A pint of Bathams please CINDY.
ALLAN Yes Tom and I had a great time at the TrainWreck Saloon. It is great to find a bar with good beer and a fantastic atmosphere.
I see next year they are planning to run a special train from London to Edinburgh and back using A4s. One A4 will run from London to York and another from York to Edinburgh and back to York after an overnight stay in the Scottish capital. The third A4 will take the train back to London. At York it is planned to have Mallard out of the museum so that all four preserved A4s, that are in the UK, can be seen together with three of them with a main line ticket. The event is to commemorate the 70th anniversary of Mallards world record speed run in July 1938.
JAN Glad you liked the Santa Fe herald. Do you know if many Milwaukee Road signs still exist in stations that are used today.
Many thanks for the post on the life and the work on the Milwaukee Road of Karl F. Nystrom. Those are some great cars with the rear end of the car in the third photo is very stylish.
ERIC I though those DC motors were built by ASEA by the design of the brush arms. It is very interesting that those motors could work on AC as well.
I notice that today some of the railroads in the US still prefer DC traction motors on the new large locomotives today while most use AC ones.
Loved the photo of the great time we had at the TrainWreck saloon. I think Tom's expression is because he is wondering out how to get me out of there.
FERGIE Great to see you in the bar.
Thanks for the links; they look some very good books.
Bon Voyage for Wednesday.
TOM It is good to read the story of the TrainWreck saloon again. It is amazing that a modeler picked the building and the way the model fits in the Cam-Am even more amazing that the inside and the atmosphere is exactly what the Mentor Inn is like.
Not too keen on soccer at the moment. USA 3 ENGLAND 0 in the woman's world cup, although the ‘Mighty Shrews got a 1-1 tie away from home, not bad.
Anyway what is this about the time of a soccer game (90 minutes) when a game with 60 minutes playing time takes 3 hours to complete. I will do our usual itinerary for when we used to go to a Shrews game from Rugby, and you will see the method in our madness.
Glad to see the darts match is on.
Many thanks for the new Alaska photos. To travel such marvelous scenery in those great cars surely is a great experience and in such clear weather. Loved the photo of the moose in No 6. I hope all at the bar enlarge the photos to get the full details.
LARS As TOM said, your tribute to Lydia and BK is very special. From the very first post BK was straight and never changed. It is a good thought that Lydia gained pleasure helping BK put together those fine posts.
Back in a while with some photos.
Pete.
Hi Tom and all.
Another Bathams please CINDY while I load the pics
I see TOM as posted this week's films on at the Emporium.Another great selection. We are Marshall is a film I would like to see and I have always enjoyed the books by Louis L'Amour. The Stooges are up to their antics, it must have been some pill that Curly swallowed.
The photos are a bit out of sequence as I had run out of film and they were taken on the bride's digital, on the the agreement of "You break it you get me another", as Tom says my record with cameras is not good, I have wrecked two already.
These were taken at Los Angeles Union Passenger Terminal
The waiting area.
Great train board, our train as just appeared in the bottom right hand corner.
Out locomotives ready for the off.
Back in a bit with the next set.
OK then Cindy another Batham's for me and a round. The steak for later please.
The Chief stopped at Albuquerque for re-fuelling. While we were there this rather smart train came in.
Next it was on to Raton through the Apache Canyon and the Glorieta Pass. Passing Las Vegas NM there was an original Harvey House I,m afraid I was not quick enough to get a pic.
On this section of the line there were some very sharp curves where both ends of our train could be seen from the Sightseer Lounge car, also on this section there were some semaphore signals as well
Our locos on one of the curves.
Then on to Raton.
The Denver bus arrived ready to pick up connecting passengers. Sorry about the pole in the pic but we were told not to go far from the car door as they were ready to go.
Then it was the climb over the Raton Pass with the board ether side of the tunnel saying 'The highest point on the Santa Fe, at 7,588ft.
We did not pass any frieght traffic for many miles, I wonder if it is just Amtrak that uses this part of the route.
These pics should enlarge hope you enjoy them.
