Hi Tom and all.
A pint of Bathams please RUTH.
RON Thanks for the photos. Was the photo of New York City Transit #64 taken at a museum do you know.
We were talking at the bar a while back about those great World's Fair and Expos no longer being held nowadays. In those days it seemed that the railroads always had a big presence. I have noticed that when the railroads hold a special event today it is often restricted to employees only.
Thanks for the links, I do hope the regulars have a look at the new line, with steam, across the Andes. L.D. Porta's ideas were incorporated in a South African locomotive that carried his name. As the gas prices get higher perhaps there could be another age of steam locomotives using L.D. Porta' ideas.
They run steam excursions in Ireland.
http://www.rpsi-online.org/
The tractor in the link says it is a Sentinel. I suppose this was built in Shrewsbury England, they also produced some vertical boiler, chain driven locomotives.
It would be great if you could post those traction engines photos.
ERIC I would think that all over blue would suit that electric locomotive.
If your photo were a quiz I would have got the location. A view no longer possible as the London Transport Routemaster double-deck buses are withdrawn for normal services now, they were a very familiar sight in London. Many thanks for the photo.
Tom posted a link to a site that provides a list of Amtrak's trains timekeeping, a while back and Tom has kindly given me again as I had lost it. I had a look at the train Tom and I used from Kansas City to Kirkwood, over the last 4 days, the AVERAGE lateness was 2 hours 25 minutes late, with yesterdays train being a whopping 4 hours 15 minutes (it arrived in KC over an hour later that it should have left). There is a lot of difference between arriving at 9PM than at after 1AM. I know on a particular day something out of the ordinary can cause a large delay, but over the 4 days the EARLIEST the train was an hour and a half late. In my opinion the very least that should happen with a very late train, is a FULL refund for the passengers paid for by UP. I will be in the Rat's Patoot room for a while.
JAN Glad you are having a good time in the old country.
Thanks for the photo of the Swedish MG locomotive it looks on excellent condition.
It would great if can get your dad to visit the bar.
I generally like most types of music, favorite group ‘The Who'
It would be great to have a tour over the Milwaukee Road in that ‘Railcar'
A photo for RON and yourself,note the name.The locomotive was used for shunting at the brewery in Dublin.Alan took the pic at Whitehead the base of the Railway Preservation Society of Ireland.
CM3 The 1st Law of Railroading brought back the memories. When us group of spotters were joined by another regular, or someone went away for a while, the first question was "What's been through" the answer was always an exotic engine from a far off depot to be greeted with the statement " Show us your book, lying. Of course when a rare loco did come through no one believed it.
I would like to hear more sayings.
It is so true about the deferred maintenance. In fact one of the worst terms I have heard is ‘Maintenance Holiday' trying to imply not doing maintenance is something good, at the worst, something really bad happens and generally when the maintenance is finally carried out it costs more than if it was done regularly.
I know we have seen the delays to Amtrak; it makes me wonder how much the freight is being delayed, no doubt to the anger of the customers.
I see in Ireland there is a lot of investment in railways, they are quadrupling a line out of Dublin and they are going to build a tunnel under the city for a new commuter heavy rail line.
Have heard of the unusual locomotive at the bottom of my post.
LARS I thought I was always in your good graces.
The bride and I were thinking of taking the train out and back to California but we have decided to fly out. We are taking the Southwest C
Emperor Tom and all Generals,
An extra cold Ginness for me and a top up for everybody else.
It has come to my knowledge that some try to cheat in this friendly competition with posting ridiculously long posts.....I won't mention any names.
DD1, I know the feeling. I have too many interests myself. Though, this is one of my BIGGEST of those I have.
Anyone up for a tour on the Milwaukee road?
Good day Tom and all at the bar. Drinks for all, Guinness for me. I'm not sure which country I would like most to visit, Ireland or Chile. I might opt for Chile because of their rich railroad history. If you click on the sites listed, you will discover much about who contributed to the building of their railroads. Most of their trackage is 3'-3 3/8" (3642 Km), 3'-6", standard (150Km) and 5'-6"gauges (3974Km). Interestingly, the BART system in San Francisco uses 5'-6" gauge.
Much information about railroads in Chile can be found at the following three sites.
http://www.martynbane.co.uk/modernsteam/ldp/rfirt/santafes.htmhttp://www.trainweb.org/tusp/index.htmlhttp://railwaysofthefarsouth.co.uk/
Visit the following site to read about a current project to build an all steam railroad between Chile and Argentina.
http://www.martynbane.co.uk/modernsteam/smcmahon/rfirt/aug06news.htm
What follows is a brief description of the all steam project.
Motive power for this transport corridor will be reciprocating steam locomotives modernised to 21st century mechanical and thermodynamic standards under the direction of Ing. Shaun McMahon. He is applying and further developing the theories, practices and philosophy of the late Ing. L.D. Porta who previously modified the same Mitsubishi built 2-10-2 locomotives in the late 1950s. When completed these locomotives will be the most modern reciprocating steam locomotives in the world. The prototype ‘Advanced Santa Fe' type is due to appear in 2007.
Motive Power Details:
In the face of the current energy crisis (fuel oil rationing is already a reality in the Argentine province of Santa Cruz) it has been decided future policy will be directed towards the rational use of energy. Río Turbio is a town with vast reserves of coal but no oil, thus it is seen that the use of coal for all types of transport, power generation, building material manufacture, domestic heating in isolated parts of the region etc. is the sensible option in this early part of the 21st century. In connection with this work, there is a plan in place to return to service up to 11 stored, Mitsubishi built, 75cm gauge 2-10-2s. These machines, already famous for the modernisation undertaken by Ing. L.D.Porta between 1957-1960, are to be brought up to 21st century levels of efficiency, reliability and environmental friendliness. This work is under the direction of Ing. Shaun McMahon who, for many years, worked directly with Ing. Porta on numerous projects.
The locomotive reactivation plan is thus:
By late 2006/early 2007 it is planned that all currently available passenger carrying vehicles will have had full mechanical and body overhauls.
If it goes through as planned, it could mean a rebirth of steam in some countries where it is economically feasible to do so. Who knows, our next rail fan tour may be in Chile, a country worth visiting at any rate. I have been there twice and will probably go again in the near future. It is a very friendly country, not intimidating like so many others. One doesn't have to worry about being kidnapped and held for ransom like in Mexico or Columbia. No worry about terrorist activities. The wine is some of the best in the world. You will find all the amenities found at home. Seafood is abundant. If this sounds like I'm endorsing Chile travel, it's because I am. If you ever go, plan to spend at least a month, for there is so much to see and do especially in regard to railroads.
For those interested in old cars and tractors, visit this site.
http://www.tractoreszoolujan.com.ar/vapor/067/067.html
DL: The last time I was in Chile (1995), I found old traction engines (showman's for our English friends) still in use in the fields. I have some pictures of them, but I have to dig them out. In fact most of the engines I saw were English made.
CM3 I haven't received anything yet, but I'm watching my mail box. Please let me know what cost you incurred so I may reimburse you for your trouble.
