Courtesy: http://www.viarail.ca/
*Idiot of the Week #10
I was at the airport checking in at the gate when an airport
employee asked: "Has anyone put anything in your baggage without
your knowledge? To which I replied, "If it was without my knowledge,
how would I know?" He smiled knowingly and nodded, "That's why we
ask."
Happened in Birmingham , AL.
STAY ALERT!
They walk among us .. and they REPRODUCE ..!!!
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
G'day Gents!
A most significant day for many as we enter the Easter weekend.
Friday at the Tavern by the Tracks and time for a <light> or <traditional> breakfast, pastries from The Mentor Village Bakery and of course a mug of freshly ground ‘n brewed coffee.
Yesterday was illustrative of something I've "harped" on ever since this bar opened on April 12th, 2005- we NEED guys to step up to the plate, especially when things are slow. That's what happened and I thank DL ‘n Peter keeping things movin' forward, while our Manager (Lars) was away! Today is another opportunity, as CM3 Shane may not be "in" - so who will come forth
Next Tuesday's Theme for the Day is the NEW YORK CENTRAL with Manager Lars expected to "kick it off."
REMINDER: Make SURE the material used in your Posts are FREE from COPYRIGHT and other USE RESTRICTONS before Posting! Request permission to use Pix, if necessary - send an Email!
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS (since my last narrative):
CM3 at 8:54 AM yesterday: We too were below freezing ‘round here, but no precip of any kind. Tomorrow ‘n Saturday "they" are warning us about the low-20s (F). Bad news for the "things" that have popped up . . .
Interesting supplemental "stuff" on the GE electrics - enhanced the GN "unofficial theme" quite well.
Only time I recall being a passenger in a "Connie" was in 1959 aboard a Pacific Northern Airlines (PNA) flight from Seattle to Anchorage. Fine aircraft, fer sure, fer sure. Had the opportunity to chat with my airline pilot neighbor ‘n friend (American Airlines) about TWA - his former employer. He spent decades flying those birds and has stories to tell that keep one captivated. Ever take note of the manner in which fliers "talk" - mainly with their hands!
One game a season does not make, but the Red Sox "investment" made the first rung on the "payoff" ladder. <grin> Cards can't lose tonight - they aren't playing! <groan>
Noted that WVA native Bob Huggins is "returning" to the Mountaineers - this time as head coach for the basketball program. Only had a year at Kansas, I think . . . .
DL at 11:09 AM yesterday: Nice links to round out the discussion points ‘tween you ‘n the Wolfman! Easily can get "lost" in those archives, fer sure, fer sure!
Thanx for the visit and good to see ya again!
Pete at 1:10 PM ‘n 4:51 PM yesterday: Couldn't have picked a better time to drop off your part II - much appreciated and worth the read!
Can tell by the manner in which you put those two together that you have quite of bit of your "heart" in those reflections. Memories are indeed made of "this," eh Nice work, Pete!
2nd visit exemplifies what we should strive to achieve in terms of quality in our Posts. Well done!
The more things change, the more they stay the same - ever heard that one??? Whether it's Europe or North America, the plight of the rails and respective rights-of-way have their similarities. Rip ‘em up, tear ‘em out and oh my golly gee, what are we gonna do NOW???
Ah, the "nationalistic" crap surfaces with the differences in gauges and car sizes. Yeah, who thinks about standardization, eh BUT I should talk - I'll NEVER accept the metric system! <grin>
Been given some serious thought to a trip to KCity BEFORE the Rendezvous. Are you "up" for it???? We'd have some "quality time" in KCity, enough to get over to Crowne Center, etc. Drop me an Email if interested . . .
Many THANX for the extra-effort!
Mike at 6:43 PM yesterday: Fine spate of URLs ‘n even a bit of narrative! On point and great supplemental "stuff" fer sure, fer sure!
Ahoy Cap'n Tom ‘n fellow travelers at the bar!
Ruth you are a marvelous sight for these old eyes and surely brighten up this joint with your radiance! <blush> Just a mug of coffee with a "jolt" should do it for now. Yeah, a bit early for me, but I "owe" ya from yesterday and there are things lined up for the rest of the day . . .
The Easter weekend is upon us and one of our favorite times of year ‘round here. I believe Tom feels the same way. Spring in New York City is a great experience, and we have the benefit of "our island paradise" to enjoy as the emergence takes place of all those things signaling warmer days ahead.
We're looking forward to a dry weekend with temperatures in the mid-40s. Sure has been a strange several years, weather wise, huh??
I MUST make mention of a situation that could get us all into a jam and that is the business of using copyrighted material for posts. Really have to be careful. Hey, I'm not innocent, but I can't recall EVER deliberately using someone else's stuff without first checking to see if it had any restrictions on it. I've sent my share of email "permission requests" to various "owners" of pix. Most of ‘em never respond, but some have. Better to be careful than careless. If you see the copyright symbol, then BEWARE!!! ‘nuf said from me.
Some super fine material provided this week, but nothing can top the Pennsy, huh?? Well, perhaps next week it WILL as the New York Central System rules!
I see that the Bar Chandler has settled "in" to a routine for the mid to late afternoons (or whatever HE thinks that should be!!). Good to see ya Pete and it does help to have a few of our "slots" anchored so well. With Eric providing the late, late night stuff (or early, early morning) and Doug pretty much up with the chickens we've got the darkness covered quite well. It's the daylight that is of concern. So, many thanks to you guys who are providing the material to keep us interested AND moving forward.
I got through ALL of "silent Mike's Urls" for his latest and the one prior. Obviously takes a lot of effort to find ‘em - nice work.
When I logged in this morning I found that the "most current" Post was two days ago! Really. So I used the Refresh/Reload/Rewhatever feature and "zap" went right to where it shuddabeen all along. I think it's more of a ‘puter issue (random access memory) than anything else. We all have different settings to clean ‘n purge this ‘n that. Sometimes it's worth the time to check it out. Just a thought.
Most interesting material from DL, Eric ‘n Pete regarding the European scene. I always have to STOP when I read something about rail traffic between locations such as Sweden and Great Britain. Say what??? One heckuvabridge! Yeah, I get it - ferries.
In these times of containerized freight, I'd wager a guess that there aren't that many rail cars being ferried about. Elaboration puleeeze!
Hey Pete! I have something "special" for you ‘n DL too.
Maybe some others tomorrow!
A round on me, Ruth - Boris, ring the bell!!
Until the next time!
Lars
Figured it would be a sloooooooow Friday, so Ruth - go ahead and take off the rest of the day.
PASSENGER TRAIN NOSTALGIA #31
Initially Posted on Page 173 of the original Thread
Here's something to ponder with regard to our appreciation and fascination with Classic Trains. Check out this advertisement regarding the Pullman Company from 1950:
The carefree distance between two points
Travel by Pullman is more than just a trip! It is a carefree vacation . . . relaxing overnight travel that leaves you rested and refreshed when you arrive! No highway worries . . . no driving tensions. Just sit back and enjoy Pullman's many travel extras - the immaculate, king-size beds . . . the privacy . . .. the freshly-cooked meals . . . the refreshments and pleasant conversation in the friendly club car. Next trip, travel the carefree way . . . by Pullman! You'll be as safe as you are in your own home! Complete privacy! Every Pullman room accommodation has its own toilet facilities. Individually controlled heat and air-conditioning let you choose your own travel "climate" . . . and the many courteous extra services of Pullman are yours at the touch of a button. Your local Ticket Agent will help: 1. Provide information on routes and fares. 2. Plan your stopovers. 3. Furnish your railroad Pullman tickets. 4. Reserve a "rent-a-car" at your destination.
Pullman means comfort, safety, privacy and sleep
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Enjoy! Tom
G'day!
Last one 'til ENCORE! Saturday -n - Photo Posting Day! . . .
PASSENGER TRAIN NOSTALGIA #32
Initially Posted on Page 176 of the original Thread
The carefree way to travel today!
Whether you travel for business or pleasure . . . alone or with others . . . you're taking more than a trip when you go by Pullman. You're enjoying a relaxing change of pace that releases you from the cares and routine of the day. For Pullman is as comfortable and accommodating as the finest hotel. No other form of travel offers so many important extras - the immaculate, king-size beds . . . the privacy . . . the freshly cooked meals . . . the refreshments and pleasant conversation in the friendly club car. Whenever . . . wherever you go . . . travel by Pullman. You'll be as safe as you are in your own home! Your local Ticket Agent will help:
1. Provide information on routes and fares. 2. Plan your stopovers. 3. Furnish your railroad Pullman tickets. 4. Reserve a "rent-a-car" at your destination.
Pullman
means comfort, safety, privacy and sleep
Pullman "Coconino" observation-lounge car on the Chief seen at La Junta, Colorado on February 27, 1938. Foto: Otto Perry (wikipedia.com)
Hi Tom and all.