Greetings Tom and fellow railway hobos....
May I Please have an extra cold Guinness, top up with cigar for the boys and something for yourself....
Few $$$ for the cigar box and Mr Wurlitzer....
pwolfe, great pics indeed my good man ! Love the style on the depots, timeless wouldn't you say? Bet you wish that you could travel back in time, well let's say five or sic decades, eh? Once again, great pics!
Good evening Captain Tom and Gentlemen!!
Leon, that steak last night was very good! I'll have another favorite tonight, Rumpsteak Café de Paris, please! Tui!
Saturday evening, time top post some pictures.
Fergie – Hope to see you again soon!Tom – I don’t know much about turbines. I have read some stuff about turbines used for steam locomotives. But it is an interesting subject. You are absolutley correct about the photo from the Trainwreck lunch! It was a very good lunch and I (we) enjoyed it a lot. I think Pete is right in his comment about the picture.
I also agree about using 3rd rail for model trains. The big advantage with the 3rd rail as I see it is reliability and electrically easy to understand. Märklin used to build most of there models also for 2 rail DC. I don’t know if that is the case today though. Thanks for the Alaska pictures! Nice to see that moose at a safe distance from the track. It is not that fun when you get them on the track in front of the train. A new week with two new movies! I don’t know anything about “We Are Marshall” but I am sure “Crossfire Trail” is a good one. I love Louis L’Amour’s books and have a bunch of them. Reserve an evening at the Emporium next week!Lars – Thanks for BK’s first posts at the Bar from almost exactly two years ago. I thought I had seen that Atlantic Coast Line encore before! After checking my computer I found I copied the text last year! A lot of information!Beautiful pictures of AT&SF equipment! JanOlov – Very interesting reading about Karl F. Nyström! I have never heard about him before. He certainly did a lot for the different railroads! I don’t recognize the name of the town where he was born. Could it be Åsbo Bruk? Very good looking passenger cars! Pete – I am sure you are right about the reason for Tom’s expression in that picture, but I didn’t want to say anything. It is kind of surprising that some railroads still use DC motors. But I guess they have their reasons. AC motors are easier and cheaper to maintain.Thanks for the first parts of your trip report! Nice pictures! The Rail Runner is a pretty new train service in New Mexico. I don’t remember from the top of my head exactly how far it runs. Raton is a place I have stayed over night several times driving between Arizona and Nebraska. I have also spent a number of nights in Las vegas,NM, but did not know about the Harvey House. I have to stop there next time and take some pictures. Amtrak basically is or will soon be the only trains running over the Raton Pass. Freight trains have been or will be sent another route (I don’t remember the details now).
Finally some pictures showing what kind of jobs I have had.
Streetcar conductor in the early 60's.
The Air Force.
One of many buses I used to drive in the old country. 1965.
The first locomotive I operated on my own after finishing my training as a locomotive engineer.
My years with the X2000. Including Amtrak.
Truck driver.
Now a regular guest at "Our" PLace. This is how dark it is when I get there after midnight.
Have a nice weekend!
Eric
Ahoy Cap'n Tom ‘n fellow travelers waiting for the bar to open!
Another CLOSED Sunday but always the opportunity to slip a thought or three through the mail slots on the front doors! [yeah. DON'T slide them under the doors - arrrrrggggghhhhh - Tex will gobble ‘em up B4 they stop sliding! <grin>
Good to see the photos from Pete's trip home on the train. Can't say that part of the country "does" much for me - nevAH been "big" on the southwest. However, traveling in the Superliner Sightseer lounge cars IS a treat - no matter where one is passing through. Nice job, Wolfman!
What's to say about Da Bossman's continuing spread on his Alaska rail journey???? Outstanding photos of Mt. McKinley! No doubt in my mind "someone" will "lift" those photos from the ether for use (and maybe credit) elsewhere. Anyway, fantastic shots ‘n for one who has complained so much about your camera - I'm not seeing anything to worry about in those shots!
