"OUR" PLACE - SEE NEW THREAD!

[wanswheel]

Hi again Tom, another round

Doug, you got a great post this morning, and the punchlines took me by surprise again, hadn't planned to laugh but I did.

Rob, you old techie, expanded upon the motor gizmo, good idea!

Pete, yes, about the whole town of Hannibal showed up at the station, thanks for checking out the links.

Lars, more great pictures, especially inside the train.

Eric, welcome, and if you're reading this page, thanks for pictures of X-2000, particularly at Penn Station.

Michaelson, hi and welcome. Tennessee is the home of my favorite online radio station, WDVX

Tom, these theme days are getting me educated. I can't seem to stop learning more old news about the CB&Q.

Article by J. S. FORD, as told to the Associated Press

"Chicago, May 26.--It was the thrill of a century for me to be at the controls of the Zephyr as it roared into Chicago at the completion of its record-setting run from Denver to Chicago.
There were three of us who shared the job of piloting the Burlington's ultra-modern speed train on the 1,015-mile trip. It was my good luck to be at the throttle for the last 165 miles. Our streamlined bullet certainly attracted the attention of the country.
I guess there were more than a million people who turned out along the route to see us go by. It seemed like the entire population was lined up at every town, city and village to cheer us along. Even the farmers in the fields got a big kick out of it.
Piloting that train was a wonderful sensation. It never gave us a minute's worry, and we burned up the rails. At times we reached a speed of 112 miles an hour, and they say we averaged seventy-seven miles an hour, although I haven't had time to figure it out yet.
Our wheels never stopped moving from the time we left Denver until we reached Chicago. The Zephyr held the road beautifully and responded to every touch. I'd like to do it again."

Denver Rocky Mountain News
http://www.indianahistory.org/ihs_press/web_publications/railroad04/reutter/1.jpg

"Zeph" the burro
http://photoswest.org/photos/00186251/00186332.jpg

Century of Progress
http://memory.loc.gov/pnp/pan/6a27000/6a27900/6a27910r.jpg

Lincoln Zephyr
http://memory.loc.gov/pnp/gsc/5a12000/5a12400/5a12491r.jpg

Fun Facts
http://www.msichicago.org/exhibit/zephyr/funfacts/index.html

[pwolfe]

Hi Tom and all.

A pint of Bathams and a round for another great Theme Day[tup][tup][tup].

First a bit from yesterday. ROB Thanks for the Muskoka fleet link and the post on the Central Ontario Railway another fallen line[:(].
Look forward to the photos of the engine mover, Toton depot in Nottinghamshire had two made from redundent class 37 locos .
I hope you enjoyed the link to the BR Sulzer type 2s. The pioneer class24 # D 5000 was shedded in my home town for a few years.

TED Glad you like the British stuff. I am not too up on Irish DMUs perhaps NICK can help.
Hopefully Alan will send us some Irish pics from his trip.

On to the theme day, really great start by MIKE . I had forgotten about the Canterbury Tales and great history of the Gas -Electric. The link to the Hannible pics looks like nearly all of the town turned out to see the Zephyr wonderful photos.

DOUG Thanks for the E5, Exposition Flyer and California Zephyr info, another great article.

TOM Another winner. Lovely story of the Pioneer's first run even having a mule aboard.
I noticed that the maximum speed attain on that run of 112.5 MPH was exactly the same as one of Gresley,s magnificent streamlined A4 pacifics set a year later. That class of loco also gain the name Streaks if only by the railfans.
Thinking about the inaugeral run the words Teething troubles obviously had not been invented in 1934 unlike many new things invented today.
I must get to Chicago to see that Zephyr and to the IRM and prhaps have a ride behind an E5. It is a pity the Mark Twain Zephyr cannot be found a good home in Hannible.
Is that an Alco on the Rio- Grande train?
Good Nostagia as well.

ROB Thanks for the early diesel engine info and LARS for the California Zephyr wonderful inside pics. I hope after your long drive you can get things resolved successfully and it is not too long before you are back in the Bar

I would give all you gentlemen many thumbs up but when I tried the smillies at the start it took ages and I thought it was going to stick again, so I will say MANY THANKS.

Another round Tom an of course a Bathams for me. PETE.

[siberianmo]

G'day!

[#welcome] Aboard Michaelson! - first drink is on the house - what's your pleasure[?]

The way it works is as follows - we are inclusive with our comments - we acknoweldge the other guy's efforts - we avoid being "hit 'n run" with our Posts - and we talk about "Classic Trains" (real 'n model).

Read page ONE - then check out the last 10-15 pages. Most guys like to do the latter in reverse order. You will see our daily Summaries - those provide some good insight with regard to who the "players" are and what's going on . . . . good idea to check 'em daily.

"Our" Place was created for people who have grown weary of the nonsense and innane crap taking place on so many Threads. Of course, at fiirst glance, one may derive a contrary opinion of us as well. Just takes time to understand what we do and the way we do it! [tup]

Sounds to me as if you have a lot on your plate - should you find the time, stop by again and we'll begin our "chats!"

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[Anonymous]

Well, once I have the chance to plow through 300+ pages of stuff, I'll do so. I'm administrator of another forum, and active member of several others, including two of the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors, so I'm adding this one to the pile of goodies I read day in and day out while producing classes here at the University of Tennessee Space Institute.

Hope to be more active in the future. Just trying to get a handle on what is discussed where, by whom, and the players, if you know what I mean. (grins)

High regards! Michaelson[;)]

[siberianmo]

For: Michaelson

Well, we got you in the door - that's a start! [tup]

Saw you "browsing" and I hope you take the time to acquaint yourself with our Thread - a rather unique kind of place on the Forums.

All kinds of things to learn about "Our" Place and I suggest you begin at the beginning - page One!

The quicker you learn about us, the easier it becomes to exchange info with the guys.

1st drink is on the house when you get your "official welcome" . . . .

Tom [4:-)] [oX)]

[siberianmo]

THEME for the DAY! - THEME for the DAY!

PASSENGER TRAIN NOSTALGIA #2
first Posted on page 117


Here’s a little something taken from the literature associated with the California-Zephyr and its Vista-Dome sleeper observation-lounge:

Rest and Relaxation in the ”Vista-Dome” Lounge-Observation Car

The spacious and luxurious lounge-observation car at the rear of the train and immediately behind the sleeping cars, furnishes congenial lounging facilities on three different levels for as many as fifty passengers.

Modern ingenious designing and expert fabrication combine to make a composite unit of four distinctly separate accommodations in this exquisite car.

The ‘main floor” lounge is located within the gracefully rounded end of the observation car. Here, deeply-cushioned occasionally chairs and settees, in shades of sandalwood and brown in a setting of rose-tan and petal beige, invite complete relaxation.

Carpeted and individually-lighted steps from the lounge lead to the distinctive air-conditioned “Vista-Dome – tastefully decorated in tones of sandalwood. Here, enclosed in shatter-proof, glare-resistant glass, are twenty-four deep-cushioned seats, where passengers may ride in comfort and enjoy a complete view in every direction.

Nestled beneath the Dome is a buffet. Tastefully decorated in rose and gray-green, it provides a delightful rendezvous in which to speed the miles and minutes. At one end of the buffet is a refreshment counter with carved linoleum base and back bar of stainless steel and etched mirrors. Electric refrigeration units assure an ample supply of cool, refreshing beverages at all times. The buffet has a telephone connection with the dining car, over which table reservations can be made.

Forward from the buffet are three bedrooms and a drawing room, each having enclosed toilet facilities. Each room is attractively decorated in harmonious shades of rose-tan, petal beige, taupe and ashes of roses.

This car is completely carpeted and windows are equipped with Venetian blinds – those in the observation-lounge having drapes of gold and white.

From the “American Passenger Train”

Of note: The design of these Budd manufactured cars carries over to day with the VIA Rail Canada fleet of Park Car observation domes. With slight modifications, the literature quoted above could be closely associated with the cars still in use in Canada.

Enjoy!

Tom[4:-)][oX)]


THEME for the DAY! - THEME for the DAY!

[Anonymous]

Just posting to prove 'Michaelson WAS here'. (grins)

Regards! Michaelson

[LoveDomes]

G’day Capn Tom and fellow travelers at the bar!


Well, it was worth the wait! Arriving on Track #1 – on time – and in “ship-shape repair” the Burlington Zephyrs made the day! A 5-[tup] Salute to you Sir! [tup][tup][tup][tup][tup]

Barkeep, I’ll have a Shaefer in a frosty mug if you please and a 1 foot hero – my usual: ham – Swiss – buttAH ‘n mustAHd with two large pickles from the barrel. AND a saucer of brine for the Boris’ pet Armadillo, Tex! He loves the stuff! [swg]

Two daylight visits from Rob – what’s up Count [?] Must be your time off, huh[?] I recall you mentioning it was coming . . .

Al is at his brother-in-laws place and won’t be around ‘til Thursday at the earliest. And Shane mentioned yesterday that he might not be in today. C’mon guy – read! [swg]

Some morning Posts to jump start the day – but did you notice – all “bunched up.” That’s what Tom has been hoping would NOT happen – spread ‘em out if possible. But I suppose if that’s the ONLY time available – “then we takes what we gets!”

I’m trying to maintain a “happy face,” but I’m crying on the inside. I’ve got a 6 hour drive ahead of me tomorrow and depending on what I find at the other end, I may not get back ‘til week’s end. And that will put me smack, dab in the midst of a family get together. Oh joy of joys! <multiple frowns!>

Rob I sent you an e-mail, Tom too! Also heard from Eric and he’s upbeat about the bar. My guess is we’ve won him over. For all who communicated with him, you’ve done the place good! [tup][tup] Have one on me! Ring the bell, Boris!


I am going to dispense with the usual routine of passing thoughts hither ‘n yon and get right to the matter – except to say that all of you who made contributions to today’s “Theme” made excellent selections! [tup][tup][tup]


Some pix for all to enjoy! [tup] and of course “on theme!”


California Zephyr – CB&Q Silver Penthouse #376 obs dome
(from: www.trainweb.org)



California Zephyr - obs dome lower level lounge
(courtesy: www.calzephyr.railfan.net - Public Domain - photo: Hedrich-Blessing)




California Zephyr - Pre 1960 obs dome lower level lounge
(courtesy: www.calzephyr.railfan.net - Public Domain)




California Zephyr - Post 1960 obs dome lower level lounge (courtesy: www.calzephyr.railfan.net - Public Domain)




California Zephyr obs dome bar lounge
(courtesy: www.calzephyr.railfan.net - Public Domain)




California Zephyr obs dome bar lounge
(courtesy: www.calzephyr.railfan.net - Public Domain)




Capn Tom – Rob ‘n Ted have a wonderful and fun filled time in Toronto! Should be a blast and all I can say is . . . . I’m envious! <grin> Don’t let the land lubbers lead you astray, Capn! <yeah, right!>


Until the next time! [tup]


Lars

[trolleyboy]

Okay gents i'm back with a bit o technical info that was dug up from various mag artilce I've encountered over the years. Some has been already posted in Tpm's and Mikes and dougs efforts so I'll try to stick to the tech side and try not to rehash what's already been hashed [swg]

CLASSIC DEISELS # 22 ZEPHER'S & EMC / EMD STREAMLINERS


When E3 #822 rolled out of the erecting shop in La Grange in 1938 few would have guessed that this streamlined passenger diesel would become the defacto standard choice for passenger service engines for the next 26 years. In 1963, when the final E unit an E9 for the Union Pacific it still had the same basic design elements of the original E3. Twin engine A1A trucks,and the same family nose thouhg less rackishly slanted.The E3 itself was the embodyment of many design changes over the years before it's construction as well.

