<w/permission: http://www.scenic-railroads.com/>
A smile to begin the week!
How can I find it if it's lost?
<A Yogi-ism!>
G'day Gents!
Monday has rolled ‘round once again. As with the tides, some things just keep on keepin' on, eh
Best way to begin this new work week <for many> is to draw a mugga Joe, select a <light> or <traditional> breakfast from our Menu Board. While you're waitin' - grab a few pastries from The Mentor Village Bakery case!
Customer ACKNOWLEDGMENTS (since my last narrative):
Eric at 12:32 PM Saturday - July 7th: Didn't expect to see our Resident Desert Swede in DAYLIGHT! <geesh> You look "different" without those "night owl prowling" outfits . . . Recall that great hit from |The Little River Band?? <grin>
Some fine Pix to check out and the "one" with the "important feature for passenger trains of yesteryear" makes me T-H-I-N-K (which hurts at times! <grin>) Anyway, looks to me like some sort of a hose linkage - steam perhaps for heat?? Hmmmmm.
Liked the track work in that foto of the UP locos in Atchison . . .
Lotsa Pix of cabooses (or as some refer to, cabeese - but not MOI!!) Vans, as they are or were known as in Canada, are my favorites after the passenger fleets!
Pete at 3:52 PM Saturday - July 7th: And another of our StL Rendezvous "bunch" arrives to help keep the Saturday "thing" alive!
Very observant of you to note how close my Post came to Page 77 at 07:07 on 07-07-07!! [wow
Been a loooooooong time for Moi and "hangovers" - probably shudda had one after THAT first nite aboard the Ocean, eh <grin> Was a good nite, fer sure, fer sure!
Anyway, as you're finding out, "recoup" time takes looooooooonger as one ages! <grin>
While checking out the Original Thread, I got myself "glued" to reading some past Posts and it occurred to me that some of those are surely worth turning into ENCOREs! Glad you enjoyed ‘em . . . I'll find some more as these Saturdays come ‘n go, especially from the guys who are now UTBs. <groan>
Alan's 4-Pix are truly outstanding! Sure wish we could get the man to swing by the bar now ‘then - he'd surely be a "natural" for this joint. And it isn't as if we don't need the business!
Thanx for stopping in, feeling grim ‘n all . . . <grin>
Dave at 6:27 PM Saturday - July 7th: Our Left Coast Connection has returned and with a fine inclusive Post at that! Some mighty fine observations ‘n comments to help keep things movin' here at the Bar by the Ballast.
GG1s for me are "it" and my favorite scheme is tuscan with the 5 gold stripes. Anything else just has to fall in place - worst I've ever seen was Conrail, followed by Amtrak ‘n Penn Central in that order.<ugh> Awful, simply awful.
That CNR #77 is a fine looking machine ‘n when I first saw it, I thought it was an electric. Surprised that it's a diesel, for the "look" is otherwise.
Don't know what your future travel plans hold - personal of course. But should you ever make it to Quebec, Canada - set aside at least one full day for ExpoRail Canadian Railway Museum at Saint-Constant. It's THAT good and a "must see" place for those of us who appreciate "things RR"! Short of that, avail yourself of the Pix that have occupied so many of these past Pages . . . scroll back ‘n they're just waitin' to be viewed! More comin' up this week too . . .
And yes, a caboose is a van in Canada. Also England - Australia ‘n New Zealand too I'd suspect.
Round appreciated and hope to see soon . . .
Lars at 1:00 PM Sunday - July 8th: Hey, the return of the sailorman! Great to see ya, Mate and appreciate the long-distance visit! Fun in the sun and with the grandkids at that. Life is good, eh
Very good of you to give up a part of your time away AND Sunday to share a thought or three with us. Always like having our Manager on board, but it is especially gratifying when I know that you're away from home and STILL keep us uppermost in thought. Many thanx!
Yeah, this Thursday is "it" - another monthly anniversary for the bar. Must admit that I've pretty much shelved the idea of making announcements for these things, for it just seems to go by the boards without ‘em. There are exceptions of course, and you are a huge one! <grin> We'll see what develops . . . guys first have to READ what's being Posted in order to figure out what's going on, eh Admittedly, this new crew seems to be much more inclined to read the words than some of our UTBs . . .
Speaking of g
PASSENGER TRAIN NOSTALGIA #41
<A form of this was initially Posted on page 186 of the Original Thread>
Here's something to enjoy regarding the GREAT NORTHERN RAILWAY in a 1949 advertisement from my private collection:
Glacier National Park
IN THE MONTANA ROCKIESHIKE on high trails. RIDE to ancient glaciers. SEE snowclad mountains. FISH in great trout waters. TOUR in open top motor coaches. EAT and sleep in fine hotels. ON THE MAIN LINE OF THE GREAT NORTHERN
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Enjoy! Tom
Ahoy Cap'n Tom ‘n fellow travelers at the bar!
Ruth my deAH, yes ‘tis I, the Larsman - back at the bar this Monday morning! My oh my you are as radiant as evAH ‘n just what this old sailorman needs to jump-start my day! <blush>
A mugga Joe with a jolt, a few pastries from the case ‘n of course treats for the CrittAHs - Boris, feed ‘em ‘n the jar of pickled pig's feet is YOURS! A round for the house (when they come tricklin' in) and the change is yours, my deAH! <grin>
Had a wonderful day yesterday with the grandkids out on the water - looks like we've got some homegrown sailors in the family. What am I saying?!?!? I was Navy - my 3 sons all took a turn at it, did their 4 years on the briny blue, and so it goes. Anyway, here we are, enjoying the best of life in the Keys. Why did it evAH take so long to do THIS!?!!? <grin>
As with all things in life, this too shall pass. We'll be winging it back home on Friday afternoon. Probably won't be returning ‘til mid or late August to "close up" after the last of the brood departs for SINY.
An e-mail was sent to a group of you ‘n thus far I've received 2 responses. Thanks! By the way, please forward it on to anyone you feel would be supportive of the idea . . . I found that my e-mail address book doesn't contain as many listings as it once had! For those who may be wonderin' - just trying to get some "activity" going for our Thursday 27th month ANNIVERSARY.
I've been able to get a few hours on the ‘puter while Sarge Grandma is otherwise occupied! <grin> Don't know how long this will last, but I'm trying to prepare some stuff in advance. Just doin' my best to help out in the absence of so many of the guyz.
One thing about being down here is that you really don't CARE about what's going on in the rest of the world. Or at least it seems that way. Very little TV watching ‘n I can't recall the last time I gave a rat's patoot about reading the paper (such as it is!). <grin>
For Eric: I never traveled ‘round the Miami airport, EXCEPT when trying to figure out where to drop off the rental car! <groan> Anyway, Miami has nevAH been a place I've enjoyed. EXCEPTION: 2007 Super Bowl!
Put into Port Everglades a few times, but really not much "merchie" activity down this way for me. While in the Navy I did make it down to Key West a few times, but always in connection with trips to GTMO (no "I" in those days). Probably where my fascination for the Keys began.
And of course things are much more expensive the further one gets from "civilization." Cost of transporting the "things" we want ‘n need rises, just as the tides do! <grin>
I see our Cap'n has gotten back to those nostalgia pieces. So, let me add a little something from my "archives" to this "non-theme" - just to provide some enhanced matter!
Should make mention of the week's movies at the Emporium. Good ones! Let's have MORE "Roadrunners!!"
Hope to be back tomorrow or Wednesday, but if not, Thursday for sure!
Oh yes, Ruth my deAH - I see there's some <ahem> admin matters to attend to . . .
Until the next time!
Lars
Hello Tom and all in
Let's have some of those Mentor village bakery stuff please, and a coffee.
Firstly Tom, thanks for the pics of the Flexliner (and Eric has added further info) - I've seen pictures of units like that in Europe - the rubber ends look strange. The link you sent said they were made by Adtranz. Adtranz owned the factory (the former London Midland and Scottish Railway Derby Carriage and Wagon works - they bought it from British Rail Engineering Limited (who had come to own it under nationalisation) and they sold it on to Bombardier I think - who own it now) who built the DMU cars I gave the link to - so it is not so surprising they look similar maybe.
Those Cathedrals are spectacular - several can be seen from the train in Eastern England - on that trip you can also see Peterborough cathedral - but not as clearly as the one at Ely. When they were built - and all around was tiny wooden homes it must have seemed like an amazing structure.
I'd like a copy of this publication your post mentioned:
British Railways - new and amusing booklet, "WHAT, NO ICE?" - written especially for Americans planning to visit us
I wonder what it said!