To all: I often times don't respond to individual messages, but that's because I find it hard to keep track of who's who and where. I do read every post and find all the photos very enjoyable. I spend several hours a day researching one thing or another on the web. I find what I want and usually more than I bargained for. That's how I came across the Joe DiMaggio info (bogus). That's the curse of having too many interests. One link leads to another and the day is gone. I try to present only the info that I think may interest you. The pub atmosphere tends to draw flies with the same interests together. Let me know when you've had enough. Have another on me.
PS, If I make this post long enough, I may win the 100 page contest.
G'day Gents!
Should make mention that Allan (Gunneral) in "down under" NZ territory sent me an Email from a local library to say that his server is giving him fits. He's offline 'til whatever the issue gets straigtened out. Passes his regards . . .
Great to see the Manager "in" today - don't know what we'd do without the Larsman!! Visits 'n some chat today between the guys - Jan 'n CM3 Shane.
Time to liven up the joint with a Blast from the Past!
PASSENGER TRAIN NOSTALGIA #51
<Initially Posted on Page 209 of the Original Thread>
Here's something to enjoy regarding the Canadian Pacific (CP) from a 1963 advertisement in my personal collection.
Sail away to Europe in a Canadian Pacific White Empress. Come aboard at Montréal, and discover a 1000 miles of beauty as you sail up the St. Lawrence, past Québec's historic Château Frontenac and on to Greenock and Liverpool.
Ride away to the Canadian Rockies aboard Canada's only scenic doomed streamliner, "The Canadian." Discover 2,881 miles of spectacular scenery along the Banff-Lake Louise route as you cross Canada in streamlined comfort.
Hide away at Banff Springs Hotel a mile high in the Canadian Rockies. You'll enjoy gourmet food, gracious service. And you'll find golf, tennis, swimming, fishing - every resort facility. Open May 31 to September 14.
Holiday all the way with Canadian Pacific Trains/Trucks/Ships/Planes/Hotels/Telecommunications. WORLD'S MOST COMPLETE TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Enjoy!
Tom
Tom and all,
Another cappucino for me please and something for yourself barkeep....give the boys a top up as well.
What's cooking folks?
If you don't mind I'll just sit down here to read my Classic Trains issues and Rockabilly Magazine...
Puts a few $ in the jukebox and Elvis Presley's Mystery Train stream out from the speakers....
Sweeeeet.
What kind of music do you folks prefer to listen to? Rockabilly here.
Good Late Morning Basrkeep and all Present; coffee, please; another round and more $ for the jukebox.
Chicago and st. Louis come to mind.
work safe
G'day mates, Cappucino and sandwich please....and something for yourself. (Puts some change in the tip jar)
Lars, I ended up in Glasgow, Scotland in December 2001. Women you know, they make you do many strange things in a confused state of mind.... As for now, I'm visiting my parents and friends where I used to live here in sweden, Östersund. I'm here for two weeks, going back home to Glasgow on Friday next week.
A wee quick question, where in the US did you have the same competition between companies as between Chicago and the Twin Cities and Chicago and New York?
Peace!
Ahoy Cap'n Tom ‘n fellow travelers at the bar!
Ruth my deAH, take heart, the Larsman will be back in the saddle by week's end! <ommigosh!!> A round for the house ‘n a mugga Joe with a jolt should be fine for now. Treats for the crittAHs - Boris, line ‘em up! And yes, the LARGE jar of PPF is for you!!
I see our Bar Chandler has been feeding ‘em in my absence. Still trying to get in my good graces, huh
Can't believe the difference in temperatures between where we are and where we were. Woke up to a record low the other morning. Fall appears to be making a start in these parts and things are beginning to look just fine. It's been in the low 70's -F- for the daytime, some clouds, but just right as far as I'm concerned. Love it! Hmmmmm, let's see - spend the summAHs here ‘n wintAHs in the Keys!
Our place down in the Keys will be taken care of by an outfit we contracted with. Short of the water overtaking the property or the winds carrying the place away, we should be ok. <uh oh> Last of the boys will be departing for home last Monday in August.
Gas up here is rather high. Saw it at $3.15 (rounded off). TV said highest in state is where we are. Figgers!
Good to be missed by the gang! Surprised at the slack in activity, although one cannot depend upon weekends for anything. I figger if guys show up it's a PLUS.
Hey Boss! Not to worry about those book covers from Chile. Figgered if Ron saw ‘em he'd say something. I've been wrong B4, but I'll be RIGHT tonight, huh Ruth!?!!? <grin>
I'm more disturbed over the obvious lack of interest in recruting new customers ove ron your other thread! You are so right when you ask the guys to think about how they got here - many were in fact INVITED! C'mon mates, all ya have to do is think about our future - where are the customers going to come from when we lose another 2 or 3??
Most interesting TRIP REPORT from your rail adventure to Kansas City ‘n return. No matter how many times I hear, "Passenger railroads have priority," I've yet to experience it in modern times. Just a bunchacrap to say that, much less believe it.
Amtrak screwed us up mightily on our last visit up here. Told you guys all about it then and that's part ‘n parcel for the Mrs. wishing not to try that again. Can't say I blame her, for it really wasn't a fun experience. Using the buggy is much more convenient, plus there's more control over things than when stuck aboard a train in a siding. <ugh>
Liked the pix ‘n didn't expect to see any! Loved that shot through the door window showing the "nose" of the trailing loco! Nifty idea!
So looked like stealthy Pete was carrying THAT bag of his! Does he EVER go anywhere WITHOUT it??? Must have a stash of Bathams in there . . . <grin>
Got your e-mail and let me say this up front. If you ‘n Pete are interested in a New England rail journey - depending on WHEN - I'd love to be counted "in." Good idea!!
We're pretty much "booked" for the Keys in the winter, then again in the spring (May). And then there's always the haunting of another coerced trip to California. <arrrrgggghhhh>.
Hey Jan! I see you've been away, but hardly long enough to call it a vacation, huh?? Anyway, where in Sweden are your folks? Just curious, but how ‘n when did you wind up in Scotland?? Inquisitive mind needs to know. <grin>
Nice electric!
Don't mess with Da Boss - just a WOID to DA WISE. Vito the Hit, Guido ‘n his boyz are ALWAYS lookin'n out for guys in need of cement shoes. <uh oh>
More great Scotch I see <urp>!
Hey Eric! Nice to see the activity resuming from Phoenix! Some mighty fine pix from you ‘n I too enjoy the cab shots. Must've been quite an experience being the engineer AND Chief Photographer! <grin>
Please refresh our memories a bit regarding the X2000 trip. When did it begin - where did you go - and when did it end? I'm sure you've passed on bits ‘n pieces about this wonderful experience, but it would be nice to have it all under one roof, so to speak!
Also, how in the world did you wind up getting selected for the job?? Must've been like winning the Lottery, huh? I'd surely think so.
I recall on my ‘round the world trip in the Navy. They were looking for just the "right" guys for certain positions aboard ship. When I was told that I'd be going, I couldn't believe it. It did help being a member of the crew at the time. But some guys were transferred off - not me. Something that I really thought was special.
Good to know things are progressing so well!
Hey Ron! What's this talk of Joe D and the USCG?? He was an Army guy during WWII, and spent most of his time playing baseball! Imagine that?? <uh oh> Anyway, did I miss something??
