G'day!
Well, CM3, it seems that perhaps - and I emphasize PERHAPS, you do have a 'case' . . .
When I spotted your earlier Post, it began thusly:
hot bricks for my boots. Lovely here today, lots of snow, approx 8 degrees, etc., etc. K9s ran another plow extra early this a.m. . .
Since you've ALWAYS been an upfront kinda guy, and most generous with the quarters and rounds, I hereby remove the sanctions placed against you and will ensure that your "record' is expunged of any and all aspersions, etc. and so forth! <grin>
Dratted Forum Gremlins - and here we've been looking for someone (anyone) to clean that Rat's Patoot Room! <arggggghhh>
Enjoy the weekend and hope to see ya on Monday!
Heard from Lars by PHONE - seems that they are heading off to FLORIDA in the morning. Yes, they booked a flight and will be staying with friends in the Keys. Same folks who let them use their place up in Plattsburgh a bit ago. Guess the cold just got to Mrs. Larsman and off they will go! He told me that once settled in, that he'll try to log in from down there. Good luck! <groan> Anyway, you'll be missed - BUT, hope the getaway is relaxing and fun for the two of you!
Later (maybe)!
Tom
Hi Tom and all.
A pint of Kimberley Mild to start with today please RUTH and the Steak and Fries for later.
MIKE Thanks for the great links. Good photos of Green Cove, although the horse does not look too pleased to see the approaching train.Great shots of the Empire Builder. I wonder how they got the photo taken from the front of the train. The Shays pics are wonderfully clear. The pics expands and your are able to read the info on the tender..
ERIC.It is amazing how much railway stuff I had collected over the years and there is no way I could have brought it all over here My mate in England still has a load of my railway books stored..
Here is a pic of a class 91 electric loco( on the left).
The first five classes of British 25KV AC electric locos, the AL1-5 later classes 81-86, had flexible drive. then came the 100 class AL6s,these locos when built had axle-hung traction motors. Unfortunatly this led to bogie frame fractures and severe track damage caused by the unsprung weight. To get over this problem a 'Flexicoil' suspension system was fitted, also resilient wheels by Svenska Aktiebolaget Bromsregulator company of Sweden were fitted. By this time the TOPS numering system was in use and the modified locos became class 86/2' and allowed to run at there maximum 100 MPH speed, the locos not modified were classified 86/0 and limited to 80 MPH. Some of the 86/0s recieved the SAB wheels but not the Flexicoils and were classed as 86/3 but were allowed to do 100 MPH.
The 86s were introduced in 1964 and have done very good service, there are a few still working for Frieghtliner hauling intermodels.
DL It would indeed be good if we can get Tom over to sample the British trains and the British beer.
I see you have had the Shippos today a good bitter which I know was very popular with the folks of Nottingham. I must admit though I preferred the Kimberley. it is a downright shame both breweries have now gone.
CM3 I know TOM is desperate to get someone to clear out the Rats Patoot Room but looks as though you have escaped this time.as you say that last pic of MIKES of the Shay on the trestle is a marvellous photo. Thanks for the joke,DOUG would have been proud of it.
TOM It was great to talk to you hope the DVD gets sorted out. I am working on the Trainwreck Saloon and am hoping for mid to late FEB on a Saturday, I will let you know as soon as I can.
Good start on Idiot Of The Week,some people as simply unbelieveable.
Many thanks for the California Zephyr pics and info. What a great way to see that glorius scenery than in those Domes.
Just seen your latest post Tom and hope LARS as a good time in Florida, yes he will be missed at the bar.
A BIT OF ADVICE PLEASE. I have been looking at scanners, as you know, there is one at $100 that has 3200X9600 DPI and one at $150 with 4800X9600 DPI not knowing much about this do you think it is worth the extra $50 to get the dearer one Thanks.
To make amends for yesterday's pic( I know how much you want the Rat's Patoot Room cleaned and I don't want to get "Tweeted") This great car was stabled very near yesterday's "Locomotive".
Well RUTH I will have another beer that CM3 has kindly offered
Pete.
G'day Cap'n Tom & fellow travelers at the bar!
'Tis I, the Larsman with some news and some cheer. Let's start with the cheer, first! A round for the house, Ruth my deAH, treats for the critters, picked pig's feet for Boris and the change is for YOU!
I see that the Cap'n has informed you of our plans to take off for Florida. It's true. After speaking with our friends who are "wintering" down there, it was a no-brainer to take them up on their offer to join them for a few weeks. Once the Mrs. heard that, it was no stopping her. A done deal, so to speak.
We've been using a travel agent for years and this particular lady is a magician when it comes to finding fares for us. We got an unbelievable "deal" on air fares, which made it even more of a "lock" for the trip. We'll be leaving from Newark tomorrow AM and should be in Miami before 1 PM where our friends will pick us up for the trip to Marathon in the middle keys.
Must say that I too am looking forward to this getaway, as the temperatures have take quite a dip, but moreso, I need a change. This should be a good for the both of us.
So, not to worry, I plan to "connect" with the bar while away as the place we're staying at is one of those more modern homes that is "wired" for today's technology. Just hope the forum's cooperates with us! <grimmace 'n groan> Anyway, once settled in, I'll check back to see how things are going.
Good to see the activity today and it appears that our "normal" routine is holding with Eric in the early, early AM - Tom opening up - CM3 in mid-morning - DL around noon and so forth. At least we're staying "up there"!! PLUS, and most importantly, some fine material from the guys!
Don't suppose that CM3 I'm NOT Shane! might've used the convenient EDIT feature Hmmmmm. <grin> Nah, must've been those dratted gremlins.
Really liked that California Zephyr material and surely brings to mind some fine trips we've taken aboard those trains. The comfort, ambiance, service, well maintained equipment and of course the scenery in the rockies made for one heckofa trip! Nicely done, Cap'n Tom!
Hope y'all have a great weekend, and I'll take one more B4 skedaddling outta here . . . Don't cry Ruth! <geesh>
Just caught your post, Pete! Have one on me . . . I think yours is the reason my first post disappeared, both must've been put out at the same time. That always blows my socks off. But anyway, good to see ya!
Until the next time!
Lars
G-day Tom and all present.
Leon- Could you get me the Steak n' fries please. Thanks
Pete- The UP AC4400CW model does belong to the UP but the locomotive was leased by the GECX. So yes, you are correct.
I got a kick out of the picture of what looks like Thomas the tank engine sitting on top of a flat car. It caught my attention. There are a lot of lights on that car. I also noticed the CP heavy weight Passenger car to the right in the picture. That car looks really nice.
I'm glad you liked the ME article. I was quite interested in it myself. It had some good information in there.
Steam, 100mph. Thats fast. Those drivers are moving right along. To bad they scrapped them. I would have enjoyed to see a steam engine running at 100 mph.
I liked the latest pictures you posted. The one of the Class 91 electric loco, and the Santa Fe Business car. Some very nice shots. I also cought the word Flexicoil. Most of the newer GE made locomotives have a flexicoil designed truck under them. As you have said, they give the rail a little easier time when the train passes over it. You wouldn't think so, since the locomotives GE is putting out weigh in at 410,000 pounds or 205 tons. Thats a lot of tonnage sitting on a 70 foot piece of track. The EMD SD70ACe, the latest locomotive weighs 420,000 pounds or 210 tons. The locomotives are getting heavier and heavier.
