"OUR" PLACE - SEE NEW THREAD!

[siberianmo]

G’day All!

PASSENGER TRAIN NOSTALGIA # 11

Here’s something to enjoy regarding the Pennsylvania Railroad (PRR) from an advertisement in Classic American Trains


NOW . . . A Complete RECREATION CAR

Especially Designed for Your Pleasure

In daily service on The Jeffersonian, popular all-coach streamliner between New York and St. Louis!
A dramatic highlight in Pennsylvania railroad’s new equipment program, this colorful new recreation car provides amusement and entertainment for all ages. A luxurious game and reading lounge . . . a children’s playroom . . . a sunken buffet lounge . . . miniature movie theatre – pleasure with variety. Be among the first to enjoy it! Reserve a seat on The Jeffersonian on your next trip!

SO ROOMY AND RESTFUL – the new overnight coaches on The Jeffersonian. Only 44 seats to the car – and all reclining! You’ll like the new lighting too – fluorescent, 4 times brighter but easy on the eyes. New-type air-conditioning adds still more comfort.

EXTRA LARGE MODERN WASHROOMS, one for women, one for men at the end of each coach – handsomely decorated – with 3 glistening washstands and 2 toilet annexes.

Enjoy these New Features at Low Coach Fares!

THE JEFFERSONIAN
. . . . . . . . . . Westbound . . . . . . . . . .
Lv. New York . . . . . 6:15 P.M.
Lv. Philadelphia . . . 7:43 P.M.
Lv. Washington . . . 6:20 P.M.
Lv. Baltimore . . . . . 7:05 P.M.
Lv. Harrisburg . . . . .9:42 P.M.
Ar. Columbus . . . . . 6:46 A.M.
Ar. Dayton . . . . . . ..8:21 A.M.
Ar. Indianapolis . . . .9:27 A.M.
Ar. St. Louis . . . . . .1:50 P.M.
. . . . . . . . . . Eastbound . . . . . . . . . .
Lv. St. Louis . . . . . . 1:00 P.M.
Lv. Indianapolis . . . . 5:07 P.M.
Lv. Dayton . . . . . . . .8:13 P.M.
Lv. Columbus . . . . . .9:35 P.M.
Ar. Harrisburg . . . . . 6:51 A.M.
Ar. Baltimore . . . . . . 9:23 A.M.
Ar. Washington . . . .10:10 A.M.
Ar. Philadelphia . . . . .8:52 A.M.
Ar. New York . . . . . .10:25 A.M

Recreation car facilities available to Baltimore and Washington passengers between Harrisburg and St. Louis.

PENNSYLVANIA RAILROAD
. . . . . . . . . . Serving the Nation . . . . . . . . . .


Enjoy! [tup]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[passengerfan]

Good Afternoon Tom Just time for a CR and a round for the houseJust noticed the PRR Jeffersonian Advertisement you posted and would like to add one thing. This was for the postwar Jeffersonian and the 4- reclining seat coaches almost matched the western cars except for the fact they did not have leg rest seats like the western roads and some of the eastern roads.

[siberianmo]

G'day!

What a difference a week makes! Without West Coast S Dave and pwolfe Pete for afternoon Posts, this place is rather QUIET! By the by - anyone seen or heard from Nick [C=:-)] Didn't have any Nick's Picks for our Thursday night fish fry ....... Hmmmmmmm.

Al pre or post war, I'd love to be able to travel aboard the Pennsy's Jeffersonian from here to the east. How wunnerful it must have been ..... The only mid-western trip I made aboard the PRR was in 1960 from NYC to Cincinnati. Don't recall the name of the train - but I'm sure it can be figured out. Was a great time, previously chronicled on this thread.

Thanks for the round! [tup] No point in ringing the bell, there's no one here .....

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[passengerfan]

Afternoon once again Tom. Time for a CR and a round for the house.

Those postwar cars built for the Jeffersonian have an interesting side story to them. These seventy coaches were constreucted in the PRR shops at Altoona by PRR craftsmen and numbered 4100 to 4169. The cars were delivered between December 1946 and July 1947 and apparently the PRR had heard that other roads particularly those in the west starting with the 1947 Empire Builder were equipped with reclining seats unlike those seen before WW II . The difference was the postwar cars were equipped with full leg-resta as well and the PRR was not aware of this until after their new 44 seat coaches seating had been ordered. They specified the seats would have more recline than their prewar seating but did nothing about leg rests so the cars came with foot rests only. Although comfortable they did not compare with the new Heywood-Wakefield reclining leg rest seats then being ordered by the western roads AT&SF, UP, GN, NP and SP. The PRR assigned them to the Trail Blazer and Jeffersonian Even the 4068-4091 series 44-seat coaches from ACF delivered between October and December 1947 were without leg-rest seats. The PRR seating had 44" pitch between seats this allowed for large lounges for men at one end and ladies at the other but not the most comfortable coach seating available.

[siberianmo]

G'day!

Heard the door open and figured one of the regulars had popped in. Good to see ya back so soon, Al. Save your money, no one here but us! Appreciate the offer ... [tup]

Regarding the information on those leg rests and seating, when one considers the time and what was going on between the railroads, it is all completely understandable. The operative word was competition, and whoever had the "leg up" (no pun intended!) stood (there I go again!) a better chance at making some bucks for the company. Innovatiness in design, comfort and amenities ruled the day, not to mention color schemes and interiior decors. A whole 'nother subject indeed when it comes to passenger rail.