DIESEL ENGINES, STEAMLINING & A1A TRUCKS

At the time the first E3 was built GM corp had owned EMC for eight years.When GM aquired EMC on Dec 30 1930, it was just a simple sales and service company whose product was gasoline powered light railcars. It owed no locomotive or car manufactureing plants of it's own and relied on it's supplieres to build the cars it sold.With the GM purchase,developement of diesel powered cars and locomotives was given top priority by both EMC and it's parent company Winton Engine Corp another GM subsidury.Winton had been supplyuing EMC with the distillate engines for the early gas cars and had come under the control of GM in June of 1930.With GM's backing the resoirces to make a diesel engine was now only a matter of time.

In 1933 Winton introduced it's model 201 diesel engine a 2 cycle 600hp unit,it was intended for stationary use however a mobile railroad useable version calle dthe 201A was soon available it also having a 600hp rating.When both UP and the CB&Q came looking for highspeed streamlinned trainsets EMC landed both powerplant contracts. CB&Q contracted the bodies for theirs to Budd while UP awarded their body contract to Pullman Standard.

UP's M-10000 was finished first but the 201A was not ready so they settled for a 12c Winton gas motor instead also a 600hp motor the 191A.This trainset was delivered in 1934.In april CB&O's Pioneer Zepher was palced into service with it's 201A diesel in place.UP finally got their 201A for the M10000 in October of 1934 however the UP engine was uprated to a 16 cylinder 900hp version of the 201A.

Over the coarse of the next two years EMC supplied power units for other sililar streamliners. In 1934 a Budd built train went into service as the Boston and Maines Flying Yankee, Three additional Budd built sets went to the "Q" all powered by the 201A. In 1936 the Illinois Central recieved their Green Diamond from St Louis car but poewered by the EMC 201A as well.The IC unit inially had the 12cyl 600hp motor which they found to be underpowered so they reengined with the 900 horse version before the train went into service.

The twin engine design appeared in June of 1935 in the form of a stand alone box cab unit, these units with a BB configuration held two Winton 12 cylinder engines rated at 900hp a peice for a combined 1800hp.These were retained by EMC for testing but were demonstrated on mnay US railroads.In august of 1935 the B&O aquired one of these units which they numbered 50.It became the first stand alone road diesel to go into service. The rest being the articulated Zepher like trainsets which the railways found to be a bit of a chore should maintenance issues arrise.ATSF also jumped on board and bought two of the bioxes as well. Tese were the last units assembled outside of the EMC facility as they were building their plant at La Grange at this point.

It was found that for passenger service the BB truckes had trouble handling the weight of two prime movers and the steam gen sets so the longer weight distributiong A1A's that hallmarked the E series locomotives became the norm. The rest is as they say history, the most beloved ( in some camps ) passenger locomotive series of locomotives was born.

Rob

[trolleyboy]

Good afternoon Tom, I think a Lars sandwich spaecaail and a Keith's will do me for lunch today. In teresting topic as per always on a tuesday. I'm supprised that Al or CM3 have yet to surface and engage.

Tom Two well put together and info packed posts a 5x[tup] for that for sure.I'm glad you liked the fleet url,I have travelled on all three of their vessels and for what it's worth the Segwun gives the best ride , likely just the nostalgia. All those ships are well cared for and the scenery just can't be beat[^] That COR article pretty much sums up both CN and CP's unwillingness to run the shortlines. If you look at maps of Ontario from even the 50's I would say a good third to one half of the branches are now walking paths. A testiment to uninformed civic and gov planners to let so much infrastructure go[:(!]

Doug Nice info on all the various and sundry of Zephers.[tup] Good show. The jokes weren't even all that bad, hardly a tweet from the groanameter coarse ode to it's shape tex has taken a bit of a shine to it[:0][:(!] rather nasty actually, hopefully armadillo mating season [V]is done soon

Mike Goof info on topic from you today too sir. Between you and Doug and Tom allot of the info I dug up for the occation has been said.Oh well I have a few technical tidbits left to throw out there.

Ted Don't throw away that promotion so quickly, all promotions come with a better retirement package[:D]caught your emails looks like everything is in order for thursday


Just reminder to everyone. Lets have a really big showing for the borthday bash of birthday baashes on the evening of the 18th[;)][:o)][tup][:D]


Rob

[siberianmo]

Now arriving on track #1 …..
Railroads from Yesteryear! Number Eighteen


PART II of II


Used with permission from: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Formatting differences made necessary due to Forums requirements. Some heralds from other sources.


The Burlington Zephyrs




Models of the Pioneer Zephyr

Due to the Zephyr's place in American railroad history, many model railroaders have built their own versions of the Pioneer Zephyr in miniature. Several model manufacturers are now producing commercial ready-to-run models or kits of the train for modelers to build. This list is sorted by the manufacturer's release date:

• American Flyer produced a ready-to-run Pioneer Zephyr model in S scale (1:64) in 1965.
• Challenger Imports imported limited production ready-to-run brass models in HO scale (1:87) of the 4-car Pioneer Zephyr, Mark Twain Zephyr and the Boston and Maine Railroad's Maine Cheshire and Maine Minuteman in 1993.
• Fine N-Scale Products released a kit in 1996 in N scale (1:160) that includes an option for car number 500.
• Con-Cor made a limited-run model available in both HO scale and N scale that were released in 2005.
• River Raisin Models released a ready-to-run model in S scale of both the Pioneer Zephyr (in three- and four-car configurations) and the similar Flying Yankee. These models were also released in 2005.
• MTH Electric Trains released a limited production ready-to-run model of the three-car Pioneer Zephyr in O scale (1:48) in 2005

See also

• Flying Yankee - A very similar streamlined trainset that operated on the Boston and Maine Railroad; it is undergoing restoration to operating condition as of 2006.
• Nebraska Zephyr - Another of Burlington's Zephyr fleet, one example of which is preserved at the Illinois Railway Museum.

References

• American Society of Mechanical Engineers (November 18, 1980), The Pioneer Zephyr (PDF). Retrieved February 24, 2005.
• Chicago Museum of Science and Industry, excerpts from the New York Times (May 27, 1934), Pioneer Zephyr - A Legendary History. Retrieved February 24, 2005.
• Chicago Museum of Science and Industry (2002), Pioneer Zephyr, a legendary history - The Dawn To Dusk Club. Retrieved March 1, 2005.
• Gordon-Gilmore, Randy (2002), Pioneer Zephyr. Retrieved February 24, 2005.
• Johnston, Bob, and Welsh, Joe, with Schafer, Mike (2001). The art of the streamliner, Metro Books, New York, NY. ISBN 1-58663-146-2.
• Lotz, David (Spring 2002), History of the Mark Twain Zephyr. Retrieved February 27, 2005.
• PBS Online / WGBH (2000), American Experience / Streamliners / People & Events / Ralph Budd. Retrieved February 22, 2005.
• Ragsdale, Earl J. W., (August 20, 1932), Patent number 1,944,106 - Method and product of electric welding (PDF). Retrieved February 27, 2005.
• Trackside, The Pioneer Zephyr comes home. Retrieved February 25, 2005.
• (February 2005) Trains Timeline, Trains Magazine, p. 9.
• Wayner, Robert J., ed. (1972). Car names, numbers and consists, Wayner Publications, New York, NY.
• Zimmerman, Karl (2004). Burlington's Zephyrs, MBI Publishing Company, St. Paul, Minnesota; reprint by Andover Junction Publications. ISBN 0-7603-1856-5.


California Zephyr



Denver and Rio Grande Western #601 leads the California Zephyr westbound at the east switch in the Grand Valley, in Mesa County, Colorado on March 14, 1949.


"Drumhead" logos such as this often adorned the ends of observation cars on the California Zephyr.

The California Zephyr is a 2,438-mile (3924-km) passenger train route operated by Amtrak in the Midwestern and Southwestern United States. It runs from Chicago, Illinois in the east to Emeryville, California in the west, passing through the states of Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, Colorado, Utah, Nevada, and California. This route is one of the longest and most scenic routes run by Amtrak.

Before Amtrak commenced operation, California Zephyr (the CZ, or "Silver Lady") was a passenger train operated jointly by the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad (CB&Q), Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad (D&RGW) and Western Pacific Railroad (WP), along almost the same route. The CB&Q, D&RGW and WP inaugurated "The most talked about train in America" on March 19, 1949. It was the first passenger train in regular operations in North America to use dome cars, and was purposely scheduled so that her patrons passed through the most spectacular scenery in the daylight.

The pre-Amtrak California Zephyr

Before Amtrak operated a train with this name, the California Zephyr was operated by the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad from Chicago to Denver, Colorado, the Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad between Denver and Salt Lake City, Utah, and the Western Pacific Railroad from Salt Lake City to San Francisco. Trains ran with cars of mixed ownership; cars cycled in and out of the consists for service, repairs, and varying passenger loads with the seasons.

This train was the first in the nation to use Vista Dome cars. The first train was christened in San Francisco by Eleanor Parker while California's Lieutenant Governor Goodwin Knight and WP's President Harry Mitchell watched. For the inaugural run in 1949, every female passenger on the train was given a corsage of "silver" and orange orchids that were specially flown in from Hilo, Hawaii. The women who worked as car hostesses on this train were known as Zephyrettes.
The train traversed the route's 2,525 miles (4064 km) in 2½ days.

Equipment used


An interior view of a Denver and Rio Grande Western California Zephyr 1290 Series lounge car as it appeared in April 1951. Men and women sit on upholstered chairs and couches and at booths. The men wear suits and ties, and the women wear dresses or skirts and sweaters. Bottles of Coke are on a table at a booth. The windows have blinds and floral drapes and a painting of a mountain landscape hangs on the far wall.

The passenger cars used when the train was inaugurated in 1949 were as follows:

• Baggage
• Vista-Dome chair car
• Vista-Dome chair car
• Vista-Dome chair car
• Vista-Dome dormitory-buffet-lounge car
• Sleeper (10 roomettes, 6 double bedrooms)
• Sleeper (10 roomettes, 6 double bedrooms)
• Diner (48 seats)
• Sleeper (16 sections)
• Sleeper (10 roomettes, 6 double bedrooms) - this was a run-through car to New York City, New York
• Vista-Dome dormitory-buffet-lounge-observation (1 drawing room, 3 double bedrooms)

The forward section of the first Vista-Dome car was partitioned off and reserved for women and children only. There was a door in the corridor under the dome just behind the women's restroom that provided access to the reserved section. In later years, the reserved section was opened up to all passengers and the door and partitions were removed.

Like the train's operation, ownership of the cars was split between the three railroads almost evenly across all car types. Each car was owned by a single railroad, but the ownership of the cars on any specific day's run of the train depended more on what equipment was available at the terminals than whose railroad the train was operating over at the time.