Mike- Thanks for the pictures. The pictures that caught my eye the most was the Wiliam Crooks, since I work around almost every week. I liked the shot of James J Hill coming off the locomotive. I didn't know he had set foot in the loco. Thanks.
Eric- Well. Someone else here who knows how to draw on a computer.
So you made drawings for instructions. How was that for drawing? I would think it would take a long time since there are usually a lot of drawings in one instruction booklet. Thats cool.
Tom- well, usually its the turkey sandwich. There soooo goood. If I may, why do you ask
Anyway, noticed the article about the idiot of the week. wow, is all I can say. How dumb do you have to be to give your daughter ant poison.
Also liked the Passenger Nostalgia. The California Zephyr must have been one of the most elegant passenger trains out there. Just the description of the end car made it sound like a dream to most people. I would have liked to ride a passenger train like that. That is one impressive end car.... I know, lets buy one.
I also see that Tom "almost" pulled a tweeter. But no cigar. But I really don't want to wash out the rat's pattoot, so I'm going to be on Toms good side.
CM3- Ah signals. There are many types. A long the busiset main line here in Minnesota, the Northern Pacific Staples subdivision, the line has ABS. (Automatic Block Signaling) These will only light when a train is approaching the block. Usually the signals will be lit a block in advance, if there isn't another train already occupying that block. So the only way to know if there is a train coming, is if the signal is lit for an oncoming train. Which, usually when it's lit, you have about 3 minutes to get out there and watch the train. They come roaring through.
There is a cut off on that line also. At Casselton, ND there is a cut off for the intermodal and coal trains. In the drawing of the cantalever bridge, you will notice another signal in the back ground. The bridge is always lit, like you had mentioned. It protects the cut off and is usually always red, except in the case of a train. But most of the "High" main lines such as Metra, when 150 to 200 trains may run a-day, the signals will always be lit. That's also a form of ABS signaling.
Happy railroading
James
Good morning Captain Tom and Gentlemen!!
Leon! Nice to see you again! Tonight I would like my favorite, Rumpsteak Café de Paris. After a long Friday I need something real good.
Long Friday, but kind of quiet here at Our Place! But I say what Tom says, A man has to do what a man has to do!
Tom – The idiot of the week certainly deserved your award! Unbelievable!Back in the 80’s I actually rented a Renault of Hertz at O’Hare once. Built in the US. Not that I wanted a Renault, I got it anyway. No, I have never been big on French cars. Not my style!The pictures of the California Zephyr are very nice, especially the first one! Bingo! Thanks for the pictures and the info!I have no problems with Mike’s url’s! Not last night and not tonight. CM3 is correct, he greeted the barkeep in his post.
CM3 – I feel sorry for Bill! He actually fulfilled his wife’s wish! Hm, depending on her weight of course. That was a good one!DL – Do you drink Shipstones Bitter warm too? Pete – If you are going to scan slides or negatives I would recommend the scanner with the higher resolution. My flatbed scanner goes up to 4800X9600 and it gives me good details when I am scanning slides. Class 86 has an interesting design with the smaller cab at the rear end of the locomotive! SAB wheels have been used by many locomotives in Sweden over the years. Thanks for the info!Lars – Have a safe and very nice trip to the Keys! You will be missed but I think the Keys will be better than a cruise! We will try to keep the bar up and running until you are back!James – The drawings I made was for the work instructions used on the production floor where I work. They mainly show how to assemble our products and how to set up the equipment that is being used to do so. But I was also illustrating our product catalog for a few years. Since it was all freehand drawings it took some time to put them together. But it is fun. I scanned a sample to give you an idea.
To compensate for that I'll show a rerun:
Eric
foto credit: www.viarail.ca
G'day Gents!
Hard to believe the weekend is once again upon us. Draw a cuppa Joe, check out the pastries in The Mentor Village Bakery and order a <light> or <traditional> breakfast from our Menu Board!
Saturday is also our ENCORE! day - so for the few of us remaining ‘round here, let's see what we can come up with to keep this "tradition" moving forward. Also, tomorrow is Sunday Photo Posting Day! Again, with so few left it may be "one of those days (daze). We'll see . . . .
Acknowledgments:
Pete at 3:42 PM yesterday: Nice Pix of those trains in Merry Olde! That "modern look" is something else - makes the trains always look as if they are in motion. Yeah, I know these machines aren't new, but they look it!
Amtrak in February sounds good to me, as does March, April, May, etc.
Don't know how much of a hurry you are in to purchase a scanner, but if you'd like, you can "test" the one I have with some photos before making your decision. Insofar as the imagery specifications are concerned, I'd not be too impressed with the difference cited. The lower end one should do just fine. You could always ask the store people to let you use one of your photos for demo purposes. Then you'll know fer sure, fer sure!
Hmmmmmm, I hadn't thought about YOU to be the recipient of a <tweeting> HOWEVER, now that you mention it . . .
Lars at 4:08 PM yesterday: So, it's "official" eh You and your Mrs. are heading south for a couple of weeks. Well, that's not a bad idea, especially in January! I'm a bit familiar with the Florida Keys as way back in another life, my ship was assigned to a rather long deployment (homeport Boston) to Key West in January-February. I believe we were gone about 7 weeks from homeport. Anyway, had some time to "check out" a few places and Marathon was one of ‘em.
For anyone interested, there's all kinds of info "out there," but here's something to peruse:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marathon,_Florida
Also this on the "Overseas Railroad":
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Overseas_Railroad
Glad you liked the California Zephyr material AND by the by, we're still WAITING for a "report" from you on the trips you've taken aboard the "originals."
Certainly hope you're able to "connect" in the Sunshine State and we'll be looking for ya! Bon voyage - Safe trip . . .
James at 6:48 PM yesterday: One facet of rail travel that I've always enjoyed is sitting in a dome car, preferably the obs dome at the rear, and being able to check out the signals along the way. Since most of my recent activities on the rails have been in Canada (for the past 17 years or so) I'm more familiar with their set-up than anywhere else. It is a fascinating (to me) thing to observe.
Your "order" caught my eye simply because you didn't specify what kind of sandwich you wanted. <grin> We aim to please ‘round here though, and if you were served what you desired, that's fine with the crew at "Our" Place.
As mentioned in many of my Posts here and at the "old" Thread, one can STILL travel in those wonderful observation dome cars in Canada. VIA Rail operates ‘em and they surely provide a different dimension to passenger rail travel - in my not-so-humble-opinion. As the equipment ages - and they are OLD - I'm not so sure what is in line for the future for trains like the "Canadian" (cross-Canada train), but they aren't going to be available indefinitely as they were constructed way back in the 50s and rehabbed a few times since in Canada. Great cars fer sure, fer sure.
A request: I've noticed you've stopped frequenting "my other Thread" and perhaps you can find the time to drop off a Pix now ‘n then - doesn't need to be anything more. We've had some Milwaukee Road stuff over these past couple of months, but it didn't "draw you out." Thanx!
Eric at 1:17 AM today: So, you're in cahoots with CM3, eh Now HOW would you KNOW that his INITIAL Post was indeed as he stated Unless . . . hmmmmmm. There's a conspiracy afoot! <argggggghhh>
Nice drawings - but of course I have no "clue" of what! Tech stuff is interesting to me. I had taken a few courses in what was called "Mechancial Drawing" way back in time. Thought I wanted to pursue architecture. Found out my talent simply wasn't. Oh well, the call of the sea arrived in the "nick" of time.