When trains like the Broadway Limited and 20th Century Limited essentially ran side by side between New York and Chicago, the competition was so keen, that no effort was spared to garner the passenger's dollars.

Okay, 'nuf from me. I'm lettin' the gals go tonight - no need for a full Friday crew given the atmosphere 'round here.

Catch ya later.

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[Anonymous]

Hello everyone. I'll take a cold water with lemon as I am still on antibiotics from this pneumonia. When I went to urgent care on the 13th, Xrays were taken and along with the pneumonia, a spot was found on my left lung. The results came back today--supposedly it is scar tissue but the doc wants to run a CT scan to make sure. Thanks to all who inquired about me and the emails. Had a setback yesterday but feeling better today.
Now that I have unloaded that, let me buy the house a drink before that confounded bell starts ringing. Cancelled last weekend's trip to the Midland--never done that before. Things are still running up there until the end of the month and a Halloween train is running as I sit here. Our primary locomotive, MKT RS3m 142 fried its auxiliary generator last week so we are using the NW2 and the "real" RS3. Last time I was up there, I was conductor and the 142 picked the points at the north runaround switch so that had to be spiked. That has been repaired. Thankfully the end of the season is near so hopefully a new or rebuilt aux gen can be found before next season. The old one is already removed.
I've missed a lot around here but fully intend to become more active again. I've been sick for over a month now and this pneumonia doesn't want to let go of me. What I have quickly glanced at would indicate that there has been some high quality postings that I will go back and study when my strength and health returns. Tom, I've noticed more Fallen Flags and some have been of rrs that I've always wondered about and the passenger trains recollections are always read with interest.

[siberianmo]

Evenin' Gents!

What a good way to make my last Post by dropping a few words along to our friend earlydiesels Dan!!

Figured you've been recovering and it DOES take time, this is serious stuff and nothing to take lightly.

Appreciate the round - but save your bucks, for this place is totally empty tonight. Been the lonliest Friday I can recall 'round here. [tdn]

[yeah] We've had quite a few pages worth of some great Posts and I hope you do get 'round to catchin' up. On Monday there will be an Index page in the Summry. Check it out - it's a fast way to find the things that may be of interest to ya! [tup]

Hope the results from your scan are good ones and that you'll be back in good health real soon!

Don't be concerned about the Midland or "Our" Place; they both will be here when you're ready. [tup] Hope we get to see ya, perhaps once a day, if you're "up to it" that is! [swg]

Okay - Leon the Night Man has the bar! Closing time is midnight, unless of course we get some customers, then it's "last man standing."

Ntie! [zzz]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[trolleyboy]

Good evening Leon. let me help you clear the last of the drunk track crews out to the waiting cabs,and I'll grab a CR and some left over deep dish while I'm at it.[:p]


Tom You have of coarse out done yourself again. Nice way to wind up the week with the to most famous or (infamous ) of the aeastern roads. I won't comment on the Pennsey as sadly I haven't any real relevant info on it to share.



I suppose however that since I grew up quite close to the NYC's strategic southern ontario shortcut I'll virtually pen a word or two there. Of cparse I'm primarily refering to the NYC's Michigan centrel sudsiduary which cut a swath accros souther and southwestern ontario. Linking the cites of Chigao Detroit and Toronto. Some interesting passenger trains there as well, as well as the CASO subdivision ( Canada Southern ) which linked in the Detroit Windsor St Thomas areas. The NYC startegically part owned the TH&B with the CPR giving them passsenger and freight revenues through the City of Hamilton andToronto via Buffalo on the TH&B.



Al may know already but all the heavy weight cars that the TH&B owned were in fact jointly owned by the parent railroads CPR / MC / NYC. So one woulf see Toronto Hamilton and Buffalo RY on the letterboards of the cars but the reporting marks would have a NYC MC or CPR registration as well. Of coarse as the NYC became for financially insolvent CPR bought up more and more of the TH&B stock eventually becomeing 100% owner losing the TH&B moniker and paint schemes in the mid 80's. Another fallen Flag for latter discussion perhaps.


Tom I understand what you mean about there being laess and less out on the forums. I do hope that we do not lose the good we have here, as I myself am finding less in the background white noise out there. All ribbing aside I know that you must be enjoying the "trollyisms" otherwise you likely wouldn't be bothering me about them.[;)][:D]


Dan Good to hear from you if briefly, I'm glad that you are on the mend slowly or not just take your time we'll keep the conversation hot for you[tup] Bad news about your locomotive problems those to I'm sure will pass,always nice to have a back up. we too are gearing actually this sat and next sat for our big halloween bashes. Usually our two heaviest patronized evente at the museum. Take care and enjoy your catch up reading.


Al & Tom Nice further info on the Pennsey passenger trains. Always nice to hear the condensed facts. I'm no longer a pennsey virgin[;)][:I][:D] Hearing about the recreation car reminded me of the CPR train of tomorrow and the farm techknowlogy trains they ran in the 50's and 60's. They were set upwith movies and games in a couople of express boxcars for the kids while they had exhibit cars for the parent sto puruse the latest farming impliments and techniques to improve crop yeilds etc. If the foggy memory serves it ws a joint CPR and Federal / Provincial government program. Used on the praries only.