In 1952 an additional Pullman sleeper (6 double bedrooms) was added to regular service on this train. With the new cars delivered that year, cars arriving in Chicago on the California Zephyr were made available for use on the Ak-Sar-Ben Zephyr for an overnight round trip to Lincoln, Nebraska. When the cars returned from Lincoln the next day, they were placed back in the westbound California Zephyr's consist for the next train out of Chicago that afternoon.

Amtrak Era

As ridership fell during the 1960's the Western Pacific repeatedly petitioned the ICC to drop its section of the train west of Salt Lake City without success. On February 13,1970 the ICC released an order stating, "operation of the train was no longer required". Final operation of the train was made on March 22, 1970 with a west bound train terminating at Oakland, California. The California Zephr had operated for 20 years and 2 days. The Chicago, Burlington and Quincy continued to operate the remaining train as California Service and the Rio Grande as the Rio Grande Zephyr until May 31, 1971, though the train terminated at Salt Lake City.

With the establishment of Amtrak in 1971 the new system began operating its San Francisco Zephyr over the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy route to Denver, and Union Pacific's "Overland Route" west of Denver where the train then ran over the Southern Pacific tracks west of Ogden, Utah.

The Rio Grande railroad initially opted out of Amtrak and continued to operate its section of the former California Zephyr as the Rio Grande Zephyr. In 1983 the Rio Grande Railroad reversed its decision and joined Amtrak.

In July 1983 Amtrak ceased operation of the San Francisco Zephyr and launched operation of a new California Zephyr over the CB&Q and Rio Grande legs of the original trains route. West of Salt Lake City the route operates on the Western Pacific track to where the WP meets the old Southern Pacific track near Wells, Nevada. From Wells to Winnemucca (where the 2 tracks meet again), Nevada the Zephyr uses WP track eastbound, Southern Pacific track westbound. West of Winnemucca the Zephyr uses SP track.

Timeline


Train No. 17, the California Zephyr, passes east of Derby, Colorado on July 15, 1951. (Otto Perry photograph)

• March 12, 1949: Public exhibition of equipment that will be used on the California Zephyr begins in Oakland, California. The exhibition travels through along the WP portion of the train's route to Salt Lake City, Utah before returning to San Francisco, California the following week for the inauguration.
• March 19 1949: The inauguration ceremony for the California Zephyr is held in front of the Pier 3 Ferry building in San Francisco. This is the only time the train is moved into San Francisco, proper; the ceremony is attended by Pacific Opera Company soprano Evelyn Corvello (who sang the Star Spangled Banner to open the ceremony), San Francisco Mayor Leland Cutler, Western Pacific President Harry Mitchell, California Lieutenant Governor Goodwin Knight and Warner Brothers actress Eleanor Parker (who officially christened the train with a bottle of champagne).
• March 20 1949: The first eastbound California Zephyr leaves San Francisco, California bound for Chicago, Illinois at 9:20 am.
• March 1, 1955: The eastbound California Zephyr, while traveling through Ruby Canyon, sees its first on-train birth as Peter Zars is born.
• February 13, 1970: The Interstate Commerce Commission approves the discontinuation of the California Zephyr.
• March 22 1970: The last westbound California Zephyr through to the west coast leaves Chicago; the train terminates in Oakland. The California Zephyr continues to operate Chicago to Ogden on the CB&Q and D&RGW on a tri-weekly schedule, with a cross platform transfer in Ogden to the City of San Francisco for through passengers to Oakland.
• 1983: The California Zephyr returns to service when the D&RGW agrees to join Amtrak.
• October 29, 2000: Service on Amtrak's California Zephyr is upgraded to daily.

Communities served


Two California Zephyr express trains meet at a railroad siding (Grizzly) in Garfield County, Colorado beside the Colorado River on March 21, 1949. The Denver and Rio Grande Western locomotives and passenger cars travel in opposite directions on parallel tracks. Placards on the dome cars read "Silver Hostel" and "Silver Pony."

From east to west, the communities with regular station stops on this train included:

• Chicago, Illinois
• Galesburg, Illinois
• Burlington, Iowa
• Ottumwa, Iowa
• Osceola, Iowa
• Creston, Iowa
• Omaha, Nebraska
• Lincoln, Nebraska
• Hastings, Nebraska
• McCook, Nebraska
• Denver, Colorado (where the train was handed off from the CB&Q to the DRGW)
• Glenwood Springs, Colorado
• Grand Junction, Colorado
• Helper, Utah
• Provo, Utah
• Salt Lake City, Utah (where the train was handed off from the DRGW to the WP)
• Elko, Nevada
• Winnemucca, Nevada
• Portola, California
• Oroville, California
• Marysville, California
• Sacramento, California
• Stockton, California
• Oakland, California
• San Francisco, California

Station stops

The California Zephyr runs as train 5 westbound and 6 eastbound, making the following station stops:


Having just arrived in Galesburg, Illinois, Train No. 5 — the California Zephyr, led by GE Genesis P42DC locomotives #132 and #167 — "cools its heels" for a few minutes before continuing west on September 27th, 2004. (courtesy: www.trainweb.com)

Illinois

• Chicago
• Naperville
• Princeton
• Galesburg

Iowa

• Burlington
• Mt. Pleasant
• Ottumwa
• Osceola (serves Des Moines)
• Creston

Nebraska

• Omaha
• Lincoln
• Hastings
• Holdrege
• McCook

Colorado

• Fort Morgan
• Denver
• Fraser-Winter Park
• Granby
• Glenwood Springs
• Grand Junction

Utah

• Green River
• Helper
• Provo
• Salt Lake City


Former CB&Q sleeper-observation car #375, the "Silver Horizon" (now #9250 in Amtrak livery), brings up the rear of the California Zephyr as it passes through Chicago.

Nevada

• Elko
• Winnemucca
• Sparks
• Reno
California

• Truckee (serves Lake Tahoe)
• Colfax
• Roseville
• Sacramento
• Davis
• Martinez
• Emeryville (serves San Francisco)

References

• Wayner, Robert J., ed. (1972). Car names, numbers and consists, Wayner Publications, New York, NY.


Used with permission from: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Formatting differences made necessary due to Forums requirements. Some heralds from other sources.

***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** *****

END OF PART II of II


Enjoy!


Tom [4:-)] [oX)]



Did you miss any of the previous seventeen[?] Click the URL:

#1: Baltimore & Ohio (B&O
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=233&TOPIC_ID=35270
#2: Chesapeake & Ohio (C&O)
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=234&TOPIC_ID=35270
#3: Pennsylvania (PRR)
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=237&TOPIC_ID=35270
#4: New York Central (NYC)
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=240&TOPIC_ID=35270
#5: New Haven (NYNH&H)
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=242&TOPIC_ID=35270
#6: Santa Fe (ATSF) (Two Parts)
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=246&TOPIC_ID=35270
#7: Southern Pacific (SP)
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=253&TOPIC_ID=35270
#8: Northern Pacific (NP)
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=259&TOPIC_ID=35270
#9: Coastline/Seaboard (ACL – SCL – SAL) (Two Parts)
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=267&TOPIC_ID=35270
#10: Southern Railway (SOU)
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=276&TOPIC_ID=35270
#11: Denver and Rio Grande Western (D&RG)
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=282&TOPIC_ID=35270
#12: Great Northern Railway (GN)
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=287&TOPIC_ID=35270
#13: Missouri Pacific (MP)
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=293&TOPIC_ID=35270
#14: Illinois Central (IC)
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=299&TOPIC_ID=35270
#15: Boston & Maine (B&M)
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=307&TOPIC_ID=35270
#16: Western Pacific (WP)
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=313&TOPIC_ID=35270
#17: Chicago, Burlington & Quincy (CB&Q)
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=320&TOPIC_ID=35270

[siberianmo]

G'day Gents!


A rainy, somewhat blustery and cool day here in mid-Continent USA. Repeat performance for tomorrow – then clearing ‘n warming for the rest of the week. Not to worry, Juneau got his 1 mile trek, in between the rain drops! <grin>


So, a nice finish last night to the day – I see we made it to 20 Posts. That’s the “benchmark” – but of course, it’s rather skewed in my direction. Perhaps one day that will all come about . . . we can hope! [tup]


I have finally come to the conclusion that these Forum pages have a “mind of their own!” Too many times the guys are not getting the most current material when they log in. I refuse to believe that “ignorance’ is the factor – rather it is just the combination of individual ‘puters and the interlink with the Forums. Works well for many, but not so for others. A shame, especially for those who Post only once per day. That puts ‘em behind the curve at the get-go – not getting the info means you’re always behind. Remedy[?] Check in more often . . . and by all means, CHECK to see who may have Posted while you were preparing and submitting yours. All that needs to be done is scroll UP ‘n take a look.


The acknowledgments:

pwolfe Pete Posted: 08 May 2006, 21:34:13

Deed dillos eh[?] That’s a sight for sore eyes, indeed! Frisky[?] Of course Tex is frisky – I think that critter would try and mate with a bowling ball! [swg] Appreciate your stopping by and of course, the round! [tup][tup]


trolleyboy Rob Posted: 08 May 2006, 21:56:46 – 22:40:34 - 22:50:43

I checked out that URL on the “fleet” and came away with the notion that if I were going to sail aboard any of ‘em, it would be the one built in 2002. The other two were constructed back when Moby *** was a minnow. <geesh> [swg] Nevertheless, they are “interesting” vessels and undoubtedly provide many hours of pleasure for those who board.

Need sheep[?] Contact Doug! [swg] <Baaaaaaaaaaaaaah!>

You like that woid – “esoteric,” eh[?] It’s used rather commonly over at Vito the Hit’s School for the Grammatically Challenged! <grin> I’ll have to “dig up” the syllabus.

The most poignant of your “COR” submission was the last line:

QUOTE: By 1986 the link between Trenton and Marmora was gone as well.

Many thanx for the round! [tup][tup]


wanswheel Mike Posted: 08 May 2006, 05:28:31


First customer Post of the day goes to you! [tup] Don’t know your time zone – as we don’t know your location – but the bar was “open” and the round was appreciated by all of the ‘OJ’ drinkers! [swg] [tup][tup]

Nicely done Post with the narratives and URLs – a most interesting and effective blend. Kinda like our coffee – freshly ground ‘n brewed and always tasty! [tup] Appreciate the lead in to our “Theme for the Day” – Burlington Zephyrs [tup][tup][tup]


barndad Posted: 08 May 2006, 05:35:13

In this life there are rather few “certainties,” but you seem to be an exception. Really appreciate having your Posts each morning and it’s a great start to the day! [tup] Exposition Flyer ‘n Zephyrs make for mighty fine readin’ – too bad 20 Fingers Al is missing out on all of this. (Anyone want to “make book” on whether he’ll review the pages he missed while gone[?]) [swg]

Jokes[?] [ugh] Bring back the cartoons! [yeah]


Theodorebear Ted Posted: 08 May 2006, 06:08:41

Good to see ya this AM!

Not too sure I picked up on your URL discussion – but opinions are like noses – we all have one! <grin> Contributing is the key element – this Thread would cease to exist if not for the guys who make it “go” through their unselfish efforts.