Incidentally - are you saying that my post has wide page problems? When I view it it does not, but if that is the case I'll try reducing font size.
Lars - hope all is well in The keys - the only thing I know about that area is the picture painted in the film Key Largo - I'm assuming your accommodation is just like the situation Bogart walked in to in that classic film?! (minus the bad weather hopefully).
Allan - I enjoyed that link to the vintage NZ railcars - the restoration projects look ambitious, but well worth while. I think Vegemite is pretty similar product but I'm told by aficionados that there are subtle differences in taste - so the two don't make great substitutes for each other - I guess that is why the Embassy keep emergency stocks!
Pete
I'd not heard of the Hollycombe place - thanks for the link - looks like an interesting collection - with vintage farm equipment too.
I think the coaling stage and ash tower at Carnforth might be protected structures (how does an ash tower work? Is it to raise ash to put in wagons to then take away - as opposed to raising wagons to tip coal into tenders?).
The round robin trip certainly sounds of interest - and good value - of course you don't get those sorts of things now (although in fairness Central Trains has an offer where you can travel across their network for a tenner if you are over 50 years of age - so that is good value - you might want to mention it to any mates you have who could use it - you have to print a voucher off the special offer pages of the Central Trains website - so Nottingham - Norwich 10 quid return is a lot less than the standard fare of about 47 quid.
It seems to me that the only chunk of the joint line closed was the bit from March to Spalding through Whitemoor - which is not that far - and thus an important diversionary route to the East Coast line (now also very congested) has been lost.
This 1960 map may be of interest - it shows it is an area that has suffered badly with line closures.
http://www.leytransport.i12.com/railmapb.htm
I've not travelled on the section of Joint Line that remains from Doncaster through Gainsborough, Lincoln, Sleaford and Spalding to Peterborough - which is something I aim to do, but the service is rather limited (only 2 or 3 trains per day) - but I think it would be interesting. I must set aside a day to do that some time! I think there is a day rover ticket you can buy that would permit it for a good price.
Eric - I had to travel to London last week and the train I took was an HST 125 of the GNER company. I was able to sample the acceleration - which is not too bad at all - even though these trains were designed in eh early 1970s. I was travelling south along the stretch of mainline where the Mallard locomotive broke the steam speed record - so this HST set was running at the full 125 mph line speed at that point. I was enjoying a full cooked breakfast in the dining car at that point - including Black Pudding!
The signal box at Reedham is certainly still in operation - there are still a good few traditional boxes when you get off the main lines and this is one of them. The pub there was probably closed because more money could be made out of converting it to flats than from running it as a pub. The owner probably went along with this (or the owner could not make a good living from the pub and the bank had the debt, closed on it and sold it to someone who wanted to turn it into flats - lets hope that does not happen to Our Place!!)
Regards to all
DL
Good Afternoon everybody present!
Leon, may I have something from your lunch menu and a pint of your best bitter, please.
Yes, it has been a while since you saw me around here. My trip to Madrid was great and so was the food, except for that one dish (and I don't know which one). You can guess the outcome and it wasn't pleasant.
I had hoped to make a nice inclusive post when I got back, but looking back at the conversation around here, I must admit there is no chance I will be able to go through all posts and condense it into something meaningful, so let's just start over.
Hi, I'm Per (well, maybe not that much "all over").
Quite a while back my wife and I talked about the changes at Los Angeles Union Station (including the name - it used to be Los Angeles Union Passenger Terminal, LAUPT - or did I get it backwards again?). She grew up with the trains, seeing her grandparents off on their trips back east and she remembered it being a very busy place. Well, with nothing else to do (and keeping a close proximity to the bathroom) I checked my old Official Guide from May 1950, a couple of online time tables from June/July 2007 and came up with the following: (I will add the file to my website when I can get in there - right now it doesn't work)
In 1956 there were 56 train movements at LAUPT, 28 arrivals and 28 departures. Chicago was by far the most popular destination: ATSF had 6 trains, UP had 3 and SP had 2 for that city. Santa Fe had 5 trains for San Diego and SP had 6 for San Fransisco. The remaining trains were for Seattle, Sacramento, New Orleans, Memphis and Denver/Omaha. It seems that the local traffic was all by railroad operated buses.
In 2007 there were only 3 long-distance trains left, 1 each for Chicago, New Orleans and Seattle. What has changed is the local and regional traffic. There is now 28 train pairs on the San Diego line, 6 pairs for Santa Barbara and 6 for San Luis Obispo on a regular day. Add to that 129 Metrolink trains to and from various places in the surrounding counties and 162 Light Rail trains on the MTA Gold line to and from Sierra Madre (home of the terminating point of the Rose Parade every January 1st), and you have a total of 335 train movements a day! Not bad for an old station!
Well, it's back to work. See you soon.
Per in Plano
Good to see Per 'n DL today! More specifics in the morning . . . Hope you two will be able to scroll back to catch up on the fine Pix 'n other material since your last visits!
Per, our Resident Cowboy Swede has been in Madrid! Lotsa Pix 'n material on these Pages - hope you can scan thru 'em, would be a shame to miss out!
Continuing on with Pix from Day Four: Sunday - May 27th, 2007 - ExpoRail Canadian Railway Museum at Delson/Saint-Constant, Quebec, Canada
Inside Building #1 (cont'd)
Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) "Neville" 12-1 sleeper - Built by CP-Canadian Car & Foundry (1921)
Canadian National Railway (CNR #3684) RS-18 - Built by Montreal Loco Works (1958)
Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR #51) School car - Built by CP-Hochelage (1898)
Inside a vintage sleeper!
Inside a vintage combine!
Views from the balcony
Canadian Pacific Railway (CP #284845) Express Reefer - Built by National Steel Car (1923)
CPR #4744 M-640 - Built by Montreal Loco Works (1971)
To be continued . . .
Tom
Hi Tom and all.
A round please RUTH and something to cheer you up later.
DAVE Great to see you. It was very sad to read of those two B&O locomotives that were scrapped after being laid aside for preservation. Were the steam locomotives in the U.S the same as in Britain, where there the steam locos were got rid of in indecent haste to the diesels and electrics. It was first said that steam on BR would be around until the early 1970s but the last BR (Standard gauge) steam loco ran in August 1968. But for a scrapyard in South Wales that did not cut up the steam locos straight away, allowing about 200 to be saved, the preserved scene in Britain would look a lot sadder.
I'm afraid I had not heard of those NZ locomotives being buried perhaps Allan could shed some light on this interesting subject.
I know there is said to be an old Furness railway locomotive still underground when the track gave way into a large hole. On the Irish Rail opposite their main works at Inchicore, in the suburbs of Dublin, about 12 old diesels were lined up to act as a sound barrier for a housing estate there. I don't think the locos are there now. I hope some of them got preserved
LARS Glad you made in down to the Keys without a lot of problems, it sounds as though you are going to have a great time and hope you avoid those thunderstorms, no doubt we will have one here after this hot spell.
Many thanks for the link to the GG1 photos of the class I guess in their last years.
Sounds as though you had a great day yesterday and thanks for the Great Northern bookcovers
I will remember to give the Mascots their treats while you are away. I will let Eric console Ruth.
E-mail replied to (I hope).
ERIC You asked a question about the acceleration of the HSTs It seems on the East coast main line where the HSTs run the services from London to Scotland, beyond Edinburgh, where the electrification ends,the HST has a quicker acceleration over the first mile than the usual class 91 electric plus 9 coaches and DVD, mainly due to the HST train being lighter and the heavier adhesion weight of the HST power cars. It seems the newer Voyager and Meridan diesel units, not to mention the new Electric Multiple Units, have better acceleration than the HSTs
I remember that very bad ICE accident in Germany, do you know if there were any safety improvements made after the crash to the cars.
Good observation of the Class 37 at Plymouth.37410 and train was probably heading for the depot at Laira about a mile up the line. I guess most of the photographers would be at the other end taking pics of the steam loco. It looks as though in the photo before the steamer is heading backwards, something I had not noticed.
DL Glad you liked the link to Hollycombe.
I am sure the ash plant works in the way you described. If I remember correctly the is a water filled pit between the rails by the tower and the ashes are raised in the tower and deposited into wagons.
Thanks for the info on the 10-pound Central tickets. I will tell my friends, although they have their senior rail pass, it would still be cheaper to use the special offer, do you know if its available on the trip from Birmingham to Liverpool, is this still operated by Central trains do you know.
