buying cars and locomotives on Ebay for presents. While in high school went into HO. Bought a little, but living in California then Texas where houses are built on slabs could not have a permanant layout. Several years ago got into LGB G gauge. As my eye sight deteriorates with age I had to go to a scale that I could see. Have about 35 cars and 5 locomotives that I put around the tree at Christmas (not all of it). The remaining 50 weeks of the year it resides in the garage cabinet. That is why I call it the GC Railway. During my stay on the DART board I got interested in a new scale - 1:1 as I was watching over DARTS rail operations including the commuter line. Atleast I could see this gauge. No, I have not bought any of this gauge, although I have a few artifacts around the yard.

My most recent acquisition was one of the old keystone shaped cast irow whistle signs from the Pennsylvania railroad. Told my wife it would look nice in the yard showing the "W" as that is our initial (George and me).

A quick story about another acquisition. DART was abandoning (converting from closed down Katy line to light rail) and I was given one of the single light target signals that was in Highland Park (suburb of Dallas that Dallas completely sourrounds). I verified that there was no future use for the signal and it had negative salvage value as I did not want to visit the iron hotel for misuning my position as a board member. When the signal was laid down on the ballast it must of had a chemical reaction with the ballast. The target, which on top of the pole looked about 18" is diameter. After the chemical reactyion it swelled til it was 4 1/2 feet in diameter. Thhk it to our lake house where I installed it along the road. Wired it up so it could be turned on in all three aspects. Needless to say I received all kinds of grief from my wife about having the signal. Now to the punch line. DART was purchasing 1000 new buses for about $250,000 each. The old buses that were being replaced would be sold at auction and fetch $1-2,000 on a good day. My wife was aware of this transaction and the auction. One day at lunch while at home two current DART buses pulled up along side of our house and parked. It turned out that the buses were on charter to the school and got lost getting to the school one block away. My wife saw them and asked what they were doing here. I simply replied: "Remember the signal!" For about 5 seconds she thought I had bought two old buses then she realized that even I would not be that stupid. We still have a good laugh over this on occasion.

All for now,

Cheers,
***

[coalminer3]

Good Morning All: Coffee as usual, please.

I enjoyed reading passengerfan's comments re power assignments. Here's some more to consider. Power assignments on the C&O varied according to length of train, terrain, etc. as other posters have suggested. For example. mixed trains on the Hot Springs Branch usually got a geep; interesting trains they were, too - where else could you get an 11 DB sleeper running behind a bunch of coal cars? The Louisville section of the George Washington usually got one E unit with a combine, coaches (2 generally), a sleeper, and a tavern lounge. More power and cars were added at Ashland and the train usually had three Es for the run to Charlottesville where it was broken up. The Newport News section got a geep and 3 cars (generally) while the Es and everything else ran on to Washington. Fascinating stuff to watch all the switching and shuffling that happened at both Ashand & Charlottesville. In the days when Amtrak ran F40s through here, the rule of thumb was one F40 for 10 cars; they really lugged on the Mountain Sub.

The N&W generally operated the "Pocahontas" with a pair of GP9s, although they did run Es back "in the day." IIRC, there was an article about N&W passenger service in MR not too long ago.

The Southern usually had four Es on the "Crescent" with 15-16 cars. The Southern, of course, snakes all over the place, and there are some tough grades between Atlanta and Birmingham which people usually don't think about.

The L&N ran two Es on the Pan American (back to back as God intended!) They had all sorts of power changes en route which made for some interesting activity, especially at Nashville. There was also lots of switching activity at Louisville on the days the South Wind ran.

The remains of the "Georgian" which at the end was a plug between St. Louis and Atlanta were usually handled by a single E. The train was short; baggage car and snack bar coach. One of my best memories of this train was the night when we left Nashillve at about 3 a.m. with a baggage car full of huskies (see, the mascot could ride back then). The guy who was travelling with them got virtually no sleep as he went forward to check on them at every station stop. Dogs and handler arrived in good shape at Atlanta.

Ted D Kramer's comments on the B&O were on target. I will add to his remarks that there's nothing like winter in WV. As they used to say up home, "Your BVDs and pipes all freeze."

Last for CFournier - glad you are feling better. We see and deal with many lung problems in this part of the country - no fun. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Have a good day.

work safe

[siberianmo]

MONDAY SUMMARY of RECENT POSTS (edited)
Happy Monday To All! Once again, five more days to excel at the workplace …….. ahhhhhhhh, go for it! [tup]

One thing nice about most Mondays for me is that the SUMMARY doesn’t take hours to compile [yeah]! Please note that I’m dong a bit more editing these days in order to cut back on the time aspect for me …. Your photo’s and smilies may not all make it; those are labor intensive for sure.

So here it is ….

QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 12 Jun 2005, 13:44:33
Hi Y'all!

From time to time I've posted some pictures on this thread pertaining to my model railroads ........

This time, I'll refer anyone who is interested to the following photo album site:
http://www.railimages.com/gallery/thomasweber

Go to the last page and you'll find my latest project involving construction of an S-Gauge layout ........