I think I will have to have a winter ale this chilly Mid-Mo day please RUTH.
MIKE Many thanks for those great links, and the captions to #5007 and the EP3 electric locomotives. Enjoyed the pics of the DL109 locomotives.
Great links to the Great Central and Catesby Tunnel. I will forward the links to Alan. In the second link that is an interesting picture of No 60035 Windsor Lad in 1949 saying that it was involved in an accident at Penmanshiel Tunnel two weeks later. Although a bit before my time the GC class A3 locomotives tended to stay on the GC line and Penmanshiel is on the East Coast Main Line in Scotland south of Edinburgh and it was very unusual for a non-GC allocated A3 to be on the GC. Great photos of Rugby Central in the link too.
The link afterwards is I believe on the preserved Gloucester & Warwickshire Railway and shows Greet Tunnel
http://www.gwsr.com/html/the_route.html
ERIC In Mikes link to greet Tunnel these is a good picture showing a BR class 37 diesel with its headcode boxes covered over and replaced by two lamps.
It is amazing how with some of us a love of the steam locos will last a lifetime whereas some people it didn't, although it is strange how when you are on a main line steam special, the sight of a steam locomotive will make members of the general public stop to watch and usually brings out a big smile from them.
Mention of the Swedish freight cars on BR brings to mind a vague memory of seeing them, do you have any details on where they worked to in the UK.
That does seem wrong for the fuel capacity on the class 42 & 43 ‘Warships'.
Thanks for the photo of the W-1 electric a powerful looking locomotive indeed.
DOUG Great post on the BRB&L line. I wonder what a Mason bogie steam loco looked like. Wonderful description of a trip on the ferry and train and some great photos no doubt CM3 will add some more details on the line.
I had not heard the term "Hobbyists" before.
The joke reminded me of a cartoon postcard that was sold in British seaside towns before the PC days. It showed two Scotsmen outside a distillery gate with a puddle on the floor. One Scotsman was saying " Is it Scotch, Angus" and the other replied "Aye Jimmy, Scotch Terrier"
LARS Many thanks for the book covers; yes Main Line Lament is a special book to me. I have the first edition published in 1973 although I see it was reprinted in 1998. I know it has been reprinted several times now. Of course seeing your pic of the cover made it get the book out and have a quick glance through again. It is mainly great black and white photos but there is some text about the line and the people who worked on it.
The last photos are when the line had closed and the rail removed and is quite. The last photo is taken standing in the trackless South portal of Catesby tunnel at midnight and that was about the time that the 10PM night mail train from London Marylebone would pass through. After the GC closed standing on the trackbed at midnight was the crazy effect the line had on some of us.
The opening paragraph of the book is "The experiences and impressions of childhood are often imprinted in the memory in a way that they rarely are in adult life and much of our nostalgia can be traced back to those years when the senses were fresh and imagery strong".
I think in the UK since the Chunnel opening I don't think there is any freight cars on ferries any more I hope DL will pick up on this as he will be more up to date on it than I am.
TOM Many thanks for the kind words, if I am a little late today it is ‘Manager' Lars fault for making it a must for me to find Main Line Lament and have a look through it.
I bet there are railroads in North America like the GC,late on the scene and always being picked on by the big boys. There is a fantastic picture in the book of the "Birdcage" bridge at Rugby where the GC passed over the ex LMS line next to the bridge is a field and it is full of trainspotters, AH those were the days.
KC sounds good I will E-mail you soon. The bride is on Amtrak tonight going to St Louis( we are going to Pat's place first) and will pick me up tomorrow in the van to help with her friends move to KC.
Many thanks for the Pullman encores, even today the name Pullman brings to mind the very best of rail travel. Traveling by Pullman was indeed something special..
It is amazing some of the questions we get asked as in Idiot of the Week
Well I see Ruth as been given the rest of the afternoon off, so join me in a Pint Tom if you will, and I will have the Steak and Fries to build my strenght up for the Chandeling work later ready for the track g
G-day Tom and all present!
Leon- A coffee and a Roast-"Beast" Sandwich, Thanks!
Well, it's cloudy and cold but it's going to get a little warmer this weekend. And I also have family coming over. So it should be an interesting weekend indeed.
Eric- Well, when you do make it to Duluth, make sure it's in the summer. Winters can be a little harsh here in the Northland. But it does look really pretty in the winter. Summer though, is when the fun begins. Glad you liked the DL109 information. I thought it was a pretty good article. It was packed with some good info. Ya the DL109 had two 6 cylinder diesel engines. The E-units had two 12 cylinder engines putting out a 1000 horses each. So the DL109 had a 2000 Horses with those two little engines. Both were inline 4 stroke 539T Alco engines. Just a little info. Cool picture of the X2000. Why were you sweeping the rails I've never seen that before.
Mmmmm. Rusty electrics. Nice picture of that Class Dm3. That's a really cool looking locomotive. I am impressed.
Doug- Great pictures of the W-1 I also enjoyed reading about it. I see the W-1 is more powerful than the EF-4 little Joe but for good reason. I never new they had a traction motor stuck underneath the two guiding trucks. That's interesting to learn. It would definitely do quite a hauling job. But with the EF5 Box cab set it would get a run for its money. But thanks for the article and the pictures.
Thanks for the interesting Narrow gauge railway article. Now I don't think I read anything about how long it was, but do you know how long this little narrow gauge railway was It's interesting to see how it took that little round about on Boston. Pretty cool. Also liked the picture with the semaphores in it. Thanks
Tom- I would have to agree with you on that. Classic trains, there is so much to learn that you could keep going for quite a while and then review over the stuff you missed for found interesting. Of course what articles do not find that are interesting. Glad you liked the DL109 info. It was a good article and it fit in quite well around here.
Another trains from yesteryear. This time on the GN. Very good picture of the F7. That is a great looking locomotive. I have to ask. Is that a photo from back when the GN was still present of is that of today? Interesting articles on the history and the Empire builder. They definitely had a really nice passenger train going. Not the sky blue so much but the Pullman green and orange. Very nice colors. Ah and then the current day Empire builder which looks nothing like the original but it's still a train and it does in deed take you to were you want to go. Then I noticed all the station stops for the Empire builder. I saw the staples subdivision on there. One of my favorite lines to visit and watch trains. The trains are really rolling through there.
Idiot of the week #10. <sigh> Someone has really has no idea what's gong on.
Thanks for the passenger train nostalgia on Pullman. Definitely one of the best makers of passenger cars this country has seen. I only wish I could have been able to travel aboard that train. It would have been a cool ride. Thanks for sharing.
DL- Very cool looking locomotive you guys are discussing. I was looking at some of the articles and I see that they rated the D800 engines at 1,135 bhp. What does the "B" in bhp stand for I think the D600 is a a nicer looking locomotive than the D800. Just the way it looks makes it seem nicer. And I certainly enjoyed looking at the little center cab class 14 0-6-0. Another question. How do they decide what class each locomotive goes into Thanks for the links. Very cool!
Pete- Well, I would certainly like to see the Grimsby Fish Train. Interesting name for a train indeed. Now you have me interested in this train. Do you have anymore info on it, and do you know why they called it the fish train
Thanks for the link to the nice looking trucks. I especially liked the first one. It was small and it looked perfect for carrying things. Thanks for the url. Thanks for the info on those pantographs. I didn't know that there was an area with unusually high wires. That to me seems really weird. When the men on the Milwaukee wanted to work under that pantograph or on it, they would stretch it out to it's full capacity so that they could get to it and remove it from the top. So thanks for the info on it. Also glad you liked the DL109 info. They were a very distinguishable locomotive, not just by there looks but also by there sounds. And I don't believe any where saved unless someone could correct me on that.
Mike- Thanks for the pictures of the Zoo interlocking. That's crazy. All that trackage in one little area. I can even see the switch tower in front of what looks like a substation for the railroad. Also great picture of the Milwaukee DL109s. They look like there throttled out and waiting for nobody. Ah yes, and the Milwaukee road EP3. These were a different looking Box Cab but instead of being built by GE, they were built by Westinghouse. So all of the electrical equipment was different. But there shape was similar. Most of the Westinghouse locomotives ended up in helper service or passenger service though at the end of there time. Same wit
good evening Leon. I'll assume my normal chair, nice to see not too much dust on it !At any rate I'll take a Keith's and leave a sizable deposit for rounds to be served as the gents come in and wish to partake.
I'm not sure what Doug was trying to smoke me out with , but as of today Good Friday I'm back into my regular job and hours for at leat the forseeable future so baring any tech problems ( Boris come here so I can knock on your head ) I should be back for good this time ( at least till Christmas )
I'll try to play some catch up but I'll not go all the way back,still it's good to see the inside of the old place again.