Noticed that Eric provided a photo spread of the vehicles he was connected with. Understand that he "drove" MOST of 'em - not the fighter jet, huh Fun with pictures! <gotcha> But on a serious note, you've had quite a turn at the wheel for all sorts of things that "go"!
Looks like your Reptiles are hangin' in there . . . so here's the bet: Should the Mets 'n D'Backs face each other in the playoffs, I'll betcha a CASE of your favorite beverage that the Mets come out on top. Ok
Jints have a late afternoon game against the "Skins" and is their chance to break the 2-game skid. Hope so.
Mets have to hang on, but at least are still in 1st place.
Finally into the fall, ‘n my guess is Da Bossman is most HAPPY ‘bout that, huh
Ok - let me drop these off, then it's a day for REST!
Until the next time!
Lars
<personal foto>
A smile to begin the week!
It gets late early out there.
<A Yogi-ism!>
G'day Gents!
Coffee's hot, pastries fresh'n breakfasts are ready for ordering! Let's kick start this Monday morning at "Our" Place!
Fall has FINALLY made it to mid-continent USA in spite of continuing temps above average - was 93 (F) yesterday. <ugh> However, we're supposed to "drop" into daytime temps in the 70s before week's end . . . THAT's terrific news!
Petrol was $2.68 (rounded) at "Collusion Corner" - thought fer sure it wudda risen off the scale with world prices being what they are. Figger that out, eh Can't!! <barf>
Spoke with Fergie yesterday - he's sailing on Wednesday for a short trip off of Sable Island - scientific mission.
Comments from the Proprietor:
Coming up in October:
"Our" Place Oktoberfest! This will be our 3rd year for the fall harvest celebration. As with last year, we'll restrict the festivities to weekends. The big tent will be "up" in the outback, full o' things to enjoy for customers ‘n their families! Watch for it!
The 2nd Annual Darts Challenge ‘n Grudge Match against the thugs gang from The Second Class Saloon will take place over a three day period - beginning on Thursday ending on Saturday nite. Best two out of three wins the Can-Am County Dart's Championship trophy. "Our" Place will field two teams of 2 each ‘n 2 alternates - so Boris, that means we need SIX guys total! <uh oh> Watch for the ‘sign up'!
Weekend Customer Acknowledgments (since my last narrative)
Saturday - Sep 22nd:
Lars (LoveDomes) at 9:18 AM
. . . Jan (JanOlov) at 9:46 AM
. . . . . . Lars (LoveDomes) at 10:47 AM & 11:10 AM
. . . . . . . . . Pete (pwolfe) 2:13 PM & 2:56 PM & 3:24 PM
. . . . . . . . . . . . Jan (JanOlov) at 3:41 PM
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Eric (EricX2000) at 7:12 PM
Many THANX to Manager Lars for that fine tribute to our friend BK (BudKarr)! A most memorable ‘n appreciated round of ENCORE! Posts . . . Liked the IC "covers" too!!
. . . Visits from Jan with some fine fotos ‘n stuff
. . . . . . Triple duty from Wolfman Pete - some fine inclusive, informative ‘n interesting dialogue along with enjoyable fotos from your Southwest Chief trip to KCity from LA!
. . . . . . . . . Our Resident Desert Swede made a BEFORE midnite appearance - enjoyed the foto spread of "things driven." NOT the fighter jet, eh I ALWAYS wanted to drive a bus when I was a kid. Used to dream about it . . . ahhhhhhh, memories!
Sunday - Sep 23rd:
Lars (LoveDomes) at 9:14 AM
Another Sunday visit from our Manager - just to keep us "up" on the Forums Page! Nice going with the random selection of "covers"! Also, continued appreciation for keeping "my other Thread" going . . .
Many thanx to those of you who made comments about my Alaska RR adventure Pix - and - the movies for the week at the Emporium Theatre!
Also, for all who bought rounds ‘n contributed to our Coal Scuttle for Herr Wurlitzter: THANX!