Many thanks for the link to map of East Anglia ,this area was indeed hit very hard with line closures in the 1950s and60s. The line from Peterbourgh to Doncaster through Lincoln used to be used by trains diverted from the East Coast Main Line, when track maintenance work had closed the line. To tell how long ago since the last time I done this was behind a Deltic class 55.
It shows how much as changed in rail travel, when the speed Mallard done once is achieved many many times a day now by trains on BR.
PER back. Glad you had a great time in Madrid.
That was interesting about Los Angeles Union Passenger Terminal. We may be using the station a bit later in the year. It is a shame there are only 3 long distance trains today compared to the number in 1956.Still the station is being kept busy with the great number of local trains.
TOM Another two movies I have not seen on at the Emporium this week. Both look well worth watching, and of course the Stooges.
It was remarkable how well we both felt after that evening on the Ocean. The problem was I think Friday was the different beers I had, and it is hard to
Good morning Captain Tom and Gentlemen!!
Leon, I'll just have a Cheese Burger! Coffee! Thank you, my friend!
Monday, do I need to say more. At least it is gone and Tuesday is here. Glad to see that Per is back! And Manager Lars stopped by to see Ruth (?!?!). Hmm.
Tom – Congratulations! You won 500 points! (sorry, no megapoints this time) The important feature is for the steam/train heat! I remember The Little River Band but I can’t say I remember any night owl outfits! But don’t worry, my memory is almost completely gone. About that crash at Washington DC Union Station, I am sure it was a terrible feeling for the engineer and fireman, knowing that they were going to crash without any possibilities to stop the train. Everything in Phoenix is air conditioned, even our dog’s dog house. The brake wheel is from a box car at the Museum of Transportation!I like that Great Northern Railway ad! Glacier National Park, we actually traveled at the edge of the park with the X2000. It was pretty late and getting dark. I shot some videos. Very beautiful place! Thanks for the pictures from ExpoRail!! The more I see of that museum the more impressed I get! Interesting pictures from the inside of the cars!Lars – I spent a few days in Miami 1993 and I can’t say I liked it very much. Too humid! But at the same time it was interesting! Thanks for the book covers! Great Northern had good looking locomotives! I like especially the top one! DL – Black Pudding!? Is that what I think it is? If so I’ll pass. Glad to hear that the signal box at Reedham is still in operation! It reminds me of past times when things were a little bit less automatic! Thanks for HST info!Per – Good to see you again, Sir! I did not spend a lot of time at LA Union Station. The X2000 was on display for a few hours and there was some kind of “party” one evening, but that was it. But the station building is certainly easy to recognize.
Los Angeles Union Station 1993.
Hope your stomach will recover soon! I had the same problem once on vacation in Italy. Not fun at all. Pete – Thanks for the info on the HST acceleration! Diesels usually have a slower acceleration than electrics. I don’t know what kind of improvemments that came out of the ICE train accident in Germany, if any. I guess there wasn’t much they could do about that first version of the ICE, they were already built. You can find some info on this link. It is NASA’s study of that disaster.http://pbma.nasa.gov/docs/public/pbma/general/derailed.pdfI am sure most of the photographers were taking pictures of the steam locomotive when the diesel pulled away with the train!
I found some interesting numbers when I checked about the ICE train disaster. It is about how many hours these people may work:
• A commercial airline pilot can fly up to 100 hours per month;• Shipboard personnel, at sea, cannot be required to operate more than 240 hours per month;• A truck driver can be on duty up to about 260 hours per month; and• Locomotive engineers can operate a train up to 432 hours per month. That equates to more than 14 hours a day for each of those 30 days.
These numbers are from 1999 and might be slightly (but not much) different today. Kind of scary.
Eric
Tuesday - what's new? So here we are at the Saloon by the Siding. Galley crew says the <light> ‘n <traditional> breakfasts are ready for orderin' - coffee is freshly ground ‘n brewed - and the pastries are fresh in The Mentor Village Bakery case.
Lars at 10:15 AM Monday - July 9th: A fine mid-morning visit from our Manager!
So how's paradise these days, eh A bit too warm for my likes, and my guess is the humidity is up there too. My time in the "keys" mainly was in January ‘n February. Had a long stint doing sub-obs with the Navy between Ft. Lauderdale ‘n Key West. A long deployment if I recall - 6 or 7 weeks - but being in "paradise" was far better than suffering through another winter in BahStun (Boston) where we were homported.
Much appreciation for the supplemental Great Northern book covers! Always fits in nicely. Takes work ‘n interest - of which you have lots of.
Thanx for the Email, by the by! Appreciate keeping me in the "loop" . . .
My experiences in the Miami area were all in association with business and most times I had a rental car. Didn't care much for driving down that way. I understand they have some fairly decent rail systems to help with getting people off the overcrowded highways. Fully concur with your assessment of the Miami airport, both inside ‘n out!
Check these out:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tri-Rail
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miami-Dade_Metrorail
Looks like you made Ruth's day - she's got a grin from ear to ear!
Round appreciated!
DL at 10:23 AM Monday - July 9th: Most welcome visit and pretty much "on top"of Lars. So, my guess is you two missed one another likes ships passing in the night. <grin>
I'm surprised that your "wide page post" appears normal at your end. Hmmmm. No point in going back to "fix" it, for WHO goes back to read ‘em??!! That's a rather confounding reality ‘round here.
Just suggest that whenever you cut ‘n paste links (URLs) that should they appear extra lengthy, then go ahead and reduce ‘em in font size. (Not your text, just the link.) That may eliminate the phenomena for those of us experiencing it. Thanx!
One of these days I'll have to dig out those photos I took aboard the Flexliner and go through the "process" of scanning, uploading, downloading, et al. Lotsa work and I must admit, there are times when I wonder . . . Anyway, thanx for the amplifying info regarding Adtranz . . .
Back to the discussion regarding cathedrals . . . yes, they surely were dominating on the landscape, fer sure, fer sure. There are places in Quebec ‘n New Brunswick where the most dominate structure in the town is the church. A carry over from Europe no doubt.
That "booklet" you mentioned is probably long out of print and if available at all, perhaps on eBay, where all the world's material refuse is up for sale! <grin>
Undoubtedly,the "booklet" had its origins with warm beer as opposed to COLD!
Not to worry, "Our" Place will remain a tavern. You may have noted that we do rent rooms though, see the sign above our front porch! Hardly any takers, as this place is rather noisy most times especially when the Track Gangs ‘n Second Class Saloon Bikers get together for their pool "tournaments." <ugh>
Enjoying a meal at 125 mph on the rails! I've never experienced such a thing . . . must've been a grand time. Brings to mind just how special it is to dine aboard a train. Even the Renaissance dining cars had a certain ambiance about them - it's just the food preparation that is awful! <groan>
Always enjoy having you aboard.
Per at 12:47 PM Monday - July 9th: Our Resident Cowboy Swede has returned! <yippee yahoo!> Or something like that . . .
Hey man, you gotta get new prescription glasses for that's RUTH who was tending bar and she DOESN'T look at all like LEON! <ugh> <grin>
Check out the "daily" acknowledgments (bottom portion) for staff ‘n menu selections.
Take your time, there's no rush to catch up just as long as you make the effort. Suggest you begin at the most recent ‘n scan backwards. Seems to "work" for most guys.
There's absolutely no "requirement" to condense everything or even anything. Just check ‘em out and comment where you feel you must. Having you back at the bar is what's important! Have one on me while we're at it . . . The photos are a MUST, for it would be indeed a shame to pass ‘em by.
A bit of nostalgia in that Los Angeles Union Pacific Terminal (LAUPT) info you provided. Brought back a memory or two from days gone by. Not that I was a frequent user of the place. But back in 1947, 48 or 49 (I just can't recall the exact year!) my father, who was a Merchant Marine officer, put me aboard a Santa Fe gleaming streamliner bound for Chicago with a change of trains to the Pennsy for the final leg to New York City. It was a thrill of a lifetime to say the least. The more I think about it, the more I'm inclined to say it WAS 1947. I was 9 - yeah, that's about right. <grin>
While assigned to the LA area back in 1986-88, I took the time to check out the terminal and
PASSENGER TRAIN NOSTALGIA #42
Here's something to enjoy regarding the New York Central (NYC) in a 1950 advertisement from my private collection:
<A form of this was initially Posted on Page 190 of the Original Thread>
X marks my Room . . . on a Dieseliner, and no hotel was ever finer. For New York Central travel feels just like a great hotel on wheels!