Have to agree, the California Zephyr from days gone by was surely a fantastic train.
Thanx for the fine Post!
Reminder: Ruth has the bar from 9 AM until Leon the Night Man comes in at 5 PM ‘til closing. Tonight is Steak 'n All The Trimmings Nite! Plan to arrive by 5 PM for dinner!
Boris, serve ‘em all of the "spiked" OJ they can handle!
ENCORE! Saturday - ENCORE! Saturday
PASSENGER RR FALLEN FLAG & NOSTALGIA
first Posted on Page 110 of the "original" Thread . . . Here's another Passenger RR Fallen Flag from The Official Guide of the Railways - Aug 1956: Missouri - Kansas - Texas Railroad (MKT - KATY Lines) On hand reference material does not provide a detailed equipment listing, however there are some items of interest: Headquarters: St. Louis, MO Passenger trains of note: Katy Flyer - The Bluebonnet - Texas Special Slogans: The KATY Railroad - Natural Route Southwest. ..... Only ONE COUPON is required for passage between any two points on MISSOURI - KANSAS - TEXAS LINES. ..... "Texas Special Route - Frisco - M-K-T Lines" from St. Louis to Dallas, Fort Worth, Wichita Falls, Waco, Temple, Austin, San Antonio, Houston and Intermediate points. ..... Specify Katy's New Fast Service - 17 hours - Kansas City to Dallas - Fort Worth. Second Morning Delivery from Chicago Via C.B.&Q. - Kansas City - M.K.T. Advertisements: Route ‘em Katy Southwest ..... On The Famous Streamlined Texas Special Luxury sleeping car and coach accommodations, nationally famous diner meals please every taste, every budget. Friendly, attentive service in an atmosphere of restful comfort. Through sleeping cars to and from Chicago, New York, Washington and the Metropolitan East, via the St. Louis gateway. Daily between St. Louis and San Antonio. ..... On The De Lux Texas Bluebonnet Bedroom and Section accommodations available between Kansas City, Forth Worth, Dallas and San Antonio. Roomettes between Kansas City and Dallas; Diner-lounge car ... traditionally superb Bluebonnet diner meals. Dallas and Fort Worth passengers particularly appreciate the "just right" overnight Bluebonnet schedule. You retire at your usual bedtime, arrive refreshed and rested Short line between Kansas City and the principal cities of Texas (daily). Famous Meals a feature of Katy Dining Car Service! Breakfast .75 to $1.75 Luncheon $1.20 to $2.50 Dinner $1.20 to $5.50 Know Your Pullmans All regularly assigned sleeping cars on Katy-Lines are numbered. Car 16, for example is invariably a 14 Roomette, 4 bedroom cars, operating on the Texas Special between St. Louis and Dallas. Reservations are made accordingly. On these pages sleeping car numbers are featured for your guidance. It is a good idea to check your reservations to be sure your space has been properly assigned. Enjoy! Tom ENCORE! Saturday - ENCORE! Saturday
Seeing as you are sad about LARS being away I will keep you company for a while RUTH and a have a beer or two and the Steak later please.
JAMES Not all the Merchant Navys were scrapped.One, No 35028 Clan Line was bought direct from British Railways and has just had a very extensive overhaul as now back on the main line.10 of the class of 30 MNs were taken to the Barry Scrapyard of Dai Woodhams in South Wales and were saved the torch although a couple are in still in scrapyard condition. Two others have steamed and I believe No 35005 Canadian Pacific is working on a preserved line at the moment. Loco No 35029 Ellermanm Lines is a sectioned exhibit at the National Railway Museum at York. Cutaway on one side to show the workings of the boiler, cylinder, valves etc. it is arranged so that the wheels turn.
I am sure if they were allowed to, there is a couple of classes of locos like the A4, Duchess and MN that could reach 100MPH, the locos are probably in the best condition they have ever been.
I had not realized that those new large diesel loco weighed that much With the locos getting heavier I guess the track has to be kept in top condition.
Interesting piece on signalling.. On British Rail the signals are always lit. Away from stations junctions etc they are mainly automatic worked by the track circuits,so they usally show a green aspect. When a train passes a signal it turns to red as the train passes each signal ahead the signal turns through amber, double amber and back to green on a four aspect signal.
Glad you liked the pics.
ERIC The loco with the smaller cab at one end is the class 91.
A link to a pic of an 86 loco
http://www.aclocogroup.co.uk/index.php?page=history86.php.
This seems a good web-site on the AC locomotive Group.
It is very rare to see a class 91 running 'blunt end' first they are limited to 100 mph with this end leading I believe that when they were designed the idea was that the 91s would be used on frieght trains at night although this never happened.
When the drawing you scanned is enlarged it is very clear. and thanks for the pic of the Shay.. I really must try to get a ride behind a preserved one.
TOM A quiet Saturday at the bar, and I am running late. Thanks for Eric and your advice on the scanner, that is a great idea to take a slide and a photo and get a demonstation.
In the pic of the Santa Fe car I posted yesterday in the background is the new footbridge they have erected over the tracks at Union Station.They have made a good job of the bridge which the main part came from somewhere in Kansas City. there was a lot of people using the bridge when I was there.
Well Lars should be in Florida now I enjoyed the links you postedThat Overseas Railroad was a wonderful piece of engineering, with after the hurricane of 1935, was used for Highway 1. The pic showing it broken for yacht traffic was a touch sad though.
Thanks for the KATY Encore. . Every time we travel back from Hermann the road follows what is now the Katy trail with the old bridges standing. I often try to picture what it was like when the railroad was open. I will have to have some time in Sedalia MO which, as you know is still served by Amtrak, as it you pass through the town by road there are signs to the historic Katy depot, also I believe the Katy had a large work-shops there.