Reminder: Ruth has the bar from 9 AM until Leon the Night Man comes in at 5 PM
Good Morning Barkeep and all Present; coffee, please (New England Four Seasons Blend), round for the house and $ for the jukebox. Nice day here today (supposed to be up around 85 degrees), gas is at $2.89. WV is 4-0, Bostons are in the playoffs, AND the Gins won yesterday.
Let's see where to begin.
Allan - No I have not done a whole lot with narrow gauge. The following link will give you a lot of information about the Bedford and Billerica, a narrow gauge line in the Boston area which has an interesting history. Go to the site and follow the links. You'll find it to be a good site http://bedforddepot.org/
Pete - Distance between LVL and B'ham is 382 miles. There were no track pans. They used water cans (auxiliary tender). I enjoyed the pictures of LAUPT and your travelogue. It's a piece of good news to hear that the semaphores are still there.
They try and keep freight off of that line as much as possible because of the terrain.,
Jan - Sent lots of comments. Thanks also for the engineering story re MILW passenger cars. Copied and in the binder.
Fergie - Good to hear from you, sir.
Eric sent pictures. Is that a SAAB fighter? I remember reading years ago about bases and hardened installations being cut into the mountains. Most of my work pictures are in the dark - for real.
Lars visited with comments and some fine books. How about that goal line stand vs. the hated Redskins yesterday? ‘Twas indeed like the Giants of old.
OSP sent material and comments. I spent some time in St. Louis over the years. In fact, I almost wound up working for the MP (long ago, now). Thanks for the Alaska pictures. "We Are Marshall" strikes close to home, of course. I instruct graduate classes for them now and then, so shuttle back and forth to Huntington - not a bad thing as there's lots of rr activity over there. I have not seen Crossfire Trail. Virginia Madsen has been one of my favorites ever since I first saw her in "Long Gone," IMHO one of the best baseball movies ever. Then we have the Stooges - egad!
Heads-up: I will be offline after tomorrow as they have decreed that we shall go on the road for a few days. Thought I'd let you know; will definitely be back next week. Sept -Oct is always a crazy time for us.
Work safe
Greetings Tom and fellow classic train lovers....
May please have an extra cold Guinness, top up with cigars for the lads? Here's something for yourself too...
Puts some $$$ in the cigar box and Mr Wurlitzer.
EricX2000, nice pics there Eric, I can tell you right now that you done a few things that I allways wanted to do as a kid....engineer, truck driver, pilot... You lucky
Da Larsman, great covers mate! Isn't there a book that would go along just nicely with that Northern Pacific? Something about steam era, or do I remember wrong?
coalminer3, stay safe on the road mate!
Thinking about the 4-4-2 Atlantics here and of course the Milwaukee Road class A's. But was the PRR E-6's the next best thing in this wheel arrangement? Was the A's the only ones that were oil fired and did any have stokers?
SP 4-4-2 #3001 on #54 taking on water.Southern Pacific 4-4-2 locomotive #3001 on Train #54,the pre-streamlined "San Joaquin Daylight," is stoppedand taking on water in this early 1930's view at Modesto,California.
Photographer: Ted Hopping
CNW 4-4-2 #1098 at Crystal Lake IL.A friendly wave from the engineer in the gangway ofChicago and North Western Atlantic #1098 tells those whoview this scene there was time to spare while taking onWater at Crystal Lake, Illinois, 1949.
Photograph By: Fred C. Stoes
Baltimore & Ohio 4-4-2 Loco #1474 A classic high-speed Baltimore & Ohio Atlanticlocomotive #1474 poses bewfore the camera in the1930's.
Photograph By: Paul Eilenberger
Central RR of NJ 4-4-2 #592.
In this 1939 view a Central Railroad Co. of New Jersey4-4-2 center-cab locomotive is captured at rest in anunknown yard.
Photograph By: Unknown.
WABASH Atlantic loco #621, 1930's.A graceful high flying Wabash Atlantic locomotive #621poses for this 1930's shot.
Photographer: Paul L. Elienberger
Milwaukee RR 4-4-2 #4/6-car pass, 1949. A nice Milwaukee Hiawatha locomotive #4 is seen withtrain at the crossing near Deerfield, Illinois, 1949.