I'll drop off a couple early pictures for tomorrow and then make my way back out for the evening.
The modern of the TTC a CLRV on Conneaught ST. Still going strong today these cars are now approaching 30 years old !
Morning rush hour on St Clair street c the 1980's
The St Clair car barn in 1949 showing some of the last TR cars still in service.
All shots are from the OERHA archieves ( member photographs )
enjoy Rob
Good morning Captain Tom and Gentlemen!!
Leon, now it's time for that juicy Filet Mignon! Lots of mushrooms, please! Yes, the usual! Thank you!
A kind of slow Friday here at the bar, but still interesting stuff to read! Easter time!
Doug – I certainly find your random posts very interesting! Boston’s Narrow Gauge Electrics is something new to me! Never heard about BRB&L before! Very interesting! Electric the last few years and closed in 1940. I am kind of surprised it didn’t survive the war? Tom – A sign to idiot #10! The reason I flew AA and she flew TWA is very simple. That happened in the summer of 1992, I still lived in the old country. When I bought a roudndtrip to Chicago AA had the best airfare and when she bought a roudtrip to Sweden from Phoenix TWA had the best airfare. We were not supposed to fly to the US the same day so there was never any attempt to get the same airline. You are right, that Dm3 needs some paint! They had removed some heavy graffiti the week before I took the picture. That is why it looks so bad. Maps!? I’ve been collecting maps since I was a kid. Very fascinating to study maps!Pullman cars! There are still Pullman cars in service but no Pullman service. Too bad!I like the picture of the Coconino observation-lounge car with steam coming out from the heating system.
I spent some nights in this old Pullman traveling across the country!
Lars – Sweden - Great Britain? Yeah, that certainly would have been a heckuvabridge!! But those cars went from Sweden via Denmark, Germany France, and then ferry across the Channel to Great Britain! That was in the 60’s and 70’s. How things are run today I don’t know. Thanks for the British book covers! But is McCulloch’s Wonder, The Story of the Kettle Valley Railway British? Pete – I saw that picture of the Class 37 diesel! When I grew up one could still ride regular steam trains and as a kid I loved it. Always haning out through a window looking forward to check the locomotive. Those were the days!I am afraid I don’t remember anything about what kind of freight those cars were used for or to where they went in the UK. I’ll see if I kind find out. But I remember when I started as an engineer in the mid 70’s those cars were still being used. Hmm, the photo shows a Class Dm3, not a W-1. James – I would never plan a visit to Duluth in the winter time! I lived almost 50 years in the old country where the winters are long, cold and dark so I stay away from that white stuff whenever I can.
White stuff and ice! Where the heck are the wheels?So the DL-109s had four stroke engines! That makes sense. The sweeping of the rails picture was taken for a newspaper on the very first day of revenue service for the X2000 in the US. Rob – Nice to see you again and thanks for the round!! Welcome back!!And thanks for the streetcar pictures!! The CLRV looks pretty modern to me. Who built them?
My old Macintosh SE have been traveling by train all around the old country and around the US and parts of Canada. Still working just fine!
"My" Freightliner when I worked for Swift, old 2151.
Eric
Good morning Tom and gang. I'll have a light breakfast, and take in all the great stuff posted since I was last here. Thanks for the Pullman adds Tom, and the book covers from Lars. Here's a BRB&L Mason bogie steam engine for Peter
And yes, I noticed you almost exceeded the capacity of the groan-o-meter once again. Almost.
I believe the length of the BRB&L was 79 miles, if memory serves me, James. And look who's back! Rob ... who wasted no time with some nice traction shots! Thanks for your pix too Eric. Is it possible that trains don't need wheels if there is enough snow on the tracks?
Time to get to my stuff for today.
As ya'll know, my family visited the Sanfilippo Estates last weekend with the 20th Century Railroad club. We started in the Victorian Palace, built in 1976, which contains the largest collection of restored automatic musical instruments in the world, including over 200 music boxes and phonographs, approximately 65 coin-operated pianos, violin machines and photoplayers, 60 large American and European orchestrations, 25 dance organs, fairground and band organs and calliopes, and an 8,000-pipe theatre organ, which is the largest restored organ in the world (80-rank). Did I mention tiffany lamps, steam engines of all sizes, early coin operated games, statues, and chandeliers? Really, the collections are so large and varied that I'm leaving out far more, so let's just get to the pictures
Here, members of the 20th Century Railroad club arrive at the estate
Outside view of the main entry foyer and tower, in the French Second Empire style. The Terra cotta helmeted face and other ornaments are from the Granada Theatre in Chicago, built in 1926
The centerpiece of the Main Entry Foyer, a large Imhof and Mukle barrel-operated orchestration made in the late 1860s in Germany's Black Forest region, and originally used at the Lord Hastings Estate near Norwich, England.
Looking up is a stained glass skylight, measuring 20'X20', with a 14' diameter X 3' high dome in the center. It is made of 30,000 individual pieces of glass in 49 sections illuminated with 12,000 watts of bulbs. The entire structure weighs 3,000 pounds, including 2,000 pounds of glass and 1,000 pounds of steel
Here, our bratty kids are standing in front of a Weber, Otero Orchestration, built in 1910. It contains a 52-note piano, mandolin attachment, 28 violin and 28 harmonic flute pipes, bass and snare drums, tympani, cymbal, triangle and castanets. It plays Weber "Otero" rolls
In the years 1905-1910, animated scenes were very popular in some models of German orchestrations. This early Weber Otero features a scene depicting the train station at Gelsenkirchen, Germany, complete with background silhouettes of an animated train, zeppelin, and other items. Everything in this Otero operates on air pressure, as opposed to later instruments, in which the pneumatic mechanisms operate on suction. We were fortunate to hear and see this orchestration being played. The train glides both under and on the elevated tracks.
An automatic violin player
I tried to get a close-up of the fingering mechanisms and circular bow
Here's a little steam engine. Jasper Sanfilippo collects them in all sizes. Each is fully restored and made much prettier than they ever actually were. These steam machines are set throughout the collections.
I'll end this post with a picture of the Victorian bar room, which was a recreation of a turn-of-the century casino, this room features a 24 foot long black bar, rare slot machines, coin pianos and orchestrations by Mills, Coinola, Seeburg, Link and Wurlitzer, and several antique penny arcade machines
Good morning Tom , and all of the rest of "youse guyz" I know Vito had to check me out to make sure I was me and not someone new coming into his territory. seem's he's given me the all clear, which I'm happy for as I did not wish to hang out at the Second Class saloon.
At any rate I'll have a lite breakfast and a coffee with a splash, oh and here's another ten for the pot.Yesterday was light I suppose but the holiday weekend will do that for you. Yesterday was a day off up hear as well, I work today and tomorrow is a stat day (sheesh)makes for a fractured work week.
Doug-Thanks for the welcome back. Figured I might as well jump in with both feet ( less likley to eat both of them that way LOL ) Some interesting shots ( another new house for you in those photo's ) The automatic violin player is a nice touch BTW !
Eric-Thanks for your welcome back as well ( I have a feeling I'll be saying that alot the next couple of days (daze) ) Interesting selection of shots from you as well, I can't imagine dragging a full desk top along with myself on train trips though . I'm glad that you liked the CLRV shots. Lets see here's the basics on them as found in the Canadian Trackside guide the yearly whats on the rails in Canada book from the Bytown historical society.
CLRV's #4000-4005 we the original test set and are class L1 on the TTC. they were built by UTDC/SIG in Switzerland in 1977-78. These six cars are all equipped with instructor's training panels as well aas regular controls they are 50'8" long seat 46 and way 50.000 pounds all are fitted with chopper style foot controls and are geared for 80KPH. I actually rode on 4004 last month when Heather and I made our yearly train trip to Toronto.
Once these test beds were approved for general use they replaced the PCC's in general TTC on all their surface lines.
Second batch class L2 #4010-4199 were built by UTDC/HS Hawker Sydely in Thunder Bay Ontario ( now Bombardier ) in 1979-81 all 190 are still in service same tech stats as the original test cars only no training control panel.
The last batch are the articulated light rails ALRV's class L3 #4200-4205 built in 1987, #4206-4207 in 1988, #4208-4209 in 1989, #4210-4239 built in 1988 and #4240-4251 built in 1989. The articulated's seat 61 are 76'0" long with a third truck and with a pass through articulation for a permanent trailer configuration ( similar to an articulated bus ) they are also geared for 80KPH with chopper type foot controls and weigh in at 80,900 lbs.
Rob
Okay, another quick coffee and a couple more photo's before I'm off to work.
Ottawa Street Railway # 842 on the Britannia line. From the OERHA collection Al Patterson shot.