CM3 thanks again a fine fine post lots of great info [tup][[:D]

Ted didn't want to leave you out. Hope that you are well prepared for the hopefully not to arrive storm. Just be carefull things are alot easier to replace thaan people. No Heroics man ! I'd love to see the Praie car pictures you have if you can find them. i'm going to post on sunday the one Praire car shot I have. It's one of the Nipissing cars , the shots not great as it's an old old postcard. The Preston car and coach desigend theses beuties for all of tthe Praire cities systems Regina, Saskatoon, Edmonton,Calgary, Brandon and several Ontario cities as well. Very few survive a couple of the Regina and Saskatoon cars aaand one or Two Edmonton ones are still around at Fort Edmonton and calgary's Herritage park none have been fully restored yet though. Do make it to Kennybunk they have an amazing museum. Lots of candian cars and quite a few interesting US ones. Make sure to get a ride on the Golden chariot observation car from Montreal.


Well folks have a good evening and morning I will check in tomorrow. Rob

[siberianmo]

SATURDAY’s INFO & SUMMARY of RECENT POSTS

Good Morning from ”Our” Place where the start to the day begins with freshly brewed coffee, bakery goods from The Mentor Village Bakery and a <light> breakfast from our Menu Board. [tup]

Info for the Day:

(1) SATURDAY is now ENCORE DAY with selected Fallen Flags and NOSTALGIA Posts repeated throughout the day.

(2) Tomorrow is SUNDAY PHOTO POSTING DAY! and of course, the bar is CLOSED for business.

(3) A reminder of POLICY(repeated) Those who disregard the efforts of others on a routine basis are not welcome at ”Our” Place. One-way Posts will not be acknowledged and are not appreciated ‘round here. [tdn]

INDEX Monday’s only!

SUMMARY

Name - Date/Time - (Page#) – Remarks

(1) siberianmo Tom Posted: 21 Oct 2005, 05:30:45 9 (143) Friday’s Info & Summary

(2) siberianmo Tom Posted: 21 Oct 2005, 05:31:57 (143) Fallen Flags ENCORE! – PRR & NYC[/i]

(3) siberianmo Tom Posted: 21 Oct 2005, 07:39:16 (143) reply to trolleyboy & comments

(4) passengerfan Al Posted: 21 Oct 2005, 07:53:40 (143) National Parks, RR’s ‘n hotels

(5) coalminer3 CM3 Posted: 21 Oct 2005, 08:25:45 (143) Perhaps the best, yet!

(6) Theodorebear Ted Posted: 21 Oct 2005, 09:29:25 (143) Inclusive Post!

(7) siberianmo Tom Posted: 21 Oct 2005, 10:20:06 (143) reply to passengerfan – coalminer3 – Theodorebear

(8) siberianmo Tom Posted: 21 Oct 2005, 12:54:54 (143) NOSTALGIA – PRR The Jeffresonian

(9) passengerfan Al Posted: 21 Oct 2005, 15:54:52 (143)

(10) siberianmo Tom Posted: 21 Oct 2005, 17:05:59 (143) reply to passengerfan

(11) passengerfan Al Posted: 21 Oct 2005, 18:09:24 (143)

(12) siberianmo Tom Posted: 21 Oct 2005, 19:05:42 (143) reply to passengerfan

(13) earlydiesels Dan Posted: 21 Oct 2005, 19:59:30 (143) He’s baaaaaaack!

(14) siberianmo Tom Posted: 21 Oct 2005, 21:18:27 (143) reply to earlydiesels

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

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

[Anonymous]

G'mornin' to the early crowd. Just coffee and a "sticky bun" (sounds disgusting, doesn't it?) this time Tom. I gotta feel "down" for our frineds in Cancun, Cozumel and the Yucatan. These were stops on the cruise ships that I worked in the 1990's. Had some wonderful meals and met really nice locals in both locations back then. While you fellows are basking in the glories of Autumn's foilage and brisk, invigotarating breezes; I'm still sitting in my hermitacally sealed (A.C., ceiling fans, et al.) Rancher avoiding tropical heat and humidity, yuk![V] I do miss the seasons until the "white outs," sleet and "bumper car" months arrive.

Rob, no luck so far on the Praries. I'll look forward to your shot tomorrow. I didn't fair much better on the B. & A. via the Net. There were several short line roads that evolved through mergers into what ultimately fell into N.Y.C.'s domain in New England/Canada areas. Earlydiesles, great to hear your on the mend. You'll be back in the "thick of things" before ya know it.[tup] I hope the Midland Rob, Barndad, and Gunns have a lucrative Halloween operating season. I know the funds are dearly needed. Hey, you guys are the only thing keeping memories of "Fallen Flags" alive and real.[^] Best of luck to all of you.

I can assure you that no matter how luxurious reclining seats on a day coach may be, there is nothing so restful as a real bunk in your own private compartment. I have come to realize that many of our number have never had the opportunity to make overnight sojourns on Pullman accomodations. I truly hope that at sometime in everyone's future, at least, one "over nighter" will be possible.

I wish I had more specifics to offer this Post but until things settle down, I'd best keep "an eye to the sky." Surely enjoying the additional input from the Vigilant on New England and north eastern Roads. One thing for sure, no matter how "dry" some days may be hereabouts, there is nothing "out there" with the quality and continuity you will find at "Our" Place. Say Tom, that is an impressive inventory of structures, vehicles and figures you have amassed through the years.[tup] Okay, I gotta make this a wrap for now. Happy rails to all.