Having a Wonderful Time you see, Loafing or working in privacy. But when I feel more like a chat, The lounge car is just made for that!
No Need to Step Outside my door To wash and dress next morning, for My Central room's equipped complete, And when I leave, I'm fresh and neat.
My Plans are Sure! Come storm or fair, My Dieseliner gets me there. On New York Central trains I find Comfort is matched by peace of mind!
Make these great trains your Hotels on Wheels New York - Chicago 20th CENTURY LIMITED COMMODORE VANDERBILT
Chicago - Boston NEW ENGLAND STATES
St. Louis, Indianapolis - New York, Boston SOUTHWESTERN LIMITED
Cincinnati - New York OHIO STATE LIMITED
New York - Cleveland CLEVELAND LIMITED
New York - Detroit THE DETROITER
And many, many others!
NEW YORK CENTRAL RAILROADThe Water Level Route - You Can Sleep
Judging by the number of "hits" on this Thread - SOMEONE must be enjoying these fotos and the other "stuff" Posted by the boyz from "Our" Place. Even noticed a UTB - passengerfan Al on-line and Posting last evening on this Forum! But of course, NOT this Thread.
From the balcony - Inside Building #1 (cont'd)
Canadian National Railway (CNR #55361) Rotary snow plow - Built by Montreal Loco Works (1928)
CNR #6765 FPA-1 - Built by Montreal Loco Works (1955)
Sydney & Louisbourg (S&L #4) Combine - Built by Rhodes, Curry (1894)
Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR #2850) 4-6-4 "Royal"- Built by Montreal Loco Works (1938)
Grand Trunk Railway (GTR #713) 2-6-0 - Built by GTR - Pt. St. Charles (1900)
Streetcars (previously Posted)
A great scene!
Good Tuesday to all from the left coaster, round of Mall's pale ale and rabies shot for Boris
Tom, Quite true that a GG1 must adorned in classic Tucson with five gold pin stripes is undispuitable, Conrail colors or PC too seventies for me. Heck we had several cases of purple power, remember the orginal Auto Train? On the flip side, I do wish I had as much hair now as I did then, otherwise those seventies schemes should be allowed to rest in peace.
Pwolf: Quite true about scrapping retired locomotives , the SP maintained a vast fleet, several hundered strong, at Bayshore until the mid sixties when scrap prices rebounded. Many oppertunities were lost to preserve samples of SP steam. Rumors do persist that several rare early Cab forwards were set aside for a very important online customer that requested them for stationary boiler use at it's mill. If true, where are they today?
Well i'll to cut this short, seems im needed elsewhere, until later
Dave
A pint of Bathams this rather humid day please RUTH.
ERIC Thanks for that NASA link to the ICE disaster. It seems that a switch caused the faulty wheel to derail and its proximity to the overbridge made the disaster worse. If I recall correctly a switch near to a grade crossing caused a HST to derail after some (I wont call him a person) committed suicide by stopping his car on a grade crossing. I believe there was a plan to move switches away from crossing wherever possible.
Those figures for the hours locomotive engineers are allowed to work are indeed scary.
I can't quite remember the exact figures, but when a BR driver was involved in a collision caused by passing a red signal quite a few years back, the amount of days the driver had worked without a day off was a major part of the inquiry. I believe new regulations were brought in to stop this. Also in the latest issue (August) of Trains magazine the first item in the News section is that the House Of Representatives is looking into new legislation in to US train crew hours.
Thanks for the photo of Los Angeles Union Station; the building looks in marvelous condition.
DAVE The thought of those locos surviving until the mid 1960s and then being scrapped is sad indeed.
I wonder if those Southern Cab forwards do exist it would be wonderful if they did. Some people in the UK have complied a record of all the thousands of steam locos scrapped, and where they scrapped, in the 1950s and 60s with but a handful not accounted for. There were rumours of a ‘Strategic Reserve' of stored steam locos in the UK, like there was, I believe in Sweden, but it was not to be.
Although two former ex GNR boilers off long scrapped Atlantics were found, which supplied steam to a factory. One of the boilers is being used to build a new London Brighton & South Coast Atlantic, which was of very similar design, on a preserved railway.
I guess one great disadvantage the American steam locomotives had, in being saved, was their greatly increased scrap value over the Brit locos due to their much greater size and weight.
One reason I heard that the steam locos survived at Barry scrapyard in South Wales, was that their was a steady supply of freight wagons for scrap and they were easier to cut up, anyway the British preservation movement owes a great debt to Mr. Dai Woodham and his yard.
TOM Real glad you are all OK, after what sounded like a scary thunderstorm yesterday, the skies looked as though we might get one here but luckily it did not form. How does Juneau get on with the thunder, it does not bother ours too much, although when some tornados passed pretty close to here she acted strange while we sheltered in the basement but seemed to know when the danger had passed. I guess they can sense things we cannot
I am bit confused (nothing new) about Miami Airport and the Metro, it says in the first link that it serves Miami Airport and in the second link it says it will serve Miami International Airport in 2016, I guess there are two airports.
I really think that a light rail link to Kansas City International Airport would be really useful, I read lately that a light rail system increases the prosperity of the area it passes through, even if the KC line to the airport went through sparsely populated areas now (so being cheaper to build) very soon new housing development would spring up along the route greatly increasing land values, but this is just my opinion.
Enjoyed you mention of your trip from LA to New York in 1947 a trip to stay in the memory forever. I guess most of it would be diesel hauled with GG1s into New York.
I know the feeling when going back or traveling a line, after many years, especially concerning railways, what was once a busy freight yard or a locomotive depot, that had perhaps over 100 steam locos allocated to it, is now a supermarket, houses or a car park. Rhyl station in North Wales is particularly poignant to me as I holidayed there for many years when I was young, still there, but just a shadow of its former size and not the special trains bring happy trainloads of holidaymakers for their annual vacation (all steam hauled).
Many thanks for the NYC Passenger Nostalgia. Liked the advert put in poem form. With the competition between the NYC and the Pennsy the passenger in 1950 had a great choice. The NYC colors seems to suit the front end of the Alco locomotive.
Great photos from the gallery at Shed #1, as you say "A great scene". The
Where was I, oh yeh, the light just came on Round for all, no watered or cheap stuff, Boris, I am wise to that deal you got on questionable libations from Ce' Sinor's in Tijuana.
Pwolf..Tragic indeed, If those engines defied the scrappers for a few more years it would be a fair bet to state they were probably scrapped when no longer needed for stationary use. I find it inconciveable that in this day and info age someone would not have rooted them out if the story rings with a grain of truth, though I have heard the mill was razed in the late sixties and all equiptment disposed of, according to legend the builder plates did survive, though no one has produced them, what is not in dispute was the mill obtained several chime whistles at a good price and these are now in the hands of collectors.. Odd, but the SP retained nothing larger then the 4-8-2 in the post 59 deadlines, perhaps not so odd when you consider these smaller engines were more verstile and cheaper to store or return to service if needed, also a great many were not too many years hence from complete rebuilds. Eleven Cab Forwards survived into 1959 before their fate was sealed...
Eric, My last journey to LAUPT was the 50th anniversery in 1989, quite a shindig, with 4449, 844 in steam and the infamous F unit line up, UP E9-951, ATSF F7 trio-370 A,B,C and SP E9 6005. Of couse the highlight of the evening was the windbag mayor and his henchman who were present in a failed attempt to deflect inquisitive reporters seeking details of his latest scandal, cost me a good photo spot when his security goons ordered me to vacate...(do I hold a grudge or what?) It is truly a maganficient tribute to the classic age of railroading and is the among the last great one built. Soon it will lose its desigination as a stub end terminal, plans are afoot to extend the tracks so a balloon configuration exist, this is a major job as the terminal is pretty hemmed in, but construction is underway.
Hi Tom and everyone, a round for the house
Dave you sound good.
The television is on. What a joy to see Willie Mays!
Willie and Don Mueller
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Southern Pacific 4-8-8-2 Cab Forward locomotives
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Survivor 4294 is at Sacramento museum
http://www.yesteryeardepot.com/SP4294.JPG
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Wreck of the Federal Express
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Lionel trains
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Mike
Wednesday's Witticism
Nerves is just which end of a six-gun you happen to be looking at.
Mid-week in mid-continent USA where petrol is on the rise! Was at $2.90 (rounded) yesterday afternoon. However, there was a ladder up against the price sign, so ya know those numbers have changed. Was $2.72 just the day before!