See ya! [tup]
Tom (Siberianmo)

QUOTE: nickinwestwales Posted: 12 Jun 2005, 19:34:22
Well I know we`re closed tonight, but couldn`t contain my excitement ( no, not the rugby results ) -chance visit to our local Sunday flea market found me at the toys and models stall ( mostly over priced die-cast autos,4th hand Hornby-Dublo and Thomas push-alongs) where buried under the piles of tat I found a new Gaugemaster ( Brit equivalent of M.R.C) twin track with inertia unit at £75-R.R.P about £125. ( about a third of my annual modeling budget) Protracted negotiations with loved one (R.E. Woody Allen on Jewish Foreplay-20 minutes of begging & whining) and it`s all mine -up until now I`ve used 2 30+ year old H+M safety minors which require the layout to be broken down into 20 ft `power districts` and will only run a single loco at best & won`t even look at my Atlas F.P 7`s- this new baby will run both of them at once, or up to 4 Model Power Geeps and F-units in consist, likewise Bachman & Walthers units-def. one of the good days --

DENNIS [#welcome] --You`ll find equal measures of trains & strangeness here (largely my fault I suspect) plus generous measures of your tipple of choice, stick around, behind the weirdness we have a bunch of seriously well informed regulars who are always happy to share.

CHRIS--take care my friend, Annie is on her way to mop your fevered brow ( complete with candy-stripe outfit ) Boris is also pining visibly . Catch up with the rest of you tomorrow, be good now,nick

[C=:-)]

QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 12 Jun 2005, 20:03:22
Good Evening Nick - you know where the tap is - help yourself!

Received your Email and replied ....... Thanx! [swg]

It's amazing what we'll do in order to justify the acquisition of THAT special THING for our model railroads. Been there and done that .... several times over. [swg]Always reminds me of the best of friends in a bar at closing time. Before you know it, they're duking it out over the affection of some skank who can barely walk and talk. Been there and done that too! [oops]TMI - too much info! [}:)]At any rate, enjoy your new find and hope you have many enjoyable hours of operation with it. [tup]

That Woody Allen reference IS funny [swg]- much better than those earlier attempts at humor .... [;)]

Have another before you go[?]
Tom

QUOTE: CFournier Posted: 12 Jun 2005, 21:06:42
Hi there,
a cup of that Blue Mountain, Tom. Do you know that stuff cost $60.00 for 200 grams here?[censored] It is more expensive than the `'weed' they also export out of Jamaica![swg]
I' m touched by all the get well wishes you guys sent or posted. This is my second encounter with a Pneumothorax, the first one in 1996 was a minor one compared to this time! I was struck by a devastating and totally unpredictable, complete collapse of my right lung. And then it compressed my left lung to a point where I couldn't breathe anymore...The doctors tried a chest tube (ouch) [xx(] but after 6 days in the hospital they decided that only surgery could put the lung in it's place. Anyway, I'll be out by the end of the week and will be in convalescence for a while.
Now this is for Nick: I hold a copy of the November 1993 Railroad Model Craftsman and there is an article about modeling the Northlander which was an European design turbo train for passenger service in northern Ontario in the 70's. The blue, yellow and black 4 unit train was used until 1992 in regular service from Toronto to Timmins Ont.
Chris, going to sleep now said the nurse..

Hi Chris [tup] Happy to have you with us! Bet you didn’t know that I have some of that Blue Mountain in our freezer (for real, not cyber stuff)! Just for special occasions …….. so drink up [tup] [swg]. I’ve never really enjoyed my port calls in Jamaica – but then again looking back over the decades, I’ve seen lots of changes. First time was in 1957, then the early 60’s, md 60’s and early 70’s. I was one of the first to frequent the “new” Playboy Club at Montego Bay ….. just a poor sailor with a “free pass.” Understand all of those places closed up in 1988, worldwide. I think the gals here at “Our” Place are much, much nicer ….. [;)] [swg]

Can’t even imagine the pain you’ve undergone – and with two episodes, I’d say you’ve “paid your dues” for sure. Let’s hope the worst part is way behind you …..

Check out this URL regarding Turbo Trains: http://www.sikorskyarchives.com/train.html

Hang in there, Chris and remember, we’re all pulling for you and wish you the best in terms of a full and speedy recovery.[tup]

Tom

QUOTE: passengerfan Posted: 12 Jun 2005, 21:25:41
Chris I to had multiple Pneumothrax problems over period of about three years first left lung about a year later right lung. First time panicked thought it was heart attack, second time knew what was happening so did not panic. That helped. Third incident was out west in Calgary when left lung collapsed again. Was a truck driver at time drove myself to hospital called police and was assured they would not tow truck from where I was parked and checked myself into hospital. Always made it a habit to phone wife every third day so when I failed to phone she got on phone to police friend of family and an all points was issued for truck. Calgary police informed Toronto police what the situation was and they in turn notified wife who phoned me in hospital. I said I did not want to worry her she said she would have understood. Was in dog house for about a month. Strange thing was the lung collapses never occurred again and no explanation has ever been forthcoming.
Chris don't be in a ru***o go back to work. Relax and take it easy. All three incidences of mine were termed Spontaneous Pneumothorax and just as mysteriously as they began they stopped. Good Luck and keep a stiff upper lip.