[passengerfan]

Good Morning Tom and anyone else awake this early on Saturday. Guess I'll have a coffee and a diet pastry from the Mentor Bakery.

Just one more follow up to the PRR Jeffersonian.

The three Recreation cars delivered for the train in February-March 1948 by American Car and Foundry were the only cars of their type built for any railroad. By that i mean they were full recreation cars having features not found on any other cars. Starting at the non-boarding vestibule end they had what was called a Reading Lounge with twelve seats and another with a desk. Four of the seats were placed at tables for two with a checker board in the top of one table and the other table featured a Backgammon board in the table top for passengers enjoyment to while away the hours. Next was a nursery that featured toys a playpen, blackboard and childrens table and chairs.Next was a womens restroom off the corridor followed by a bar and 24 seat lounge for adults to enjoy. The lounges were the only dropped floor lounges found on railroad cars built in the US. The next area featured a Mechanical Game (Pinball). I think they worded it this way in company literature as many parents did not like their youngstera associating with Pinball machines at the time. Next was a small six seat theatre they called the newsreel room as this was all that was shown on the projection screen. Next was a small men's room and several storage lockers located at the vestibule end of the car one for Air Conditionaing another was the electrical locker, yet another was the film storage locker for the newsreels and a locker for extra bar supplies and cleaning supplies.

Certain features were not as popular as others or utilized as much as the railroad had hoped so in 1955 the Pinball Machine, Theater and Nursery were removed and replaced with Lounge seating.

All three cars were sold to the Holiday on Ice Show in 1964 and used as tunnel cars to hold the props for the Ice shows.

Judging the cars as to whether they were a success would be difficult unless one had first hand knowledge.

Todays Amtrak Superliner Lounges began life with a piano on the lower level that has since disapperaed thank God. Remember sveral passengers trying to enjoy a little converstaion with a drink or two while someones monster about eight or nine pounded on the piano. The lounge car attendant was oblivious as he had head phones on plugged into the car stereo system so that only he could enjoy. It was even difficult to get hime to fix drinks as he was so caught up in his music. I noticed after I and probably many others complained that the head phones were removed from the Stereo systems the cars were originally equipped with.

Well enough of my rambling time to start getting ready for work.

[siberianmo]

Good Morning Guys!

First order of business is to remind everyone to READ THE SUMMARY it’s the only way you’ll know what’s going on ‘round here! [tup]

Before I get to the first of Saturday’s ENCORE Posts, I see there are a few Posts to respond to …….

trolleyboy Rob Posted: 22 Oct 2005, 00:38:41

Back to the wee hours Posting, eh [?] Well, it’s always good to see ya ‘round here, and moreso when the information is as inclusive as yours are! [tup] Can’t accuse you of not being a team player, that’s for sure! [tup]

Appreciate the expanded info on the NYC in Canada; never get over the enjoyment of learnin’ somethin’ new! [tup] When the PRR & NYC came to the bitter end, not only the east was impacted, but an era in railroading thoughout the land came to a crashing conclusion. It’s so hard to imagine how “just like that” it all ended – the craftsmen, the infrasture, the crews, the administrators, et al. I recall seeing the billboard ads linger on for RR’s no longer in operation. As time passed, and the weather faded away the lettering, one then turned to the countless girder bridges with their RR heralds. Some are still in evidence to this day. Not far from me one can find Missouri Pacific (MP), Santa Fe (AT&SF) and a few others. Must have been a high grade of paint! [swg]

Regarding the Forums, I was a bit negative with my comments about finding “nothing” out there to interest me. Of course there are many, many subjects being Posted and replied to that contain all kinds of useful information. Heck, I’ve asked several questions over time about this ‘n that and have received very informative and helpful responses. So, from that perspective, it’s still a very viable way to communicate. Unfortunately, there’s an overwhelming amount of clutter and absolute disjoined nonsense that seemingly is everywhere. Post a serious or topical matter, and you can almost bet that a few guys will make their presence known with crap. That’s a real shame and not at all what I want to engage in. We too have been on the receiving end of “barbs” and the like from people who didn’t or wouldn’t take the time to find out what we’re all about. We just had a “reformed” critic visit us for several Posts about 2 weeks ago. Anyway, what we do ‘round here with a relative handful of guys is sufficient to keep me interested! [tup]

Theodorebear Ted Posted: 22 Oct 2005, 07:21:18

A great Rendezvous idea for ”Our” Place would be an overnighter aboard a train! Now that would be the way to do it, and of course I’d highly recommend VIA Rail. I know it isn’t going to happen, but your comments regarding how many of our number have probably never experienced the overnight trip in a bedroom (or even coach) brought to mind how right on the mark you are. That trip up to Churchill on Hudson Bay from Winnipeg would be just about “right.” A chance for us to meet, relax, swap some stories, drink some adult beverages, and pick up on the ambiance of passenger train travel all the while in “flannel” shirts – hey, it doesn’t get much better than that! [swg][tup]

Just about EVERYTHING on the Can-Am HO layout was purchased and built within an 18 month period beginning just a couple of years ago. There are 3 or 4 structures from my former layout, but no vehicles and perhaps less than a dozen figures. I’ll be providing an inventory of the figures and structures on one of our Wednesday “hobby” days (daze), but first I want to see if anyone else picks up on Nick’s idea. Speaking of – where IS the man from West Wales [?][?][?]