Broke some hearts when he hooked up with Marilyn. Just kinda dropped him in esteem. Don't get me wrong, I know we're ALL human, especially SAILORS! <grin> But, Joe D - now you're talking about an ICON. Her? Great looking, but that's about it in my opinYUN. Cheap shot? Yeah, she was! Sorry - nah, I'm NOT.
Have enjoyed your pix from Chile railroading ‘n the NY World's Fair stuff too. Electric pretty &
Good Morning Barkeep and all Present; coffee, please (New England Breakfast Blend); round for the house and $ for the jukebox. Still having fun getting used to new computer, but "We're learning the river," as Mark Twain said. Gas went up 15 cents/gal. yesterday afternoon. Holding at $2.89 this a.m.
Eric - I believe you are correct about the E60s. I need to go back and look some more but a recent Amtrak roster did not reveal any of them to be around. However, they still roster a pair of GP7s and a GP9.
If my failing eyes don't deceive me, the picture at San Luis Obispo is of an EMD Demo GP38-2. Good catch. For the N scalers out there, Atlas years back did an SD45 in EMD Demo. Nice looking model.
Pete stopped by with comments. Remember the 2nd Law of Railroading, "Late trains always get later." The first commandment is, "You should have seen what went through yesterday!" The corollary to that is "Availability of film is always in inverse ration to the rarity of the subject." There are a bunch more of these that I have thought up (encountered) over the years. Maybe we can write something up about that. More comments re UP, etc. under the "OSP" section of this post.
DD1 - Excellent beastie that you photographed - pan and third rail shoe. Thanks for sharing. Incidentally, plans are on their way to you.
JanOlov - Good to hear from you and I appreciated the picture you sent.
OSP sent wide-ranging comments and a trip report. Always enjoy reading "dispatches from the front." It is indeed aggravating, but many folks did not anticipate traffic volume would ever come back, so money was not put into track, capital improvements, etc. Back in the day, when C&O/B&O were joined together, management decided to engage in something called (O.K. Boris, hold him back) "plant rationalization." This was a euphemism for ripping up track, deferred maintenance, etc. They were not the only company to do this. IMHO. deferred maintenance is truly the enemy because you have a bunch of slow orders which gums everything up. Then you add increased traffic volume to it and presto, gridlock! In other words it all comes down to the quality of your track. Padding a schedule doesn't help anything because you still have trains parked everywhere.
I agree with your comments re preseason football. It's too risky - just look at what happened to the Giants over the weekend; three starters injured (one potentially career-ending) on one play. Baseball is always interesting to me, I guess because I follow it so closely - there's always something to think about, etc.
Work safe
Fieldmarshal Tom and everybody.....
Tom, sorry about that son..... . I've got my own stash hidden away for whenever I need a drink (shouldn't have said that), my flirting with the lassies is of that kind that I need to keep it behind the scene for sensitive ears and eyes....
I eat too much when I cook here everybody order so many nice tasty treats...
So, an extra cold guinness for me, Tom and everybody else. Better make it a Dufftown single malt around the house too, so that I don't end up in the corner.... I've heard that the straight jackets comes rather nice colors this season.
Maybe we should put up a jar here for swearing and forgetting to order drinks and food. On a second thought, that wouldn't be such a good idea I think. I'd probably fill it up myself, eh? I don't think that I can afford that
Once again, terribly sorry folks (hangs head in shame and scratches foot in the ground)....
<courtesy: www.viarail.ca>
It's TUESDAY once more - funny how that keeps happening, eh
So, whatillitbe The coffee is freshly ground ‘n brewed. Pastries have just been loaded into The Mentor Village Bakery case. And our Menu Board features some fine <light> ‘n <traditional> breakfasts. So, let's get a move on!
Wondering: How come several of you log in - check the bar - but say nothing? Your input doesn't have to be of epoch proportions - just stopping by to say "hi" - ordering a drink, etc. is just fine. A "plus" is that it keeps us "visible" on the Forum's . . . nothing wrong with that, eh
Appears that CM3 Shane is the first to succumb to the Contest's Siren Song! At this writing we're still on Page 98.
CONTEST underway: The day we will reach 100 Pages!
(1) CM3 Shane sez Monday, Aug 20th
(2) Jan sez Saturday, Aug 25th
(3) Pete says Thursday, Aug 30th
(4) Eric says Tuesday, Aug 21st
(5) Lars says Monday, August 27th
(6) Ron says Wednesday, Aug 22nd
Customer Acknowledgments (since my last narrative)
CM3 Shane at 8:56 AM Monday - Aug 20th: Nothing wrong with kicking back over the weekend, especially when one feels as if they've been through a mental meat grinder. Been there, done that . . .
Just checked out the GM&N "Rebel" design of motorcar from ACF. While I see the similarity to the foto Ron put up, it's not a "Shovelnose" by Budd - who manufactured the Zephyrs. Correct?? Anyway, surely would like to find something to identify that Chilean locomotive - driving me crazier than usual! <grin>
A link:
http://www.alaskarails.org/pix/former-loco/JK-213.html
Baseball in Saint Looooooooo still hasn't flicked my switch. Figured they'd "split" in ChiTown - but the rains deprived "us" of the two victories needed. BUT, "we" won today! It's gonna be one hulluva September in the NL Central along with perhaps the rest of the majors. Pretty good races falling into place. Now's the time for me to rev up the hard ball enthusiasm. <putt> <putt> <sputter> <sputter> <groan> <clank> Guess NOT!
Haven't watched any pre-season NFL - usually don't. Far too much hype for the "product" being displayed. I'm READY for some FooBall, REAL FooBall, that is!
Round, quarters ‘n chat appreciated!
Eric (EricX2000) at 2:01 PM Monday - Aug 20th: Another daylight visit from our Not-So-Nocturnal Resident Desert Swede!
I too thought perhaps that 2nd loco was being used for HEP purposes - however, in all of the years I've traveled that route (close to 20) I've NEVER experienced two engines for ANY consist (ours was 3!!). Just an observation, but I'd have thought someone in the crew would've known! <geesh>
Concur about the total daylight vs. total twilight/darkness in far north locations. Alaska too has mosquitoes that will carry you away if not careful! <uh oh>
Interesting fotos - explanations??
Appreciate the visit!
Pete (pwolfe) at 3:46 PM Monday - Aug 20th: An early mid-afternoon visit from our Bar Chandler - but happy to see ya. We surely had a slow morning at the bar. Anyway . . . . your comments regarding our Café Car perhaps being put on the end of the consist would've solved the problem. However, that's giving far too much credit to the nit-wits who get paid to assemble the trains in Chicago. <geesh>
By the by - I think the car number in my "report" is correct - confirmed in a foto.
Email sent to you over the weekend . . .
Round, visit ‘n chat appreciated!
Ron (DD1) at 7:20 PM Monday - Aug 20th: An evening visit, which of course helps out a lot. Leon our Night Man enjoys the company!
Did you SEE the fine book covers that Lars put out on Sunday for YOU????!!!! Hope so.