As always, good, sound input from passengerfan Al. While the both of you have experienced a side of life that we all hope will never happen to us, it just illustrates how susceptible we all are.

I’ve always wondered, how does one go about drinking a beeer with a “stiff upper lip” [?] [swg]
Tom

QUOTE: cocolumbine Posted: 12 Jun 2005, 21:48:48
Hi! I read that your closed today, but wanted to drop by and introduce my self. I am Cocolumbine-Jeri, wife of Comechtech-Dennis, and say a quick hello.

I also want to say a big thank you to passengerfan-Al, for the quick response about the COLUMBINE passenger train. I had most of the information, but not how they where placed on the train, and the cars floor plan description. We appreciate every piece of information we can get, as we want to model every car correctly, and it's been several years in gathering.

Passengerfan could you tell me where you found this information. I'd like to read and or copy the information. We are close to the Colorado Railroad Museum and have nice library access to many books about trains of the area. Information on the COLUMBINE is hard to come by, but we haven't been to Cheyenne, WY to the UP Historcial Musem and Society.

[#welcome] Jeri [swg] Appreciate your visit to “Our” Place and hope you and Dennis find the time to stop by again – first drinks are on the house. [tup]

We now have two wives who have provided some information to us – mine did it back in May on the occasion of my 67th Birthday. If you scroll back through these pages, you’ll find lots of crazy stuff along with some very interesting information regarding Classic and not-so-classic trains.

Enjoy your visit and hope to see you soon! [tup] [swg]
Tom, Proprietor of “Our” Place

QUOTE: trolleyboy Posted: 12 Jun 2005, 23:05:57
Hello everyone.[#welcome] Jeri and Dennis glad to have you here, hope you stay on [tup]

Just a quick run through thought I'd stop off at the take out window (if we have one or did Boris find the tool chest?)

Anyway the wife and I just got back from a day at Port Dover Ontario, needed the nice beach day, wonderful weather and scenery on the beach, I only got two bruises from Heather I actually went exploring and found where the Lake Erie and Northern interurban cars pulled in to drop off beach revelers. The station is gone but the ROW has become a rail trail. Nice to see that not all the rail history has been obliterated by progress and new housing developments. It's interesting to see how most (Ontario) interurbans usually had a provincial park or private beach or amusement park to use as a source of summer traffic, too bad some of this type of railroading doesn't exist anymore.

Ted I hope you made it through storm number one unscathed, I don't know if I could live in either Florida or California with their inherent natural disaster type problems.[tup] for those who live there.

Well everybody time to take off I'll stop in tomorrow. happy rails everyone Rob

Hello Rob - Got your Email and responded ....... Thanx! [swg]

Glad to hear that you and Heather enjoyed the weekend. That's what they are for - a chance to unwind and do what you want to do instead of what someone else has laid out for you. At least on paper it looks convincing ..... [swg]

It's been years since Carol and I spent any time at the beach. Last time was in San Diego, California and we both turned as red as cooked lobsters after only a couple of hours in the sun. No fun. Since the Mississippi "Ocean" and other rivers around here are not what we consider fit for basking in the sand, we're all for cooler temps with mountains and lakes. [yeah]
Tom

QUOTE: Ted D. Kramer Posted: 13 June 2005, 05:56:12
Great news all 'round. Chris will be "out and about" soon, Nick is now "wired" for multi train ops., Dennis and Jeri found Columbine data, Rob unearthed archeological evidence, Al came to the rescue, Tom welcomes new Customers and Ted misses Arlene by a "skinny." Not a bad way to start the week, eh? [swg]

Dennis and Jeri, I hope you can hang-in-there. "Our" Place is a little like an "old boot" with with new soles and heels: comfortable but with a different "feel." The "Regulars" here have the North, East, West, Mid-West and South West covered like a tent but the Rockies (U.S.) area is a tad anemic. Anything you choose to bring to the "pot luck" will be a delicacy hereabouts.

Rob, just wanted to mention a short interurban (radial) commuter run (13 miles, one-way) from Sand Springs, Ok to Tulsa. I rode this Line as a kid, before getting involved with the technical side of the field. I'm trying to retrieve more data via the Net but so far unsuccessfully. The cars were 2 truck (bogies) low profile, about 55 ft. length, metal over wood frame, 4 point (?) controller and looked suspiciously like an American Car Co. & Foundry species. They were double ended [dbl. poles] with a low arch roof and were "light weights." I'll keep the quest going and report back if I get lucky.