Photographer: Fred C. Stoes
Credit: Yesteryeardepot and Northeastrailfan.....
Ahoy Cap'n Tom ‘n fellow travelers at the bar!
HAVING A HULLUVA TIME LOGGING IN! Used Da Bossman's log-in TWICE just to see if I could get on!! <groan> Here it goes again . . . hope it works this time!!!
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
Ruth my deAH, a marvelous weekend it was! Now it's back to reality, huh A mugga Joe with a jolt if you please, a round for the house ‘n treats for the crittAHs. Boris my good man <??> feed the gang ‘n that LARGE jar of PPF is for YOU! <grin>
I stopped by on Sunday with a few random selections of covers, didn't have anything original to offer. Then I thought about it all - what's the point of putting up "good stuff" when there's apparently no one checking us out - at least no one worth a rat's patoot! Getting mighty frustrating trying to get some adults in here who are interested in joining us in the discussions taking place. PAGE ONE covers the way we do things quite well. <alas> I think the overwhelming numbers of people using these forums have no interest in dialogue . . . hit ‘n run <if that> or just browse away ‘n go there merry way.
WE NEED OUR OWN SITE!! I'll pay for the thing - let's get moving!
Ok, got that off my chest! Now to the business at hand . . .
Jints pulled out a WIN with a terrific goal line stand that kept the "Skins" from scoring in the last minute of the game! Sorry Pete - I'll take NFL games that run 3 hours anytime over soccer! Really a great victory for the JOISEY JINTS ‘n at least a shot at getting back into the "hunt."
Mets are maintaining . . . Yanks look like wild card winnAHs . . . Should be some fine matchups come October!
Speaking of the fall ‘n October - so, we're gonna "do" the Oktoberfest again, huh Well, I'm NOT about to try ‘n squeeze into those funny little short pants <leather at that!> this year! <groan> Makes the pitch of my voice CHANGE! <uh oh> The hat No problem - but what's with the little green feather
Put me down for a team in the Dart's Grudge Match tournament. Any set of dates in October is fine with me!
Not much to add to what I've already commented on in my most recent posts - other than to echo my KUDOS to Wolfman Pete for those fine photos of his Amtrak trip! AND to Cap'n Tom for those fantastic views of Alaska ‘n especially Mt. McKinley from his experiences aboard the Alaska RR Denali Star! <double wow!!>
Hard to believe that ANYONE could view those Alaska photos and NOT make some sort of comment! <geesh> Takes all kinds and believe me, we've had more than our share! <groan>
Just picked up on the morning posts from CM3 I'm NOT Shane! ‘n Jan . . . good to see the two of you "in."
Yeah, Bahstun Sox are "in" . . . don't really have much to say about the AL competition, but the Sox do have an awesome bunch to contend with. Wrong time of the year to lose any forward momentum though . . . Go NFL Jints!
Sorry you'll be gone for the remainder of the week - you'll be missed. I'll try to keep to the mid-morning "slot" though - just to keep things going for Da Bossman!
Yeah Jan, there IS a Northern Pacific "cover" to compliment the steam era:
Here's a few more book covers, a few NOT shown B4 . . .
Greetings Tom and fellow classic train dignities....
Would it be possible to have a top up for me and my comrades please? Extra cold Guinness, top up on whatever they're having and cigars....here's for yourself as well.
Da larsman, that's great thanks! "Jump....twist....slide....moonwalk and split...." OUCH! Shouldn't have done the last thing........ sore I tell ya.........nuuuuurse! I can't get up....nuuuuurse! Please do continue down to the next post in this thread...this embarrassing.
Also, while looking for the Classic Steam Era book I came across a Super Steam Era 1925-1945. So this mean THREE more books for my X-mas list.....maaan! geesh! Santa will have to bring another sleigh and some pusher reindeers.
Sounds interesting with "our own" site, what did you have in mind?
Great covers as always!