Your Email was responded to – thanx!


Okay, Gents – I’ll be here for the remainder of the day! [tup]


Tom [4:-)] [oX)]



BE SMARTER:
Use the “Reload/Refresh” as soon as you get to ”Our” Place.
It’s the only way to get the most current Posts!

[siberianmo]

Now arriving on track #1 …..
Railroads from Yesteryear! Number Eighteen


PART I of II


Used with permission from: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Formatting differences made necessary due to Forums requirements. Some heralds from other sources.


The Burlington Zephyrs




Pioneer Zephyr



The Pioneer Zephyr as it appeared in 1934. (Fair Use)

The Pioneer Zephyr is a diesel-powered railroad trainset (a set of railroad cars permanently coupled together) built by the Budd Company in 1934 for the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad (CB&Q), commonly known by the shorter name of Burlington. The train, which featured extensive use of stainless steel, was originally named Zephyr and was meant as a promotional tool to advertise passenger rail service in the United States. The train's construction included innovations such as shotwelding (a specialized type of spot welding) to join the stainless steel, and articulation to reduce the train's weight.

On May 26, 1934, it set a speed record for travel time between Denver, Colorado, and Chicago, Illinois, when it made a 1,015-mile (1,633 km) non-stop "dawn-to-dusk" dash, covering the distance in 13 hours 5 minutes at an average speed of 77 mph (124 km/h). For one section of the run, the train reached a speed of 112.5 mph (181 km/h), just short of the then-US land speed record of 115 mph (185 km/h). The historic dash inspired two films and the train's nickname, "Silver Streak".

The trainset entered regular revenue service on November 11, 1934, between Kansas City, Missouri, Omaha and Lincoln, Nebraska. It was operated on this route until its retirement in 1960 when it was donated to the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago where it remains on public display. The train is generally regarded as the first successful streamliner on American railroads.

Concept and construction

In the early 1930s, the U.S. was in the depths of the Great Depression. Without the money to purchase new goods, freight trains weren't hauling as much as they had in the previous decade. People who couldn't buy goods also couldn't afford to travel to the extent that they had before, so passenger revenues were also down. Even if they did have the money to travel, the equipment that railroads were using to carry passengers hadn't changed much since the middle of the 19th century. Railroads needed a way to re-energize the traveling public and offer a bit of hope for the days to come.


The engine in the Pioneer Zephyr (Wikimedia Commons)

One of the railroad presidents who faced this challenge was Ralph Budd, formerly of the Great Northern Railway and now president of the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad (Burlington), who needed a new train to get the public interested in traveling again. The name of the new train came from The Canterbury Tales, which Budd had been reading. The story begins with pilgrims setting out on a journey, inspired by the budding springtime and by Zephyrus, the gentle and nurturing west wind. Budd thought that would be an excellent name for a sleek new traveling machine – Zephyr.

In 1932 Ralph Budd met Edward G. Budd (no relation), an automotive steel pioneer who was founder and president of the Budd Company. Edward Budd was demonstrating his new carbody construction in a prototype rail motorcar built of stainless steel. Stainless steel provided many benefits over traditional wood and hardened steel for railroad carbodies; it was a lighter and stronger material, and its natural silver appearance and resistance to corrosion meant that it wouldn't have to be painted to protect it from the weather. Since the carbody was much lighter than similar cars, it would be able to haul a higher revenue load for the same cost.

The problem with building stainless steel cars was that nobody could find an adequate way to hold the body together, until the Budd Company patented the shotwelding technique. On August 20, 1932, Earl J. Ragsdale, an engineer at the Budd Company, filed for a patent on "Method and product of electric welding"; on January 16, 1934, the United States Patent and Trademark Office assigned U.S. Patent 1,944,106 to the Budd Company to cover the technique. Basically, because of the nature of stainless steel, traditional welding methods would unacceptably weaken the metal at the joint. In a shotweld, the two pieces of metal that are to be joined are pressed together at the joint with an electrode on each side of the joint. A very high current of electricity is passed through the joint which effectively fuses the two pieces of metal together.


The driver's controls for the Pioneer Zephyr. (Wikimedia Commons)

Another factor in making the Zephyr lighter than conventional trains was that the individual carbodies in the train share their trucks with adjacent cars. The train was essentially three articulated compartments. On conventional passenger cars, each carbody rode upon a pair of trucks (wheel/axle assembly), with one truck at each end. The articulation not only reduced the number of trucks under the train, but it also dispensed with the need for couplers between each of the carbodies, further reducing the train's weight.

The first Zephyr was completed by Budd Company on April 9, 1934, powered by an 8 cylinder, 600 horsepower (447 kW), 8-201-A model Winton Motor Company engine (the train's prime mover). Like the diesel-electric locomotives that would soon displace the steam locomotive on American railroads, this engine powered an electrical generator; the electricity it generated was then fed to electric traction motors connected to the axles in the train's front truck.

The exterior design of the train was left to aeronautical engineer Albert Dean who designed the sloping nose shape, with architect John Harbeson and industrial designer Paul Philippe Cret devising a way to strengthen and beautify the sides with the train's horizontal fluting.

The RPO section of the Pioneer Zephyr (Wikimedia Commons)

The train's engineer sat in a small compartment in the nose of the train, directly in front of the prime mover. Behind the engine in the first carbody was a 30-foot (9.1 m) long railway post office section. The second carbody consisted of a small baggage section and a short buffet and 20-passenger coach section. The third and final carbody in the train, as it was originally built, was configured as half-coach (40-passenger seats) and half-observation car (12 passenger seats). As built, the train had 72 seats and could carry 50,000 pounds (22.7 tonnes) of baggage and express freight. This train's official christening occurred on April 18, 1934, at the Pennsylvania Railroad's Broad Street Station.

The Budd Company used the experience learned in building the Zephyr to build similar trains (such as the Flying Yankee) for other railroads, as well as a number of additional Zephyrs for the Burlington.

Promotion: "Dawn-to-Dusk" dash

To catch the public's attention, however, this train wasn't simply rolled out of the factory for some dignitary to smash a bottle of champagne on its nose; it would make a dash from one end of the CB&Q, in Denver, to the other in Chicago. The railroad spared no expense in planning the operations. All other trains along the Zephyr's route were diverted to sidings and the turnouts were spiked into the proper alignment for the Zephyr's run. Track and maintenance of way workers checked every single spike and bolt along the train's route to ensure that there would not be any problems, and temporary speed signs were installed along the route to warn the Zephyr's driver of curves that would be dangerous at high speeds. On the day of the dash, every road grade crossing was manned by a flagman to stop automobile traffic ahead of the train and to ensure that the crossing was clear. Stations along the route were protected by local police officers and members of the American Legion and the Boy Scouts of America.

The train left Denver at 7:04 AM Central Daylight Time and arrived in Chicago at 8:09 PM, a total of 13 hours and 5 minutes later, at an average speed of 77 mph (124 km/h). For one section of the run, the train reached a speed of 112.5 mph (181 km/h), just short of the then-world land speed record of 115 mph (185 km/h). The non-stop 1,015-mile (1,633 km) trip exceeded the railroad's expectations by making the run one hour and 55 minutes faster than was scheduled. Reporters along the route told of the "silver streak" that ran by faster than any other train that normally rode American rails at the time. The Burlington's contemporary passenger trains plied the same distance in around 25 hours.

Riding the train for this run were Ralph Budd, Edward G. Budd, president H. L. Hamilton of the Winton Motor Company (at that time a part of the new General Motors Electro-Motive Division), a number of reporters, some Burlington employees, lucky members of the public, and Zeph, a burro that was contributed by a Colorado newspaper, the Rocky Mountain News, as a mascot for the train. The newspaper had described Zeph to the railroad as a "Rocky Mountain Canary" so the train's crew had originally planned only enough space for a birdcage; when they found out it wasn't a bird, the railroad hastily built a pen in the baggage section and bought some hay for it. When asked about the burro, Ralph Budd replied "Why not? One more jackass on this trip won't make a difference."

After the train arrived in Chicago, it traveled a little farther to the 1934 Century of Progress fair (noted in some press articles about the dash as the "Chicago World's Fair") where it was put on public display on opening day. After its display on the Wings of a Century stage, the train was taken on a 31-state, 222-city publicity tour. More than 2 million people saw the train before it entered revenue service.

Part of the tour included a test run between Chicago and Minneapolis-St. Paul that operated a full five hours faster than the Burlington's fastest steam-powered train along the same route. Due to the Zephyr's success on this test run, the Burlington immediately ordered two more Zephyr trainsets that would be dubbed the Twin Zephyrs; the new trains debuted in April 1935 on this route.

Regular revenue service


Commemorative postal covers that were carried aboard the Pioneer Zephyr for its first revenue run (November 11, 1934) and as it crossed the one million mile mark (December 29, 1939). (Fair Use)

The Zephyr's power (leading) car was numbered 9900, the baggage-coach combine car was numbered 505, and the coach-observation was numbered 570. The trainset was placed in regular service between Kansas City, Missouri, Omaha and Lincoln, Nebraska, on November 11, 1934, replacing a pair of steam locomotives and six heavyweight passenger cars. The Zephyr replaced a train weighing up to eight times as much. By June 1935, it proved popular enough to add a fourth car to the train's regular configuration, providing additional coach seating. The fourth car was originally a 40-seat coach number 525, but the following June was switched to Twin Cities service, then back to the Pioneer Zephyr in December. Car 525 remained on the train until June 1938. Just over five years after it was introduced, the Pioneer Zephyr crossed the one million mile mark in regular service on December 29, 1939, near Council Bluffs, Iowa.


Burlington Zephyr passengers arriving at Chicago's Union station (Public Domain)

Ralph Budd and the Burlington capitalized on the Zephyr's success. However, most passenger trains needed larger capacity. Thus, as the Burlington made a transition to larger diesel-electric locomotives pulling individual passenger cars, new streamlined cars of standard-size were ordered, which quickly became the standard of many railroads. However, Burlington was determined to be the leader, and ordered its large "E" series passenger diesels to also be equipped with matching stainless-steel fluting. Many of the Burlington's long distance named passenger trains began operating under the Zephyr banner, including the Nebraska Zephyr, Twin Cities Zephyr, and perhaps the most famous of the namesake, the California Zephyr.

On the second anniversary of the train's famous dash, the original Zephyr was rechristened as the Pioneer Zephyr to distinguish it as the first of the Burlington's growing Zephyr fleet. In 1938, car 525 was replaced with car number 500, a 40-seat buffet/lounge car to provide light meals during the train's travels. Car number 505, the baggage-coach combine, was also rebuilt at this time into a full baggage car, but it kept the windows as they were originally installed.


Burlington Zephyr passenger train approaching station and waiting passengers at East Dubuque, Illinois (Public Domain)

In regular service, the Pioneer Zephyr had its share of accidents on the railroad. In 1939 it was involved in a head-on collision with a freight train that completely destroyed the trainset's control cab. The trainset was rebuilt and re-entered revenue service soon afterward, but the accident strengthened the opinions of locomotive designers to move the cab back from the front of the locomotive up above a large nose (as can be seen in the EMD F-unit and EMD E-unit series locomotives).