I "found" the 3rd rail "shoe" on that little electric. Reminds me of the S.I.R.T. "shoes" from days long, long gone. Liked the NY World's Fair items too. Thanx!
Master Tom and everybody.....
Finally back again....! Was it just me or was it impossible for someone else to get in here the last few days? It was slow as which really annoyed me, since I have a kitchen to run ...
Here's another study in electric locomotives, Swedish State Railways class MG.
I'm also trying to convince my dad to join in here, since he's been working for the railway since '62. We'll see if I can bribe him with something.
How are you all doing? All well and dandy I hope. It's all good here in the old country, plenty of sunshine and warmth.
Good evening Captain Tom and Gentlemen!!
Leon, nice to see you! Quiet day today? Oh, Boris did? Yeah, you never know. I'll have a ham sandwich, please. Coffee!
A late evening visit to my favorite bar! Nice to sit down for a while.
Pete – I think the electric loco, Class 1200 when it was new, was painted all blue. I am quite sure that was the case. I used to have a model of it in the 1960’s and it was blue. I will try to find info on the latest agreement between Amtrak and UP about the St. Louis – Kansas City line. The way that Amtrak train you were on was handled can’t be right. If it is, there is no need for a timetable. A date would be enough. Ron/DD One – I think you are correct about many Chile trains were bought second hand! I kind of remember reading about that many years ago. Too bad that New York loco pix doesn’t show any more. I saw it when I had a quick look earlier today, but now it’s gone. I managed to open it in a separate window though. Could not find any info on it. The Pullman ad is also missing, but the 1939 World’s Fair poster is still showing. Wow, all of a sudden all three pictures are back!!!
For our British friends. London 1975.
Eric
Good evening Tom and all at the bar. Drinks for all. Thanks for all the information on Chilean Railroads. It boggles my mind how you guys can find so much stuff Tom: That item about Joe DiMaggio being in the CG is probably bogus, but I read it during a surfing expedition. I tried unsuccessfully to find it again. I did find a site that stated his military career as you stated. Lars and Eric:
That shovel-nosed diesel electric shown in the Chile pics, was running on narrow gauge track (meter gauge). There are several narrow gauges used in Chile. It's my guess that most of their equipment was bought second hand from European narrow gauge railways or bought new from the USA. I don't think there are any standard gauge lines operating in Chile, but I will do more research, so as not to make myself a liar. I could probably find out who made what, but does anyone really want to know? Those bridges though are very unusual. They don't span any rivers or streams, but seem to be there just to elevate the tracks above the unstable soil which is prone to flash floods.
I've attached a few more pics for your scrutiny.
This is a locomotive used on the New York City Transit. Not only does it have a pantograph, but there is also a third rail pickup. (hard to see)
An advertisement for Pullman for the 1939 Worlds Fair.
A poster for the 1939 Worlds Fair.
A little nonsense: You all know that when the president is on a plane other than Air Force One, that plane automatically becomes Air Force One. So I figure I can update the various modes of travel by our presidents, both past and present, by adding a "one" to the end as follows: Chopper One; Limo One; Navy One: Golf Cart One and last, Railroad One. Submitted by DD One.
RON Many thanks for those interesting posters and photos from Chile. Thanks for the drink as well.
DAVE Thanks for the round.
I guess in a way it was good that the SPs proposal for a diesel unit for the Daylight was not introduced, if it had of been there would not of been those great steam locos that ran on the Daylight.
ERIC Many thanks for the info and the links to #104. I think the loco deserved to be preserved after such a career it had. It looks in great condition now and the livery seems to suit the locomotive. Looking at the photos in the link, I think the NYC livery suits the loco so much better than the Amtrak ones does.
The electric locomotive is another loco that has seen many years in service, at least 54 years old. Thanks for the link. I wonder what the locos looked like first introduced; I guess it would have been in a much simpler color scheme.
There were a lot of the German class 52 Kriegslok 2-10-0s built.
Many thanks for the photos from the Northeast Corridor. There was a good selection of different locomotives on the loco depot in Philadelphia on the day you visited. I guess the line through New London CT looks a lot different today with the overhead electrification masts.
Good to see you in the bar this afternoon. Thanks for the photos. It is indeed a shame how UP treat the Amtrak trains on the line through here. I think you are right about having 2 locomotives on our train, I guess Chicago, St Louis, to Kansas City and back would be a good route to test a loco after repairs.
LARS Glad you could make it in during your few days away.
Only three bottles of Sam Adams on the train. It is hardly a ‘swalley' as our Scottish friends would say.
Thanks for the ‘Railways of Chile' bookcovers. That diesel on the cover of volume three looks very interesting, I wonder who built her, she looks like a diesel-mechanical.
Hope you had a good day on the lake, and a fifty behind the bar.
CM3 Glad you enjoyed Alan's photos, I believe those German 2-10-0s worked in a lot of countries after the war.
Thanks for the info on Eric's photos
TOM Many thanks for the Alaska photos. Looks like you had great weather while you were in Fairbanks, and that is a great HO model railway in the depot.
More with the Stooges at the Emporium this week. I believe I have seen the Bug's Bunny cartoon, but it was a long time ago, it will be good to see it again.
It is only fairly recently that Alan as being going over to mainland Europe to visit the railscene, both main line and preserved lines. I think he as visited nearly every preserved line in Britain. He does get some great photos especially when traveling in a group, sometimes it is hard to get photos without a lot of others in the pic.
Many thanks for our Amtrak trip notes. There is a lot of info in them I did not know, like Washington being the last place in the world to manufacture corn cob pipes. The photos through the windows have come out really well considering the state the windows were in, it was good to see photos from the wye.
I did notice
Good afternoon Captain Tom and Gentlemen!!
Oh hello Ruth! You look magnificent today! I'll have some meatloaf for lunch, please! Keith's to drink. Thank you!
Back from my rehab I decided to stop by at "Our" Place for a little while. Interesting report from Captain Tom today. At the same time it is sad to see how UP is handling the Amtrak trains. In a way I can understand them, it is their tracks, but they should be able to get things work better.
Tom – I guess my habits have been slightly changed after a number of weeks at home. But don’t worry, I’ll be back to normal when I start working again and that may happen as soon as next week. I’ll see my doctor tomorrow and will know more then. I guess living in Alaska is in many ways like living in the old country, especially in the northern part. The summers are perfect, 24 hours daylight and billions of mosquitos. But, as I said before, the winters are too long, too cold, and too dark. At least for me. Glad you liked the photos! Yes, I took a lot of pictures during the X2000 tour (and before and after). I am just about to start going through all the negs to find more pictures to show. Then I also have about 6 hours of video. Thanks for the trip report. Interesting! It seems to me like UP is doing everything they can to get rid of all Amtrak trains. I am quite sure they do not follow the rules. Didn’t UP and Amtrak sign a new agreement about the St. Louis - Kansas City line recently? Two locomotives both ways? I guess there could be a number of reasons why they used two locomotives. Maybe one loco had traction power but no HEP and the other had only HEP but no traction power? Or maybe one of them had been fixed for some kind of problem but they were not 100 5 sure it would work all the way so they added a locomotive. I don’t know. Too bad the windows were dirty. That is not good and the passengers will remember that.CM3 – The reason I showed the 30th Street picture was because I saw an old E60 locomotive. I doubt any of those are still in service. Too bad I didn’t get a better picture of one. Close to where I took the picture from the Harrison line we were very close to run over deer almost every day. They run across the tracks just in front of the train more or less daily.