Another Ottawa car, this one number 955 a former TTC TR car , one of twelve sent to Ottawa to help with the increased traffic during the second world war. This was originalli TTC # 1408 a 1911 built Toronto Railway Company Car ( TTC Predessesor ) home built in the company shop along with it's 400 sisters. The only survivor is the museum's 1326 a 1910 built sister.
One of 1326's rare runs, I shot this in september of 2005
Howdy again Tom and all. Looks like Rob has returned, and brought us nifty things to see.
Another light breakfast please, as I just finished uploading more than 100 pix to my photobucket from the Sanfilippo estate. It's simply impossible for my little camera to do justice to the imensity of the building, grounds and collections. I'll be back later to write about a select few of the photos. There just isn't much you can find in writing on much of the collections, especially the train cars. Here's the 1881 Grant Locomotive Works locomotive and tender
No caboose ever looked this good
Here's a modest chapel car
Anyhow, I think you get the idea. The curator told us that all that is original on any of these cars is the wheel sets. The parlor car, for example, was built in the early 1900s,and used for that purpose for only about 7 years. It eventually became a greenhouse, and was subjected to the kind of humidity that plants like, but wood cars do not. All the wood was replaced. We were told that the light fixtures were genuine Pullman.
Anyhow, check out my photobucket link to see the rest of my pix. Most are not train related and would clog the works here if I posted them all. If you have questions about a specific photo, reference the number, and I will tell you what I know or can find out.
http://s30.photobucket.com/albums/c330/Barndad/sunday%20photos/?start=0
A joyous Easter to all!
Saturday of Easter Weekend means that The Mentor Village Bakery case is full of fresh ‘n appropriately decorated "goodies" - help yourself. First two are on the house - IF you buy a <light> or <traditional> breakfast along with a mug of our famous coffee!
I enjoyed a rather lengthy phone call from a friend who lives in Dartmouth (Halifax) Nova Scotia. I may be incorrect, but perhaps only Rob remembers "Fergie" (from the Coffee Shop). Anyway, we resumed our contact and he (the sailor) will be heading out again for a deployment off the coast of Newfoundland. There's a chance he may be able to hook up with Pete ‘n I while in Halifax later in May. Anyway, "Fergie" the consummate steam loco and freight car aficionado has apparently "weakened" and has added some quality Rapido HO passenger cars to his marvelous layout. Hope one day he'll drop off a Pix or three to share with us . . . passes his regards to those who remember him.
WHO was that STRANGER at the bar Noted he was over on "my OTHER Thread as well"!! Hmmmmmm. <grin>
REMINDER: Make SURE the material used in your Posts are FREE from COPYRIGHT and other USE RESTRICTONS before Posting! Request permission to use Pix ‘ material, if necessary - send an Email!
Lars at 8:42 AM yesterday: The Manager with an early "call" which really helped out. I had a few "things" going on and the "break" was most appreciated!
Thanx for the support regarding the Copyright "stuff." Saying one has the permission is quite different from actually having it, eh Let's ALL be careful!
Oh do I remember Easter in New York City. The Sunday "parade" of new apparel and fashion was something else. That's when most boys got their "new suits" - for Easter. Memories are indeed made of this . . . [swg[ Then the emergence of spring just seemed to make it all so special. I've never been ANYWHERE that can top those memories . . . thanx for bringing ‘em back!
Those book covers will definitely attract comment from the Wolfman - especially that first one!
Looking forward to seeing ya on Saturday with some more book covers!
Pete at 4:49 PM yesterday: With the Manager at one end of my two Nostalgia Posts and the Bar Chandler at the other, the day was rounded out well enough!
Looking forward to our next conversation regarding Amtrak to KCity . . . . this schedule change WILL work in our favor.
I hope that the day NEVER arrives when the difference between "Scotch" and "Scotch Terrior" needs explaining! <ugh> <grin>
When in JCity, I hope you'll have Mainline Lament available for perusing . . .
Hope you get the chance to swing by today - but if not, have a safe journey to ‘n from KCity and of course a Happy Easter to you ‘n your bride!
James at 7:19 PM yesterday: The foto of the GN diesel, which looks to me like an EMD E8 rather than the F7 as mentioned doesn't really have any further explanation in the Wikipedia article. However, a bit of "research" revealed it was taken in 2005. So it must be a restored loco - looks to be in tip-top shape, eh
While I've never traveled the Empire Builder, old or new, from what I've read ‘n seen in Pix, the route is one worth experiencing. Back in the days when these trains traversed our country with such frequency, I was either too young, too poor, or simply engaged in making a living for my family, so that traveling by train for fun - and in the "best" of "class" was simply out of the question.
Appreciate the informative ‘n inclusive Post! And a Happy Easter to you ‘n yours!
Rob at 11:44 PM yesterday: What - who - huh - eh Is that THE Ontario Connection perched upon his Permanent Stool at the end of the bar Could it be the trolleyMAN has returned I refrain from offering a "welcome back" in that we've done this many, many times before - so let me just say, WHAT KEPT YA <grin>
There's soooooooo much to read and soooooooooo much to view that I doubt you'll get all the Pages read. Hope you at least get to skim thru ‘em - and do take the opportunity to check ‘em out from most current first. Seems to "work" better that way. Great seeing ya again, in spite of your job getting in the way of having fun. <geesh>
Always a pleasure to view the traction shots and I see you made an appearance over on "my OTHER Thread" as well. Thanx!
Boris is so excited to see ya again that he's decided to "loan" you one of his "dolls" for whenever you'd find the time. <uh oh>
The H&H gals <????> are all "atwitter" in the galley, spewing forth some Germanic phrases a
And what to my eyes has appeared, but the return of the man called trolleyboy (?) from Ontario in the land known as Canada. So, has Cap'n Tom has already said, WHATKEPTYA????
Cindy my deAH, you are a sight for sore eyes, and if I keep leering at you, I think they very well may be SORE from a rather protective Cap'n who hangs ‘round this place! <grin> So, what to have - how ‘bout a mug of coffee with a "jolt" and a #3 from the menu board? That should do it . . . the change is yours, you love-er-ly thing! <ummmmmm um>
I think Ruth has gone "home" to be with family for the Easter weekend . . .
What a night, huh Thought we'd be in the doldrums after the sparseness (is that a woid??) of the afternoon. Then the guys came in and brought life to the place. Much good stuff and nice to see some familiar faces along with the grundge of the Second Class Saloon bunch along with our "very own" track gangs. <ugh> Boris is still trying to clean up the pool room.
We're all set for the Easter Egg Hunt for the morning and Boris said he's got everything taken care of. Should be a grand time of it in the "big tent" for the kiddies of Mentor Village.
Hope you guys are THINKING about April 12th (Thursday) and what it means to all of us! It's the SECOND YEAR ANNIVERSARY of "Our" Place, best bar ‘n grill in the Ether! EVERYONE should come prepared to AT LEAST offer a toast to our continued presence in cyber space. Surely would also expect some innovative submissions from the guys who call themselves "regulars." So, c'mon gents, let's do it RIGHT!
Great PULLMAN ads from Da Boss and I really liked that observation car! Only thing lacking is a DOME!!
Ah, caught again! Eric, the Kettle Valley Railway is in British Columbia - emphasis on British! Check out the Url:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kettle_Valley_Railway
Funny thing is that when I did my search on British railways, this came up - I shudda caught it! Thanks for being so "Pete-ish"! <grin>
This IS Encore Saturday AND Photo Posting Day! So, here are those Brit book covers I promised yesterday:
Happy Easter to ALL!
Hi again folks. Nothing for me please, I'm just taking a break from room painting chores perscribed by my master bride. Thanks for the Easter greetings Tom, and feel free to use any pictures I take. I just wish the battery had lasted longer in my camera, and that some of the photos weren't so dark. I see manager Lars has posted some fine Brit book covers, and reminded all that our little thread will be 2 years old on Tuesday!
Of course there is background on the Sanfilippos, and the abreiviated version is that he was born 1929 in Niles, Illinois and lived in a 1000 square foot home. He became a pioneer in nut roasting and packaging machinery, and is in the process of consolidating the working of 5 plants into one 110 acre complex. He's not Planter Peanuts, but he packages nuts for 5 of the largest nut growers in the industry. He was also instrumental in developing the packing materials and machinery about 30 years ago for the manufacture of condiment packs (ketchup & mustard packs) , exactly like those that you find in McDonalds, or anywhere else for that matter. He enjoys a 100% share of the market in this area, and sells ALL of the packaging material, but does not do the actual packing. He and his wife have five children, who live in the area.
Jasper Sanfilippo, now 78 years old, sat at our table while we visited. Unfortunately for me, I was running around taking pictures while the group was eating, as I really didn't want tons of people in my pictures. Jasper has already created a foundation to preserve the present collection, as he feels it's important that we not lose our countries' antique machines. As you might imagine, there is literally a small army of people currently acquiring, restoring and maintaining the collections. Upon Jasper's death, aquisitions will be substantially curtailed, but the collections will continue to be well maintained and housed. At this point in his life, Jasper says he just wants to "have fun."