Great Granny's outer foundation garments! I've been "jawing" all this time without so much as a dram to swallow. Tom, if you please, a "harf & harf" for me and whatever the Gents call their favorite "poison." Then, I need to scoot down to Cox Grinding Works where that "shade tree mechanic," Mylow Claude Ball, is duct taping my Toyota Crayolla's clutch back together. Happy rails everyone. [;)] Ted

As always, a POSITIVE submission from Ted [tup], way to go! [swg]

We're always encouraging new customers 'round here - however, there is a caveat - they must pass the Boris Test If Boris turns [tdn], as he did most recently, they are NOT welcome. These kinds of people are SO transparent and easy to identify. So, while it is the policy of "Our" Place to be warm, friendly, courteous, kind, thrify, brave, clean and ...... wait a minute! Got carried away ........ [swg] Again, we just don't encourage those who want to run up their "numbers count," or those who will not take the time to research a particular thread before "jumping" in with perhaps an off the wall comment or question - and ..... well, I'm sure all any of us have to do is check out some of the stuff going on all around us. Not here, at least as long as I'm Proprietor [swg]

Buy a Honda! Why fool with this thing[?] Either that, or have your military retirement check sent to the Can-Am Railroad, Passenger Division and we'll set you up in a private car, with hot and cold running attendants water and all of the amenities of a full service, first class passenger train. [swg]
Tom

QUOTE: passengerfan Posted: 13 June 2005, 06:59:18
To Cocolumbine
You are right there is very little information on the COLUMBINE. One of the sources I used was the book Steam Steel & Limiteds it gave me the names of the cars. I have a Pullman reference book that then told me what type of cars they were. I am going to check a couple of other refererence books I have and will get back to you if their is any other information on the Columbine. The UP historical society should have even more information on the train. As to order of the train I would suggest a source of Official guides for the period the train operated. Since it was a depression era train the consists likely changed quite often as to make up.

Oh fine! Just c’mon in – speak your piece – and leave. [tdn] No good morning – howdy – hi y’all [?] [sigh] No coffee, light breakfast fare, a nip of the Crown Royal [?] Is it really you, passengerfan Al [swg]
Tom

Well folks, enjoy this fine day and stop in for lunch. Tonight is our Pool Table Special. If you can lift one end of either of the tables, with absolutely no help from anyone or anything – you qualify for the Special Drawing to be held at the end of the month. Prize[?] One round trip aboard the Can-Am Limited with drawing room accommodations and reserved dome seating.

See ya! [tup] [;)]
Tom (Siberianmo)
Proprietor of “Our” Place

[passengerfan]

Cocolumbine Passengerfan Al once again just did some further research and found their were three sets of equipment for the Columbine not two so what i said earlier about the sleepers would not be true the trains would only have carried one of each type. Which when I think about it makes more sense as it was the depression. The one thing I need to know for sure now is were there three or four trains for the schedules 28 hour 30 minute runs. It would be possible with three but four is more likely. I am going to do some more digging now you have got my curiosity up where this train is concewrned and I am relentless when it comes to digging up train histories. It is a hobby of mine. So you can expect to hear from me again. I did learn that the Columbine was discontinued when the CITY OF DENVER trains entered service and the Colorado Club cars were repainted Pullman Green and reassigned to the Denver Limiteds.
I lean toward four sets of equipment but will have to cantact some UP people to find out for sure. Information on exact consists from that period is difficult to find. The streamline era is easier to find information on then the old heavyweight era and those that knew the answers have passed on and unfortunately the information they had written was thrown out instead of being donated to a museum or historical society. I have probably 8-10, 000 pages of information on the streamliners and have already made arrangements for it to go to the California State Railroad Museum upon my demise. I know its not a subject to talk about but that information can help others in the future and families just throw it away not knowing what a valuable source of information it is. Please everyone who has information accumulated over the years make sure you leave it to a museum or Railroad society.

[passengerfan]

To Cocolumbine
You are right their is very little information on the COLUMBINE. One of the sources I used was the book Steam Steel & Limiteds it gave me the names of the cars. I have a Pullman reference book that then told me what type of cars they were. I am going to check a couple of other refeernce books I have and will get back to you if their is any other information on the Columbine. The UP historical society should have even more information on the train. As to order of the train I would suggest a source of Official guides for the period the train operated. Since it was a depression era train the consists likely changed quite often as to make up.

[Anonymous]

Great news all 'round. Chris will be "out and about" soon, Nick is now "wired" for multi train ops., Dennis and Jeri found Columbine data, Rob unearthed archeological evidence, Al came to the rescue, Tom welcomes new Customers and Ted misses Arlene by a "skinny." Not a bad way to start the week, eh? [swg]

Dennis and Jeri, I hope you can hang-in-there. "Our" Place is a little like an "old boot" with with new soles and heels: comfortable but with a different "feel." The "Regulars" here have the North, East, West, Mid-West and South West covered like a tent but the Rockies (U.S.) area is a tad aenemic. Anything you choose to bring to the "pot luck" will be a delicacy hereabouts. [^]

Rob, just wanted to mention a short interurban (radial) commuter run (13 miles, one-way) from Sand Springs, Ok to Tulsa. I rode this Line as a kid, before getting involved with the technical side of the field. I'm trying to retrieve more data via the Net but so far unsuccessfully. The cars were 2 truck (bogies) low profile, about 55 ft. length, metal over wood frame, 4 point (?) controller and looked suspiciously like an American Car Co. & Foundry species. They were double ended [dbl. poles] with a low arch roof and were "light weights." I'll keep the quest going and report back if I get lucky.