I found some very interesting ads in our National Geographic CD collection dating all the way back from the 1990’s to 1888. Thanx to CM3 I never even thought about checking out those digitized magazines. Some of those sure bring to mind memories of years gone by ……. Really enjoy ‘em! I wonder if Life or Look offers a CD/DVD collection [?] Guess it’s worth a try to check it out ……

passengerfan Al Posted: 22 Oct 2005, 09:27:39

Almost missed ya – G’day Sir Oracle! [swg]

Man oh man you flicked my switch to that reference about someone’s “monster” and the piano. I’ll never, ever understand, tolerate or otherwise appreciate the ill-mannered parents of kids who foster their offspring on others aboard trains, in hotel common areas and cruise ships. Argggggggh. And before anyone even thinks of jumpin’ my bones about that – I’m a Grampa of 5 and surely wouldn’t let anything like that occur in my presence.

Thanx for the expanded info on the Recreation Cars – didn’t have a clue that pin ball machines were aboard the trains! Now how did THAT work [?] Hmmmmm, wonder what brilliant marketing mind came up with that idea [?][tdn] Reminds me of some of the baseball parks these days with wading pools, hot tubs, arcades, boutiques, etc. Isn’t the idea to watch the game [?] I would never entertain the notion of doing anything other than take in the ambiance of the train, an adult drink or three, dine in the diner, sit in the dome, etc. Pin ball [?] [yeah] Right! [tdn]

What does the term “tunnel cars” mean [?] Lost me on that one!

The Superliner features you mentioned weren’t really all that bad. However, as with these Forums, there are those who simply cannot and will not act responsibly when it comes to the consideration for others. Isn’t that really “it” [?] Nothing wrong with stereo headphones piping in some tunes for those who want that sort of thing. Becomes a real pain in the Patoot when the employees abuse it! [tdn]

Our society has and apparently will continue to “dumb down.” Press 1 for English comes to mind whether communicating with your telephone company, a retail outlet or the federal government. How awful it would be to hold the line for a common language throughout these 50 unUnited States. Sorry! Just got a belly full of “Press 1” yesterday when trying to communicate with the Social Security Administration and the Internal Revenue Service. Wonder why German isn’t on there [?] Hmmmmmmmm.

Okay, it IS time for me to get movin’ along. It IS a beautiful morning and it IS time for me to take on the chores of Saturday!

Catch ya later!

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[siberianmo]

. . . . . . . . . . ENCORE! ENCORE!. . . . . . . . . .

Here's the first installment of our Saturday Encore Posts! This first appeared on page 113 ........

PASSENGER TRAIN NOSTALGIA #1

Here’s something to ponder with regard to our appreciation and fascination with
Classic Trains. Check this out …….

Many of the passenger railroads we’ve heard of and perhaps traveled aboard, had their start up in the 1800’s and early 1900’s. Check out these names of perhaps the best known:

Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe (1863)
Atlantic Coast Line (1900)
Baltimore & Ohio (1827) #1
Boston & Maine (1835)
Canadian Pacific (1881)
Chesapeake & Ohio (1867)
Chicago & Northwestern (1859)
Chicago, Burlington & Quincy (1855)
Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul (“The Milwaukee Road,” 1874)
Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific (1866)
Erie (1859)
Great Northern (1889)
Illinois Central (1851)
Kansas City Southern (1900)
Lehigh Valley (1855)
Louisville & Nashville (1850)
Missouri Pacific (1879)
New York Central (1914, although the formal adoption of that name came later)
New York, Chicago & St. Louis (“Nickel Plate Road,” 1881)
Norfolk & Western (1881)
Northern Pacific (1864)
Pennsylvania Railroad (1846)
Seaboard Air Line (1900)
Southern Pacific (1884)
Southern Railway (1887)
Union Pacific (1862)
Wabash (1877)
Western Pacific (1903)

[source:] The American Passenger Train

Enjoy! [tup]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

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

[passengerfan]

Tom Just a quick reply before I am out the door you asked about tunnel cars. These were old passenger cars that had new or reworked end so that the entire end of the car opened up either barn door style or in most cases one massive door and the interiors were striped and they were used by circuses, Ice Capades, Holiday on Ice etc. Many were old head end cars that were already equipped with end doors. I don't know of any Maintenance of way use for the cars but maybe.

[passengerfan]

PS Tome the railroads at one time used old baggage cars as tunnel cars for the transport of cars in the days before the modern car carriers came along. In fact I think this is where the tunnel car concept originated.

[siberianmo]

. . . . . . . . . . ENCORE! ENCORE!. . . . . . . . . .

Here's the second installment of our Saturday Encore Posts! This first appeared on page 117 ........

PASSENGER TRAIN NOSTALGIA #2

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)]

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

[siberianmo]

G'day!

Only me in the bar at the moment as I've let the staff have the day off. If things pick up, well, Cindy is just up the road, 'round the bend ... [swg]

Al Thanx for the elaboration! Never knew that, but it makes sense. Part of the lexicon that I hadn't been exposed to.