Now Arriving on Track #1
Six Pack Special Number Three
RR advertisements from the Classic Era
Streamliners
Sacramento Northern
Soo Line
Texas & Pacific
Sumpter Valley Railroad
Colorado & Southern
Enjoy!
Tom
A pint of Bathams please RUTH.
JAN Glad you enjoyed those photos I wish I could have had more time so that I could have a look round the station at Raton. As we climbed the Raton Pass I kept wondering what it must have been like in steam days with those big Santa Fe steamers pounding up the grade. At the east end of the pass we passed a town, I guessed that is where the helpers were stationed for use on the bank.
Thanks for those great photos of the Atlantic locomotives. That wheel arrangement was not too common in the UK but there some very elegant versions produced by the Great Northern and Great Central Railways.
ERIC Did you have a chance to visit Raton station on your stays there. I wonder who is responsible for the track over Raton Pass if Amtrak becomes the only trains to use the pass, although it can be used if there is a major problem on the alternative route I suppose.
Thanks for the photos of the different types of transport you have been involved with. There are some classic forms of traction. Of No 701 and the X2000, which was you're favorite to drive.
LARS Glad you liked the photos, it was a good experience to travel in the Sightseer car over a long distance, although the scenery was not quite the same as in Tom's great photos of Alaska.
Things were happier in the house after the bride's Chiefs managed to get a win yesterday; we will probably go to a game later in the season.
Glad you going to join the darts team, those from the Second Class Saloon will be after revenge this year.
Many thanks for those great book covers, they are all good, but I think those two on the Northern Pacific are marvelous paintings.
CM3 Many thanks for the link to the Billerica & Bedford Railroad. I see the Ffestiniog Railway in Wales influenced the design.
I guess the non-stop run of 382 miles was quite a hard turn for the crew, on the LNER non-stops the crew was changed half way through the corridor tender. The LMS advertised a non-stop train for a while, but although it did not call at an intermediate station between London and Glasgow, there was stop to change loco crews just outside Carlisle station.
Have a safe trip on the road for work. I shall miss you at the bar while you are away.
TOM Great to talk to you today. Hopefully more fall like temperatures will be in evidence for the Mentor Oktoberfest. I know it is H&H's favorite time of year not to mention the pleasure BORIS gets from putting on the Lederhosen I hear the Second Class Saloon guys have been in secret training for the ‘Contest'.
Great set of classic ads for the Six Pack Special #3. To think at the time it would have been possible to see all those in the ‘Streamliner' ad in operation, indeed it was a classic time for American railroads.
I have got my 35mm photos back but having a problem, again, getting them where I want them off the disc, the brides thinks she knows how to, so I should get them loaded soon.
I have three ‘classic ships from San Diego harbour taken by the bride.
The Star Of India, I believe.
Quiz Question Does anyone know in which film this last ship starred in.
Well LEON a round please.
Hi Tom and all,
Leon the usual brew please, Tui`s all round for the crew.
Tom. Great Six Pack post and enjoyed all your pics over your last few posts. "She who shall be obeyed" expects all jobs to be done YESTERDAY, or even LAST WEEK! Great pic of you, Pete and Eric at the Trainwreck Saloon. [who took the pic Eric?]
Pete. Really enjoyed all your photo`s of your trip an the Chief, good to see it still stops at Raton, their was a rumour that they were going to divert all traffic over to the Belen line. Yes, the Derek Cross on the Rimutaka site is the famous Scots photographer, he loved NZ railways for it`s narrow gauge big steam loco`s and the scenery. Would love to be at that A4 anniversary, what a site four A4`s would make, real eye candy!
Eric. Great posts and photo`s mate, thats a SAAB Draken is`nt it? You certainly had a great variety of transport jobs, was driving the X2000 your greatest experience? Somehow I can`t see passenger trains ever coming back on the line here, their has been a lot of rural decline, population wise, theirs not much support for long distance bus services here either! Great photo of "Our place" saloon bar, whose layout is it on?
Lars. Great book covers as usual, keep the steam loco`s coming mate! Nice reposting of BK`s early entries as well.