Great Granny's outer foundation garments! I've been "jawing" all this time without so much as a dram to swallow. Tom, if you please, a "harf & harf" for me and whatever the Gents call their favorite "poison." Then, I need to scoot down to Cox Grinding Works where that "shade tree mechanic," Mylow Claude Ball, is duct taping my Toyota Crayolla's clutch back together. Happy rails everyone.[;)] Ted

[trolleyboy]

Hello everyone.[#welcome] Jeri and Denis glad to have you here,hope you stay on[tup]Just a quick run through thought I'd stop off at the take out window(if we have one or did Boris find the tool chest?[:O])Anyway the wife and I just got back from a day at Port Dover Ontario,needed the nice beach day,wonderfull weather and scenery on the beach, I only got two bruises from Heather [B)][:-^][:-,] I actually went exploring and found where the Lake Erie and Northern interurban cars pulled in to drop off beach revellers. the station is gone but the ROW has become a rail trail.Nice to see that not all the rail history has been oblitereated by progress and new housing developments.It's interesting to see how most (ontario) interurbans usually had a provincial park or private beach or amusement park to use as a sorce of summer traffic,too bad some of this type of railroading doesn't exist anymore.Ted I hope you made it through storm number one unscathed,I don't know if I could live in either Florida or California with their inherant natural disaster type problems.[tup] for those who live there.Well everybody time to take off I'll stop in tomorrow. happy rails everyone Rob

[Anonymous]

Hi! I read that your closed today, but wanted to drop by and introduce my self. I am Cocolumbine-Jeri, wife of COmechtech-Dennis, and say a quick hello. I also want to say a big thak you to passengerfan-Al, for the quick responce about the COLUMBINE passenger train. I had most of the information , but not how they where placed on the train, and the cars floor plan description. We appericate every piece of information we can get, as we want to model every car correctly, and it's been several years in gathering. Passengerfan could you tell me were you found this information. I'd like to read and or copy the information. We are close to the Colorado Railroad Museum and have nice library access to many books about trains of the area. Information on the COLUMBINE is hard to come by, but we haven't been to Cheyenne, WY to the UP Historial Musem and Society.

[passengerfan]

Chris I to had multiple Pneumothrax problems over period of about three years first left lung about a year later right lung. First time paniced thought it was heart attack, second time knew what was happening so did not panic. That helped. Third incident was out west in Calgary when left lung collapsed again. Was a truck driver at time drove myself to hospital called police and was assured they would not tow truck from where i was parked and checked myself into hospital. Always made it a habit to phone wife every third day so when I failed to phone she got on phone to police friend of family and an all points was isssued for truck. Calgary police informed Toronto police what the situation was and they in turn notified wife who phoned me in hospital. I said I did not want to worry her she said she would have understood. Was in dog house for about a month. Strange thing was the lung collapses never occurred again and no explanation has ever been forthcoming.
Chris don't be in a ru***o go back to work. Relax and take it easy. All three incidences of mine were termed Spontaneous Pneumothorax and just as mysteriously as they began they stopped. Good Luck and keep a stiff upper lip.

[CFournier]

Hi there,[B)]
a cup of that Blue Mountain, Tom. Do you know that stuff cost $60.00 for 200 grams here?[censored] It is more expensive than the `'weed' they also export out of Jamaica![:D]
I' m touched by all the get well wishes you guys sent or posted. This is my second encounter with a Pneumothorax, the first one in 1996 was a minor one compared to this time! I was struck by a devastating and totally unpredictable, complete collapse of my right lung. And then it compressed my left lung to a point where I couldn't breathe anymore...The doctors tried a chest tube (ouch)[xx(] but after 6 days in the hospital they decided that only surgery could put the lung in it's place. Anyway, I'll be out by the end of the week and will be in convalescence for a while.
Now this is for Nick: I hold a copy of the november 1993 Railroad Model Craftsman and there is an article about modeling the Northlander wich was an european design turbo train for passenger service in northern Ontario in the 70's. The blue, yellow and black 4 unit train was used until 1992 in regular service from Toronto to Timmins Ont.
Chris, going to sleep now said the nurse..

[siberianmo]

Good Evening Nick - you know where the tap is - help yourself! [tup]

Received your Email and replied ....... Thanx!