For an Encore I have 'Borrowed' this from Page 111 of the old site. I found it very interesting it was a post from WEST COAST DAVE. on SP Diesels
The SP had a love, hate relationship with the American Locomotive Works. The Alco PA was chosen over comparable EMD offerings due to the GE supplied traction motors, dynamic brakes and the power plant being turbocharged, this combination was able to handle the tough Donner Pass and Shasta routes. Eventually 76 would be purchased, SP thought well enough of them to rebuild and upgrade the entire fleet in the early to mid 60s, unlike some roads they were never downgraded to freight service, all would be gone by 1967. Alco days were not done yet, SP that year aquired examples of the C-628 and later the C-630. By this date, the SD45 was the engine that GE and Alco had to chase, massive SD45 purchases quickly made these the dominate power on the system. The SD45 had one major fault, a need for lots of fuel. SP turned to Alco in a attempt to match the reliability of the SD45 but with increased fuel savings. The C- 628/630 delivered the promised fuel economy, but could not deliver on the reliability. It was discovered too late that they did not perform well in heavy, high speed service, changes made to the 251 engine and aluminum wiring resulted in blown cylinders, turbochargers and fires. Still, SP persisted in finding suitable employment and in those great GE traction motors laid the answer, they could substain extended low speed operation and it was noted that several had been assigned to helper and other secondary service duty throughout the system with no failures recorded. The decision was made to rebuild them for humpyard and transfer service between West Colton and Taylor. They performed admiribly along side newer power until the early 80s when all Alco power was set aside. Eugene OR, was the second bastion of Alco power on the SP in the 70s, The only RSD15s (3 total) purc
pwolfe wrote: Hi Tom and all. A pint of Kimberley Mild to start with today please RUTH and the Steak and Fries for later.MIKE Thanks for the great links. Good photos of Green Cove, although the horse does not look too pleased to see the approaching train.Great shots of the Empire Builder. I wonder how they got the photo taken from the front of the train. The Shays pics are wonderfully clear. The pics expands and your are able to read the info on the tender..ERIC.It is amazing how much railway stuff I had collected over the years and there is no way I could have brought it all over here My mate in England still has a load of my railway books stored..Here is a pic of a class 91 electric loco( on the left).The first five classes of British 25KV AC electric locos, the AL1-5 later classes 81-86, had flexible drive. then came the 100 class AL6s,these locos when built had axle-hung traction motors. Unfortunatly this led to bogie frame fractures and severe track damage caused by the unsprung weight. To get over this problem a 'Flexicoil' suspension system was fitted, also resilient wheels by Svenska Aktiebolaget Bromsregulator company of Sweden were fitted. By this time the TOPS numering system was in use and the modified locos became class 86/2' and allowed to run at there maximum 100 MPH speed, the locos not modified were classified 86/0 and limited to 80 MPH. Some of the 86/0s recieved the SAB wheels but not the Flexicoils and were classed as 86/3 but were allowed to do 100 MPH.The 86s were introduced in 1964 and have done very good service, there are a few still working for Frieghtliner hauling intermodels.DL It would indeed be good if we can get Tom over to sample the British trains and the British beer.I see you have had the Shippos today a good bitter which I know was very popular with the folks of Nottingham. I must admit though I preferred the Kimberley. it is a downright shame both breweries have now gone.CM3 I know TOM is desperate to get someone to clear out the Rats Patoot Room but looks as though you have escaped this time.as you say that last pic of MIKES of the Shay on the trestle is a marvellous photo. Thanks for the joke,DOUG would have been proud of it.TOM It was great to talk to you hope the DVD gets sorted out. I am working on the Trainwreck Saloon and am hoping for mid to late FEB on a Saturday, I will let you know as soon as I can. Good start on Idiot Of The Week,some people as simply unbelieveable.Many thanks for the California Zephyr pics and info. What a great way to see that glorius scenery than in those Domes.Just seen your latest post Tom and hope LARS as a good time in Florida, yes he will be missed at the bar.A BIT OF ADVICE PLEASE. I have been looking at scanners, as you know, there is one at $100 that has 3200X9600 DPI and one at $150 with 4800X9600 DPI not knowing much about this do you think it is worth the extra $50 to get the dearer one Thanks.To make amends for yesterday's pic( I know how much you want the Rat's Patoot Room cleaned and I don't want to get "Tweeted") This great car was stabled very near yesterday's "Locomotive". Well RUTH I will have another beer that CM3 has kindly offeredPete.
The extra 50 will give you more bang for your buck.
underworld
Good evening Leon, well what an absolute ordeal, I'm not sure if it's over with or not, but at least for the time being I have access. Before anyone asks, I've done nothing new or different and I'm not sure the forum folks have either. Any way you slice it its erie. ( no Boris not the railway ) So without further adieu Leon a large as you can find CR for me and at least several rounds for the poor few that remain inside these hallowed halls. Also I don't want to clean the rats patootroom either
I won't attempt to address all the fine posts these last couiple three weeks I have not been around, suffice to say gentlemen you are still putting out some fine disscussion matter and photograph's, Still top drawer stuff 5x and rouns for everyone.
Pete,Lars nTom-Thanks for offering to post things for me and thanks to the few email excerpts and ifo that you forwarded to me. Made me feel still in the loop at any stretch. Oh Pete feel free to post that info I emailed you, and thanks for letting me send the pictures on to my museu,m friends. I know that the wiener train fans will love it.
I think I have a few pictures to drop off. Everyone hold your collective breath's while I try to get two posts in a row.Surly a record at least for me as of late.
Rob
Well so far so good , two post in a row and possibly counting figure that I will post a few classic traction shots to get Sunday off on at least one good foot. All phtoo's are from the OERHA achieves, please enjoy.
Kitchener Waterloo Street railway mail car c1940's
Ottawa Street Railway Royal Mail Car # 1
TTC mailcar # 28
Express Motor #1 also used for mail and small package freight.London & Port Stanley Railway
Leon, I would like a juicy Filet Mignon, and some good, cold beer! Is it? Hmm, some people seem to prefer warm beer!! Crazy, isn't it?
A very quiet Saturday at the bar. I feel guilty but it was kind of a busy day today. 68° F, not bad. 69° for Sunday according to the forecast.
Tom – Me? We? Oh, no! Never! I think, or do I? I trust CM3 and I saw his fingerprint all over his post, including the very beginning. Or whatever it was. Those drawings were used to describe how to set up that tool to pull contacts into plastic socket bases. Considering how well you designed Our Place I think you would have become a great architect! But i bet you would never have seen so much of the world as you did sailing the high seas.Interesting link about the Overseas Railroad! Amazing they could build those long, long bridges!Also interesting info on MKT! I found a locomotive roster for MKT on this url:http://www.edisaurus.com/trains/mkt_roster.htmPete – Nice of you to take care of Ruth, but I don’t think you should tell Lars. The smaller cab at one end is Class 91. I thought that was what I wrote but I see now I didn’t. At least that is what I meant. I hope you will get a good demonstration of the different scanners you are going to look at and compare. Take your time when you are deciding which one to buy! Interesting Encore you borrowed from page 111 on SP diesels. I am always interested in everything on SP.Rob – Welcome back!!! Glad to see that you could make it tonight!! Your posts look great!Finally some nice streetcar pictures to enjoy!! Street Railway mail cars that is. I like especially TTC mailcar #28! I hope we will see you again very soon!Underworld – I agree with your recommendation.
Am I too early for a bit of hot brunch on this rather chilly Mid-Mo morning.
Great to see you back ROB. I did enjoy the pics of the mail cars. Great pic of the Kitchener Waterloo St car being loaded with parcels.Favourite is the Ottawa Royal Mail car #1, is this the car we talked about a while back and is being restored.
ERIC. I guessed you meant the 91, hoped you enjoyed the 86 link.
Thanks for the MKT diesel roster. I am hoping that in the museum we are to visit in St Louis there may be some pics of the Katy in operation on the Missouri part of the MKT.
You can almost here those UP diesels in your pic..
A quiz question" What part of SP is seen on the side of every British rail locomotive".
I wont tell Lars if you don't.
This week first pics are of a great drinking place. I wonder who is by the door though.
A pic of Kirkwood Station. all pics were taken in December.
They should enlarge. Back in a minute.
A while back I told of a newspaper report about a car arriving at the Union Station in Kansas City. I took this pic and ROB has kindly added some details sent to me by E-Mail while Rob was having the problems with the forum.
The car looks to be in fairly good shape, I'd say that as long as all it's internals are intact it could be made to run quite readily. Standard PCC, a later model so it would be an all electric car. Doors, brakes and controls would be all electrically powered. The first PCC's from 1938-1944 were air electric in that they had electric motors for propulsionn but the doors and brakes were air powered.That cars a spitting image of the last cars Toronto's TTC purchased new. That order was 1951 from Canadian car and Foundry.I'd say that the car is of similar vintage. If it were bought and built in the US which is likely. It could be either built by Pullman Standard or St Louis Car Company. By it's looks like I said it's a later model built in the late forties or early fifties. The earlier air electric cars had a more Art Deco look to their streamlining . The PCC's all started to get the simpler streamlinning satrting in 1944 when the all electrics started in construction. Well Pete thanks for the offer of posting this, hopefully it helps with the explinations.