San Luis Obispo, CA.
Ottawa, ON.
AMTRAK Kirkwood, MO to Kansas City (round trip)
Thursday, 16 Aug 2007
TRIP LOG (270 track miles between Kirkwood & Kansas City, MO)
8:50 AM - Train #311, Kansas City Mule arrived 9 minutes early at Kirkwood, MO. Train departed downtown St. Louis at 8:30 AM. Visibility conditions were ideal for a train ride - clear skies.
Boarded AMFLEET Café Car # 41487 (business class) - first passenger. "Marlene" was café car attendant - most enjoyable personality with a smile that could melt the coldest of hearts.
Train was powered by two AMD-103 (PA series of Genesis locos) - placed back to back. Two Horizon coaches behind the café car. Crew said no more than 3 dozen on board for entire trip. No one seemed to know WHY we had two locomotives!!
Noted that the car was placed in consist backwards. Business Class seating should have been forward with tables to the rear. Opposite placement deprived Business Class of the privacy paid for as all passengers wishing to use the café car had to pass through. Of real annoyance was the opening and closing of the door, which kept the air conditioning in that area from being totally effective on such a hot ‘n humid day.
This has happened in the past and is caused by inattentiveness in Chicago where the trains are assembled. AMTRAK must not have a "feed back" system whereby the supervisory personnel are alerted to ensure things like this are not repetitive mistakes.
KIRKWOOD: Named for the first chief engineer of the Pacific Railroad, James P. Kirkwood. Historic station well preserved and staffed by volunteers - no ticketing.
9:42 AM arrived at Washington (12 minutes late). Located on the banks of the Missouri River in the heart of wine country. Missouri Meerschaum Company manufactures the ONLY corn cob pipes in the world is located here. Unmanned station.
10:23 AM arrived at Hermann (31 minutes) late). A town settled by Germans in the 1830s looking for a site replicating the Rheine River Valley. Idea was to establish a wine growing area in the new country. Today has four award winning wineries. Also located on the banks of the Missouri River. Known for May and October "fests." Unmanned station.
Noon arrived at Jefferson City (1 hour 9 minutes late). State capital with dome of capitol building clearly in view. Great place for train watching and also located on the river bank. Volunteer manned station, no ticketing. Noted some cloud cover moving in.
Pete boarded here!
NOTE: Delays to this point were due to slow orders and waiting in sidings for passing Union Pacific coal trains.
1:15 PM arrived at Sedalia (46 minutes late). Home of the Missouri State Fair, currently underway. Area is rather depressed and evidence of what used to be is visible from the train. Once known as the "Queen City of the Prairies" with a junction for the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad (KATY). Great view of preserved KATY depot. Unmanned AMTRAK station. Skies returned to blue.
1:45 PM arrived at Warrensburg (50 minutes late). Home of Central Missouri State University and Whiteman Air Force Base (stealth bombers). Unmanned station.
2:28 PM arrived at Lees Summit (51 minutes late). Final resting place of Cole Younger, infamous member of the Jesse James Gang. Unmanned station.
3 PM arrived at Independence (1 hour, 25 minutes late).Home of the 33rd President of the U.S. - Harry S. Truman. World HQ for the Church of Jesus Christ of Later-Day Saints located here along with the Truman Library. Unmanned station.
3:30 PM arrived at Kansas City, MO Union Station (1 hour 20 minutes late). Kansas City is known as the "City of Fountains," and is situated in an area of rolling hills, tree-lined boulevards and distinctive architecture. The downtown is in low lands, prone to flooding from the Missouri River. Manned station with full AMTRAK services.
Dark clouds moving in - but nothing menacing.
NOTE: Delays were attributed to waiting in passing sidings for UP freight trains.
I remained aboard the train for the ride through the WYE. Stealthy Pete left the car to take some fotos and stretch his legs.
3:45 PM Pete re-boarded train.
Train #316, St. Louis Mule - departed at 4 PM for return trip. New train crew with the exception of our Café Car attendant. Train crew said no more than three dozen booked for return trip to St. Louis.
Good Morning Barkeep and all Present; coffee, please; round for the house and $ for the jukebox. We didn't do a whole lot over the weekend except "decompress" a bit; it was one wild ride last week. I appreciate the encouragement from you folks.
Let's see what's happening.
DD1 has sent all kinds of material. The beastie in his pictures kind of favors the Southern's old "Vulcan." No, Boris, we're not going to mash Awk on the anvil - it's not that kind of Vulcan. Geez! Let him in the shop and he goes crazy. IIRC. GM&N's "Rebel" resembled the machine in the picture as well. Road kill. As Granny said, "I saw him first!" Lots of vehicles around here have the "Eat More Possum" bumper sticker. It hold truck parts together along with duct tape and liberal applications of Bondo.
Pete stopped by with pictures and comments from all over the place. I enjoyed that beautiful 2-10-0 picture from Alan.
Lars is still running the bookmobile. Have a good time in the north country. We got our Vermont Life magazine in the mail on Saturday. Many nice foliage shots - kinda took our minds off the sauna we have had (yet again) for the past few days. My, that was an ugly Giants game on TV last night. Three injuries in one play and a coach was apparently thinking of other things. They won, I know, but there's a lot of work yet to be done.
Eric sent pictures and lots of information. The picture of K tower is a good one. Back in the day, one could get pictures around there. The concrete bldg. on the right is where they used to have "DC Wrestling." Not for the faint-hearted, believe me. Take a look at the track where Eric's train is running and you'll see a guard rail. Keeps the train from attacking the tower should a problem occur. Also, many interesting pieces of equipment at 30th Street in your picture from there. The PRR Harrisburg line, to me, had an interurban flavor once you escaped Philadelphia. This is, of course, not to say that they didn't roll the trains through there.
OSP has sent material. Stooges indeed - some rare ones in your offering. I enjoyed looking at the Alaska pictures - it appears as the club is following the same approach toward modeling as my buddy did with his ARR layout. Incidentally, his was set in the days of steam.
I understand your frustration with traffic. Makes oyu wonder how they got stuff over the road back in the day. If you want to really have some fun, ride 48/49 beween Chicago and Albany.
We won't even discuss the Red Sox right now. It's O.K. Boris, my head's nowhere near the oven. Cards are twitching a little although they got rained out vs. Cubs.
A smile to begin the week!
We made too many wrong mistakes.
<A Yogi-ism!>
A new start to a new week ‘n it's called MONDAY! Belly up to the bar boyz - the coffee's ready, pastries fresh ‘n our <light> ‘n <traditional> breakfasts only need to be ordered!
(1) CM3 Shane sez TODAY, Aug 20th
Jan (JanOlov) at 10:18 AM Saturday - Aug 18th: Always good to get away ‘n going home must hold a special meaning for you. One day, perhaps you'll tell us more about where in the old country you call home!