I hope you had a chance to visit my photobucket to view all the pictures. Ther are probably 80 more I did not include.
On another off-topic subject, here's my Martin house I quickly built last Saturday morning before visiting the Estate. Some assembly was required. Grrrrrrrrrrrr
I already had the post set in concrete from a few days earlier
Back to work with me!
Ahoy Mates!
Just the Manager again! Mea culpa, Doug - surely didn't want to "slight" you! Those pix of the Sanfilippo estates are Grrrrrrrrrrrrreat!
I love places like that and in "my day" have visited a few here and in Europe. The "stuff" that one finds going room - to - room is amazing. Just how much time do you think it would take to tour the place?
Really some fine work and glad your boss bride let you "off" for a bit to share those pix with us! <grin> Oooooops, I here mine bellowing calling my name as I "speak"! <arrrrgggghhhh>
Gotta skeedaddle - Cindy, you are all the reason one needs to come back here, again 'n again!
ENCORE! Saturday 'n Photo Posting Day!
PASSENGER TRAIN NOSTALGIA #19
Initially Posted on Page 155 of the original Thread
Here's something to enjoy regarding the RDC's from Budd from a 1954 advertisement found in my personal collection.
RDC - Car with a Future for Canada's Future
The Canadian Pacific - world's greatest travel system - has just bought four Budd stainless steel RDCs. (The letters RDC stand for Rail Diesel Car.) The cars were bought because of their proved ability to reduce costs, improve service and attract traffic. But also with an eye to Canada's growth, which presages an increase in the need for transportation as Canada's vast mineral, oil and natural resources are developed. Operating experiences with RDC usually reveals potentialities not originally envisioned. Nobody has yet found their limit, though RDC is now operating in a searching range of services in Australia, Cuba and Saudi Arabia, as well as on our own country's leading railroads. The Budd Company, Philadelphia, Detroit, Gary. Automobile and Truck Bodies and Wheels. Railway Passenger Cars and Plows. Budd
PIONEERS IN BETTER TRANSPORTATION
ENCORE! Saturday ‘n Photo Posting Day!
at "Our" Place!
We are CLOSED on SUNDAYs!
Starting Sunday at the Mentor Village Emporium Theatre!
. . . April 8th thru 14th: Bang The Drum Slowly (1974) Starring: Michael Moriarty, Robert De Niro, Vincent Gardenia, Phil Foster & Ann Wedgeworth - and - 61* Starring: Barry Pepper, Thomas Jane, Anthony Michael Hall, Richard Masur & Bruce McGill. SHORT: The Three Stooges - A Plumbing We Will Go (1940).
Bang The Drum Slowly (1974)
PLOT SUMMARY:
The story of the friendship between a star pitcher, wise to the world, and a half-wit catcher, as they cope with the catcher's terminal illness through a baseball season.
from: amazon.com
61*(2001)
1961: Roger Maris and Mickey Mantle are on pace to break the most hallowed record in U.S. sports, Babe Ruth's single-season 60 home runs. It's a big story, and the intense, plain-spoken Maris is the bad guy: sports writers bait him and minimize his talent, fans cheer Mantle, the league's golden boy, and baseball's commissioner announces that Ruth's record stands unless it's broken within 154 games. Any record set after 154 games of the new 162-game schedule will have an asterisk. The film follows the boys of summer, on and off the field: their friendship, the stresses on Maris, his frustration with the negative attention, and his desire to play well, win, and go home.
SHORT: A Plumbing We Will Go (1940)PLOT SUMMARY: Featuring Moe, Larry & Curly
This classic starts off with The Three Stooges in court being accused of stealing chickens in Mrs. Throttlebottom's chicken coop. Justice does not prevail because the Stooges are found innocent and are free men. Now free, Moe, Larry, and Curly cause more mischief by fishing for their supper.....in a fish tank in front of a pet store. They get caught by a police officer, and when hiding in Bilbo the Magician's magic box fails, they steal Casey the plumber's truck and make a get away. Stopping at a mansion, the butler comes out and tells the "plumbers" they are an hour late and need to get to work right away. Before they can explain they're not plumbers, the same police officer who was chasing appears in sight, so they quickly inform the butler they are "the best plumber to ever plumb a plum" while they rush into the mansion before the police officer catches them. For the rest of the short, total mayhem ensues as the Stooges try to be good plumbers, but in lovable Stooge fashion, fail miserably.
from: threestooges.net
Good day all, round for all today.. Well, wonders never cease, mail arrived with a early BD present, one O scale labelle 60ft. coach kit, courtesy of the misses, has caused a stir around the place with non modelers as well who are seeking diversion from the everyday routine..
On to the acknowledgements .
CMSTP, great work on the DL109 article, might I add the the PA accomplished similar horsepoer ratings with only one prime mover, this and robust GE traction motors caused SP to cancel E unit purchases and buy only Alco PA's in 1949. Unlike the 109's they remained in service until 1967, abit with several rebuildings in the process, they also were the first to recieve Scarlet/Grey paint due to high public exposure..
Barndad, great selection of all topics, how do you find the time?
Mike, seems I read the Pc or Conrail tried to automate Zoo interlocking, results were the primitive computer systems of the day shut down due to being unable to process such a complex set of equations.
Tom. great job with encores and stewardship of the bar, I do enjoy the upcoming sunday flicks, I can add some specific RR themed movies, might I suggest Danger Lights or This is my railroad, the SP public relations film that was shown nation wide in 1947?
Rob, back in saddle, whatever will they do with both of us stopping in today? Great traction coverage as usual..
Lars, good to see you about, great contributions
My applogies to all that I might have missed, only have so much time to accomplish so much.
I shall part with some SP trivia for all to ponder.
Southern Pacific's first eleven passenger equipped geep nines were built with tightlock couplers, coupler centering springs, under coupler cut levers and unique to SP passenger pilots and barrel mars lights. By the time SP required more geeps, these options were deleted and those orginally equipped as above lost these unique touches during later rebuildings.
Dave
Just a few final comments before checking out for the remainder of the weekend . . .
Saw the Wolfman "peeking in" this morning - but nothing from him. Hmmmmm - must've gotten his fingers caught between the keys (again). Dontcha just hate it when that happens???
Lars at 10:05 AM today: Many thanx for the morning visit and fine book covers! Every little bit helps 'round this place, and yours is a BIG BIT!
Smart move (Exlax) in keeping your distance with Cindy - she's MINE, MINE, MINE!
Just a tad over the top with the planning for the Easter Egg Hunt 'n party . . . Boris in a Bunny Suit!
Gotta hand it to guys like Eric 'n Pete - they really READ the material, eh <girn> Kettle Valley, BC - <geesh> I shudda caught that as well.
Doug at 10:21 AM today: Much appreciation for the elaboration on the Sanfilippo Estates background, et al. Great info and surely a place to see.
Bird feeders and Classic Trains! <huh>
Dave at 3:49 PM today: Our Iraq Connection didn't let us down and came thru again with a Saturday offering. Great to see ya, Mate!
An O-scale passenger car model! Now that's a GREAT better half you've got! But, but - you're West Coast S . . . . hmmmmmm.
I'll check out those flicks you mentioned - seems to me that "Danger Lights" has been run at the Emporium; not sure though . . . thanx for the suggestions!
Don't know if the Easter Bunny would even think of swinging by where you are - but if thoughts mean anything, here's HOPPING you have a jouous Easter!
See y'all on Monday!