Using older cars for other purposes is nothing new, as you well are aware. Amtrak converted many of their Heritage coaches into baggage cars. VIA Rail's baggage cars appear to be conversions, perhaps RPOs obtained from CPR after conversion.

Enjoy the day!

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

REMINDER: Read the SUMMARY!

[Anonymous]

Afternoon gents, I have a few minutes and thought I might join the frey on "Tunnel" cars. Just a quick draft and a pack of chips for now Mr. Tom, thanks. Walthers made a HO repilica of a Pensy R.R. "Horse Car" years ago and the model showed two hinged doors at both vestibule ends. Yes Al, the car sides, otherwise, looked much like any baggage car. Now, the automobile cars had over sized doors on both sides and double doors on the ends, as I recall. I'm not sure how the crews managed but the more expensive luxury cars were wrapped in protective padded quilting as well. Some old Walthers catalogs should have snaps of those older models. Does anyone remember the long consists when the new models were released from Detroit? In the "fabulous fifties" manufacturers kept the new models "under wraps" until their "grand open house" at the Dealer's show rooms. There could be lines of folks waiting to see the new cars.

Yes Tom, something like that Winnepeg to Churchill Leg is the right duration but a whole lot north from here. Since my New Orleans plans were the "wash out" of the Cenrtury, I've been thinking Savanah or Charleston. Not, however, before the storm season is over and gone.["(!]

Just pulled in the lawn furniture and trash containers. Seems we could have some gale force winds an a lot of rain by Monday morning. The "experts" aren't expecting much in the Tampa Bay area more than low area flooding, nothing new here.
Well, I see the lawn guy is out front, so I'd better get a move on. See you's a.s.a.p.

[siberianmo]

G'day!

A customer - oh, it's Manager Ted! Well, that's just as good .. [swg] Been wonderin' where everyone is this day, but then it dawned on me that weekends are for many other activities other than playing with a keyboard and staring at a monitor!

Wholeheartedly agree regarding that trip to Churchill - it would be a 5 nighter - four on train for the round trip, and one up there. I'm going to do it - no "doot aboot it!" - just a matter of scheduling.

Now, an Amtrak "one nighter" would be more like it. About the only trip that would provide the "fix" needed would be the Texas Eagle. Passes through St. Louis at 9 PMish - gets to Dallas around Nooni***he next day. The return trip has it departing Dallas around 4 PM and getting back up here around 9 AM the next AM. Here's the "kicker" - bedroom accommodations are off the scale - I mean absolutely ridiculous in price. Believe me, I checke it out several times prior to going to Dallas to hook up with *** for the TRE RDC adventure. Wound up flying and saving lots of money. Would've cost me a grand just for a round trip in a bedroom with toilet facilties. No thanx.

If that journey you are thinking of has better deals, let me know. Perhpas I can figure a way out to link up with you for at least one of the legs. Maybe we can get a few others interested - but on second thought, given where the majority of guys reside, I doubt it. Plus there are only a few of us "crazy" enough to do these things! [swg]

I recall seeing those "car" trains all covered so that one couldn't sneak a peek at the new car models. That was then. Today they cover 'em to protect 'em from the vanadals. Ah, the every changing face of society ........ <ugh>

Keep the hatches battened down, Mate. Them's are storm clouds comin' in .... Argggggh, Matey!

So, where's Nick[C=:-)]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

REMINDER: Read the SUMMARY!

[passengerfan]

Good Afternoon Tom and the rest of the gang. Just got in from work and decided to check posts. Better start with a CR and a round for the house.

Comment by Theodore Bear about wrapping the luxury cars of the day in quilted blankets, actually they went further than that. They found the quilted blankets by themselves left little swirl marks in the paint finish so they went one step further and wrapped the cars in butcher paper first than quilted the cars. This was especially true when Laquer was the finish on the better automobiles of the day.

Tom you mentioned the CZ dome sleeper observations above and I thought I would let you know the Canadian Dome sleeper Lounge Observations in use by Via Rail came about when the CPR group visited Budd and saw the CB&Q 378 SILVER LOOKOUT outside the plant being readied for delivery in December 1952.. The CPR men asked if they could see the CZ car and were immediatly taken aboard the finsished car and the rest is history CP ordered eighteen almost identical cars. The exteriors differed in the CB&Q car was deluxe with skirting and the CPR cars were builkt without the skirting. Only the seating in the rear observation lounge differed between the CPR cars and the CZ cars. The Drawing Room annex in SILVER LOOKOUT was equipped with a shower factory installed. The earlier CZ dome sleeper lounge observations were equipped with showers in the Drawing Room annexs by the CB&Q on layover in Chicago. The CPR sleeper Lounge Observations today have a showere but it is for all occupants of these cars if I am not mistaken. This was something installed during the rebuild by Via. All seven CZ dome sleeper lounge observations survive today in private ownership or museums. The rear facing lights on the CZ cars differed from those of the CPR cars.

[siberianmo]

Evenin' All!

Had it not been for Ted 'n Al we would have been "shut out" this Saturday during daylight. Doesn't appear as if we're going to have anyone here this evenin' ......

Appreciate the recognition of the CZ dome sleeper observation ENCORE! Nostalgia Post. The amplifying info is "good stuff," a pity that our customers most probably won't read it. [tdn] One of the praftfalls of these type communications.

We have Monday thru Friday "only" customers along with a couple of "hit 'n run" guys and then those in the Legion of the Lost!. Doesn't leave too many for meaningful continuing dialogue, now does it [?]