Coffee's ready - pastries fresh - ‘n breakfasts are ready for fixin'! C'mon . . .
Noticed we had a "visitor" over on "my other Thread" - suggest those of you who give a Rat's Patoot, check it out ‘n invite the guy to stop by the bar!
OBSERVATION: Still seeing "that" reluctance to use the RELOAD/REFRESH feature on the browser. It's the ONLY way to ensure that the MOST CURRENT POSTS get displayed. Given that we don't see many of the guys on a regular basis, it's most important to "get it right" the first time. Think about it!
Dave at 3:56 PM ‘n 6:59 PM Tuesday - July 10th: Great to see our Left Coast Connection ‘n Super Sleuth Man of Mystery about the decks during the week!
Boris was in need of that rabies shot - good thinking! <grin>
Didn't see any reference to the ExpoRail Pix since your last visit, so I'm guessing you didn't see em. <groan>
Yes, I do recall the original Auto Train and it would be a treat if someone were to do a piece on it.
Still NOT answering Emails, I note! <grin>
Rounds appreciated - as always!
Pete at 4:52 PM Tuesday - July 10th: Presume the trip to the dentist went well . . . also, 2nd mention: Email sent to you Monday . . .
Juneau is a nervous wreck at this time of year with the fireworks but not thunderstorms. Firecrackers really bother him. He's okay in the house, but once outside - bad news. It's only the "direct hit" thunderboomers that make him "scurry" - but then, so do I! <uh oh>
One airport in Miami proper worth a mention. Tri-Rail serves the airport, whereas it appears one has to transfer from Metrorail at the Tri-Rail station in order to get to the airport. I don't really know, as I've never traveled aboard either . . .
KCity had several chances to vote "in" a light-rail system but didn't. Costs don't decrease and taxpayers are more reluctant these days to relent to more taxation. So, unless ‘n until there's a remarkable turnabout in KCity's economic health, I doubt we'll see that train to ‘n from the airport. Makes good sense, but . . .
The Santa Fe train I traveled aboard was powered by at least two diesels that I can recall. Of course in that great war bonnet livery. But I can't remember any details and have asked for help on this a few times on this ‘n the original Thread - with no luck. I know the train had domes, because I sat in at least one. I had a roomette to myself and spent quite a bit of time in the observation car - waited on hand ‘n foot by the very attentive crew. Probably was the Super Chief, but again, I have nothing to back that up with. It was 1947 and I was 9 - say no more, eh
Thanx for the visit ‘n round!
Mike at 8:07 PM Tuesday - July 10th: URLs what else More real than Lionel, however all good! All Star pre-game ‘n game wasn't bad at all. Last time I saw Willie "for real" he was playing an exhibition game with the Mets against the Tidewater Tides in Norfolk, VA. He hit a homer and simply ran out of the park after touching home plate . . . The greateast! Don Mueller - a journeyman right fielder who "done good" at times for the Jints of New Yawk. <grin>
No comments on any of those Pix from Canada? Not a one?? Hmmmmm.
Round appreciated.
Really different 'round here without our Resident Desert Swede - Eric - to kick things off in the wee hours!
Reminder: Ruth has the bar from 9 AM until Leon the Night Man comes in at 5 PM ‘til closing.
Thursday is Fish ‘ Chips Nite!
Friday is Pizza ‘n Beer Nite! - and - Steak ‘n Fries Nite!
Saturday is Steak ‘n All The Trimmings Nite!
Dinner begins at 5 PM so come early ‘n often!
Cindy is now our Saturday bartender!
Boris, serve ‘em all of the "spiked" OJ they can handle!
Ruth my deAH, set ‘em with all of the "jolts" they can handle in their OJ! I'm a bit early this day, but trying to take advantage of the time I've got . . . You're lookin' mighty fine little lady ‘n the old Larsman knows he's still alive when looking at you! <blush> A mugga joe with a BK splash will do me just fine, thank you! <grin>
Tom, I'll drop off an "invite" to the visitor over on your other thread on my way back home . . . good idea!
Boris, what's this I hear about a rabies shot?!?!? Thought we took care of that right after you got into it with Tex . . . my, my how time flies! <grin> Good to see ya Dave, even if you haven't seen me!
Did watch the all star game last night ‘n was surprised at how the NL just couldn't get a run across the plate when needed. It isn't as if they didn't have chances. Thought it was a pretty good contest, except for the 9th inning for both sides. Surely don't like this idea of determining the home game advantage as a result of who wins an exhibition game. Good Grief Charlie Brown! That idea, along with most from the "Commish" belong in the round file.
Wonderful continuing display of photos from your trip to Canada ‘n Expo Rail. I'm sounding like a broken record, but those shots are really fine! Another 5- Salute to our Cap'n for taking the time to put these on-line for those who care and of course those who could care less!
Picked up on that comment you made to Per regarding having something to say for each ‘n every post at the bar. Doing something like that could surely ruin one's day if coming back from a prolonged absence. I know some guys really are good about inclusiveness ‘n make a point to say something in reference to each guy. That's kinda like what I try to do - rather than pick up on specifics for every post - just make mention of the guys who have been putting out the "good stuff," holding specifics for something really out of the ordinary - like what our Mentor does for us!
No expanded comment regarding the "ignorance factor" that still exists ‘round here insofar as recognizing the works of others.
Here's a few more book ‘n video covers from the Great Northern for your enjoyment!
The original post by DD1:
"The year was 1969 and as we were pulling out of the railroad station in Santiago, Chile, the song "take the last train from Clarksville" by the Monkees was blareing from the platform PA system. We were headed south toward Concepcion on an overnight trip aboard a vintage passenger train pulled by an old Baldwin 4-6-0(I think). The passenger cars were old German built cars with lots of wood work. I made the mistake of sticking my head out the window and getting coal cinders in my eye. The train, by the way was in regular service, not rail fan. I have been back there since in 2002 and the train is no longer in service. They do have a very nice railroad museum there in Santiago and that's where I suspect the old engine ended up, I hope. Food service on the train was very good and served meats, fish and poultry cooked over charcoal. At night, the porter would pull down the berths. Of course much of the great Chilean wines were consummed during our trip. I can recall overnight trips on the NYC way back when the 20th century limited hauled by a Hudson would gently rock me to sleep. Those days are gone forever and never to be repeated. I'm fortunate to have been able to experience them. Diesels and railfan trips are no way close to the real thing. I'm 72 and lucky to have come on the scene before it all disappeared for ever."
Tom and Lars, I hope you have Guinness draught on tap. I thank you for your invite to this forum. I wanted to update the above post while still fresh in my mind.
The passenger equipment as I stated was German. I estimate there were built between WWI and WWII and were sold to Chile as the German railways system modernized. The track we were running on was metre gauge.
I was only about 7 years of age when I rode the 20th century limited with my mother on a vacation trip. That's about all I can recall about that.
You may wonder about my handle "DD1". I was fascinated with the DD1 box cab electrics that ran on the LIRR and Pennsylvania. I can still remember the smell of ozone and the snap of the contactors as the DD1's made their way into Penn Station. As a kid, I would stand alongside the LIRR tracks and watch the DD1 coming down the track, rocking from side to side at 60 mph. With those 72" drivers, they could run 80 mph. They were tough on the rails due to the pounding nature of the drive system, but they proved to be most economical when it came to maintenance.
Living in and being raised in New York City, gave me opportunity to see train operations all around me. I could go to Penn Station, Grand Central or take a subway ride to the Lackawanna Terminal in Hoboken, N.J. There, I could see the Delaware and Lackawanna, Reading, Jersey Central and maybe a few others. I rode behind camelbacks on the Reading. As you may have noticed, I am a railroad nut and have been for the past 65 years. I was fortunate to be born at this time to be able to wittness railroading in it's glory days, at least on the East coast. I wish I could have seen the Challengers on the UP out west, but did see them when they resided later on in a museum.
In 1964, I drove from the East coast to the West coast and stayed there for over 30 years before finally settling down in rural Mississippi. When arriving in Seattle, I saw the Great Northern Bi-polars in operation. I guess I made the transition from steam to electric during those early years. The silence and power of those huge engines was overwhelming to me. I have seen articulates under steam during the opening celebration of the Sacramento Railroad Museum, a museum 2nd to none IMHO. I always make it a point to visit a RR museum whenever I'm traveling in an area that may have one. I've visited RR museums in Tokyo, Santiago, Sacramento and a few small private tour lines.