Rob .
I am going out for a while but hope to back later. Pete
Even though the bar at "Our" Place is
CLOSED on SUNDAYs -
We do observe Sunday Photo Posting Day!
A brisk morning here in mid-continent USA temp at 12 (F) for "walk time" - expected to reach low 20s. Just to think, it was 60 (F) here on Friday!
If it hadn't have been for Wolfman Pete at 7:06 PM, we may have been "shut out" yesterday. But the "man of the hour" didn't let us down! Then a great surprise with the arrival of trolleyboy Rob at 11:50 PM & 11:58 PM! Hopefully this means a return to something resembling our normal state of affairs ‘round the Saloon by the Siding! Great to see the both of you.
Eric provided an early beginning to Sunday with his 1:16 AM offering, replete with inclusiveness, as always!
Appreciate the Pix from Pete of our next-to-most-favorite watering hole, the TrainWreck Saloon in Rock Hill, Missouri. Getting Wolfman into the place is not a problem - getting out is a different matter!
Good to see ya Rob and your Pix came through here, but NOT over on "my other Thread." You may want to check those out, time permitting of course. Thanx for swinging on by both Theads!
Enjoyed that MKT roster of motive power you provided, Eric! Found an RDC-3 on it. Didn't know THAT! However, I SHOULD have, as my "favorite" RDC book addresses this car . . .
Pete, a very nice ENCORE! from our permanent member of the "Legion of the Lost" - West Coast S Dave. Sure do miss him ‘round here and I suppose we'll never know what happened. Isn't that the "way" with so many who frequent these Forums
Speaking of THAT - sorry, but no acknowledgments go out to those who simply use this place for a "stop ‘n drop" kinda Thread. As stated many, many times on these Pages and over on the "old" Thread, we don't operate that way and that's that. If the shoe fits . . . Apparently the offering to join us and encouragement to read Page One has been LOST on some. So be it.
Pete, take my advice and don't plan on spending too much time in Sedalia, unless you are going to attend the State Fair. Otherwise, it's a looooooooong wait ‘tween trains! Sedalia used to be quite the railroad town and had some fine "stuff" to observe. No more. Even the remnants of what used to be are disappearing from the landscape. Except that great depot of the MKT! I recall pointing that out to you at the cross-tracks enroute KCity. It's on the southside of the mainline, off a bit in the distance but visible.
Eric, don't know if you've ever had the experience, but drive down to Key West from the mainland has many, many interesting sights. Least of all are the remains of the Overseas Railroad. Lotsa history down there. Hope Lars and his Mrs. are enjoying their getaway . . .
Also, thanx for the compliment . . . Don't know just what kind of architecht I may have been, but it surely takes quite a bit of talent to transpose something from the "minds eye" to paper then to reality. Anyone who has put together a model railroad knows all about that! <grin>
So, we have a "mind bender" from Pete!
"What part of SP is seen on the side of every British Rail locomotive?"
10,000th Post CONTEST update (in order of submission):
Feb 14th - BK
Feb 15th - Lars
Mar 12th - Pete
Jan 1st - James
Jan 28th - Eric
Jan 18th - DL
Feb 8th - Doug
Jan 31st - Rob
Mar 15th - CM3
Okay boyz . . . enjoy the breakfast - brunch - lunch ‘til 2 PM. Let's get some Pix Posted!
Reminder for Monday: Ruth has the bar from 9 AM until Leon the Night Man comes in at 5 PM ‘til closing.
Boris, serve ‘em all of the OJ they can handle!
Brunch for the house Tom and welcome back Rob
Pete, to answer your question...
http://muse.museum.montana.edu/rvndb/rvnjpeg_img_rec.php?objno=RVN12677
http://muse.museum.montana.edu/rvndb/rvn-jpgs/RVN12678.jpg
Norfolk & Western electric help
http://spec.lib.vt.edu/imagebase/norfolksouthern/full/NS2960.jpeg
Diesel train
http://spec.lib.vt.edu/imagebase/norfolksouthern/F1/ns3177.JPG
Roanoke
http://spec.lib.vt.edu/imagebase/norfolksouthern/full/ns1222.jpeg
Powhatan Arrow
http://spec.lib.vt.edu/imagebase/norfolksouthern/F1/NS3959.JPG
http://spec.lib.vt.edu/imagebase/norfolksouthern/full/NS3029.jpeg
http://spec.lib.vt.edu/imagebase/norfolksouthern/full/NS2966.jpeg
Steam trains
http://spec.lib.vt.edu/imagebase/norfolksouthern/full/NS2927.jpeg
http://spec.lib.vt.edu/imagebase/norfolksouthern/F1/NS3580.JPG
Streetcars
http://www.kclibrary.org/lhimgs/kcpl/regular/10007169_reg.jpg
http://www.kclibrary.org/lhimgs/kcpl/regular/10007372_reg.jpg
Kansas City 1/18/49
http://www.kclibrary.org/lhimgs/kcpl/regular/10013939_reg.jpg
http://www.kclibrary.org/lhimgs/kcpl/regular/10013940_reg.jpg
Tom, twice Dave had mentioned the possibility of transfer to Iraq. I hope not.
Mike
Even though the bar at "Our" Place isCLOSED on Sundays - We do observe Sunday Photo Posting Day!Now playing at the Mentor Village Emporium Theatre!
. . . Sunday, January 28th thru February 3rd: Matewan (1987) Starring: Chris Cooper, James Earl Jones, Mary McDonnell, Will Oldham & David Strathairn - and - Harlan County USA (1976) Starring: W.A. 'Tony' Boyle, Basil Collins, Carl Horn, Lawrence Jones & John L. Lewis. SHORT: The Three Stooges - A Ducking They Did Go (1939).
Matewan (1987)
PLOT SUMMARY:
A labor union organizer comes to an embattled mining community brutally and violently dominated and harassed by the mining company. Mingo County, West Virginia, 1920. Coal miners, struggling to form a union, are up against company operators and gun thugs; Black and Italian miners, brought in by the company to break the strike, are caught between the two forces. Union activist and ex-Wobbly Joe Kenehan, sent to help organize the union, determines to bring the local, Black, and Italian groups together. Drawn from an actual incident; the characters of Sid Hatfield, Cabell Testerman, C. E. Lively, and Few Clothes Johnson were based on real people.
from: amazon.com
Harlan County USA (1976)
A filmed account of a bitterly violent miner strike. This film documents the coal miners' strike against the Brookside Mine of the Eastover Mining Company in Harlan County, Kentucky in June, 1973. Eastovers refusal to sign a contract (when the miners joined with the United Mine Workers of America) led to the strike, which lasted more than a year and included violent battles between gun-toting company thugs/scabs and the picketing miners and their supportive women-folk. Director Barbara Kopple puts the strike into perspective by giving us some background on the historical plight of the miners and some history of the UMWA.
SHORT: A Ducking They Did Go (1939)PLOT SUMMARY: Featuring Moe, Larry & Curly
After unsuccessfully stealing a watermelon, the Stooges get jobs as salesmen for the Canvas Back Duck Club and end up selling phony memberships to the Mayor and the entire Police Department. When they discover that there are no ducks at the Duck Club, Curly steals a flock of domesticated ducks and the laughs really start.
from: threestooges.net
Enjoy! Tom
trolleyboy Great pics!!!
wanswheel Thanks for the links!!!