It's amazing what we'll do in order to justify the acquisition of THAT special THING for our model railroads. Been there and done that .... several times over. [swg] Always reminds me of the best of friends in a bar at closing time. Before you know it, they're duking it out over the affection of some skank who can barely walk and talk. Been there and done that too! [oops] TMI - too much info! [}:)] At any rate, enjoy your new find and hope you have many enjoyable hours of operation with it. [tup]

That Woody Allen reference IS funny [:D] - much better than those earlier attempts at humor .... [;)]

Have another before you go[?]
Tom

[nickinwestwales]

Well I know we`re closed tonight,but couldn`t contain my excitement ( no,not the rugby results [:-,][}:)][^] ) -chance visit to our local sunday flea market found me at the toys and models stall ( mostly over priced die-cast autos,4th hand Hornby-Dublo and Thomas push-alongs) where buried under the piles of tat I found a new Gaugemaster ( Brit equivalent of M.R.C) twin track with inertia unit at £75-R.R.P about £125. ( about a third of my annual modelling budget ) Protracted negotiations with loved one (R.E. Woody Allen on Jewish Foreplay-20 minutes of begging & whining) and it`s all mine [:D][:D]-up until now I`ve used 2 30+ year old H+M safety minors which require the layout to be broken down into 20 ft `power districts` and will only run a single loco at best & won`t even look at my Atlas F.P 7`s- this new baby will run both of them at once, or up to 4 Model Power Geeps and F-units in consist,likewise Bachman & Walthers units-def. one of the good days[^][^]--DENNIS [#WELCOME] --You`ll find equal measures of trains & strangeness here (largely my fault I suspect) plus generous measures of your tipple of choice,stick around,behind the weirdness we have a bunch of seriously well informed regulars who are always happy to share. CHRIS--take care my friend, Annie is on her way to mop your fevered brow ( complete with candy-stripe outfit ) Boris is also pining visibly . Catch up with the rest of you tomorrow,be good now,nick [C=:-)]

[siberianmo]

Hi Y'all!

From time to time I've posted some pictures on this thread pertaining to my model railroads ........

This time, I'll refer anyone who is interested to the following photo album site:
http://www.railimages.com/gallery/thomasweber

Go to the last page and you'll find my latest project involving construction of an S-Gauge layout ........

See ya! [tup]
Tom (Siberianmo)

[siberianmo]

SUNDAY SUMMARY of RECENT POSTS
Sunday at “Our” Place, and yes – we’re officially CLOSED. However, you can still drop off your Epistles through the slots in either of our front doors.

I thought perhaps there’d be no SUMMARY this fine day, however, looks as if the activity justifies one …..

So, here goes …….

QUOTE: CFournier Posted: 11 Jun 2005, 10:44:05
Now, first thing i need is hot cider with cinnamon, Boris and keep the old caribou out of my sight
Hey Tom, did I miss something about a yearly convention of the oldtimers of this venerable group of ours, the wild bunch of ``Our Place``? I cannot read my emails from last week because I'm using another coputer with a distinct email address. Can you explain about this little gathering? BTW, I'm sending you a new email address that I will be using for the next month since I am on a sick leave, not going to the office for a few weeks.Chris

QUOTE: passengerfan Posted: 11 Jun 2005, 10:50:39
Chris this is passengerrfan my prayers are with you for I had a similar occurence years ago and i believe that the medicos have come a long ways since my pneumothorax. Good luck.
If you ever feel like an online chat or need words of encouragement just contact me anytime. I've been through what you are going through and if I can help please don't hesitate. It only gets better.

QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 11 Jun 2005, 10:56:01
Chris Oh [yeah]did you miss some stuff round here .... scrolling back a couple of pages will catch you up on the Rendezvous. Insofar as the Emails go, I'll fill you in once your new address is received!

Best regards! [tup] [;)]
Tom

QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 11 Jun 2005, 11:07:28
Hey Chris Since I had no clue what pneumothorax is, I looked it up in Carol's medical dictionary – [wow]! Bad news, for sure.

So, HOW did this condition occur [?] If, you feel a bit ill at ease discussing it in cyber space, as is appreciated, please send me an Email.

Oh [yeah], we don't want Boris getting too close to you or anything he's touched that will come in contact with you. Nick has provided some info that justifies the precautionary measures .......... [swg]

Again - best to you for a speed recovery. [tup]
Tom

QUOTE: Ted D. Kramer Posted: 11 Jun 2005, 19:47:37
Good heavens Chris, no sooner does this thread begin, than our "Magnificent Ten" begins to evolve into "God's Waiting Room" [much like an Amtrak Station!] I'm sure I echo best wishes from all your Buddies for a safe [no matter the time] recovery. Also, I'm certain Tom will "fill in" the details for the proposed "get together."

It hardly seems the time for humor but imagine what "modern science" could do with our spare parts? A "Candy Stiiper" (V..A. Hospital) told me they saved my index finger for a Wendy's order of French fries (Chips, to you Nick). Let us not forget the therapeutic value of chicken soup of which Nick will assuredly advise.

Okay Jemima, a 'round for the still standing (or otherwise indisposed)/b] and for bonhomie Monsieuer Chris Fournier; the best vintage in the Cellar, as Tom instructed. Our hope is for a safe and comfortable convalescence. Oh No Boris! That wine is for "All Saint's" Parrish and Fr. Flatski's Rectory which is "on age" until Sunday Mass. You had best handle this Tom! Bon soir Amis.

QUOTE: comechtech Posted: 11 Jun 2005, 22:12:52
Hi! I'm a newby to this, so please excuse me if I am in the wrong area. I am looking for info on the old UP "Colorado Columbine" train that began running in the '30s from Chicago to Denver, where I am. My wife wants me to model it for her, and I am seeking data on train consists, what type and number of cars, color schemes, engine types, in short, just about anything I can get. Is this the right place, or can you direct me there? Thanks in advance.