Pete (pwolfe) at 12:26 PM Saturday - Aug 18th: Actually we waited for 1 hour, 43 minutes at Independence Junction for 3 UP freight trains to pass - just after pulling away from the Independence AMTRAK station. Watch for my TRIP REPORT tomorrow!
Many thanx for the Email with the Pix! I sent you mine with a copy of the text sent to AMTRAK.
Fotos from Alan are terrific - the man knows how ‘n when to capture the moment! Does this guy EVER spend time at home Then again, why would he want to when there's SO MANY great trains to ride!?!?!
Inferring something regarding YOU ‘n Sonia up in the Penthouse Suite?!?!? Hmmmmmm. Maybe those FOTOS sent in that unmarked envelope from an "anon" source "tipped" us off! <uh oh>
Ron (DD1) at 3:02 PM ‘n 3:37 PM Saturday - Aug 18th: If a FOTO ever needed a caption, your "Road Kill dinner special" surely does! Good Gawd Gertie, if anything can kill an appetite, that surely DID ‘n does! <barf> Awful . . . <grin> Hate to break the news to ya, but you'll NOT be in the running for Chief Chief or Assistant 'round here. <ugh>
Never, ever will comprehend those who hang on the outside of trains ‘n buses and do so routinely! Not for me, that's fer sure . . . Too many people for too few resources causes things like this. <ugh>
Enjoyed the continuation of that Zephyr foto ‘n bridge shot from Chile! Fantastic stuff that fits quite well with our Classic Trains theme at the Bar by the Ballast!
Your two Emails were received ‘n responded to - thanx for them AND the round!
Dave (West Coast S) at 4:14 PM Saturday - Aug 18th: One of the "problems" with responding to our Left Coast Connection ‘n Man of Mystery, is we just don't KNOW if he finds the time to read ‘em. However, even with an occasional visit to the bar, the man still holds this place special, so that "counts" for something! Good to see ya again, Mate . . .
Eric (EricX2000) at 11:56 PM Saturday - Aug 18th: Don't quite know what to make of these "early" visits from our Nocturnal Resident Desert Swede - but we're always pleased to have him at the bar!
As picked up by Pete a few days ago, those ARR loco's ‘n cars were in immaculate condition. Quite a bit of effort ‘n pride goes into what they do . . . and that's most evident.
Living in Alaska is something quite special, and of course it's such a huge chunk of the Earth's geography, that to say you've lived there (as I have) doesn't mean you've experienced all of it. Hardly! I was so fortunate to have been assigned to a ship (homeport was Kodiak) and over the tour of duty, got to see things I'd never have seen up close ‘n personal if not for that. The Bering Sea - the Aleutian Islands to the end - the Inland Passage - towns, villages ‘n cities like Nome - Cold Bay - Du
Tonight it is really closed! No lights, no sounds except from Boris' shed in the back. Sounds like he is having some kind of party.
Lars – Escaped to Plattsburgh again! Ruth is not a very happy gal now! But since the bar is closed today I’ll just throw in these pictures taken along the line up to (and beyond) Plattsburgh. Thanks for the book covers, quite a few books about the railways of Chile! Hope you and the Mrs will have a nice stay up there!
Looking from the train across Lake George
This was how far I got, Fort Ticonderoga.
Ahoy Cap'n Tom ‘n fellow travelers waiting for the bar to open!
Yes, ‘tis the Larsman from Plattsburgh, upstate NY! The Mrs. ‘n I are spending a relaxing ‘n enjoyable weekend with Phil ‘n his wife. Lovely place here, no doubt.
Took a few moments to check out the happenings at the bar this morning as the gals are off doing whatever gals think of doing on Sunday mornings. Figure I'd take advantage of the "break"!
Just a tad disappointed in my fellow bar flies! NO ONE visited Tom's other thread to invite that guy over to the bar. Too late now, for my guess is he's long gone. Probably a hit 'n run post anyway. BUT, we'll nevAH know if we don't extend the invite!! <not good>
We drove up ‘n aside from a few nit wits on the roads, it wasn't a bad trip. The Mrs. wasn't feeling too good when we got here, so we layed low on Saturday. She's back to cracking the whip, so my guess is the rest of the time away will be "active." <grin> We're gonna stay over 'til late-week. Far too long a drive without a chance to recharge. Over 300 miles for us and that's a bunch when you're OLD! <grin>
Hey Ron! That "dish" almost made me lose my breakfast! <ugh> Really enjoyed the Zephyr pix. No doubt that's a Zephyr design. Will be interesting to see if anyone can make the connection.
For Eric! Nice pix ‘n good to note that you're nearly back at full throttle.
For Pete! You ‘n Da Boss are a twosome on the rails, for sure! So who drank the bar dry?? Worried about those photos??? Silvia is lookin' - interesting!!
For Shane! As with Tom, I too try to think positive, however, it doesn't look good - and hasn't. Lord be with those who have perished ‘n their loved ones AND with all who've tried to get ‘em out.
For Dave! You gotta spend more time at the bar now that YOU are Da Boss!
For Da Boss! Apparently the Amtrak trip didn't meet your expectations. Too bad about the situation with UP. Only thing I can say is that Amtrak is facing one huge uphill climb with the freighters and if it continues, I'd say the long distance train era is over ‘n done. Schedules are made to be kept and if they can't even come close, well that pretty much closes the book. Just my 2 cents worth.
Loved the Alaska pix ‘n the Stooges movies continue on through the month, huh? Nothing wrong with smiles - so keep ‘em coming!
Let me drop these off for Ron down there in "Mississip" - some support for the trains of Chile!
By the way: For those of you using PHOTOBUCKET - they've made another change to the way you post pix. Now there's a direct "IMG Code" link to "click" on. You don't have to type in the "img" stuff anymore. Really makes it easier.
I'm leaving this fifty on the bar for drinks on me when the place opens up tomorrow! Now it's time to help Phil with the boat prep, we're gonna spend the day on the lake!
Have a great Sunday one ‘n all!
Until the next time!
Lars
Hello Leon! Kind of quiet tonight, isn't it? Yeah, I'll have... hmmm, a Philly Sandwich, please! All extras! And a cold Keith's!
This Saturday went by fast! Glad I made it here before midnight!