Since the Pioneer Zephyr was built of stainless steel, which is not as recyclable as aluminum, the train was spared from the metal recycling drives of World War II. By contrast, Union Pacific's M-10000 was built of aluminum and was scrapped in 1942 for the war effort, among other reasons.

In 1948 and 49, the Pioneer Zephyr was temporarily removed from service to participate in the Chicago Railroad Fair's "Wheels A-Rolling" pageant. The fair's purpose was to celebrate 100 years of railroad history west of Chicago, and Pioneer Zephyr's role in the pageant was to highlight the latest strides in railroad technology. It resumed regular passenger operations when the fair ended on October 2, 1949.[1] By 1955 the Pioneer Zephyr's route had been updated to run between Galesburg, Illinois, and Saint Joseph, Missouri; the trainset had been in continual service since 1934, operating over nearly 3 million miles (4.8 million kilometres). The Pioneer Zephyr's last revenue run was a trip from Lincoln, Nebraska, to Kansas City, Missouri, (along the train's regular revenue route) that then continued to Chicago on March 20, 1960. When Amtrak took over passenger rail services in 1971, the legendary Zephyr name was preserved, and the California Zephyr is an Amtrak route in the 21st century.

Use in film


The advertising poster for the 1934 film. (Fair Use)

Press publicity had apparently first coined the term "Silver Streak". The Pioneer Zephyr's famous Denver-Chicago dash served as the inspiration for the 1934 film Silver Streak starring Charles Starrett. In that story, the crew was racing to the Boulder Dam construction site with an iron lung, with only moments to spare. The original Zephyr trainset was used for the exterior shots in the film, while interior scenes were filmed on a soundstage in Hollywood. For the film, the "Burlington Route" nameplate on the train's nose was replaced with one that read "Silver Streak".

More than 40 years later, that classic film – or at least the name "Silver Streak" – served as the inspiration for a newer film of the same name. Silver Streak (1976) starred Gene Wilder and Richard Pryor; rather than using the Pioneer Zephyr, the combination murder-mystery and comedy was set in the era in which it was filmed, with the train being patterned more after then modern long-distance trains.

Legacy: Preservation and static display and namesakes

On May 26, 1960, the 26th anniversary of the "Dawn-to-Dusk" dash, the original Pioneer Zephyr trainset (car numbers 9900, 505 and 570) was donated to the Chicago Museum of Science and Industry. Car number 500, which operated with the train starting in 1938, went along with Mark Twain Zephyr trainset 9903 to a party in Mount Pleasant, Iowa, for static display in a town park, but plans for the train's display did not work out; car 500 and the Mark Twain Zephyr are currently stored in Chicago and plans are currently underway to display it in Fairfield, Iowa.

The Chicago museum displayed the Pioneer Zephyr outside the museum, with no protection from the weather, until 1994. At that time, the steam locomotive that shared the display space with the Zephyr, Santa Fe #2903, was donated to the Illinois Railway Museum, while the Chicago museum prepared a new display location for the Zephyr.


The observation car (rear) end of the Pioneer Zephyr as seen at the Chicago Museum of Science and Industry. Exterior projectors display moving images on the now frosted windows. Viewers inside the car see the rapid motion of passing landscapes and grade crossings and view simulated passengers displayed as talking animated mannequins (Wikimedia Commons)

The Chicago museum dug a pit in front of the building and built a new display area for the Zephyr where it could be displayed year-round. In 1998, after the train received a cosmetic restoration by Northern Rail Car, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the pit was finally ready to receive the train. The Pioneer Zephyr train is still on display at the museum just outside the main entrance from the underground parking area for the museum, where it is one of the more popular exhibits.

In addition to the Pioneer Zephyr, two other legacies exist in modern time. An operable Nebraska Zephyr train was donated to the large Illinois Railway Museum at Union, west of Chicago. There, powered by one of the large "E" series passenger diesels (an EMD E5) with the distinctive and durable stainless-steel fluting, it is still operated on short runs on the Museum's substantial trackage, providing train enthusiasts and tourists with an experience reminiscent of the heyday of the Burlington's Zephyr service.

The Ford Motor Company used the trade name "Zephyr" on a model of its Lincoln-Mercury division cars. Mercury Zephyrs were built in the 1970s and 1980s.

Also utilizing the famous name, the Minnesota Zephyr is an elegant dining train located in the historic city of Stillwater, Minnesota, although it is not directly associated with the historic Burlington Zephyr fleet.


Used with permission from: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Formatting differences made necessary due to Forums requirements. Some heralds from other sources.

***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** *****

END OF PART I of II


Enjoy!

Tom [4:-)] [oX)]

[siberianmo]

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


Railroads from Yesteryear –

Chicago, Burlington & Quincy CB&Q) –

The Burlington Zephyrs arrives on track #1 at 10 AM today –

(A TWO-PART Post)

WATCH FOR IT!


Tom[4:-)] [oX)]


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

[Anonymous]

A very good Tuesday morning to one and all. Tom, I think a tall grapefruit juice and a toasted Bagel w/cream cheese should do it, thanks. Agreed, not everything could be limited to the URL references. There wouldn't be much to "kick around," would there? Still, if there was a "hypothetical" choice between a full page "data dump" in long hand or clicking back and forth on a URL well, my choice would be the latter. Mind you, that is for data and "stats." only. Naturally, the "personalized" or "narrative" style with plenty of information to hand, is ideal.[2c] The equivilent of reading 2 full issues of "Classic Trains" before a member"s obligatory reply; makes for a loooong "sit" at the C.R.T.[:O] Like anything else, the "common sense" factor prevails. As A. Lincoln once said: "Common sense, isn't all that common."[:D] Oh yes, I mailed out all the dope on "Our" Place to the gentleman I met last Sunday but haven't received anything positive. I've got my "fingers crossed."

Hey Lars, thank you for the promotion to 3rd. Officer. Coming from the "Head Shed," it is a hon(u)r indeed. Sorry though, I must resign the Commission before the ink is dry. Seems there is a problem from having retired as an enlisted Master Sergeant some 15 years previously.[swg]

Pete, thanks for clearing up some vagueries on the DMU classifications. I rode what appeared to be a earlier versin of the M5-1625 on my visit to Erin's Isle. Also, between Cork and Cobh (Queenstown) there were excellent rail connections under catenary. I tried to get a classification for both units but the replies were only road numbers, etc. Glad your M I Law was tolerant for your taking a photo or two. Looking forward to seeing them, next time. The exchange you are having with Nick on any number of U.K. Roads and rolling stock is really bearing fruit and helpful to neophites like me.[tup]

Rob, your 3-stage post yesterday covered more ground than I will be able to distance this a.m.[tup] The only "ground" I must cover will be the I-State very, very soon.[V] You and Tom have mail today in response, thanks again for your previous respective input.

There are some "thunder boomers" headed this way and we need the rain desperately. I must place "discretion before valor" however and make this a wrap for now. Happy rails all.

[Anonymous]

Good morning Tom and all! I'll have the usual two lite breakfasts please. Nice article on the COR from Rob yesterday, and I see that Mike has typed-up a theme related article for today! Great job gentlemen! Here's my humble effort for today's theme:

From Railroad History in Photographs R&LHS



Fort Worth and Denver E5 unit No. 9980B “Silver Warrior” leads a long Exposition Flyer westbound through Somonauk, Ill., a small town about 45 minutes out of Chicago. The E5 passenger diesel was a “one-off” EMD locomotive model built only for the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy in 1940, both for backup Zephyr services, and also as primary power for premier heavyweight passenger trains on the Chicago-Denver line (No. 9980B was purchased for Texas Zephyr service). The FW&D was a component of the Burlington.

The Burlington E5’s had distinctive, Budd-constructed, fluted stainless steel carbodies, and although having a “family resemblance” to EMD’s earlier E3 and E4, and subsequent E6 locomotives, the side window arrangement was totally different, and there were other significant differences as well. Note the removable skirts above the trucks.

The Exposition Flyer was a Chicago=-Oakland train shared with Denver & Rio Grande Western and Western Pacific, originally to serve the 1939 San Francisco Golden Gate Exposition. It was the success of this train that eventually broke ground for its more famous successor in 1949, the California Zephyr.

On the date of the photograph, the photographer tells us that the train was flying “at full speed.” It had to! Just months before, competitor Milwaukee Road with its new superfast Midwest Hiawatha had seriously challenged the Burlington’s important Chicago-Omaha market. The Burlington, not having a competing streamliner of its own, responded by accelerating the heavyweight Flyer on its Chicago-Omaha segment, almost meeting the Milwaukee’s time. This photo was taken in early afternoon, March, 1941.



Among America’s legendary passenger trains was the California Zephyr, operated jointly by the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy between Chicago and Denver, the Denver & Rio Grande Western between Denver and Salt Lake City, and the Western Pacific between Salt Lake and Oakland. The train was noteworthy for its modern Budd stainless steel cars with Pullman and coach accommodations, including numerous Vista domes. It had a schedule designed for daylight transits of both Rocky Mountain and Sierra Nevada scenery; comfortable travel and excellent service were the Zephyr’s watchwords. Inaugurated in March, 1949, the train, widely and familiarly known as the “CZ,” survived until March 22, 1970, when WP was granted a discontinuance for their segment. For a short time, CB&Q and D&RGW used their part of the CZ equipment to provide service as far west as Ogden, whence passengers had to take Southern Pacific trains over the Sierra.

At the time of the initiation of Amtrak in April, 1971, D&RGW declined to join, and continued a segment on the CZ tradition with its Rio Grande Zephyr between Denver and Salt Lake City. Eventually though, D&RGW reached an agreement with Amtrak, and the California Zephyr train name was revived in July, 1983, for Amtrak service over the original Rocky Mountain route. Bat farther west, the train traversed SP’s Donner Pass line, not the WP’s Feather River Canyon.

The photo shows westbound No. 17 at Stockton, Calif. Headed by passenger-geared F7 unit No. 804, the motive power carries the famous WP passenger paint scheme, an orange and silver body with red nose wings. Beginning with its wartime FT units, Western Pacific became a firm believer in EMD power, and used both F3 and F7 locomotives on the Zephyr. This image dates from about 1952. Western Pacific photo.

[:I] Three men are at a bar, and two of the men are talking about the control they have over their wives, while the third remains silent. After a while, the first two men turn to the third and ask, "What about you? What kind of control do you have over your wife?" The third man turns to the first two and says, "Well, I'll tell you, just the other day I had her on her knees." The first two men were dumbfounded. "Wow! What happened next?" they asked.
The third man takes a healthy swig of his beer, sighs and mutters, "Then she started screaming, 'Get out from under the bed and fight like a man!'" [:I]

[:I] A cop pulls a man over for speeding and he notices his eyes are red.
He says, "Gee, your eyes look red. Have you been drinking?"
The man replies, "No officer, but gee, your eyes look glazed. Have you been eating doughnuts? [:I]

[wanswheel]

Hi Tom and everyone, a round for the house

Just some stuff....for CB&Q theme.. streamlined.

First excerpt from Dec. 99 Railway Age article, Passenger Rail in the 20th Century:

"The railroads' response to the competitive threat of the automobile was, in effect, to reinvent the passenger train, remaking it into something much faster and far more comfortable and appealing than the solid, drab rolling stock of the railroad's "standard" era.