Hi comechtech Dennis and [#welcome] to “Our” Place. I took the liberty of checking your profile and want you to know that you’ve done it right. [tup] So many who frequent these forums try to remain as anonymous and vague as possible, thereby making it difficult to get to know one another. Appreciate your up front approach ….. we’ve got nothing to hide ‘round here, as you’ll find out IF you become a “customer.”

The guys will undoubtedly respond to your inquiry. Until then – may I suggest that you browse through these pages? Start at the beginning and you’ll catch on to what “Our” Place is all about.

We’re a cyber bar ‘n grill with food, drink, interesting staff and we like talking about CLASSIC TRAINS – the point of the forum we’re on.

First drink is on the house, however, we’re closed on Sundays! Stop back and order anything you like …… [tup] and again, [#welcome]

Tom (Siberianmo)
Proprietor of “Our” Place

QUOTE: trolleyboy Posted: 12 June 2005, 01:39:48
Good evening everyone. Late catching up to you all as per usual.

Chris Wow I hope you have a speedy recovery as well,watch yourself especially in this heat were having right now.

Tom I know fully understand your trials and tribulations over the light rail no need us flogging this particular dead horse anymore. Today was my day for Aholes as well. It's amazing what heat brings out in the human beings.

Tom in regards to the meet I'm good for any timeframe that we feel works for everyone, I have 5 weeks of vacation to play with so spring / summer it's all good. The only season not good for me is fall/winter. Too cold to be hospitable then anyway. I think I'm museum bound tomorrow the operating crew looks thin, if I'm not needed there I'll check in at a more rational time. Later today. Rob

Hi Rob – I’ll be putting together my latest thoughts regarding the Rendezvous early this week. I think it’s best to communicate via Email regarding individual inputs.

My comments regarding the Aholes of the world – screw ‘em all but six and save those for use as pall bearers! [:(!]
Tom

QUOTE: Ted D. Kramer Posted: 12 June 2005, 08:21:23
Comechtech, may I make so bold as to refer to your Christian name? Dennis, you have "hit the Bullseye," so far as the "right place at the right time." Although my sphere of railrodiana centers a bit east of the Colorado area; I surely appreciate the incredible history, raw beauty and endless variety of operations in your beautiful State. I mean, few other areas have the U.P. "Big Boys" to the rugged little Shays on offer. I took the Pike's Peak cog (verticular?) round trip a few years ago, very impressive [14,110 ft. elev.]. I'll lay ten-to-one that one of our "Regulars" will either have the data you seek or bona fide links to same.

Tom, the Proprietor and others, should be along presently for a proper welcome to "Our" Place. So Dennis, pull up a stool, give a thought for your choice of libation which Tom gratuitously "covers" for new Customers. Let me be the first to say welcome to you and your question which surely fits the parameters of this Venue. Oh, by the way, what gauge are you working with? It will be helpful for referring to specific manufacturer’s kits, r. to r.'s, etc. I have to run (maybe walk) some errands in the Village now, so I'll leave you in the good care of Tom and the gang.

What's that Dennis? Oh, that's Boris our full-time assistant cook, bottle washer and curiosity. He has a little problem with English and confusion can and does result sometimes. But, to date, he hasn't caused any problems that Tom or one of us can't sort out for a logical solution. Hope to see ya again 'round these parts. Cheers!

Nice going, Ted – another one of your talents – Welcome wagon personified! [tup] [swg] On a serious note, unlike the last two “visitors,” my guess is Dennis is more of a genuine article …… I’ve been wrong before, but as noted in my comments above, the simple listing of one’s particulars in the profile says it all as far as I’m concerned.
Tom [tup]

QUOTE: passengerfan Posted: 12 June 2005, 09:12:09
Just sent an Email to Dennis re the COLUMBINE thought it was to long for our Place so sent it to him directly.

Morning all time for coffee and a quick hello than I hope to be able to get some railfanning in today. Think I will visit the two local stations the former AT&SF and former SP both are operational with Amtrak serving both and the ACE trains serving the former SP station as well. If I have enough time will try to get over to the former WP station in a terrible state of disrepair.

Well Chris hope this morning finds you better than yesterday. Having been where you are at I know it is a long slow process but believe me it will be better, time is the magic healer where a pneumothorax is concerned.

passengerfan Al Certainly your option to respond as you feel is appropriate. Nothing is ever too long for “Our” Place if it is on topic – or close to it! [swg]

We’ll be waiting for your report on today’s activities.
Tom

QUOTE: Ted D. Kramer Posted: 12 June 2005, 09:25:35
Oh, oh! I forgot this was Sunday. "Our" Place is closed until Monday morning so check in again then. Yeah, our County still has "blue laws."