Tom – I guess you are right about the route we took in Montreal, not the normal VIA route. I have looked several times in my notes but can’t find the name of that station (place). Thanks for the Alaska pictures!! If it wasn’t for all the snow in the winter I would love to live up there. Nice layout, in a way reminding about the CanAm layout! I like that last picture with the locomotives. They are very clean and good looking! I actually believe I have seen one of next week’s featured films, Private Buckaroo! Time to see it again!! JanOlov – Back in the old country cooking? Okay, how about Steak & Bisquits cooked my way? That means a lot of extra marinade added while you cook them, that is all I can say. Comes with steak fries! I’ll pass on the possum steak! I would also say no to run a train with people hanging on the outside of it, like the one in the picture from India. Pete – Class 221 is a diesel-hydraulic locomotive. The last ones were taken out of service 1988. Several of them were sold to other railroads though, so they can still be seen in service in Europe.Amtrak’s RS3 #104 has been running for a number of different railroads. Was New York Central 8246 and Penn Central RS3 5246. After Amtrak it became Shoreline Locomotives 6055, Connecticut Central 1201, Providence & Worcester 120, and Cape Cod Central 1201. It seems to be used for dinner trains now and is still in operation. See this link:http://www.capetrain.com/roster/1201.shtmlThe electric locomotive in one of your posted pictures is a Class 1250 (3,100 hp) from the Netherlands.Info on this link:http://www.railfaneurope.net/ns/acts_1250.htmlThe British Class 08 looks exactly like the Swedish States Railways’ (SJ) Class V1, built by English Electric 1949. It had a 350 hp diesel engine. SJ had only two of them. The last picture is showing a German Class 52 steam locomotive, 2-10-0, Kriegslok, built 1942-1945 for the war effort. More than 6,100 of them were built.Ron – More info on the streamlined train from Chile! A 3-car diesel-electric unit, built in Germany by MAN. Traveling time Santiago - Temuco 9 hours. Thanks for thpictures/posters! Interesting type of bridge! Dave – I tried to find something on the net about the SP 1937 Daylight proposal, but had no luck. Do you have more info? I guess it was about a diesel powered train.
Since it is Saturday I am adding some pictures from the Northeast Corridor.
Passing K-Tower, Union Station, Washington D.C.
Approaching Wilmington, DE.
A MetroNorth train leaving Penn Station, NYC.
Approaching New London, CT.
Philadelphia.
NJ Transit F40, Philadelphia.
Catching up on a Conrail freight on the Harrisburg line.
Have a nice weekend!
Good Day gents, good to see Lars, Pete, CM3, Jan & Capt. Tom about the place of late. First, rounds on me...
Being Saturday with our usual darth of patrons, I won't get too deep into the striking resemblence of DD1's subject and photo to the original 1937 Daylight proposal, yep, a shovel nose articulated five car Daylight could have been a reality, after several million dollars in research and design it was rejected due to being inflexable and too low in passenger capacity, also its high speed capabilities were also in doubt, It was dubbed the "million dollar high speed trolley" by company officials, not what SP had in mind!. Strike two was the possible relibilty/cost/union concerns and delivery schedules associated with introducing diesel power that led SP to conclude more research and real world data was needed before entrusting the proposed premier passenger train to internal combustion motive power.
Tom, need a few minons around the bar? Naw, they would just become fodder for Boris and the critters!!!
Dave
ENCORE! Saturday ‘n Photo Posting Day!
at "Our" Place!
We are CLOSED on SUNDAYs!Starting Sunday at the Mentor Village Emporium Theatre!
. . . August 19th thru 25th: THE THREE STOOGES DOUBLE FEATURE WEEK continues! Private Buckaroo (1942) - and - My Sister Eileen (1942). Elmer Fudd CARTOON: The Wabbit Who Came to Supper (1942).
Private Buckaroo (1942)
PLOT SUMMARY: A Universal Army enlistment promotion, produced as a musical showcase for Harry James, the Andrews Sisters, Joe E. Lewis, and Donald O'Connor & Peggy Ryan. The film's thin plot has James drafted, and joining him is the band's lead vocalist Lon Prentice (Dick Foran), who doesn't believe that Army training and regulations are necessary for anyone of his skill and fame.Shemp Howard steals the film whenever James and the Andrews aren't performing. As Sgt. Snavely, he's effectively teamed with Mary Wickes as his shrewish fiance, trying desperately to keep her away from the attentions of nightclub comic and USO performer Lancelot Pringle McBiff (Joe E. Lewis). Shemp also has the opportunity to clown onstage with the Andrews Sisters during a musical finale, as they perform Don't Sit Under the Appletree. Arguably, Shemp's best solo film credit.
A Universal Army enlistment promotion, produced as a musical showcase for Harry James, the Andrews Sisters, Joe E. Lewis, and Donald O'Connor & Peggy Ryan. The film's thin plot has James drafted, and joining him is the band's lead vocalist Lon Prentice (Dick Foran), who doesn't believe that Army training and regulations are necessary for anyone of his skill and fame.Shemp Howard steals the film whenever James and the Andrews aren't performing. As Sgt. Snavely, he's effectively teamed with Mary Wickes as his shrewish fiance, trying desperately to keep her away from the attentions of nightclub comic and USO performer Lancelot Pringle McBiff (Joe E. Lewis). Shemp also has the opportunity to clown onstage with the Andrews Sisters during a musical finale, as they perform Don't Sit Under the Appletree. Arguably, Shemp's best solo film credit.
Shemp Howard steals the film whenever James and the Andrews aren't performing. As Sgt. Snavely, he's effectively teamed with Mary Wickes as his shrewish fiance, trying desperately to keep her away from the attentions of nightclub comic and USO performer Lancelot Pringle McBiff (Joe E. Lewis). Shemp also has the opportunity to clown onstage with the Andrews Sisters during a musical finale, as they perform Don't Sit Under the Appletree. Arguably, Shemp's best solo film credit.
<from: threestooges.net>
My Sister Eileen (1942)
PLOT SUMMARY: Fresh from Columbus OH, writer Ruth Sherwood (Rosalind Russell) and her actress sister Eileen (Janet Blair) arrive in New York City with dreams of success. Renting a Greenwich Village basement "apartment" from the fast-talking and fact-loose Mr. Appopolous (George Tobias), the girls find that life in the big city is a lot tougher than expected. Not helping matters are a series of dynamite blasts rocking the apartment, from a new subway tunnel being built underneath. Ruth meets Bob Baker, the frustrated editor of The Manhatter trying to stop declining circulation with human interest stories, who thinks Ruth's true-life stories of middle America are what the magazine needs. Meanwhile, Eileen's naive and trusting nature attracts all sorts of eccentrics and opportunists. Rounding out the story's cast of characters are an out-of-work pro football player (Gordon Jones, of THE A&C SHOW fame) and his newlywed wife as upstairs neighbors, a cynical beat cop (Donald MacBride) who assumes that the sisters are "working girls," and a crew of Portugese merchant marines who create an international incident with Eileen.
Fresh from Columbus OH, writer Ruth Sherwood (Rosalind Russell) and her actress sister Eileen (Janet Blair) arrive in New York City with dreams of success. Renting a Greenwich Village basement "apartment" from the fast-talking and fact-loose Mr. Appopolous (George Tobias), the girls find that life in the big city is a lot tougher than expected. Not helping matters are a series of dynamite blasts rocking the apartment, from a new subway tunnel being built underneath. Ruth meets Bob Baker, the frustrated editor of The Manhatter trying to stop declining circulation with human interest stories, who thinks Ruth's true-life stories of middle America are what the magazine needs. Meanwhile, Eileen's naive and trusting nature attracts all sorts of eccentrics and opportunists. Rounding out the story's cast of characters are an out-of-work pro football player (Gordon Jones, of THE A&C SHOW fame) and his newlywed wife as upstairs neighbors, a cynical beat cop (Donald MacBride) who assumes that the sisters are "working girls," and a crew of Portugese merchant marines who create an international incident with Eileen.