BTW, you asked if I was in the Navy. No; not as a serviceman, but as a naval architect. That was my profession for 50 years. During those years, I traveled all over the world involved in design and repair of navy ships, from the smallest navy tug to the largest carrier or battleship. I also had a lot to do with nuclear powered submarines and surface vessels. I was always in close contact with navy personnel and their ships, but not as a crew member. I had the best of both worlds. A civilian and officer treatment.
One last thing. How do I get to this "our house" directly, without a lot of scrolling?
The Passenger Railroad Fallen Flags of "Our" Place #16
The Milwaukee Road
<A form of this was initially Posted on Page 128 of the Original Thread>
Here's another Fallen Flag for the gang from Classic American Railroads:Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul & Pacific (CM&StPP) - The Milwaukee Road
Caveat: The information provided is NOT all inclusive and is reflective only of the periods mentioned.
Headquarters: Chicago, IL Mileage: 1950: 10,664 Locomotives in 1963: Diesel: 803 Electric: 93 Rolling stock in 1963: Freight cars: 42.325 Passenger: 588 Principal routes in 1950: (not all)Chicago-Minneapolis via Milwaukee and Columbus, WI New Lisbon-Woodruff, WI Minneapolis-Seattle & Tacoma via Spokane, WA Minneapolis & St. Paul-Calmar, IA via Austin, MN La Crescent, MN-Wessington Springs, SD Rondout, IL (Chicago)-Madison, WI Watertown, WI-Rapid City, SD Chicago-Omaha Manilla, IA-Sioux Falls, SD Marion-Ottumwa, IA Sturtevant, WI-Kansas City La Crosse, WI-Sabula, IA Des Moines-Spencer, IA Chicago-Terre Haute, IN Milwaukee-Ontonagon, MI via Green Bay, WI
Passenger Trains of note: (not all)Afternoon Hiawatha (Chicago-Milwaukee-St. Paul & Minneapolis) Arrow (Chicago-Omaha & Sioux Falls) Chippewa-Hiawatha (Chicago-Channing, MI) Copper Country Limited (Chicago-Green Bay-Calumet, MI jointly with DSS&A railroad) Midwest Hiawatha (Chicago-Omaha & Sioux Falls) Morning Hiawatha (Chicago-Milwaukee-Minneapolis) Olympian (Chicago-Twin Cities-Seattle & Tacoma) Olympian Hiawatha (Chicago-Twin Cities-Seattle U& Tacoma; replaced Olympian) Pioneer Limited (Chicago-Milwaukee-St. Paul & Minneapolis) Sioux (Chicago-Madison-Rapid City, SD) Southwest Limited (Milwaukee & Chicago-Kansas City Tomahawk (Chicago-Minocqua, WI) Varsity (Chicago-Madison) Of note: From 1955-1971, Milwaukee Road operated the Chicago-Omaha segment of UP's "Overland" streamliners including the City of Denver, City of Portland, City of Los Angeles, City of San Francisco and the Challenger.
Some drum heads of the Milwaukee Road
SPECIAL for DD1
Aboard! Happy to see you made it over to the best cyber bar 'n grill this side of the Ether. And of course we have ALL major brews on Earth, right here! Sorry, but we shy away from micro-breweries as they are much to hard to ship 'n most difficult to keep in stock. <grin>
Last things first: Not quite sure I understand what the problem might be regarding the scrolling reference to get to this Thread.
Some basics:
From the trains.com Forums main page - locate the Classic Trains (General Discussion) topic and click on it.
Next - click on the General Discussion (Classic Trains) topic - then find "Our" Place and click on the LAST PAGE shown. That should bring you to the top of whatever Page # is shown.
An alternative is to click on the little box shown after the cyber handle of the person who has last Posted here - that will bring you directly to that Post.
Now - some "things" you may want to know about us:
We are an inclusive place, quite unlike others found on sites like these. We try to acknowledge one another 'n engage in conversation.
Highly recommend you go to Page One of this Thread and check out the "precepts" within the first Post (mine). Then read through that Page to get the "gist" of things.
Then come back here to the final few Pages 'n familiarize yourself with what's going on. The best way to join us is to join in, however, it's far easier when you're up to speed <to to speak>!
At this time we're experiencing some lulls in activity what with summer vacations and the like . . . so the Posts aren't as fast 'n furious as in the past. That's GOOD for trying to catch up . . .
Really enjoyed your Posts here 'n over on "my other Thread." The latter was designed pretty much as a "feeder" for this place. It's been a long haul . . . .
The information you've provided us tells quite a story - thanx! You'll be a bit suprised that there are three guys with New York ties - one on Staten Island - one on Long Island and Moi, a long-time ex-pat of NYC - Moi - (also Staten island) currently residing in the St. Louis area <haven't lived in NYC for over 40 years). Don't know the age of the LI guy <Mike> but Lars (Staten Island) and yours truly aren't that far from 70 in years. Lars comes from B&O "stock" - with grandfather 'n father as careerists. Lars is a retired "Merchie." I'm a retiree from the USCG (32 years active). Our Long Island Connection has "deep" ties to family railroading in the east, too.
We are an international "lot" in that some of our crew are from places as far away as New Zealand, as close as Canada, and also Europe (Sweden, England & Wales).
In time you'll easily figure out 'who's who' here at the bar and my bet is that you'll find yourself right at home amidst 'n amongst those with similar likes!
First drink is on the house, which will be YOURS upon your next visit!
We do have one set of "rules" that are absolutes! One must greet the barkeep upon entering 'n order a drink (or food or both!)
You may note that in addition to cyber handles, we also use "names" or "initials" - just to make it a bit more like a bar 'n grill. Your choice - but fair warning - we assign names from time to time! <grin>
Again, glad to have you 'n our hope is that you'll find this place AND our cast of characters <real & imagined> of interest!
We've never had a Mississippi Connection here at the bar 'n I hope you'll be the first!
By the by - we are "celebrating" the 27th Month Anniversary of "Our" Place tomorrow - as we started "business" back on April 12th, 2005! C'mon in and join us!
Thanx to our Manager, Lars for helping out this morning! Took a bit of the "strain" off the line for Moi! Also, a to DD1 - see separate SPECIAL Post . . . . More specifics to the both of you in tomorrow's acknowledgments . . .
For Pete: Email received ‘n responded to - thanx! By the by, I misunderstood your question - NO, I do NOT have a foto of that loco in question . . . don't recall even walking back that way. Probably looking for YOU! <grin>
From the balcony - Inside Building #1 (cont'd) <all previously identified>
Can you?
The balcony
A pint of Bathams please RUTH.
DAVE Yes it does sound as though if those locomotives were at that mill they no longer exist today. It is strange that no works plates have turned up, I wonder what price those chime whistles fetch if they change hands. Some of the nameplates off the steam locos in Britain, when they are auctioned today, cost more than what it cost to build the locomotive when it was built in the 1920s or 30s.
Are there any Cab-forwards in museums today beside # 4294 shown in Dave's link.
I don't blame you feeling like that about that mayor.
MIKE Thanks for the links. It must have sounded great to be in the first car with a cab-forward working a passenger service.
The cars in the Federal Express look to be made of very strong construction.
Good photos of the prototypes and the youngsters are certainly enjoying the model versions.
LARS Thanks for inviting DD1 to call in at the bar I am looking forward to some navy tales between DD1, TOM and yourself.
Great set of Great Northern book and DVD covers. The electric and steam in color looks a great book.
DD1 I do hope you will join us at Our Place, Tom gets the Guinness from Dublin.
Another person who saw steam in regular use on the main line. I am from England but in the US now, although now in my mid 50s, I remember steam in everyday use as steam lasted a lot longer there on the main line(1968). In fact last weekend was the 40th anniversary of the end of regular everyday steam into a London Terminus (Waterloo).
Thanks for the description of the Chilean trip. It must have been quite a sight to see those DD1s at speed; there could not have been many other electric locomotives with wheels as large as 72 inches.
TOM That could be an opening for a business, fixing a permanent ladder to gas station price signs, the way the price seems to change almost daily.
The vote was passed in KC for a light rail system and there are a lot of letters in the paper in favor of it but they are still arguing about the cost etc so whether it ever does get built we shall have to see, as you say the initial cost is huge.
Many thanks for the Milwaukee Road Fallen Flag Encore. I see that they still had 588 passenger cars in 1963. If I ever can go back to the National Railroad Museum In Green Bay WIS I will have a much greater appreciation of the great Drumhead collection they have there.
Good words for DD1.