Regarding the CP's order for those beautfiul obs-dome cars, why not have differences [?] Now that term "annex" has always disturbed me. We've discussed it previously, with no satisfactory rsolution. I think it's a misnomer, indeed. If there was a shower room inside the drawing room compartment, then how in the world could it be an "annex" [?] Oh well ... I don't expect that anyone really cares, much less knows. [swg]

I've traveled in 7 different VIA Rail "Park Car" series of obs-domes, some two, three or four times. Somewhere 'round here I have the names of 'em. I know Revelstoke Park leads the pack, for it has been a "fixture" on the "Ocean" run between Montreal and Halifax. Once the Renaissance "Euro" cars were put on that route, Revelstoke remained with the only Budd stainless steel consist in operation of the three sets of trains making the 6 weekly round trips.

The names Yoho - Banff - Strathcona and Glacier come to mind at the moment ....... Wonder which it will be for our next trip [?]

Save your bucks - ain't no one here to buy a round for!

See ya ....... we close up at midnight - Leon the Night Man will be in shortly.

Remember, tomorrow is SUNDAY PHOTO POSTING DAY!

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

REMINDER! Read the SUMMARY!

[Anonymous]

Does anyone know if an old train graveyard exists - a place where they store old beat up trains that no longer run or just the cars, etc...?

[nickinwestwales]

evenin gents,apologies for absence,-spontaneous descision to record band on Thurs. entirely resonsible,elected to go for "live room" for band with additional line in from vocals,sadly one of the room mikes was switched off leaving a "dark corner"-as the only member of the band with the software to repair this, have been been busy ever since trying every trick I can think of to coax the information out--Performance was of sufficient quality to justify effort.

Appreciate that this is just the sort of `Hit & Run` post so rightly deplored by management,but tonight my mind is full of other things,....please think of it as a "Not Dead Yet" kind of submission,will return when able to focus properly,regards to all,Nick (bass-player "Riptide")[C=:-)]

[siberianmo]

Nick LIVES! [wow][yeah][wow][:-^][swg]

Ok, Mate, you're off the hook - we understand! Ain't been the same without ya .....
You've got quite a bit to catch up on as the info exchange goes on (as with the "beat").
There is a Post of interest for you from me regarding those Can-Am buildings you inquired about ..... [tup]

For all: Speaking of hit 'n run Posts - let's NOT sway from the "policy" regarding those who just don't get it ....... especially when the profile says absoultey zilch - zero - zip. [tdn]

Okay guys, I'll catch y'all in the 'morrow for SUNDAY PHOTO POSTING DAY!

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

REMINDER! Read the SUMMARY!

[trolleyboy]

Evening all. Leon I'll help you clean up as it's been a lean day to be sure.[:(]


Tom Yes I have had to revert to the later post again the last couple of days. I do have a couple days off and a couple of day shifts next week so I'll try to scare up some more meaningfull stuff.[;)] The time of year and nature of my position unfortunatly. I do have to concur with yours and Al's feeling of chagrin at the rudeness of some parents these day's ( daze )[:(!]

Thanks for the reprise of a couple of good quality posts of the past. It did spark some decent comment from al so not all is lost hang in there[;)] Let me know about the when and where of your Churhill thoughts. Perhaps we can meet up in the Great white North[:D][:p]

As to the forums I know that the quality has slowley degraded that's why it's nice to have" our " little bastion of freedom here[tup][^]


Ted I concur with Tom keep one eye on tthe sky and be safe ! Not to worry about your not finding your shots. I'm still going to post mine tomorrow but as I said earluier it is of poor quality.

Nice to see Nick as well short or not still good to hear from the other side of the pond.

al Nice info oh guru of rail travel vehicles. [bow] I had to laugh at the parents disaproval of the pinball machines. I suppose if Amtral or Via was to install xbox's in modern club cars the parents would likley be just as upset. same story just different object of scorn. I would have been very displeased with the car attendant as you weer with his blatent in my mind disreguard of his job. I'm alot like Tom in this vein , I do dispise rudness in all it's forms. ( my crew at the store knows better than to ignore customers )

well folks it's been a long day some I'm off for the moment. catch you all later in the either. Rob

[trolleyboy]

Okay it's officially Sunday ( at least where I am ) [:D] sooo Here is tthe first volley of this weeks sunday picture fest. As previously mentioned this is a shot of second #20 from the Nipissing Central. It is a Preston car and Coach double truck Prairie type interurban car. Enjoy.







The final two shots are a couple more Ted pics for your viewing enjoyment. Rob

[Anonymous]

I'll just slip this note through the slot on the larboard side of the front door. I couldn't let those 2 shots go by without mentioning these are examples of "what not to do" when impeded with severe space restrictions. "Fronts" are space savers for sure. However, if they are viewed from any angle besides "head on," there can be no illusion of "depth." The only thing for it is shadowing but from which perspective? Is the viewer looking at the flat wall from the N.E. to S.W., or visa versa? From a photographer's "fixed" vantage point, shadowing can be effective. For the "live" viewer, however, who will be seeing the "Fronts" from all different angles; "shadowing" seems a grotesque. This subject is better left for Wednesday's "Pike Perspectives" (for lack of a better phrase). Today, let's just enjoy the fruits of our Member's labo(u)rs whether it be pix of "real" or "empires of the mind" in miniature.[^] Rob, thanks again for the trouble...I owe you, Ted

[siberianmo]

SUNDAY’s INFO & SUMMARY of RECENT POSTS

It’s SUNDAY PHOTO POSTING DAY! and yes, we’re CLOSED on Sunday’s

Just drop off your pix and Posts by dropping them through the mail slot in either set of front doors! [swg]

Info for the Day:

(1) Halloween is purportedly the Birthday for our cloven footed friend, Boris. Who will step forward to coordinate the festivities [?]