The genesis of this new era of passenger rail lay in experimentation with internal combustion power that had begun soon after the turn of the century. There were several attempts to develop a self-propelled railcar using an internal combustion powerplant, but the first really successful design was developed in 1906 by General Electric, which went on to market nearly a hundred gasoline-electric cars over the next decade. GE left the railcar field after World War I, but the gas-electric railcar market was soon taken up by the new Electro-Motive Company of Cleveland. Employing GE electrical components and Winton engines, Electro-Motive developed a highly successful line of gas-electrics, selling some 177 of them to North American railroads between 1922 and 1936.

Electro-Motive's gas-electric was an austere "maid of all work" vehicle designed for local and branch line services, but the new powerplant it pioneered offered great promise for a wider application in railroad service. By the end of the 1920s other builders were producing standardized boxcab diesel-electric locomotives for switching, freight, and passenger services. And by the early 1930s two railroads, Union Pacific and the Burlington, were ready to try the new powerplant in an entirely new kind of intercity passenger train.

The UP's new train, the M-10000, was a sleek three-unit articulated train built by Pullman-Standard, while the Budd Company of Philadelphia built the similarly configured Burlington Zephyr. Both, however, were fitted with powerplants supplied by Electro-Motive, by this time a division of General Motors. The UP train had a 600-hp distillate engine supplied by GM's Winton division, while the Burlington took a chance on GM's newly-developed 600-hp 201A high speed diesel engine."

************************************************************************************
Next excerpt from "The History Behind the California Zephyr" by David Lotz (www .broadway-limited.com/products/calzephyrhist.htm)

"The new, lightweight, streamlined trains of the Burlington needed a name that would evoke thoughts of speed and strength, and convey to the riding public that these trains were the “last word” in modern railroad travel. The perfect name leapt off the pages of the prologue to Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales as Ralph Budd read:

When in April the sweet showers fall

When also Zephyrus with his sweet breath

Exhales in air in every grove and heath

Then people long to go on pilgrimages

And palmers long to seek the stranger stand

Of far-off saints, hallowed in sundry lands

Zephyrus! The Greek personification of the west wind, was recognized as a force of renaissance and change. The Anglo-Saxon derivative would be Zephyr, short, sweet and simple. The name would convey the hopes, optimism and destiny of the new Burlington train. In the twenty years following the first Zephyr, later known as the Pioneer Zephyr, Budd would build eleven successively more advanced Zephyrs, leading to the ultimate evolution, the California Zephyr – a virtual symphony in 18-8!"

Ralph Budd (1879-1962) was president of Great Northern (1919-1931) and Chicago, Burlington & Quincy (1932-1949). He superintended construction of the 7.79-mile Cascade Tunnel that eliminated 1,000 feet of rise and fall in elevation, the 40-mile Dotsero cutoff that created a third competitive transcontinental route, and the inland route between San Francisco and Oregon. His diesel-powered Pioneer Zephyr ushered out steam-powered passenger trains.

Is not related to

Edward G. Budd (1870-1946) founded the Budd Co. in 1912 in Philadelphia to produce steel automobile bodies. When railroads moved to modernize passenger trains, Budd in 1934 designed and built the three-car stainless steel Pioneer Zephyr, which ushered in streamliners. Budd Co. later built the first Metroliners.

PHOTO OPS

Children and adults alike await the CB&Q Railroad's newest stainless steel train, the Mark Twain Zephyr, as it enters Union Depot on October 25, 1935 at 9:10 a.m. http://www.hannibal.lib.mo.us/mtzeph/wZ7002.jpg

Del King, announcer for the Columbia Broadcasting System (left), watches Ralph Budd, President of the CB&Q Railroad (right), as he delivers an address to the nation via radio. http://www.hannibal.lib.mo.us/mtzeph/wZ7004.jpg

Nina Gabrilowitsch, granddaughter of Samuel Clemens holds the bottle of domestic champagne she will use to christen the Mark Twain Zephyr http://www.hannibal.lib.mo.us/mtzeph/wZ0062.jpg

http://www.hannibal.lib.mo.us/mtzeph/wZ7015.jpg Huckleberry Finn

http://www.hannibal.lib.mo.us/mtzeph/wZ0082.jpg Tom Sawyer

http://www.hannibal.lib.mo.us/mtzeph/wZ7020.jpg Becky Thatcher

10 YEARS LATER on October 25,1945

The Mark Twain Zephyr is honored for its tenth birthday. The celebration includes the placement of 10 year chevrons by Ralph Budd, President of the CB & Q Railroad. The ceremony takes place at Union Depot where the original dedication was also held. The Zephyr appears to be in good shape considering it has traveled 1,767,180 miles. President Harry S. Truman, who attended the original dedication ceremony as a U.S. Senator, is unable to attend but sends a congratulatory telegram.

http://www.hannibal.lib.mo.us/mtzeph/wZ7036.jpg

http://www.hannibal.lib.mo.us/mtzeph/wZ7035.jpg

CB&Q ROUNDHOUSE at HANNIBAL in the 1920s http://www.hannibal.lib.mo.us/mtzeph/wZ1352.jpg

EDWARD not RALPH BUDD built
http://www.cvrma.org/pictures/MISC/DULUTH-MASSABEE-IRON-RANGE_MN_BUDD-RDC3.jpg
DULUTH RDC

ALGOMA CENTRAL pic
http://www.railtravelcenter.com/images/Algoma-Central-RR2.jpg

Eastbound Canadian just west of the Continental Divide on the CP line west of Lake Louise, Alberta. The photo was taken in September 1989, a few months before the Canadian was re-routed to the CN line through Jasper. http://www.trainnet.org/Libraries/Lib003/VIACDN.GIF

[siberianmo]

Toronto: courtesy: www.viarail.ca


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


TUESDAY’s INFO & SUMMARY of POSTS


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



Daily Wisdom


.



Info for the Day:

Railroads from Yesteryear –
The Burlington Zephyrs arrives TODAY!


* Weekly Calendar:


Wednesday: Toy & Model Trains Day!
Thursday: Fish ‘n Chips Nite!
Friday: Pizza Nite! & Steak Nite!
Saturday: Steak ‘n Trimmin’s Nite! – and –
ENCORE! Saturday



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


Aging


-- I feel like my body has gotten totally out of shape, so I got my doctor's permission to join a fitness club and start exercising. I decided to take an aerobics class for seniors I bent, twisted, gyrated, jumped up and down, and perspired for an hour. But, by the time I got my leotards on, the class was over.

-- Reporters interviewing a 104-year-old woman: "And what do you think is the best thing about being 104?" the reporter asked. She simply replied, "No peer pressure."

-- The nice thing about being senile is you can hide your own Easter eggs.

-- Just before the funeral services, the undertaker came up to the very elderly widow and asked, "How old was your husband?" "98," she replied. "Two years older than me." "So you're 96," the undertaker commented. She responded, "Hardly worth going home, is it?


[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 7th thru May 13th: City Slickers (1991) starring: Billy Crystal, Jack Palance & Bruno Kirby –and- Crocodile Dundee (1986) starring: Paul Hogan & Linda Kozlowski. SHORT: Horses’ Collars (1935).



SUMMARY

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

(1) EricX2000 (Eric) Posted: 08 May 2006, 01:11:24 (325) 2nd visit!

(2) siberianmo Tom Posted: 08 May 2006, 05:26:53 (325) Monday’s Info & Summary!

(3)Theodorebear
Posted: 08 May 2006, 05:59:40 (325) Right Coast report!

(4) barndad Doug Posted: 08 May 2006, 06:11:36 (325) 3-joke-morning!

(5) LoveDomes Lars Posted: 08 May 2006, 07:59:52 (325) Lars Report!

(6) LoveDomes Lars Posted: 08 May 2006, 08:13:36 (325) B’day Bash announcement!

(7) BudKarr BK Posted: 08 May 2006, 10:10:01 (325) Surprise BK Report!

(8) siberianmo Tom Posted: 08 May 2006, 10:34:18 (325) Acknowledgments, etc.

(9) coalminer3 CM3 Posted: 08 May 2006, 11:37:35 (325) WVA Monday Report!

(10) siberianmo Tom Posted: 08 May 2006, 14:25:28 (325) Acknowledgments & Comments

(11) coalminer3 CM3 Posted: 08 May 2006, 15:24:55 (325) Rare PM visit!

(12) LoveDomes Lars Posted: 08 May 2006, 16:28:53 (325) Lars Report, part duex!

(13) pwolfe Pete Posted: 08 May 2006, 17:52:27 (325) Wolfman sez!


(14) siberianmo Tom Posted: 08 May 2006, 19:16:01 (325) Acknowledgments & Comments

(15) nickinwestwales Nick Posted: 08 May 2006, 19:23:41 (326) Nick at Nite!

(16) siberianmo Tom Posted: 08 May 2006, 19:38:28 (326)

(17) pwolfe Pete Posted: 08 May 2006, 21:34:13 (326) Wolfman sez, part deux!

(18) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 08 May 2006, 21:56:46 (326) Count Robulla speaks!

(19) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 08 May 2006, 22:40:34 (326) Classic Steam #24 – COR

(20) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 08 May 2006, 22:50:43 (326) etc.




That’s it! [tup][;)]


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

[trolleyboy]

hello again Leon another round for the gentry please.

pete just reread the story of the Ethels interesting stuff [tup]This just proves that it's not only the NA railroads that love there anachronisims for things rebuilt in their shops. MATES, SLUGS, DMU's, SWEEPS etc et al. I wonder if anyone thought ot save an Ethel for posterity [?]They do sound like an interesting unit. I will quickly go to the url to see these critters for myself.

Soeaking of all things unusual. I manged to get a couple pictures of an ex IC prime mover car in the middle of a CN train through Brantford. once the films in I will post them for you folks. An interesting bit of railroading, it's designed to carry a complete primemover for a modern locomotive from shop to shop. It was empty at the time but bound for Mac yard in Toronto.

Rob

[trolleyboy]

Good evening again gents. leon a round of CR while I adda bit o info of the Cklassic nature. Here's another esoteric amd long forgotten steam road from the pioneer days of Ontario.

CLASSIC STEAM # 24 THE CENTRAL ONTARIO RAILWAY

The COR Into The Hills of Gold

The Central Ontario Railway was a 117 mile run that stretched from Trenton Ontario North to Maynooth and Lake St Peter. It was a road that served the many minning towns and villiages of the area.

Begun in 1873, the line was ultimatly intended to Link with the legondary Booth railway the Ottawa Arnprior and Parry sound Ry ( classic steam # 22 ) near Whitney Ontario.While the line made it through the sheild rock and swamp 3 miles shy of Booth's road is where it ended at Wallace on Lake St Peter. The actuial terminus as far as passengers went was at Maynooth just to the south. Here the railway had it's yards,turntables, and it's largest station.