Great photos from the gallery at Exporail. I don't think I was very clear about the engine I asked you about (what is new says Tom), it was the engine in the rotary snow plow,it is in the 4th photo in today's photos, you can see the open engine covers on the plow and the engine when you enlarge the photo. Enjoying the ‘Twenty Dollar Bill spot the 10 changes', got 8 so far, will have to back and find the other two.
An old car window at Green Bay.
Well LEON another beer and a round please, I think Lars as fed the mascots their treats
Pete.
Hi Tom and all,
HAPPY 27th TO ALL!
Leon set em up up all round, mines a Tui.
Tom. Your Milwaukee Road coverage was 1st class, nostalgia is great food for the mind!
Dave. You were correct about the NZ loco`s being used as "rip rap" , a huge number of engines were dumped in river stopbanks to help in flood protection, most of the Roger`s 2-4-2`s were found in the Oreti river stopbanks near Invercargill, NZ`s southernmost city.
Eric. NZ railways used to operate long distance bus services as well, AKA "NZ Railways Road Services", they used to build their own bus bodies so this came in handy when they built the railcars. NZ railways was very protected up until the 1980`s, their was a 40 mile radius trucking restriction on freight delivery by road, so any mileage over that had to go via rail
Pete. Rail in NZ was first started by each Provincial Council and was a real "Hotch Potch" of different gauges and equipment, their was even a "wooden rail" line from Invercargill to Makarewa at one stage. All this was standerdised by Julius Vogel the NZ Government Engineer of the day, he stipulated 3ft 6in gauge as the NZ standard. A lot of NZ loco`s were supplied by Badwin, Roger`s etc. because it was easier and cheaper to ship them over the Pacific from the West coast of the USA. The Otago Provincial Council were very much Double Fairlie minded because they did`nt need turntables to turn them around, a big cost saving as this province was settled by the canny Scots! The Wellington/Manawatu railway was virtually a mini RGS with it`s Baldwin loco`s and US style passenger coaches and freight cars, as well as all the UK loco`s and equipment from the other provinces.
DL. You are so right about the taste of Vegemite and Marmite being an acquired one, as they say "one man`s meat is another man`s poison. Glad you liked the railcar site.
DD1. Welcome to the fold. I am a "greenhorn" who has been made very welcome to this gathering of minds since I joined in.
Lars. Your entries are great reading and I have done a lot of reasearch on your pointers.
See ya all, Allan
Leon, old friend, just a cup of coffee! I have to leave in a few minutes!
Just stopped by to wish a Happy 27th Anniversary!!!
At the same time I want to say to DD1!!
I am following my doctor's advice to get some extra sleep (due to some symptoms) so I am afraid I won't be back until Saturday with an inclusive post. It will be nice when I can go back to normal routines again.
I think I have showed this one before, but where was it taken?
See you soon!
Good morning fellow train connoisseurs... May I join you? Could I have an extra cold Guinness please and top up whatever everybody else is drinking and something for you bartender....
Only the second visit here, so I buy this and the next round..
Good morning gents ... and a HAPPY ANNIVERSARY to my favorite bar by the tracks! Congratulations to Captain Tom and all who contribute to keep this great thread rolling. I'll have a light breakfast please and shake loose some Michigan quarters for Her Wurlitzer for later.
Went to a meeting of the 20th Century Railroad club in Chicago last night. I'll tell you about our speaker later. An interesting thing happened on the UP Northwest Metra line trip back to Crystal Lake last night that I'll share now. About the time we approached the Fox River Grove stop, the conductor announced that the police had informed the crew that an individual somewhere between Fox River Grove and Cary, was attempting to commit suicide by using the train. We were directed to pull to the side at Fox River Grove and either wait until this individual was apprehended, or de-train. Fortunately for all, the individual was quickly caught, and our delay was only minutes. I was impressed that the Conductor, more than once referred to this individual as a "poor soul, who needed help."
On another subject, I've put together a "little" story called Fire in Tunnel 9" for later in the day, but for now, here is an interesting poem called the REDBALL FREIGHT by H.L. Kelso
The JUDGE peered sharp at the man on trial,
A hobo, old and gray;
He sized him up from head to toe,
Then bade him have his say,
"Was passing through," the ‘bo spoke out,
"On yonder streak of rust.
This cinder dick who hauled me here
Knows naught of wanderlust.
"I had a job like yours and his
‘Way back along the trail,
Arresting tramps and thieves and such
And sending them to jail.
And then one night from in the sky
I heard the honking geese.
They seemed to say, "Come follow us
And you will find your peace."
"A long long freight was leaving town;
Her whistle sounded grand;
And since that night I've plied the rails
Across our pretty land.
Now, judge, a redball's making up
And in my heart a song,
And when she leaves this town of yours
I'd like to be along."
"This case dismissed," the judge then said,
"And court's adjourned this date.
Now, hobo, you just lead the way,
We'll nail that redball freight!"
Have a great day guys. I am off to work!
Good Morning everybody present and
Happy Anniversary!
Ruth, I am so sorry about the mix-up the other day. I really need to clean my glasses more often, don't I? Let me have a Tequila, make it a Reserva de Familia in honor of this day (not that Tijuana stuff Dave was talking about).
I followed Tom's advice and went back a couple of pages to see what y'all had been up to while I was gone.
I start with Tom, our Captain and the busiest poster of all. It was a really great collection of Canadian pictures. The interior shot from the vintage sleeper reminds me of a privately owned heavyweight that was on display at the Fullerton Railroad Days this year. The owner had built a sleeping compartment for his own use that looked just about the one in your picture. Of course my daughter had to ask why we couldn't have a room like that on our trip from Chicago! A very interesting picture of the GG1 it in the waiting room in Washington; somehow I don't think that was the intention with that room. Sturdy construction of the engine, though. I wish we could say the same for the floor.Thank you for the link to the Flexliner pictures. The first picture I looked at was from Fullerton. Interesting! And I missed all of that when it was there, too bad. Looking at those pictures it was like seeing the "Kustpilen" all over again. That's the similar train that runs through my home town in Sweden. Although the first class compartment isn't as fancy as that in the pictures. But as the accompanying article stated: The manufacturer added all the bells and whistles on this demo train.Yes, the LAUPT has seen a lot of changes over the year. My wife told me her Dad had to hold her with a firm hand so she didn't get separated in the tunnel and her little sister had to be carried. The tunnel was so packed with people that it would have been too easy for a child to be separated and lost. I finally got the train data up on my site: http://home.att.net/~pers_home/trains/cola/LAUPT.htm It was a very interesting post about the Milwaukee and its passenger trains. I have always liked the observation car on the Hiawatha with those windows all over the tail end. I hadn't seen any of the drumheads before, but some of those are real classic. Such a nice design.
Pete, thanks for the welcome back greeting. There was (and maybe still is) a place in Sweden where most steam engines went for scrapping, Vislanda in the southern part of the country. I remember seeing some steamers when I rode the train through there, but I never had a chance to go there and try to get a look (and pictures). That would have been something to have these days when most of the steamers are gone.
Eric, I hope you are feeling well, try to get some sleep and enough of this 1AM postings for a while, right? Thank you as well for the welcome back greeting. I saw a couple of your pictures and the turntable that's now at OERM caught my eye. That looks like it is one of the SP turntables from Owens Valley. The one in Laws is still there, so who knows where this came from? It looks like it is time for a new visit to OERM; it seems to have changed a LOT since I was there last. I feel sympathy for you in your heat wave, but as you have pointed out, it's a dry heat. I wish somebody would tell that to the turkey on Thanksgiving. And when you had your 113 I heard the forecast for Death Valley was 135! No wonder they close the place up in the summer.Thank you for the picture of LAUPT. I believe it has been recently renovated and it is sure a very nice building. I liked the link to the NASA site with the article about the ICE crash. Looking at those pictures it amazes me that anybody survived the crash. Trains have a better survivability than planes, that's fer sure.Do you have any idea if the service hours for a train engineer will be shortened? 432 per month is an awful lot.I wonder what UP used to make that MoW Dining Car. Was it a very big box car, or did they put a couple of the together. I know Southern had a "Hogshead" car (so called because it could hold 100 hogsheads of tobacco). That car was 92 feet long. Check it out here: http://southern.railfan.net/ties/1962/62-6/hog.htmland with some pictures here: http://southern.railfan.net/images/archive/southern/freight/tob/tob.htmlI think I remember seeing that you were looking for an SP video. Pentrex has two new ones right now, the cab forward and the beet train. Take a look at their web site.