EricX2000 Yeah, I think that every little bit of resolution is worth it. I'm a film photographer for the most part. It will be nice when a film quality digital will be less than $10,000!!!
Good morning Captain Tom and all present!!
Sunday = closed. Forgot what day it is, I'll see if I can get these pictures squeezed in somewhere. It 's a little mix of photos, some steam engines waiting to be put into storage. A small loco in the Black Hills, and a picture of something you don't see on the major roads anymore, a caboose (Nebraska 1981).
I'll be back later tonight.
As our "regulars" and "irregulars" know, we reserve this day for the Posting of Pix. Regualar dialogue resumes on Monday . . . use the mail slots in either set of front doors to drop off your Posts if you find them locked! <grin>
THANX for the Pix, Eric! and also the URLs from "silent Mike" - good to see the both of you "out" this fine day! <grin>
On January 11th Pete came to town in advance of our Chicago trip, which culminated in a rather long weekend thanx to a series of ice storms in these parts. Anyway, here's a few unedited shots snapped at the Kirkwood, MO Amtrak Station (formerly MoPac) while waiting for the Wolfman!
UP passing through Kirkwood, MO
Amtrak with Pete arriving Kirkwood, MO
Amtrak #36 at Kirkwood, MO
Amtrak departing Kirkwood, MO
A busy day at Kirkwood!
After these Pix were taken, it was off to the TrainWreck for just a 'few" . . . Pete's Pix tell the story!
Enjoy!
EricX2000 and siberianmo Great pics!
Looks like my Marklin is making it through today's snow without a plow.
This time some Pix many of you saw over at the "old" Thread . . . R17 Subway Cars on the Can-Am RR . . . (Red Birds were shown a couple of weeks ago.)
Not again - MORE subway cars!
View of Union Station platforms!
R17 subway cars moving out!
R-17 subway cars crossing Can-Am Gorge!
R17 subway cars at Can-Am Gorge!
R17 subway cars at Land-Between-the-Lakes!
R17 subway cars at Our Place!
Enjoy! Catch y'all in the 'morrow . . . .
P.S. Sorry, but it's nearly impossible to carry on dialogue with anonymous folks and those who enjoy the "hit 'n run" stuff. We're just not that kinda Thread . . .
Back in now and I'll post this through the mail slot.
Great set of pics today ALL.
MIKE Great set of links. From the back cab of an Electric Helper thanks.Loved the shots of the N&W steam working hard and good to see the pics of when the streetcars were workng on Route #56. My favourite this week has to be that marvellous pic of Roanoake loco depot with all those steam locos.
ERIC Those steam locos being stored was so like British railways depots in the mid sixties. seeing the sack over the chimneys brought it all back,.very often the locos never steamed again. Loved the pic of the single wheeler in the Black Hills .
TOM. Yes as you say it would be even longer wait in Sedalia now the Amtrak schedules have changed, but I would still like to see the depot we saw in close up. Don,t know about the State Fair though,it always seems to be held when the temperature is around 100 degrees.
Look like some different but very good films on at the Emporium this week.I would like to see them both, then the Stooges for some light entertainment .
It was a busy day on my trip to Kirkwood we were held outside the station for quite a while great pics of the trains there.and great to see the Green R17s getting a run out on the CAN -AMLove the pic through the station fence of the cars.
This weeks pics from Alan are from the Narrow gauge South Tynedale Railway, built on part of the former standard guage branch line from Haltwhistle( on the Newcastle-On-Tyne to Carlise line) to the market town of Alston.
Here is a link to the railway
http://www.strps.org.uk/
The pics were taken in October 2006
Still closed! I guess both Leon and Boris are asleep even though I heard some strange noice from the shed in the back.
Here we are having an exciting evening/night. About an hour and a half ago we heard some shots (again) fired pretty close to our house. I went outside to check if I could see what was going on. At the same moment the first police car arrived and within minutes there was several cars and a police helicopter in and over this neighborhood. I think they caught one guy but they are still looking for one or two more. Better stay inside for a while. Now over to our normal business.
Pete – Those UP diesels were runing on the Sunset Route when my Mrs took the picture two years ago. I wonder if there are any MKT locos preserved? I guess I have to find out. I also have to find those pictures of the roundhouses I promised you some time ago. They are on my list of what to do. The quiz question beats me. I am sure the answer is not what I might think. Thanks for the url’s!! Who is by the door? You know, it is hard t tell but I think I have seen him a few times at the bar! I will know for sure in May!I think Kirkwood station looks real nice! Those stored steam locomotives were pulled out of storage every so many years (I think it was every 5 years) for some maintenance and test run before being put back into storage. Nice small narrow gauge stean locomotives on your pictures! 2 1/4 mile long! Thanks for the pics! Rob – I learned something new again! I didn’t know that the doors on newer PCC’s were electrically powered! What is the advantage? All streetcars I have worked on had air powered doors and air brakes (+ dynamic brake). The air brakes were used only to bring the streetcar to a complete stop and hold it while stopped. Tom – The missing RDC-3 in your book just proves one thing, one has to remember that all the sources available on the net and all books are not guaranteed to be 100% correct. Something might be missing or be incorrect. But there is a lot of onformation out there!You are absolutely correct about putting together a model railroad. What you finally get is not necessarily what you planned from the beginning! True, very true. Two interesting movies on the Mentor Village Emporium Theater this week! I have not seen them but I am sure they are good! I know the Stooges’ film is good, that one I have seen.Nice pictures from Kirkwood! I understand that Kirkwood is the Amtrak station closest to your place, right? I really like your Union Station! But watch out for those subway cars!! Very nice layout!!!Mike – Thanks for all the url’s!! A good mix of nice pictures. My favorite is the one from Roanoke! But also the pictures from Kansas City with streetcars and electric trolley buses.underworld – I think you can get some good quality pictures using digital cameras for less that $10,000 today. That is if you don’t blow them up too much. But in most cases you have to do some work on them before you print them. Are you actually running the old Märklin loco in the snow? What scale is it?
Finally, a picture showing me getting my first ride on an American train in 1981.
It was a nice guy who offered me a ride on his train when he heard I was an engineer.
A smile to begin the week!
If I didn't' wake up, I'd still be sleeping.
(A Yogi-ism!)
Monday at the Bar at the Ballast and the start to a new work week (for many!). Time for a mug of freshly ground ‘n brewed coffee <unleaded> ‘n <regular>, some pastries from The Mentor Village Bakery and of course a <light> or <traditional> breakfast from our Menu Board!
It's 19 (F) here in mid-continent USA and the trek throughout the wilds of our subdivision was brisk, and that's an understatement. Juneau, the Wonder Husky loved every step. Even I must admit to "levels" of cold. Yesterday at 12 was <brrrrrr> - this AM was <chatter - chatter> and there's a 9 (F) forecast for mid-week, and that's downright <coooooold>! <grin>
Response to Emails:
(1) MOVING THE BAR: Unless ‘n until I receive at least one "how to" regarding the move of the bar to a "pay as you go" site, I'm not planning on any further discussions. All who responded to the initial round of dialogue - THANX!