Cartoon Special: The Wabbit Who Came to Supper Elmer is hunting Bugs when news comes that his Uncle Louie will leave him three million dollars on condition that he doesn't harm any animals, especially rabbits. Bugs takes this as his cue to move in on Fudd.
Elmer is hunting Bugs when news comes that his Uncle Louie will leave him three million dollars on condition that he doesn't harm any animals, especially rabbits. Bugs takes this as his cue to move in on Fudd.
Special note: The month of August (starting on the 5th) will be The Three Stooges FEATURE Films month! Watch for the double features!
Enjoy! Tom
Being it's photo Saturday, I'll try posting a few more images. Note the similarity of the engine in the first image to the others depicted in the posters and on the bridge. Looks like the posters are from 1944 about. Have a nice weekend.
P.S. I have seen this bridge when I was in Chile. It is typical of their bridge construction, using short suspension bridge elements. A lot of steel was used.
Hi Tom and all present at the bar. Drinks all around and the usual for me. Here are two photos attached.
This dish was of a possum road kill that someone brought into the office for a Christmas party. Maybe Boris might like it.
Another crowded train in India. Unbelievable! I saw similar situations on buses in the Philippines.
I'm still experimenting with this image posting thing, so here goes. CLICK
A cup of coffee and a bacon sarnie please CINDY. I am in early today as I have got some honey dos to do and I have got to get my strength up.
ERIC The Hall class locomotive is in very clean condition, most of the steam locomotives are in immaculate condition when out on the main line a fine credit to the volunteers who prepare them. In my opinion the Great Western locos especially look good when in a clean condition with all the brass work, on the flip side when like towards the end of steam on BR the GW locos were in filthy condition they looked really bad. There would be just three brackets where the nameplate used to be and the loco would sometimes be missing the number plates with the number stenciled on, a really sad sight for once fine locomotives.
So #6703 was a diesel-electric, I think there is a look of the same look between 6703 and the German 221 class. Is the 221-class diesel-electric as well. The loco looks very similar to the Warship class Diesel -Hydraulics that was built for the Western Region of BR, introduced from 1958. Some were built at the ex GWR works at Swindon and some by the North British Locomotive Co.
The ALCO RS3 in your photo had a long service. I wonder how many different company liveries # 104 had during its career.
JAN Hope the weather stays good for you and you have a great time in the old country.
Steak medium well please.
TOM Glad you liked the photos. Looking at the Rood Ashton Hall photo it is hard to believe that on some engines, there still was so little protection for the loco crews right up to the end of steam in Britain in the mid 1960s. Imagine a tender first trip on a snowy mid-winter day on that engine.
As you say an enjoyable day trip Thursday, it is hard to realize how much time we did spend at a standstill in sidings though. That guy said he thought we been at Indepenance just ½ hour when in fact it was over an hour.
For this weeks photos from Alan they are from a recent trip to Holland.
# 6703 on the special on the MOERDIJK freight branch
An Ex british Railways class 58 working now in Holland.A class of 50 locos they were built at Doncaster Works(the same works that built the Gresley Pacifics)in 1983-1987. A Co-Co diesel-electric rated at 3,300 HP. The locos were allocated at Toton depot in Nottinghamshire and mainly worked the coal trains in that area. 5814 was originally BR 58038.Photo at Utrecht Central.
I have no details of the interesting electric at DIEREN. Help please ERIC..
Dieren is the start of a preserved branch to BEEKBERGEN, where this station is.
If I have read Alan's notes right this the loco that hauled the special on the branch.It is a simular loco to the British Railways class 08 0-6-0 DE shunter(Switcher) built by English Electric and the class which total over 1,000 locos was introduced from 1953. I don,t know if this was bought from BR second hand or it was built new to the Dutch Railways.
A German looking steam loco at Beekbergen, Alan said the shed behind the loco was full of steam engines..
Well CINDY, a quick Bathams and I had better start my chores now or I will in trouble.
As Manager Lars is away for a few days , I will get the MASCOTS their usual treats,, although I suspect one of you told Lars about me and the penthouse with a certain lady
TOM Just seen your Alaska photos. I will post this and then I will enlarge your photos for a better look.
Pete
This is ENCORE! Saturday - and - Photo Posting Day!
Remember: "Our" Place is CLOSED on Sundays.
So, Jan is back in Sweden!
A Saturday ENCORE! from the Pages of the Original Thread. Here's a continuation from Page 363 on 25 June 2006 of our Alaskan Rail Adventure . . . .
Click to enlarge
(1) Fairbanks main "drag" (2) Vito the Hit's Fairbank's Annex! (3) Bridge across Chena River, Fairbanks - Immaculate Conception RC Church (4) Fairbanks mile marker (5) Chena River , Fairbanks (6) Sculpture: The First Unknown Family - Fairbanks, Golden Heart Park (7) Alaska RR Fairbanks Depot (8) Tanana Model RR Club (HO) - Fairbanks Depot (9) Tanana Model RR Club (HO) - Fairbanks Depot (10) Tanana Model RR Club (HO) - Fairbanks Depot (11) Bridge at Hurricane Gulch - Fairbanks Depot (12) ARR Denali Star at Fairbanks
Greetings Tom and all....
Well, well, back in the old country for two weeks visiting family and friends, so far the weather is good with sun, at least after the 11 hours that I arrived.....
The stove is going warm (strange otherwise, eh?), so we're putting out steaks with everything as fast as we can. No steak is too small or too odd to make, just let me what you'd like and we'll do our best to scramble it together....
I hope that all is well with you folks...
Saturday! Fill up the coffee mugs - check out the pastry case ‘n order a <light> or <traditional> breakfast from our Menu Board!
REALITY CHECK!
A couple of days ago I asked for some help over on "my other Thread." A guy provided a fine narrarive Post - most unusual over there - and both Lars 'n I thought it would be a fine gesture for the guys from "Our" Place to extend an invitation for him to join us here. Nothing happened! Not one guy stopped by. Question? How do you think many of you got here?? It was by specific invitation . . .
Surely miss the Larsman 'round here!
CM3 Shane (coalminer3) at 12:55 PM Friday - Aug 17th: Positive thoughts since the tragedy, now catastrophe, began . . .
Ron (DD1) at 1:04 PM Friday - Aug 17th: A Zephyr by any other name! I'll have to "dig" into my modest library of hard bound books to see what I can find. Sweet!
Thanx for the round!
Pete (pwolfe) at 4:49 PM ‘n 5:28 PM Friday - Aug 17th: Great to see the return of our Bar Chandler! In spite of it all, we enjoyed the trip - as long as we were MOVING that is!
Nice fotos - ALL - especially the Rood Ashton Hall!
Round appreciated!
Eric (EricX2000) at 11:39 PM Friday - Aug 17: Not to worry - you made your contributions AND they were most appreciated! It's up to the guys to do what they can when the Proprietor ‘n Bar Chandler are away for some OJT as rail riders!
Over the 18 years or so of traveling by rail in ‘n out of Montreal, I've not seen that station . . . so my guess is the route you took isn't one that is used by VIA Rail today. Interesting shot though . . .
Fine looking German loco!
Reminder: Cindy 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!
Boris, serve ‘em all of the "spiked" OJ they can handle!
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