Tom
Hi Tom and everyone, a round for the house
Doug, great pictures today plus here's a few I stole
http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c330/Barndad/sunday%20photos/Washingtondepot.jpg
http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c330/Barndad/sunday%20photos/GlacialparkI.jpg
http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c330/Barndad/sunday%20photos/CPNorthern.jpg
http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c330/Barndad/sunday%20photos/CapitolLimited.jpg
http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c330/Barndad/sunday%20photos/GCChicago.jpg
http://67.15.20.45/images/images2/s/SP_3001_At_Monterey_Depot_Sep70RP.jpg.34686.jpg
West Colton Yard 1986
http://67.15.20.45/images/images2/s/SP3406wcolton23dec86.jpg.24112.jpg
GP9 at Oakland 2004
http://67.15.20.45/images/s/SP5623a.jpg.22757.jpg
Kettle Valley Railway
http://www.bcarchives.gov.bc.ca/cgi-bin/www2i/.visual/img_med/dir_114/c_05830.gif
http://www.bcarchives.gov.bc.ca/cgi-bin/www2i/.visual/img_med/dir_114/c_05832.gif
http://www.bcarchives.gov.bc.ca/cgi-bin/www2i/.visual/img_med/dir_114/c_05821.gif
http://www.bcarchives.gov.bc.ca/cgi-bin/www2i/.visual/img_med/dir_114/c_05833.gif
http://www.bcarchives.gov.bc.ca/cgi-bin/www2i/.visual/img_med/dir_114/c_05831.gif
http://www.vanc.igs.net/~roughley/coquihalla.html
http://www.vanc.igs.net/~roughley/graphics/rail/1916_map_lrg.jpg
http://www.kettlevalleyrail.org/KVRtrain.jpg
Happy Easter
http://memory.loc.gov/service/pnp/cph/3c00000/3c00000/3c00200/3c00219v.jpg
Mike
Good evening Leon, I'll partake of a medium rare with all the fixin's and with an extra heapin helping of mushrooms,Guiness to wash that mess down as well
caution - everyone check your easter eggs really carefully, apparently the second classers enlisted Tex's help with the decorating of some of the "eggs"
Tom-Yes I is back, I'm not sure if it's a kick in the keester or not,but it's something.I have to say, three store refits and one grand oppenning with all the training of pedantic post prepubessant's and all that entails makes one cringe. Hopefully I'm not on the Ask Rob list next year ,sheesh> I almost forgot what home looked like let alone the either
Nice to see the various and sundry Pullman replays and the CP RDC bit. I noted that railfare is printing the CNR self propelled cars book from Anthony Clegg again. We're on the hunt to get them for this yeasr rendition of the museum's gift shop. Good to hear that fergies still alive and well, give him my reguards when you chat again.Those rapido cars are beutifull I'm sorely tempted myself
Fine choices of Emporium selections as well, baseball is indeed in the air again
Doug-thanks for the extra info on the Fillipo estate, an absolutly astounding collection,it's wonderfull that there are still people out there that car to preserve as opposed to rebuild and improve, history is important.
lars-That kettle valley book is a good one,one of those got to have type books, truly remarkable country and construction all along that line.Some interesting looking six coupled books from the old country as well. thanks for sharing.
Dave-I'm glad to see more of us back in the fold. As the captain says we take em how we can get em, nioce to know that you are still onboard. I've noticed that alot of O and HO scale traction cars are inproduction again from labelle, not kits for the faint of heart, but once they are done they are a work of art. Neat info on te idosyncracies of the early SP passenger GEEPs, The TH&B's ( Toronto hamilton and Buffalo RY ) had three rather unique GP9's on their roster. As built by GMD 401,402,and 403 had GP9 engines and power along with steam gen equipment, they also came with the roof mounted airtanks. The kicker is that when they were built GMD in London didn't have all the tooling for the GP9 yet so they were built with GP7 bodies, as they were rebuilt and serviced over the years they got the GP9 body pannels they should have had when first built.
HAPPY EASTER EVERYONE !
Good evening Captain Tom and Gentlemen!!
Leon, Steak and Bisquits, please!
I am short on time tonight so I will just throw in some pictures before the bar is closing for the weekend! We had another 90ËšF day today. Spent the afternoon at the Home Depot.
Here are some randomly picked pictures from three different countries!
Östersund, Sweden 1968.
Travemünde, Germany 1970.
Union Pacific #3622 leading a westbound freight train through Nebraska 1981.
Union Station, Washington D.C. 1993.
I'll be back with an inclusive post Monday morning!
Happy Easter to everyone!!!
Wow, it is dark here. I guess Boris forgot to turn on the outside lights even though the Bar is closed. Let's see, here it is! Just let me drop my post and I'll be on my way!
Doug – Maybe you are right about no need for wheels when there is snow and ice enough on the track! But I saw those wheels a few times during the winter tests back then. Sanfilippo Estates seems to be a very interesting place to visit! Certainly worth more than one visit! Just imagine, 12,000 watts of bulbs behind (above) that skylight! Besides that I like those steam engines the most. Beautiful pieces of equipment!Are you sure that bar is at Sanfilippo’s? Looks very much like Our Place, doesn’t it? In what kind of building do they keep that train? Beutiful cars and locomotive!Thanks for the story about Jasper Sanfilippos! He is right, it would be a tragedy to loose all those old machines!A bird apartment complex! How long did it take to build it? Rob – I had a very handy bag for my old Mac. Fits perfectly in the overhead bin when flying! It does not travel anymore. But it certainly works!Thanks for the info on CLRV’s! From Switzerland! Why am I not surprised. Wonderful country! I don’t recognize the company name though. I’ve been to Ottawa but never had a chance to check if they still have any streetcars running. Do they? Nice pictures!Tom – I’ll give you all details about flying different airplanes at the Rendezvous! It was something like when the President and the Vice President are flying at the same time! Or was it...? Yeah, must have been...I thought you knew about my stint as a truck driver! No, I will not bring my old Mac SE to the Rendezvous. In 1997 I put it in the closet and it was sitting there until last fall when I took it out, hooked it up and turned it on. It worked right away! The only thing was that the time was 23 minutes behind. Budd Company in Gary, IN? I didn’t know they had a plant there! I am kind of surprised there is no market for new RDCs today. They are much cheeper to run than a regular train.Ahh, baseball movies this week at the Mentor Village Emporium Theatre! I,ve heard about Bang the Drum Slowly, but completely missed 61*. The sad part is that Diamondbacks have not had a good start this year.
Lars – What about all this interest in Cindy? You are asking for trouble! What happened to Ruth? Thank you for the link to the Kettle Valley Railway! It didn’t look very British in my eyes with those trestles and now I know why, it was/is Canadian!But the locomotives on your first two book covers certainly look very British! I would like to read the last book, British Rail 1974-97. Dave – Birthday!? When is your birthday? Happy Birthday if I don't see you again until after the big day! Thanks for the SP trivia! Mike – Thanks for all url’s! A bunch a very nice pictures, including good looking SP locos!! Especially appreciate the map where I could locate the Kettle valley Railway, Lars’ ‘British” railway!
Good morning Tom and gang. I'll just have one light breakfast today, as I must be running to work. I agree with ya'll on the Sanfilippo bar looking just like the one at our place. Of course, we have a false wall left over from the 30's to conceal our game room.
Great looking pix from Eric this morning, and to answer the question on the Martin house ... it took about 90 minutes to assemble. If I assembled another one today, it would take less than 20. If I put together a third one, I'd have enough left over parts to build a 4th!
Here's a little poem written a very long time ago. Don't know the year.
Bloomin' Blunders - Oliver S. Sprout - June 1954 Railroad Magazine
Men brag about streamliners, diesels and juice hogs,
And how they keep ‘em rolling in sunshine, storms and fogs;
But these new-fangled dragouts, in common, one thing lack,
Held by an old wood-burner with smoke-erupting stack.
They're but the newcomers in the field, lack background so to speak,
And bring no thought of yesteryear with their varnished streak.
Of traditions they have none. No tales of them are told,
As of cabbage-heads and diamond-stacks, in railroadin' days of old.
They never top a summit, there to show a tank bone dry,
Then make a fast run to water plugs, with boilers scant gage-high.
They round no bends to find a bridge gone on a flood's high tide,
To make a dash and hit the rails, square, on the other side.
We salute the old smoke-burners, with stories tall as stacks,
Wheezing, pounding, weary ways, along the single tracks.
We toast the old stack buster, mechanic with crudest tools,
Who pointed was to better things, to us of later schools.
Of errors they made quite a few, as men have always done,
Performing deeds that progress served, which someone had to shun;
Their characters had some poor traits, a lot more than were good;
They lived and died by their own code, in ways they understood.
If you are going to try cross-country skiing, start with a small country.
A smile to begin the week!
The future ain't what it used to be.
(A Yogi-ism!)
Here's HOPPING that everyone had a fine Easter weekend with those who give a Rat's Patoot about the relevance of it all!
Monday one more time as we count down to the 2nd Year Anniversary of the bar. <phew> There have been times . . . Anyway, let's see what develops this Thursday and I support the idea put forth by Manager Lars. Go for it!
Temps these past few mornings have been well below freezing (F) and we set a few records for this time of year. No precip, but colder ‘n a well digger's caboose in the Klondike, if yaknowwutImean!
Don't even want to discuss petrol as prices were at $2.68 (rounded) last time I checked ‘em out. Only way they are going to move is UP from what "they" say. <barf>
We had a GREAT college hockey tournament downtown and an attendance record was set for the Frozen Four - the NCAA finals. The kids played as if they gave a Rat's Patoot and that was MOST REFRESHING indeed. Hockey the way it should always be played. the Oh-fish-Uls let ‘em play. Wonder if the NHL will EVER pick up on that idea?? Doubt it. Anyway, Michigan State was up to the task and took the game and play away from Boston College. Glad we had the chance to see it . . . .