(2) A reminder of POLICY(repeated) Those who disregard the efforts of others on a routine basis are not welcome at ”Our” Place. One-way Posts will not be acknowledged and are not appreciated ‘round here. [tdn]

INDEX Monday’s only!

SUMMARY

Name - Date/Time - (Page#) – Remarks

(1) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 22 Oct 2005, 00:38:41 (143) Inclusive Post!

(2) siberianmo Tom Posted: 22 Oct 2005, 06:57:23 (143) Saturday’s Info & Summary

(3) Theodorebear Ted Posted: 22 Oct 2005, 07:21:18 (143) Inclusive Post!

(4) passengerfan Al Posted: 22 Oct 2005, 09:27:39 (143) Guess what?

(5) siberianmo Tom Posted: 22 Oct 2005, 10:40:57 (144) reply to trolleyboy – Theodorebear – passengerfan, etc.

(6) siberianmo Tom Posted: 22 Oct 2005, 10:47:06 (144) ENCORE! Nostalgia #1 Startup dates for RR’s

(8} passengerfan Al Posted: 22 Oct 2005, 11:19:59 (144)

(9) passengerfan Al Posted: 22 Oct 2005, 11:21:46 (144)

(10) siberianmo Tom Posted: 22 Oct 2005, 14:05:40 (144) ENCORE! Nostalgia #2 Vista Dome obs-lounge

(11) siberianmo Tom Posted: 22 Oct 2005, 14:21:58 (144) reply to passengerfan

(12) Theodorebear Ted Posted: 22 Oct 2005, 14:42:30 (144)

(13) siberianmo Tom Posted: 22 Oct 2005, 15:57:19 (144) reply to Theodorebear

(14) passengerfan Al Posted: 22 Oct 2005, 17:59:35 (144)

(15) siberianmo Tom Posted: 22 Oct 2005, 19:16:18 (144) reply to passengerfan

(16) nickinwestwales Nick Posted: 22 Oct 2005, 19:30:38 (144) He lives!

(17) siberianmo Tom Posted: 22 Oct 2005, 21:32:47 (144) reply to nickinwestwales, etc.

(18) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 22 Oct 2005, 22:58:06 (144) Inclusive Post!

(19) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 22 Oct 2005, 23:13:58 (144) Pix

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

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

[siberianmo]

Even though ”Our” Place is CLOSED on SUNDAY’s we do observe Sunday Photo Posting Day!! “These are a few of my favorite things!”

Click to enlarge!

F40PH #6420 eastbound at Moncton, NB, Canada


F40PH #6408 eastbound at Moncton


F40PH #6412 outbound at Halifax, NS


F40PH #6432 outbound at Halifax


F40PH #6444 westbound at Capreol, Ontario


F40PH #6445 westbound at Capreol


F40PH #6441 eastbound at Jasper, Alberta


F40PH #6442 eastbound at Jasper


That’s it – Enjoy!

Tom [4:-)] [oX)]

REMINDER! Read the SUMMARY!

[siberianmo]

G’day!

[yeah] It’s Sunday and we’re CLOSED! However, I thought I’d catch up on a couple of responses before heading up to Can-Am Gorge with Boris ‘n Leon, aka: The Boyz! for their Sunday afternoon in the “wild.” [swg]

First order of business is to remind everyone to READ THE SUMMARY it’s the only way you’ll know what’s going on ‘round here! [tup]

trolleyboy Rob Posted: 22 Oct 2005, 22:58:06

Nice Inclusive Post, as usual! I’ll tell ya, things are beginning to look like we’re “feedin’ off ourselves” ‘round here. Where has everyone gone [?] passengerfan Al kept the place “alive” yesterday, along with a couple of Posts from Ted, otherwise I probably would have closed up in mid day! [tdn]

The rationale for the ENCORE! Posts is two fold: (1) Saturday’s are notoriously slow, and (2) allows for a bit of “breathing room” for the author (me!) [swg]

trolleyboy Rob Posted: 22 Oct 2005, 23:13:58

Appreciate the pix! But you “jumped the gun” in that the Oh-fish-ul time is kept on the clock at ”Our” Place! [swg]

That Preston car and Coach double truck Prairie type interurban car you Posted must have a “story.” And …….. [?] Interesting photo! [tup]

Theodorebear Ted Posted: 23 Oct 2005, 06:01:58

Your Email has been received and answered – THANX! [tup]

I enjoy looking at the photo’s of your efforts and quite frankly could give a Rat’s Patoot about “perfection.” What I see is realism jumping right at me and I appreciate the detail you’ve put into your work. Good show! Of course we could all make improvements – but first one has to start! You “done good!” [tup][tup]

Catch ya later!

Tom [4:-)] [oX)]

REMINDER! Read the SUMMARY!