(2) ONE WAY POSTS: The policy is clear - let's avoid acknowledging those who are simply "hopping" from Thread to Thread, Forum to Forum with "one liners" and really nothing of substance to offer. Even if a direct comment is made, the intent for many is NOT to engage, but simply to do the "hit ‘n run thing." The Proprietor reserves the right to "serve" those who demonstrate willingness to join in. Thanx!
Movie report:
Watched MATEWAN (pronounced Mate <pause> Wan) last night. It turned out to be a flick that I had seen parts of many years ago, most probably on the tube. Anyway, a few good shots of a fine looking steam loco and heavyweight passenger cars. Of course never long enough to drool, etc. <grin> Thought the story was compelling enough to hold one's interest and surely struck a chord with me. The setting was back in the times when socialism, communism and unionism somehow all were lumped into the same basket here in the U.S. Lots of strong arm stuff against those even thinking about organizing labor. Was a well done production with some fine scenery of WVA and one I'd watch again. Good recommendation from CM3 . . .
Good to see a bit of activity for Sunday Photo Posting Day! When looked at over a 24 hour period, it was a diverse offering throughout the period. Of course it surely is going to take quite a bit of adjustment to get accustomed to "no Doug Sundays!" But, we've been there before and we'll muddle through. <yup> Thanx to all!
Pete at 5:50 PM yesterday: Only problem with Sedalia is Sedalia. Best to drive there for the 5 minutes it will take to check out the station. Hardly worth spending hours in and around it ‘til the return train shows up. Anyway, to each his own! <grin> And the State Fair IS in the heat of the summer with temps expected to be at or near 100 (F). Lotsfafun - NOT! <groan>
Several of the communities with old time stations still standing were trying to find uses for them other than serving passengers. For example, local Chambers of Commerce and Tourism organizations have helped to restore a few and have set up offices within them. Sedalia had been on the docket for restoration, even though the building is rather large and hardly appropriate for the level of activity through there today. As we discussed by phone, I've been away from the group I used to meet with in JeffCity for about 8 or 9 years and not in the loop anymore.
By the by, you may wish to check your prescription - those R17s are BROWN!
Many THANX for the Pix from your friend, Alan! Still waiting for this guy to stop by . . .
Eric at 1:03 AM today: A report from the OK Corral! What in the world is going on out there Gun shots in residential areas are definitely hazardous to one's well being. Now I know the Desert Swede has adjusted to the climate, however surely not to this situation. Bullets have a way of finding their way through walls. Be careful, Mate!
I think you may have misread my comment regarding the RDC-3 of the MKT. It IS in the book - I failed to pick up on it when first reviewing that fine listing of motive power. However, I do concur about "sources" within bindings not always being precise. Happens and sets up all kinds of disputes, especially here in the Ether where we have soooooooo many resident experts on just about every topic imaginable. <grin>
Glad you like the Union Station set-up. No plans to incorporate subway station service above ground. When I finally get a ROUNDTUIT, there will be a sub-surface station - have the materials, just a matter of doing it.
Great Pix of your "first ride on an American train"!!! Time flies, eh Youbetchaitdoes! <grin>
Reminder: Ruth has the bar from 9 AM until Leon the Night Man comes in at 5 PM ‘til closing.
PASSENGER TRAIN NOSTALGIA #3
first Posted on page 121 on the "original Thread" . . .
Here's something to ponder with regard to our appreciation and fascination with Classic Trains. Check this out (from The Official Guide of the Railways - 1956) Perhaps no railroad anywhere rivaled the Canadian Pacific in terms of world wide excellence in serving the traveling public, whether by air, rail or sea. How many of you are aware of the CP's great hotel and lodge network These proprieties were built by and for CP according to their requirements and were situated at the key rail stops and vacation sites along their main lines. CANADIAN PACIFIC HOTELS AND LODGES City...................Name.........................Open Kentville, NS.......Cornwallis, Inn.............All year McAdam, NS......McAdam Hotel.............All year Quebec, QC.......Chateau Frontenac........All year Toronto, ON........Royal York Hotel..........All year Winnipeg, MN.....Royal Alexandra Hotel...All year Regina, SK.........Hotel Saskatchewan.....All year Calgary, AB........Hotel Palliser...............All year Victoria, BC........Empress Hotel.............All year Kenora, ON........Devil's Gap Lodge.........June to September Digby, NS..........The Digby Pines............June to September Yarmouth, NS.....Lakeside Inn................June to September St. Andrews, NB..The Algonquin Hotel......June to September Banff, AB............Banff Springs Hotel.......June to September Lake Louise, AB..Chateau Lake Louise.....June to September Reached from Lake Louise: .......................Moraine Lake Lodge.......June to September Hector, BC.........Lake O'Hara Lodge........June to September Hector, BC........Lake Wapta Lodge.........June to September Field, BC..........Yoho Valley Lodge.........June to September Vancouver, BC...Hotel Vancouver............All year Enjoy! Tom
Hello Tom
I'll have some of those pastries with a coffee please.
Interesting to read of your review of Matewan, I agree with you. I had it on video and watched it not so long ago and then looked up the real events on the web, found some interesting stuff, although I can't recall the page link. The film took some liberties with the historical facts, but that is often required in these things. Reminds one that so soon after the 1917 revolution in Russia such movements were seen as highly dangerous to certain people. Troops were sent into part of the coal industry here in the UK around those same times I believe.
Good to read your UK trip thoughts, hopefully you can make it before too long. I must say to Pete thought that whilst I think there will be no trouble getting you on UK rails, I'm not putting my money on getting you on to UK beer! Incidentally, where is Nick these days?
On the subject I should mention Eric's comment - (I know you are trying to rib me friend, but...) - no British beer should be drunk warm - but it should be drunk ‘cellar temperature' - that is slightly cool - imagine the cool of a cave compared to a hot summer day, then you have it.
CM3 - thanks for your greeting, acknowledged friend, enjoyed your contribution.
Rob, must greet you too, nice to see you managing to get through the snow and in the door - virtually speaking that is!
Mike - enjoyed those links, esp the Powhatan Arrow, and the Roanoke Shed shot.
Pete - nice link to the AC loco info - I always like the original pale blue livery they were turned out in in the 1960s. Shipstones was not a bad brew but by the time I lived here it was (according to the locals) well passed its prime in terms of quality of production. A micro produces a ‘reproduction' which is very good, and tasty. The other local breweries were Home Brewery and also Mansfield. These 4 local giants all closed between 1991 and 2006, very sad indeed.
Well, I did make it to the Great Central winter gala so this calls for a TRIP REPORT:
The Great Central (GCR) is a preserved steam line in the centre of the UK - they run on 8 miles of former main line capable of taking heavy locomotives on a line originally built for high speed.
The gala was a good one with 5 locos in steam, 2 hauling demonstration freight trains (a van train and a open wagon train). Some were being hauled by an LNWR ‘Super D' freight engine nearly 100 years old, also in action was a Class 8F loco, a GWR Large Prairie, a Stanier Mogul, and a GCR Class 04 from 1912. Also in action was a Class 20 Diesel Loco, a class 08 Diesel Shunter (Switcher as some might say) and a Class 101 Diesel Railcar like this:
http://www.railcar.co.uk/his100-109/101liv.htm, Recently repainted into the original 1950s green paint scheme and looking very smart (although rust underneath the paint looked a bit worrying)
The event was 2 day, but we went on Sunday (sadly the weather was more overcast that day). They do run a good event and some trains were packed out with people. We tried to get down early and stayed most of the day from 10 am ish to 5.30pm (riding the last steam train of the day after dark, which is very atmospheric, sitting in a warm compartment in the steam heated coaches).