The stroy starts in Prince Edward County, with the completion of a line between Picton( although the Port of Long Point was the original target ) and Trenton jct, the roads link with the Grand Trunk just north of the town of Trenton itself. ( Trenton is on the Bay of Quinte )However the gold rush north of Trenton and Belleville caught the eyes of the railroads builders and in 1866 they were determined to built to these new found gold fields before anyone else, chiefly their main rivals the builders of the Grand Junction Railroad who were hurrying to build a line from Belleville northwest to Peterborough, this openned in 1879. A branch led north from Peterborough from Madoc Jct to the ill-fated goldfields at Eldorado Ontario. Tyhe gold was not as plentifull as hoped but other more mundane minerals convinced the builders of the COR to continue north : iron ore.

In 1882 the construction of the new lines to the iron ore producing areas began. The first destination was Coe Hill, centre of the earliest of these iron discoveries. later prospectors found more in the hills around Bancroft, the line reached Bancroft in 1900.In 1909 Mackenzie and Mann's Canadian Northern laid it's Ottawa to Toronto mainline through Trenton , and added the branches and mainline of the COR to their ever expanding empire. The COR replaced their wooden depot at trenton with a huge three story and extended the north end of the line through to Maynooth where another larger station was built. It met the Irondale Bancroft and Ottawa ( IBO ) at Bird's Creek just north of Bancroft completing the web of branches that were the COR.All along the route small brancjes radiated like veins out to all of the mining camps in the area. Most were open pit type mines as the ore was close to the surface.

Gradually as the various mines depleted the branches were closed down. The lines in Cordova closed in 1941, to Bessemer and Lake st Peter in 1965 and to Coe Hill in 1966.CNR tried of running the short lines that were left as they felt them to be unproffitable even though several small and large paper plants and other industries were located on them. The Paper plants at Glenn Ross and Glenn Millar particularly of note. The CNR steadily chopped back the COR until all of the liones north of Marmora were gone by 1982. By 1986 the link between Trenton and Marmora was gone as well.


Rob

[trolleyboy]

Good evening folks, I is here, or am I. Been that kind of day.I too have done battle with my back 40 today it was beginning to look like the hundred acre woods [:O][sigh]. I must look at buying a sheep or two [swg]

Tom I did recieve your email and it has been responded to.In three days or less we'll be raising a tankard or two ( dozen ) [:O][;)][:D]It was interesting reading your ponderings about Tex's kinfolk ( citters ) I remember seeing many of them either dead or slowley moving along the sides of the interstates in the Carolinas and Florida, and Georga. I certainly would not want to hit one [tdn]. Glad you liked the Muskoka fleet shots, those three ships are the last of what at one point was hundreds of small and large steamers that plied the landlocked lakes of Central Ontario, the Segwun is just shy of 200' long and her triple expansion steam engines will move her along at 16 knots still ! To think at one point the museum there was just going to use her as a floating museum/ restaurant. They were refitting her bigger sister Sagamo as a steaming excursion ship, the "Sag" was newer ( built in 1903 ) but she unfortunatly burnt to the waterline in 1969 while being rebuilt, sooo Segwun was reactivated. She had been idled in 1953 when she ran over a submerged rock and tore baldes off both her screws ! The old ones are still on display at the ticket office. Anyhow it's anice cruise with great food should anyone wi***o partake . Heres the url if anyones interested. http://www.muskokafleet.com/

Lars Good luck with your new found property woes. Hopefully you can fix it via the phone, I wouldn't want to be the guy at the other end if you gots to go up there. Vito and his boyz will likley be glad to "splain "it to them however.I hope everyone does take note of thee[bday] bash of the year on the 18th !I know a howling pack of hyenenas couldn't keep me from helping out at it.

BK Good to see you just breifly, sounds like everything is falling into place for you and the bride to be. congrates again and happy landings for your trip. [tup]

Ted I think that I shall ignore the mink underware comment, other than wouldn't that itch [?] [swg][:O] take a boo at the Muskoka fleet website lots of neat pictures of the lakes and the history et all. Heather and I take a cruise with them once a summer. gravenhurst is only a 4 hour ride from our place and the Muskoka region is Gods country for sure.

Pete Glad you liked the shots, I look forward to reading the HEP info.[tup]

Eric Let me also [#welcome] you to our happy little place here on the web [tup]

CM3 I'm still trying to find the info I had on C&NW's baldwin rebuilds. They were wierd with a capitol "W". Who else but the C&NW graft cabs onto E9 B units for commutor trains, or run GP7 and 9 repowered Baldwins with the EMD motor sections.Of coarse CN did rebuild a couple dozen SW1200RS with later 567 motors and the long hoods from GP's to make what railfans refered to as a "sweep" Lots of neat stuff out there to chat about fer sure.

Rob

[pwolfe]

HI Tom and all.

A pint of Bathams and a round please.

TOM Unfortunatly the 'dillos were all 'deed' by the road as they say in Scotland, but one of the bride's moms neighbors had a live one in her garden which they had not seen for quite a while.
As there been any sign of TEX getting frisky [:O].

The puter has been a bit funny today but getting there eventuly. but since switching to the new system it is miles better. I can imagine trying to post pictures etc with the old system.

NICK Thanks for the DMU details. I believe those Rolls-Royce 4-Car units were used on the Bedford to St Pancreas or a slightly different design but the same appearence on the services out of London Marylebone. Both types would have the M prefix as the ex Great Central out of Marylebone were under London Midland control when the units were introduced.
I do hope you can get to Missouri some day [yeah].

ROB I have found out about the BR locomotives which were converted to provide Head End Power.
In the early 80s BR was phasing out steam heating and were introducing new Mk III sleeping cars. By this time quite a few classes were capable of providing HEP, the problem was on the West Highland line from Glasgow to Fort William in Scotland. which was not able to take the larger diesels. the passenger services at the time was in the hands of steam heat class 37 CO-CO diesel locos.It wasdecided to convert some of the 37s with alternators and be able to provide HEP.
Before the 37/4s, as the sub-class were known, would be ready, it was decided to convert three BR/ Sulzer BO-BO class25 diesels nearing the end of their days, as non-powered locos able to provide HEP. in theUK this was known as ETH. The locos carried Departmental running numbers 97250/1/2 and were known as ETHELs or
Electric Train Heat Ex Locomotives.
After the 37/4s were ready, in abpout 1986 the Ethels found a new job providing ETH for steam specials they were not very popular in this role as the rule at the time meant they had to be right behind the steam loco.
As I asked my mate in England ( not Alan), a die hard steam fan, if he remembered them his reply was
" I remember the [censored][censored] things HIC-DE-BOP-DE-BOP-DE-BOP instead of hearing the steam loco" (which was a very good imitation of the sound of an Ethel).
I can remember ads for steam tours which said " No Ethel, dress warmly.
The Ethels were withdrawn in the early 90s heat for the steam tours was provided by a generator in the luggage area of a car.

For some photos and a lot more detail a great web-site on the Class25s. I must admit one of my favourite class of diesel.
http://www.derbysulzers.com/
Select Main Menu and scroll down to The Ethels.

I had better have another Bathams TOM. PETE.

[siberianmo]

Hello Nick!

Good to see ya! Anytime you find your way to this Haus - you'll be more than welcome - Juneau awaits! [swg]

Over here, the RDC term has been relegated to the cars of the Budd Company. DMU on the other hand seems to have taken on a new life with the "light rail" vehicles. Either way - love 'em! [tup]

The one drawback of my experiences with model railroading - especially HO - involve the #^%# derailments. No matter how much care 'n attention given to the laying of track - no matter how many adjustments to trucks, wheels and couplers, I still am plagued with this problem. Backing up strings of passenger cars cause me the most grief. Drives me to distraction! (Driving me to drink is quite 'nother matter! [swg]) So, when you assume contol of the throttles - keep 'em moving forward, Mate - forward! [tup]

Appreciate the drink! Now it's my turn - Boris ring it . . . .

Tom.[4:-)] [oX)]

[nickinwestwales]

Hello all,flying visit only tonight-[4:-)][oX)]TOM-refreshments of choice for the assembled gentlefolk please,another fine `Sunday Excursion`around the Can-Am--By hook or by crook,one day I will turn up on your doorstep to take a `guest throttle`on that fine piece of work...could be quite a challenge,making sure all the passenger runs go through with all those unexpected freight`extras` running...............[swg]

PETE-I have M51625 down as :- Derby works motor brake second ,no build date given,part of a four-sub unit,two Rolls-Royce 8 cyl horizontal engines of 238 B.H.P,hydraulic transmission.
no info as to previous history.
`M` prefix suggests L.M.R allocation,at least initially.....

For the benefit of those unfamiliar with the terminology,D.M.U`s or diesel multiple units are the Brit equivalent of R.D.C`s,-whilst the U.S. model has dictated a single car with controls at both ends approach the Brit version favours a minimum of 2 cars ( motor/brake/2nd + driving trailer/2nd) with additional centre cars drawn from the pool with minimal modifications for remote cab operation.
The likely formation of this unit is:-Motor/bk/2nd-composite-open 2nd-driving trailer 2nd
Gloucester R.C.W produced some very attractive single-unit cars
right,moonlight mile for me-Safe journey R.D.V travellers,look forward to some tales [tup][^][tup]

see you all soon,nick, [C=:-)]

[siberianmo]

G'day Gents!


Three more customers! Ka-ching, ka-ching, ka-ching-ching-aling!! [%-)]

Great seeing the reappearance of our WVA connection for a 2nd visit! [tup] Now, that’s dedication and great support in our “hour of need!” [swg]

So, a discarded TV, eh[?] Figgered there HAD to be something, just to ‘qualify’ you as a WVirginian! [swg] Sorry – but after living five years in the “real” Virginia – the jokes still haunt me! <grin>


Also a 2nd appearance from the Larsman! Totally unexpected, but most appreciated! [tup] So, what’s the deal up there in New York State[?] Inquiring minds, as someone coined, need to know! Your Email gave the location, but not the problem!
I have “those daze” myself! [swg]


Wolfman has emerged! Saw you “peeking in” a couple of times today and wondered whether the ‘puter was still causing you grief. Glad to see that you made it in. Seems that Rob has been having his problems with the “big screen” situation too. Sure would like to know the cause of that anomaly.

You say you saw a bunch of Armadillos along the roadside – alive[?] Amazing that they have made the migration – and now of course are breeding right here in the “Show Me State.” Of course, I’d rather not watch those critters mating! [:O]

Can’t model a Canadian rail scene without having a bit of the white stuff, eh[?] The favorite part of my layout are those areas inundated in it! [tup]


Wondering what kind of reception the Railroad from Yesteryear will get tomorrow, especially with 20 Fingers away from the Thread.


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


Tom [4:-)] [oX)]



BE SMARTER:
Use the “Reload/Refresh” as soon as you get to ”Our” Place.
It’s the only way to get the most current Posts!

[pwolfe]

HI Tom and all.

I see I am just in time for a round from LARS so a Bathams please.

Thanks for the comments on the pics. TED I have a couple more of the Essex for next week. Tom did post some for me earlier that the bride took on her digital, these ones I took on the 35mm. I too can remember the real steam rollers in action the dull ringing sound of the heavy rollers used to fetch us kids to watch it in use. The diesel rollers never seemed to hold the same attraction.

NICK Thanks for the info on the Peckett [tup] The dmu as far as I can make out is M51625.
Great descriptions of the photos, that house sure took a battering. Did Aberaeron have a really good Rugby team or am I thinking of somewhere else[?].