Not to worry, Ted – always can find a way to let in our regulars. By the way, we don’t have blue laws ‘round here. The reason we’re closed is simply because yours truly believes in taking one out of seven off …… See ya in the ‘morrow. [tup]
Tom

That’s it for this fine day …..
Tom Siberianmo
Proprietor of “Our” Place

[Anonymous]

Oh, oh! I forgot this was Sunday. "Our" Place is closed until Monday morning so check in again then. Yeah, our County still has "blue laws."

[passengerfan]

Just sent an Email to Dennis re the COLUMBINE thought it was to long for our Place so sent it to hime directly. Morning all time for coffee and a quick hello than I hope to be able to get some railfanning in today. think I will vist the two local stations the former AT&SF and former SP both are operational with Amtrak serving both and the ACE trains serving the former SP station as well. If I have enough time will try to get over to the former WP station in a terrible state of disrepair.
Well Chris hope this morning finds you better than yesterday. Having been where you are at I know it is a long slow process but believe me it will be better, time is the magic healer where a pneumothorax is concerned.

[Anonymous]

Comechtech, may I make so bold as to refer to your Christian name? Dennis, you have "hit the Bullseye," so far as the "right place at the right time." Although my sphere of railrodiana centers a bit east of the Colorado area; I surely appreciate the incredible history, raw beauty and endless variety of operations in your beautiful State. I mean, few other areas have the U.P. "Big Boys" to the rugged little Shays on offer. I took the Pike's Peak cog (verticular?) round trip a few years ago, very impressive [14,110 ft. elev.]. I'll lay ten-to-one that one of our "Regulars" will either have the data you seek or bona fide links to same.

Tom, the Proprietor and others, should be along presently for a proper welcome to "Our" Place. So Dennis, pull up a stool, give a thought for your choice of libation which Tom gratuitously "covers" for new Customers. Let me be the first to say welcome to you and your question which surely fits the parameters of this Venue. Oh, by the way, what gauge are you working with? It will be helpful for referring to specific manufacturere's kits, r. to r.'s, etc. I have to run (maybe walk) some errands in the Village now, so I'll leave you in the good care of Tom and the gang.

What's that Dennis? Oh, that's Boris our full-time assistant cook, bottle washer and curiosity. He has a little problem with English and confusion can and does result sometimes. But, to date, he hasn't caused any problems that Tom or one of us can't sort out for a logical solution. Hope to see ya again 'round these parts. Cheers!

[trolleyboy]

good evening everyone. Late catching up to you all as per usual.ChrisWow I hope you have a speedy recovery as well,watch yourself espeacially in this heat were having right now.Tom I know fully understand your trials and tribulations over the light rail no need us flogging this particular dead horse anymore. Today was my day for Aholes as well. It's amazing what heat brings out in the human beings.Tom in regards to the meet I'm good for any timeframe that we feel works for everyone,I have 5 weeks of vacation to play with so spring / summer it's all good. The only season not good for me is fall/winter. Too cold to be hospitable then anyway. I think I'm museum bound tomorrow the operating crew looks thin,if I'm not needed there I'll check in at a more rashional time. Later today. Rob

[comechtech]

Hi! I'm a newby to this, so please excuse me if I am in the wrong area. I am looking for info on the old UP "Colorado Columbine" train that began running in the '30s from Chicago to Denver, where I am. My wife wants me to model it for her, and I am seeking data on train consists, what type and number of cars, color schemes, engine types, in short, just about anything I can get. Is this the right place, or can you direct me there? Thanks in advance.

[Anonymous]

Good heavens Chris, no sooner does this thread begin, than our "Mgnificant Ten" begins to evolve into "God's Waiting Room" [much like an Amtrak Station!] I'm sure I echo best wishes from all your Buddies for a safe [no matter the time] recovery. Also, I'm certain Tom will "fill in" the details for the proposed "get together."

It hardly seems the time for humor but imagine what "modern science" could do with our spare parts? A "Candy Srtiper" (V..A. Hospital) told me they saved my index finger for a Wendy's order of french fries (Chips, to you Nick). Let us not forget the theraputic value of chicken soup of which Nick will assuredly advise.

Okay Jemima, a 'round for the still standing (or otherwise indisposed) and for bonhomie Monsieuer Chris Fournier; the best vintage in the Cellar, as Tom instructed. Our hope is for a safe and comfortable convalescence. Oh No Boris! That wine is for "All Saint's" Parrish and Fr. Flatski's Rectory which is "on age" until Sunday Mass. You had best handle this Tom! Bon soir Amis.

[siberianmo]

Hye Chris Since I had no clue what pneumothorax is, I looked it up in Carol'smedical dictionary - [wow]! Bad news, for sure.

So, HOW did this condition occur[?] If, you feel a bit ill at ease discussing it in cyber space, as is appreciated, please send me an Email.

Oh [yeah], we don't want Boris getting too close to you or anything he's touched that will come in contact with you. Nick has provided some info that justifies the precautionary measures .......... [swg]

Again - best to you for a speed recovery. [tup]
Tom

[siberianmo]

Chris Oh [yeah] did you miss some stuff round here .... scrolling back a couple of pages will catch you up on the Rendezvous. Insofar as the Emails go, I'll fill you in once your new address is received!

Best regards! [tup] [swg]
Tom