Reminder: Tuesday's Theme for the Day is New York Central! Manager Lars is supposed to start it off . . .
Mike at 8:27 PM Saturday: More on-point URLs from "silent Mike." My favorite was the last of the Kettle Valley URLs . . . Interesting Chapel Car interior too . . .
Rob at 8:38 PM Saturday: "pedantic post prepubessant's" indeed! Interesting bit of dialogue from our trolleyMAN! Looks as if you've found the path between your haus and this joint - once again!
I see Toronto knocked Montreal out of the playoffs then got deprived by the NY Islanders. So, as with my Blues, your Leafs are sitting it out again . . . the changing fortunes in sports, eh Whowuddathunkit!
I spent far too much time browsing those Rapido cars - far too "rich" for me, but they are indeed quite handsomely done. Just can't justify the costs PLUS I have no where to put ‘em - no room at all. AND the display cases are chock full. Oh woe is me, eh I am interested in their passenger car lighting kit though. It seems to be a pretty nifty gadget - mini-battery operated with a "wand" that triggers a magnetic switch from off to on, and so forth. They too go for a rich man's purse ($16 ea) - I'd ONLY need 36 of ‘em for the cars that are on the layout. Don't even want to mention the ones in the display cases. Arrggggghhhh. Leave it to "Fergie" to come up with even MORE ways to spend my retirement income. <grin> I will pass along your regards . . .
Soooooooooooo, what is to be feared from a decorated egg?????? ‘splain, puleeze! <grin>
Eric at 11:17 PM Saturday: It's the thought that counts and those Pix closed out the day quite well! Thanx for thinking of us.
Particularly liked the Pix from Sweden ‘n Germany. Nice!
Eric at 11:50 PM yesterday: A rolled up epistle for the guys late last nite from our Resident Desert Swede. "Suffering" from the 90 degree (F) heat while some of us are trying to grin ‘ n bear it with the return of winter. <grin>
Last time I was in Ottawa, 3 years ago, I didn't notice any operating street cars - for what it's worth. They have been "battling" the light rail issue and the plans look fine - until the politics seem to get in the way. The more things change, the more they remain the same - no matter where one resides! <groan>
Dave (in Iraq) celebrates his B'day on May 27th (48). B'day Watch List of a few Pages back refers . . .
Enjoy the inclusive Post and as always, appreciate your continued interest in this joint and its inhabitants!
Doug at 5:54 AM today: The barn weevil is baaaaaaaaack with a morning pick-us-up! Will save the reading for later on . . . thanx!
Reminder: 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 "spiked" OJ they can handle!
Canadian Railways of the Past
Number One:
Canadian Northern Railway (CNoR)
Intitially Posted on Page 246 of the Original Thread
Used with permission from: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Formatting differences made necessary due to Forums requirements. Some heralds from other sources. Locale: Canada Dates of operation: 1899 - 1918 Track gauge: 4 ft 8½ in (1435 mm) (standard gauge) Headquarters: Manitoba The Canadian Northern Railway (CNoR) is a historic Canadian railway. Manitoba beginnings CNoR had its start in the independent branchlines that were being constructed in Manitoba in the 1880s and 1890s as a response to the monopoly exercised by Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR). Many of these branchlines were built with the sponsorship of the provincial government, which sought to subsidize local competition to the federally subsidized CPR; however, significant competition was also provided by the encroaching Northern Pacific Railway (NPR) from the south. Two of these branchline contractors, William Mackenzie and Donald Mann, took control of the bankrupt Lake Manitoba Railway and Canal Company in January, 1896. Mackenzie and Mann expanded their enterprise in 1897 by building further north into Manitoba's Interlake district as well as east and west of Winnipeg. They also began building and buying lines south to connect the U.S. border at Pembina, North Dakota, and east to Ontario. Connecting the Prairies to the Lakehead The Canadian Northern Railway was established in 1899 and all railway companies owned by Mackenzie and Mann (primarily in Manitoba) were consolidated into the new entity. CNoR's first step toward competing directly with CPR came at the turn of the century with the decision to build a line linking the Prairie Provinces with Lake Superior at the harbour in Port Arthur-Fort William (modern Thunder Bay, Ontario) which would permit the shipping of western grain to European markets as well as the transport of eastern Canadian goods to the West. This line incorporated an existing CNoR line to Lake of the Woods and two local Ontario railways, the Port Arthur, Duluth and Western Railway and the Ontario and Rainy River Railway whose charters Mackenzie and Mann had acquired in 1897. To reach Port Arthur which became the lake terminus of the CNoR, the line extended south of Lake of the Woods into northern Minnesota before heading northeast through Rainy River District to the head of navigation on the Great Lakes. The Winnipeg-Port Arthur line was completed on December 30, 1901 with the last spike being driven just east of Atikokan station by Ontario's Commissioner of Crown Lands, Elihu J. Davis. Throughout this time, Mackenzie and Mann had been busy expanding their prairie branch line network to feed the connection to Port Arthur. This network expanded in subsequent years to cover most parts of the prairies. In 1914 the Canadian Northern Railway bought a 150 acre homestead north of Winnipeg on the shores of Lake Winnipeg. They purchased the land in order to develop a resort on Grand Beach. Going it alone In 1903 the federal government and Grand Trunk Railway (GTR) were seeking a 2nd transcontinental railway for Canada and approached Mackenzie and Mann to seek their co-operation. This effort was spurned and GTR and the federal government would go on to form a system composed of the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway (GTPR) and the National Transcontinental Railway (NTR). Nationwide expansion Mackenzie and Mann began their first significant expansion outside of the prairies with the purchase of Great Lakes steamships, railways into northern Quebec's Saguenay region and the acquisition of branchlines in southwestern Nova Scotia (the H&SW) and western Cape Breton Island. Other acquisitions were in southern Ontario and a connecting line was built from Toronto to Parry Sound. In 1905, CNoR reached the newly formed provincial capital at Edmonton, Alberta. In 1908, a line was built east from a connection at Capreol, Ontario on the Toronto-Parry Sound line to Ottawa and on to Montreal. In 1910 a direct Toronto-Montreal line was built, as well as the start of construction on the line west of Edmonton through Yellowhead Pass to Vancouver, thanks to subsidies provided by the government of British Columbia. In 1911 federal funding was made available for completing the line from Montreal-Ottawa-Capreol-Port Arthur. In 1912, with GTR and CPR holding the ideal southern routes around Mount Royal to downtown Montreal, CNoR started building a double-tracked mainline north by building the Mount Royal Tunnel under the mountain. Obstacles in the Rockies CNoR's initial expansion in the 1890s and 1900s had been relatively frugal, largely by acquiring bankrupt companies or finishing failed construction projects. By the 1910s, significant expenses were adding up from the construction north or Lake Superior and the Mount Royal Tunnel, but the largest costs were from building on "the wrong side" of the Thompson and Fraser rivers in the mountains of British Columbia. CPR already had trackage on the desirable eastern side, leading to the port of Vancouver, forcing CNoR to blast tunnels and ledges out of these canyons. The most infamous construction folly on the CNoR in British Columbia happened in 1913 when blasting for a passage for the railway at Hells Gate triggered an enormous landslide which partially blocked the narrow swift-flowing Fraser River. The resulting damage to Pacific salmon runs took decades to reverse by the governmental construction of fishways. In addition to difficult construction between Jasper and Vancouver, CNoR started construction west of Edmonton in 1910, fully two years later than GTPR, which had started construction east from Prince Rupert in the Skeena River, leading to Yellowhead Pass. <
Good Morning Barkeep and All Present; coffee, please (with hot bricks), round for the house, and $ for the jukebox.
It's still snowing here, but nowhere near what it was like on Saturday as we got five inches of "chance of scattered flurries." Gas is $2.90/gal now. Red Sox hung on last night.
Work intervenes with posting, but that's the way it goes?
Boston Revere Beach and Lynn material was appreciated. I always remember the station call on the MBTA Blue Line - "Last stop is Wonderland." Maybe OSP recalls that one?
Following remarks are in no particular order - Boris thrives on disorder so these are for him!
Rob is back - I knew he'd return once the ice "went out."
Eric provided some interesting pictures and other items. The picture of the :Lake Shore at Albany had some fine equipment. The 10/6 sleeper was probably off the Boston section (back when you get a sleeper out of Boston - no, Boris, put the rubber hose down!) I think it's a former ATSF car "Pine" series as they were running on 448/449 back then. If not. Then it's a former Up "Pacific" series. I'll go with the ATSF idea, though. Freightliner was a good one - always liked the conventional configuration of those. The picture in DC may be the "Cardinal?" I'll take a guess on that one.