There was certainly plenty of activity with 5 locomotives in action plus the diesel trains.
Pete had asked about this, so I went to search out the Brittania locomotive undergoing restoration for a report back - well - it looks much like a kit of parts at the moment - the frames were in the shed with no wheels and no boiler or cab, but all the parts look like the majority of the restoration is complete or near complete / underway - so reassembly should happen sooner rather than later. I understand the objective is to get it ready for the end of 2007 early 2008 so it can recreate the journey in made in summer 1968 hauling the last BR steam train.
Also of interest was the advanced state of restoration of the LNER Beaver Tail observation car as seen here (scroll down the link)
http://www.geocities.com/rvp_ltd@btinternet.com/
This dates from 1937 with a 1959 rebuild, and it the 1959 condition that it is to be restored to. The final stages of the interior are to be fitted, but we could go in and look at progress. This is a step change from when I saw it in Doncaster works a few years back prior to the start of restoration. The interesting thing is that the progress with this has persuaded someone to buy the other such car in a very derelict state and bring it to the GCR for restoration to the original 1937 style rear design (more stylish in my view but less good for views!) - which I understand will happen before too long - more details are on that link for anyone interested.
They also had the Railway Post office vehicles open for interior inspection, which was interesting.
One train in service had a LMS design managers inspection saloon - built 1951 (allowing rearward viewing from special large windows) attached on to it all day (sorry, can't find a pic of this), for a 5 pound supplement one could take a full round trip (about 1 hour in time) and enjoy tea in these luxurious surroundings. This did not seem to be well used, but for me this was too good to miss - 2 x 5 quid being handed over we were able to enjoy the peace and comfort of this very special carriage away from the crowds - one way looking over the line, the other with the Super D loco buffered up against the glass window - very nice! For one leg of our journey a friendly chap was on board who introduced himself and explained he was editor of Steam Railway magazine - I don't take this magazine but I think it is the main journal of the preserved railway movement here in the UK - it was interesting to chat to him for a short time.
Anyway, all in all a good day with plenty to see and do.
Regards
DL
Good Afternoon Barkeep and All Present; coffee, please; round for the house and $ for the jukebox.
Five degrees here this a.m. with wind chill of -15 or so. Naturally they send us outside (it was also snowing) for awhile. But, we're back inside now; it reminded me of the scene in the movie "Christmas Vacation" where the Griswolds venture out into the wilderness to find and cut the family Christmas tree, the daughter's eyes froze. "It's all part of the experience."
Lots of material posted so here we go (in no order, believe me).
Pete sent some interesting pictures - come over here and ride the Shays at Cass - you'd enjoy the trip; logging and geared locomotives.
Rob(?) is back with pictures. Thank for sharing.
Pete and Rob - Great PCC material. Yes, they are still operating on the Mattapan Line on Boston.
Lars - Have a safe trip and enjoy the warmer weather.
James - Sounds as though we are starting a "zignal zeminar." C&O's here are all red until something is happening; this can be as much as an hour before the train appears. As I may have mentioned, we listen as you hear stuff coming long before it shows up. Dwarf signals govern switches in most cases. You want to have some fun, deal with bidirectional signaled double track - not for the fainthearted; then we'll throw in some crossovers...
Mike sent some pictures.
I think the electric helping the steam locomotive may have been taken near Elkhorn Tunnel.
The first Arrow shot was made along New River, probably near Narrows; if you look carefully you will see that there is no head end equipment on the train; typical practice for this particular N&W operation.
Nice shot at Williamson - One of my late (and sorely missed railroading friends) lived on the hillside overlooking the station at Williamson. Great view from his porch.
The Y6B picture was made not too far east of Blue Ridge.
Eric - Thank you for your pictures, too.
Our ‘Steamed Proprietor, as always, led the way. First, thanks for the dispensation. As Curly once said, "It was very hospital of you." MKT diner - let's go. Also thanks for the rerun of the CPR items.
The FEC material was interesting. Some of the extension is used as a highway today. Seth Bramson's book on the FEC has been reprinted and is a good survey of a fascinating railroad. There are also a couple of books available about the Key West Extension and another book on the hurricane which destroyed all of it.
Glad to see the subway cars on tour. There's a prototype for everything as the last time I went up to Buffalo, I saw two MARTA cars riding on lowboys. First time I ever passed a subway on the Interstate (sounds like a tune for the jukebox).
Harlan County, USA - Interesting film.
I appreciated your comments on Matewan. The real town of Matewan has lots of brick buildings, etc. Much of the movie was shot at Thurmond, WV (on the C&O), as it has some old structures and so on. Many of the buildings were dressed for the movie. The train scenes were shot around a place called South Side Junction. It is on the south side of New River across from Thurmond. They used NKP 765 in the movie, IIRC. Anyway, they moved the train back and forth across the South Side Bridge several time to get the pictures they wanted. BTW, the road into Thurmond is "attached" to the side of the bridge - at least you don't have to drive down the track to get to town. Just don't look down when you drive across. The line on the South Side is the old C&O Loup Creek Branch. R.J. Corman operates on this line today to handle traffic into and out of the G-P mill which I have mentioned in previous posts.
The underground scenes were shot at the Exhibition Coal Mine in Beckley, WV. This is well worth a visit as you ride mine cars through the mine and get an idea of what it was like.
The WV Mine Wars and the whole history of UMWA organizing in southern WV is a fascinating story. There are several good publications that can give you an overview of the story. First is by Lon Savage, Thunder in the Mountains, Second is edited by David Alan Corbin an titled, the West Virginia Mine Wars; An Anthology, last is a relatively new one by Robert Shogan titled The Battle of Blair Mountain.
Work safe
Avast Me Hearties!
A day at the Saloon by the Siding just wouldn't and couldn't be complete without an appearance from DL in Merry Olde and CM3 in Almost Heaven! Great to see the two of ya and hope you've enjoyed a restful weekend and are back in full swing at your respective endeavors!
Before I totally forget this, check out: http://www.765.org/FWRHS_Movies.htm for some inside scoop on the Nickel Plate Road's Berkshire featured in the movie Matewan. CM3 was "spot on" - as always.
Also: http://www.gottrains.com/nkp765.htm for some fine shots of the loco and scenery!
Aside from being envious of such an experience, I can only yield to Wolfman Pete for commentary on DLs insights for his steam tour.
Just being able to view 5 operating steam locos in this day and age must've been a treat fer sure, fer sure!
Regarding our UK trip: Yes, we also hope the day isn't too far off. Especially with the "situation" being as it is these days regarding security and so forth. Can't avoid the reality of the times, which will factor in as the time approaches. Insofar as the 'warm beer' "thing" goes, I can handle brew at temps found in the chill of a basement. That's hardly what was served up in Southampton many, many decades ago! <grin> <ugh>
CM3 - Methinks we could spend considerable quality time in the places you've mentioned in WVA. Seems a "right place" for a Rendezvous. HOWEVER, and this is a biggie - I'm not looking beyond this year. Reality (again) - if this place survives the absences planned for May, I'll be very surprised. Having said that, there's still Email, phones and Instant Messenger for those desirous of maintaining contact - so who knows what the 'morrow may bring
Ruth, serve 'em a drink on the house and Boris, ring the bell!
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