DOUG Glad there is light at the end of the tunnel with the neighboors

CM3 The big sporting events were always looked forward to for me as well, not for the event but for the often rare locos that were used for the special trains.
The big steeple-chase in the UK is the Grand National run at Aintree near Liverpool they sometimes show the 1967 running of it as a 100-1 outsider won after a pile up at one of the fences. I watch not for the race but for the sight of the steam locos in ajacent sidings on the specials. Steam would be finished in just over a year on BR and today the sidings have gone as well.[:(].

BK Glad you was able to call in the bar. I agree Sundays photo day really is special.
Hope all the preparations are going plan[tup].

LARS Dont worry about the M-in law jokes, in the UK there are comedians who have made a whole career telling them. The brides M-I-L is ok even slowing down so that I could watch a BNSF frieght[tup]
Great birthday notice[^][tup][tup][tup].

ROB Wonderful lake photos[tup][tup][tup] The RMS Segwun sure is a gem.
I have found some thing on the hep and will get it together.

TOM Great last set of Can-Am pics, love the snow[^].
We must of counted over a dozen armadillos in about 28 miles on the side of I-44 yesterday, with the new mile markers at 2 tenths of a mile.
I 'll pass on the offer of the free drink to Alan he is no doubt having his share of Guinness at the moment, on a 3-Day steam tour of Ireland .
Liked the police corner and looking forward to the Burlington Zephyrs tomorrow. PETE.

[LoveDomes]

G'day Capn Tom and fellow travelers at the bar!

I've got a thirst - Inn keeper, a stein fer me, and a round fer me mates! <arggghhh>

The good news is: I'm still here on the "Island" - the uncertain news is: may have to leave on Wednesday. [tup][tdn] If me bride had anything to say about it (and she DOES!) I'd be one me way in a NY minute! However, I hold the "tie breaking vote!" [swg] (hope she isn't reading over me shoulda . . . . <grin>)

A surprise, but most welcome vist from my "bookend!" Good to see ya, mate and nice to know you've found a "hide out"!! [swg] Every guy needs one, now 'n then! <grin> The sand is runnin' out of the hour glass, huh[?] Pretty soon, well - you know the rest! Glad you made it by and if there's a chance that you can conjur up a thought or two - send them to me by email, I'll be sure to post 'em for ya! [tup]

The Sand Pebbles an "A number one" flick! Must see for the "Emporium!" Love it . . . Hadn't thought about those "China sailors" in years, and now I'm wantin' to view that movie! Nothing subliminal about those suggestions, huh[?]

Way to go - 3rd officer, Ted and 2nd officer, Shane! [swg] Logging on to help keep the place runnin' is a help to one and all, but 'specially so to our "steamed" Proprietor! [tup][tup][tup] Make sure these two get some "Specialty Grog" on me! [yeah]

Ah, the mountains of West Virginia bring back memories of a gal I knew once upon a wish! There she was, lookin' like something out of an Al Capp creation - short shorts - halter top - buxom as buxom can be - lips as rosey red as crimson - hair blowing in the wind - eyes as blue as the sky - teeth as white as the new fallen snow! I married her! [swg] . . . . . In my wildest dreams as a seagoing youth, that is! <grin>

The Hunt for Red October - the first in a great series of Tom Clancy thrillers. Love those stories. The movie wasn't all that bad - but being your basic surface sailor, and somewhat of an "elitist" when it comes to accuracy in film making - I'd give it a 4 star rating out of 5. Some great shots at the beginning - and Tom probably can attest to the use of that 180 ft USCG buoy tender supposedly up in the Barents Sea. The Mrs. just "loves" Sean and I don't stand a chance when he's on the screen. That always sends my mind wanderin' back to those mountains in WVA! [yeah]

Ok - enough of my wanderings and the like. Just wanted ya to know I'm still about the decks . . .

Until the next time! [tup]

Lars

[coalminer3]

Good Afternoon Barkeep and All Present; coffee, please; round for the house and $ for the jukebox.

Tom - The only thing "outside" that should be "inside" at the house today is a dead TV which is scheduled to be picked up tomorrow.

"Sand Pebbles?" Good choice. One of my favorite lines from that picture ... "Get those heathen !@#$% off my boat!" BTW, I got snookered into watching "Hunt for Red October" again yesterday. Not the greatest sub picture in the world, my award for that goes to "The Enemy Below, but still not a bad way to pass some time until the Red Sox game.

Almost forgot - NP dome sleepers ran on the South Wind after Amtrak as I rode one from Nashville to Chicago. Train ran into Central Station at Chicago after a tour of much of Illinois. They were in two-tone green and lettered for the North Coast Limited.

Hope to visit tomorrow.

work safe

Speaking of Canadian activity with a maritime flavor. There's a wonderful shot of the "Keewatin" (with Union Jack) at the dock in Port McNicoll, ON, with CP 1271 present. Check it out; it's in the Summer, 2006 issue of Classic Trains.

[siberianmo]

G'day Gents!

<phew> That took a bit longer than usual; grass was thick and for the most part healthy. Had to wage a battle with some encroaching "chick weed" from a neighbor's yard - I think they raise the stuff! <frown> Anyway, Juneau appreciates my endeavors! [swg]

So, where are we[?] Hmmmm - just one customer, but a "regular" at that! [tup] Good to see ya, CM3!! Left "Shane" at home I see. [swg]

If Nick's Pix #3 reminds you of the view from your place - let's all consider having next year's Rendezvous there! [yeah] Love that kinda topography. [tup] What no discarded washing machine, refrigerator or stove[?] [swg]

Hey Pete I see that I failed to address one of your comments yesterday about Armadillos. Back when I was working for a living - and that's been awhile! - we had reports of those critters in southwest Missouri. The Highway Patrol guys would tell us stories about hitting 'em with their cruisers - thunk, thunk - kerblam - or something like that. Rather sturdy little devils, from what I've been told. Always associated 'em with Texas (ergo: Tex the Armadillo!) but there have been "incursions" that I'm aware of dating into the mid-80s.

Please convey our collective appreciation to your Mate - Alan - for sending you those Pix! [tup][tup][tup] You may also want to tell him that he has a free drink awaiting him - all he needs to do is stop by! [tup]

Nick you are truly an amazing individual. Not only do you "pick up" on the nuances with my Can-Am model RR, but you are "spot on" with providing descriptions for Pix from others! [wow] Diveristy 'R Us! [swg] Nice work with your Sunday Post! [[tup][tup][tup]

Gave a bit of thought to a past comment (couple of days ago I think) from our "friendly bear" - Theodorebear - regarding the "efficiency" of URLs, etc. Got me to thinking what this Thread would be like if that's the approach we all took. Would probably result in something rather sterile, something without interaction and perhaps a lot like those automated phone “menus” businesses and government seems to think is "efficient."

There's also the unintended consequence of spending gobs of time scrolling through the URLs and the secondary & tertiary avenues some of those lead to - which all has the effect of taking one AWAY from the Thread.

This is not a slam against anyone using URLs for effect, as our URLMeister Monster so aptly does. It's his "shtick" and it works well. For my [2c] I think the immediate impact of a Pix or appearance of something "creative" is far more effective. Perhaps not efficient, but effective nonethless.

Of course given a choice between a "hit 'n run" Post and one that is "on track" with URLs - I'd take the latter any time. [tup]


Also expended a bit of my grey matter thinking about this past weekend's activity here at the bar. I think we're experiencing a significant drawdown in the availability of our guys. Those comments from Lars 'n BK got me to thinking of ways to rekindle the interest - but I've come up with a "blank" - a bit unusual for me. There are so many opportunities to "partake" around here - it really comes down to having the "will" to do it. I don't buy into the "I'm too busy" stuff - and I think I've shared the reason for that with you on previous pages. It kinda equates to, "I'm really not interested" for the most part. Not for each 'n every situation - but I've found that excuse is rather "lame" for the most part. If one wants to - one finds the way.

Any more "brilliant ideas" from you two[?] <groan> [swg]


CM3 Nope - not under the lounge car - but close! I'm the guy selling "line tickets!" [swg] By the by, Fergie is originally from Ontario, if my recollection is on track, and now resides in Dartmouth (Halifax) Nova Scotia. I don’t think he’d mind a “Newfie” joke or three! [swg] Problem is – he doesn’t read our Posts! It’s a “Coffee Shop thing” I think that comes from years of “too many pages!”

Thanx for the round and quarters! [tup]


Rob Interesting vessel shots – looks like they could’ve fit right in with the U.S. Navy’s “fleet” over in China before WWII broke out. [swg] There was a Steve McQueen movie about that . . . The Sand Pebbles (1968 . . . maybe I’ll add that to an upcoming feature at the Emporium!


And finally, a THANX [tup] to Ted for helping to get the day “jump started” with his early morning Post! Have one on the house!


For anyone noticing, “my other thread” is about to surpass 1,000 replies (responses). That’s incredible, considering it all began pretty much as a “lark.” Now it seems to have caught on – but only with a handful from here – but still “alive!” [tup]


Okay – that pretty much says it all – now it’s up to the rest of you!


Tom [4:-)] [oX)]

[coalminer3]

Good Afternoon Barkeep and All Present; coffee, please; round for the house and $ for the jukebox.

Running late today as we had what can best be called “The weekly Monday meeting to plan the weekly meeting.”

Gotta love it!

Rob – The RS3s you mentioned on PC and CR were called “De Witt geeps” because they were r/b at Syracuse. MKT had some beasts as well. Also, the maritime pictures were most enjoyable.

Barndad – thanks for the growing up around steam articles and for the picture of the home site and other photos.

Fermeister is here! I promise, no Newfoundland jokes!

Tom provided us with movies, Can-Am pictures (I bet his railroad makes most of its profits from the bar cars – just like the NYNH&H! BTW, I spotted you in the throng – the one lying under the lounge car, right?

Lars - I wondered how long the Mets game took as they were talking abt. it on Saturday. Also thanks for the SP pictures. The Olde Towne Team heads to da Bronx for three starting tomorrow evening – Becket vs. R. Johnson – should be interesting, if only for the psychology of the matchup.

Wanwheel and Lars – I used to ride the “Pan” to Louisville to see the trains, not the horses, on Derby Day. The coach yard to the west of the station would have been cleaned out and the usual collection of stuff moved elsewhere. The tracks would be filled with all sorts of private cars. Louisville area railroads also ran a variety of special moves so the camera would get a workout.

Theodorebear – Midland Valley – I’ll see what I can find out for you.

Nick Pix – Most interesting. Picture #3 sort of looks like the view from my front yard when you can see through the mist and the fog.

Pete – Thanks for the Essex pictures.

Here’s another one for the short line file.

The Lake Terminal RR Co.
Freight Connections with Baltimore and Ohio RR – Lorain, OH
NYC, N&W, Lorain and West Virginia Ry – So. Lorain, OH
Mileage of road operated 4.78
The LT was another road whose cars used to appear regularly in Boston; always gons.

The Lorain and West Virginia was owned by the Norfolk and Western. All of its mileage (24) was in Ohio.

I don’t know whether or not I will be online tomorrow because of scheduling commitments.

Work safe