Barndad sent some fascinating pictures; people have told me there's a fine line between collecting and hoarding; I always reply that I am into preservation. Anyway, thanks so much for sharing your visit with us. The martin house is done - looks good. We don't have them in our part of the world, however, yesterday things got awful quiet at the feeder and I looked out and there was a goshawk sitting on the fence near the feeder. He looked at me and then flew away - we have lots of woods around the house and there are all kinds of birds and beasts around.
Pete stopped by with comments.
The bookmobile ran as well with Lars at the throttle. I now have two more on my "gotta find these" list. The Kettle Valley one looks especially interesting.
OSP visited with Pullman material as well. We also have a fine selection of movies at the "Theatuh." "Bang the Drum Slowly" is a good movie; anyone up for a game of "TEGWAR?"
"61" is a good one as well. The actor who played Roger Maris in that movie had the physical appearance and mannerisms perfectly.
I remember being at Fenway more than a few times that summer. The only time the Red Sox drew anybody back then was when they played the Yankees. A high school girlfriend's father had all sorts of access to thing Red Sox which meant there was never any trouble getting tickets (and good ones at that); I actually got along better with him than I did with her most of the time so I got to see the Sox pretty regularly. Mantle was truly an imposing figure on the ball field. I would say that Jim Rice is probably the only man I ever saw who was stronger than Mantle, although Harmon Killebrew was right up there was well. The ball would jump off Mantle's bat, but Maris attacked the pitch; watching him swing was like a physics lesson. Holy smokes, Awk has his Pirates hat on and is making an argument for Roberto Clemente - this could get interesting. Awk, my boy, the Pittsburghs have done better this year than they did all last April.
College hockey - I agree with you 150 percent, sir. Alma mater got knocked out in the preliminary round this year, but we'll be back.
Also thanks fir the rerun of the Candian Northern material.
Last but not least, Mike sent pictures. Enjoyed the shots of Chicago.
Awhile back I mentioned CSX putting a train in Coal River. Some of the rocks dislodged in the slide were close to the size of the locomotives on the train - IOW, not much they could do about it when they came upon the situation.
New York Central tomorrow. I'll close now so I can get some material ready - should be a good one.
Work safe
The holiday weekend has passed on by and here we are with a new week and the return of MY GAL, Ruth to the bartending chores! A mugga Joe with a "jolt" should hold me for awhile as I take in the sights ‘round here, beginning with YOU! <grin> Cindy??? Me??? No way! Mrs. Larson's "little boy" ain't a fool!
Gasoline is at $3.05 at our "favorite" Gulf station . . . Temps are just about 40 degrees (F) and expected to make it to the 50s. Feels chilly with the breeze, but the sun is out and feels like springtime!
My vaunted Mets took two on the chin from the hated Braves down in HOTlanta. Dontchajusthateit when that happens?? <grin> The Yanks really had their hands full with the Orioles, as they always seem to. A-Rod came through on Saturday with the 9th inning "slam" in a game that surely should've satisfied even the harshest critic of the man. He's begun the season quite well with his offensive numbers, but apparently the detractors out there will climb aboard his case day after day, howling all the while about how much money he makes and so forth. Wonder why the Lords of Baseball just don't clamp down on releasing that kinda info? Would shut the mouths of lotsapeople, like me for example! I really don't wanna know . . .
See where MY Islanders shocked the hockey world with their overtime shootout victory over the hated Devils from Jersey. They shudda won it in regulation, but allowed two goals right there at the end to force the overtime. I thought the crushing blow was that goal scored with less than a second would surely do ‘em in. But, their fortunes were not to be denied as they became the 3rd New York team to make it in (Rangers ‘n Sabres). Should be interesting match ups in the East. The west? I'll leave that to Tom to explain.
Some pretty interesting submissions since my last visit and of course the guys have made the appropriate commentaries. So what's the point in repeating ‘em, huh?? But I would like to mention that seeing Dave over in Iraq make what now looks like a "routine" Saturday appearance is heartwarming for sure! A new "toy" to play with in his spare time at that! Guess he's celebrating his birthday a bit on the early side. Hey! If I were over there, I'd find anything at all to celebrate, just to keep my mind "straight"!
Can't ‘splain what happened to the Bar Chandler on Saturday. I too thought we'd see him stop by, but he obviously got himself "obligated" to do other things. Sounds like "Honey do" to me! <grin> Hey guy - just get up EARLIER and tend to the matters of the bar FIRST! How hard is that??
Rob on Saturday is a throwback to days of old. It's been many, many months since we've seen the trolleyMAN on the weekend. Hope it's going to be a regular thing. Nice to see you here and over on Tom's other thread. Seems like we're not letting him shut that one down, huh?
Eric, you've done some double duty and came across with two fine late night posts for us. Glad to see that the Kettle Valley book spurred on some commentary and some fine Urls from the wanswheel.
Just caught Shane's post and good to see the Mountain Man back with us (or is THAT the guy from the 2nd Class Saloon??) Wait a minute - do you think??? Nah . . . but . . . hmmmmmm.
You betchaboots I'll kick off the Theme Day with a New York Central offering. Right now I'm not sure about the morning - but if need be, I'll provide it tonight if it looks like I'll be tied up tomorrow. But I WILL begin it!
Ok, some railroading is in order, ‘specially since we've seen such fine stuff from our barkeep this morning in that Canadian RR of the Past posting . . .
I hope everyone had a VERY HAPPY EASTER. So a pint of Batham's and a round please RUTH.
A really great Saturday Photo day at Our Place.
Great to see you back in ROB, and just in time to take charge of the chandelling for the 2nd anniversary at Our Place this week. I will keep my Chandlers ‘ticket' as I don't think I could survive another ‘Initiation Ceremony' after the exam.
I have missed your trolley photos and the details you give on them. Good to see that car # 1326 was saved and in such fine condition at the museum. I see 1326 as a box with the cars destination at the front where the earlier pics show a route letter.
JAMES. The Fish trains were what was conveyed in the cars. The one I was referring to in the post was a train from Grimsby, a famous fishing port on the East Coast of England. This train ran to Whitland in South Wales.The reason this train was popular was that it brought one of Immingham's( a locomotive depot near Grimsby) Britannia Pacifics through Rugby It was before refrigerated freight cars on British Railways and the fish was packed in ice in insolated 4- wheel freight vans. These trains ran to a fast schedule. The vans were originally painted white. This traffic was soon lost to road transport.
I would have liked to hear what a DL 109 sounded like when being worked hard.
ERIC Sorry I must have W-1s on the brain, I am still feeling the effects of being in the tub of Batham's.
YES I remember those days of looking out of the window when steam was in everyday use on BR. Finishing up with a dirty face from the smoke and no doubt a coal cinder in the eye. Fortunately you can still do this on the preserved lines, but nowadays remembering to put a pair of goggles and a hat in the bag. It is amazing as well how a certain times the smell of the steam, coal smoke and hot oil from a locomotive can strip years away and there you are, in your mind, standing on a station platform next to a steam loco forty odd years ago.
Many thanks for the photos. Enjoyed the photo and cab shot of No 2151.
In the second set of your photos that is a good picture of a German diesel-hydraulic, it is very similar to the class 42 and 43 warship locos that DL had a link to. The Warships were I believe based on the V200 German diesels. One of the preserved class 42 warships was painted in German livery with the markings of DB. The loco ran on the preserved line like this for a while.
Great photo of the fright in Nebraska, with 2 of the locos in Cotton Belt livery. I have seen some locos inn Cotton Belt colors here in Jeff City but not for quite a while now, I guess they have been repainted in UP colors or withdrawn from service.
Can I guess today's photo is of an old subway car cab
DOUG. Many thanks for the BRB&L Mason Bogie locomotive photo and of course those marvelous photos and descriptions from Mr. Sanfilippo's Estate. I am sure he gets a great deal of enjoyment from his absolutely wonderful collection and deserves a very great deal of credit for allowing others to have the pleasure of seeing it and allowing photos to be taken so we can enjoy the collection as well.
The kids look to be enjoying the collection as well.
Glad to see the Martin House is up and in operation. I have seen them round here and always wondered what sort of birds they were for, now I know Thanks. At least this cold snap as seemed to get of the mosquitoes for a while at least.
That was a great poem about steams last days.
LARS The Second Class Saloon boys seemed to have taken quit a liking to Our Place; No Way can they have ROB for their darts team.
I did wonder about the Kettle Valley Railway in the book covers, but I thought it best not to question the manager.
Many thanks for the 2nd set of Brit book covers. In the first book, the loco on the cover is a N7 0-6-2 tank locomotive of the ex LNER. These locos would mainly work the heavy commuter traffic into and out of London's Liverpool Street station, which was known as the Jazz service. It also was known for a very quick turn round of trains in the rush
Login, or register today to interact in our online community, comment on articles, receive our newsletter, manage your account online and more!
Get the Classic Trains twice-monthly newsletter