Lars, it was quite a Swedish menu you cooked up. I think I pass the palt (had too much of that in school) and the rotten herring (I still refuse to call it "fermented"), that's all bad smell and no taste, but for the rest I can come back for seconds. So I finally I got an explanation to the "eh" in Canadian English. And I always thought it was a way to spell Canada: C -eh- N -eh- D -eh-. And thanks for the hints on how to handle the flood of posts after a long absence; I've tried to follow that here.
James, it was a really interesting web site about the Stockwood fill. What a story!
Thank you, Pwolfe, for the pictures of the British steamers. That Lord Nelson sure is a nice looking loco! It's kind of strange how my appreciation for British steam engines has grown over the years; in my teens I didn't care for them at all, I felt they had the "wrong proportions" but now I find some of them being the most beautiful engines ever built.
It seems like Dave and I may have seen each other once before. I was also at the LAUPT for that 50th anniversary, but so were a couple of thousand other people so we passed each other as ships in the night (isn't that what they say?). It was before the digital camera age so my pictures (and videos) are hidden somewhere. I went to the Cajon pass
Today is the 27th Month Anniversary of "Our" Place!
An adult eating ‘n drinking establishment for the discussion of Classic Trains ‘n stuff!
<opened 12 April 2005>
"Our" Place interior
Mentor Village Chorale 'n Philharmonic background singers!
Manager Lars' Bar in the Penthouse Suite
So what kind of a day will this be Just another Thursday OR something special Guess time will tell, eh
Coffee's hot - pastries fresh and our <light> ‘n <traditional> breakfasts are ready for eatin' - so let's get it on!
Lars at 9:05 AM Wednesday - July 11th: Many thanx for picking up the slack during the morning - I wasn't particularly enthralled with checking the bar just to ‘see' what was going on, so your Post came at the right time!
As always, your selections of book ‘n video covers really liven up things ‘round here. Unfortunately, we just aren't generating conversations - simply accolades. Guess "we takes what we gets," eh
I watched the All Star baseball game, as previously mentioned ‘n thought it was an "okay" game for what it was. Those "spoiled" Prima Donnas coming out on a red carpet did very little for me, though!
Rather not delve into the unhappy on our Anniversary Day - so let's just say that some déjà vu has crept into a few Posts ‘n contributors of late. Let's remember to be INCLUSIVE ‘n pay attention to the works ‘n efforts of others. Thought that's what the majority of us want ‘n are trying to maintain!
DD1 at 11:38 AM Wednesday- July 11th: A fine initial Post from the man who call's himself DD1. Some interesting material ‘n it's great to have a Mississippi Connection on board. Hopefully you'll make it permanent and we can add you to our Customer List!
I like the origin of your "handle," truly unique in the Classic Trains sense!
I'm in the "class of 1938," so we're not that far apart. Also a New Yawker and have vivid memories of my grandpa taking me to Grand Central Terminal along with Penn Station back when those palaces were "alive" with some fantastic trains. Stories ‘n references to those times have been repeated many times on this Thread and on our "original" Thread. Just some great, warm ‘n special memories, fer sure, fer sure!
With over 30 years on the west coast, I'd say you're a "natural" for conversation with one of our guys who goes by the handle of West Coast S - Dave. He's into S-gauge, or at least was, and is very knowledgeable of all things Southern Pacific. Hope he catches this Post . . .
My guess is that rural Mississippi must be a huge change of pace from city life - anywhere. I know settling in this part of the continent (St. Louis area) was an eye-opener for me, having spent the majority of my adult life smelling salt air. CHANGE is all around ‘n not always bad. But I do miss the salt air . . .
Your reference to the Sacramento Rail Museum will open the eyes of one of our guys - Wolfman Pete - our Bar Chandler. While I cannot speak with authority regarding which rail museum is better than another, I will say this - the Expo Rail Canadian Railway Museum in Saint Constant, Quebec surely has to be ranked "up there" with the finest too. As with baseball and sports figures from the past - really hard to rank anyone of ‘em Number One. Should simply put ‘em into groups.
Sounds like you had a very interesting ‘n challenging career. Funny you should mention naval architecture.
Way back when, I was "guaranteed" an "A-school" of my choice upon enlisting in the USCG. So, when the time came ‘round in the 12th or 13th week of boot camp for those things to be attended to, I requested naval architecture. They sent me to radioman school! Why? Because I "aced" the Morse code test - having learned it as a Boy Scout! <geesh> I had limited studies in architecture courses and thought that would be a great field to get into. Oh well, things worked out the way things usually work out. I made it to Chief Petty Officer- then Warrant - then began all over again by going through OCS to be a "line officer" at the "tender age" of 32 . . . retiring with 32 years of active duty. Still wonder what kind of life I wudda had IF . . . <grin>
Thanx again for your interesting ‘n insightful Post and we hope to see ya ‘round here again ‘n again!
Pete at 5:47 PM W
Jan will do just fine. Not much happening here in Glasgow as far as I know, trainwise anyway. May I raise a toast for many more happy months to come here at our place.....
Hello Tom
Been nice and busy in our place the last day or so!
I'll have a full breakfast - here at the bar - will make a change from last weeks 125 mph breakfast I guess. In fact on Eurostar trains you can dine at 185 mph if you travel First Class - but the food is not proper chef prepared - it is very much the same deal as the Renaissance dining car cooking technology - which as we both agree - does not match the 1st class fare! It is supposed to be acceptable however. TGV trains in France are not equipped with proper dining cars as I understand it (only buffet counter service) - but the ICE in Germany is advertised as having a proper Restaurant Car - I'm not sure if that is with proper chefs or not.
Off topic but I agree about your comment on the size of churches in Quebec - I noticed this as soon as I got out of Montréal on the Quebec Train and saw small communities with massive churches - I think the church was very powerful in Quebec society for many years - and the British government tolerated this ‘alternative power base' because of the work the church did in welfare provision etc.
Just going back to your comment about that Santa Fe trip you took as a child - so what you are saying is you had a private room, spent plenty of time in the Dome etc, got (demanded?) good service from the crew - well - anyone who has read any of your recent trip reports will know you started as you meant to go on!
Per - I found the analysis of the LA UPT timetables very interesting - it gives some idea of the scale of long distance services and the sheer reduction in number of that form of transit from today. In Europe of course the numbers of long distance services would have increased in many areas (but the system is all government subsidised of course). In many ways the US is lucky to have the Amtrak service that it does.
Eric - Black Pudding - I think it is similar to blood pudding you mentioned recently!
Dave - it was interesting to read your comments on the Cab Forwards - and great to have Mike's pics so I could get a feel for what they looked like. Reminds me a loco type Pete will be aware of - the strange SR (UK that is) experimental Leader Class steam loco:
See this link with pics and info
http://www.semg.org.uk/steam/leader_01.html
You might find this of interest - if a little strange!
Allan - interested to read your further comments about NZ rail - we need a 40 mile trucking limit here IMHO! I recall hearing that NZ rail then had real difficulties due to being exposed to the level of competition without he government support for protecting the levels for service. Is that the correct interpretation?
Pete - yes Birmingham - Liverpool rtn for 10 pounds is indeed available - check this link which you can send to your pals:
http://www.centraltrains.co.uk/templates/over50TrainRoutes.aspx?id=2274
Select ‘Birmingham New Street' in the drop down box that appears and the destinations will appear - you then have to print off a voucher which you fill in and take to the ticket office when you buy your ticket - I presume you need some proof of age as you have to be over 50 (so no good for me, being more than 10 years off that!)
Incidentally - there have been some big franchise changes on the network here with Virgin losing cross country this week and National Express losing Central Trains and Midland Main Line a few weeks before. I'm not sure what we will get instead will be mush better.
Brake vans on nuclear flask trains - I'm not sure if they are still in use on nuclear flask trains - they may be - interesting question to which I don't know the answer.
I see the steam magazines are commemorating the end of 40 years steam on SR this month, which you mentioned in your post.
Welcome to DD1 - I enjoyed your post. This talk of Naval architecture reminds me to mention the news that was around a few weeks back that the Cunard QE2 was due to retire to some strange place in Saudi Arabia - very much a shame I thought. I think the ship is doing a return journey to the Clyde later this year - where it was built, I might try and go and see the ship in port.
And indeed welcome Jan - we now have English, Welsh and Scottish participation if you are Glasgow based!
Doug - called in too - but still no jokes? Interesting programme of events the 20th CC RR group has - I've checked their website in the past when researching a trip to Chicago - before I found this bar I should add - where people who know the answers to many questions drop in from time to time!
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