CM3. Many thanks for the link to the narrow gauge site, will have a look at it properly when "Da Boss" is satisfied with todays redecorating programme.
Jan. What a great choice of steam photo`s in your posts, although I have a few diesel likes such as the F7, the PA, and of course the BR Deltic.
Fergie. Nice to see you again, hope you have your sea legs back!
Pete. Was that ship in the film "Master and Commander" [Russell Crow]? My better half reckons it was in the latest "Pirates" movie!
See ya, Allan
Good morning Captain Tom and Gentlemen!!
Leon, an early breakfast plaese! Coffe and a Cheese danish!
Short on time this early morning. But I had to stop by and see what happened today.
Lars – No, I never “drove” a jet. But I did my military service in the Air Force. Which was very interesting during the cold war. Top! I know the Snakes will smash the Mets if they get a chance! Interesting books (as usual)! I noticed that The Gulf, Mobile and Ohio was called the Tigrett Road. What is the story behind that? Hey, I made a comment about Tom’s Alaska photos! I love his pictures and always make some comments. Illinois Central! Interesting books! I think I would pick the one called Monday Mornin’ Rails! Sounds very interesting.Tom – I’ll sign up for the Can-Am County Dart’s Chanpionship trophy! Where is Boris?No, I never flew the fighter jet. But it reminds me about my time in the Air Force. Nice ads! I like the first one, Streamliners! I am not big on steam streamliners with the exception of Milwaukee Roads’ trains. But I like the diesel streamliners. The Soo Line ad is also a good one.
Recevied mail, thank you.CM3 – Yes, it is a SAAB J35 Draken (Dragon) from the mid 50’s. A Mach 2+ fighter. You are correct about road bases and installations inside mountains. Even the Swedish Navy has/had a base inside a mountain. They could take destroyers and submarines inside. That base is not far from where I used to live.JanOlov – Sorry to disappoint you (or is it myself?), but I never was a pilot. I did my military service in the Air Force though. I am afraid I can’t give you an answer to your question, if PRR’s E-6 was the next best thing. Interesting pictures!Pete – No, I never visited Raton station. Never thought of it. I’ll see if I can find the article I read about Amtrak being the only trains over Raton Pass. It is hard to compare #701 and the X2000. 701 was built in the late 40’s and kind of complicated to operate. The X2000 is modern and easy to run, everything is computerized. From comfort point of view, X2000. From the feeling of really operating a locomotive I would say Class F 701. Sorry, but I have no clue what movie the Star of India starred in. Beautiful pictures of a beautiful ship!!Allan – Yes, it is a SAAB J35 Draken jet fighter. Not in service any more. “Our” Place saloon is on Tom’s layout. I would say the years with the X2000 was my greatest experience. Very busy years, but interesting and rewarding. Things may change even in NZ! Maybe you’ll have more passenger train service in 10 years!
Sage Creek Trestle, Cut Bank, Montana.
Hello Tom and all in - I'll take pancake breakfast please, with home fries, juice and coffee. Oh, and I'll have some Peameal Bacon on the side please.
That allows me to answer Ron's question - kind of hard to describe other than to say peameal is like English style bacon (what the heck help is that to you I ask!) - well instead of being fried up crispy it is cooked but softer. Kind of tastes the same.
Here's a picture
http://www.realcanadianbacon.com/
And here is a useful description from Wikipedia which kinda helps. I reckon you may well have had your bacon this way on your trip to the UK and Ireland you mentioned a while back Ron.
"In the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland, bacon comes in a wide variety of cuts and flavours whereas bacon in the United States is predominantly what is known as "streaky bacon", or "streaky rashers" in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland. Bacon made from the meat on the back of the pig is referred to as back bacon and is part of traditional British and Irish breakfasts. In the United States, back bacon may also be referred to as Canadian-style Bacon or Canadian Bacon"
As for spam - yes you can still get - we used to get fed it at school certainly back in the 1970s/80s - - which is probably why the Monty Python team featured it. Personally I could not get to like it - I guess some people do. You can deep fry it in batter and make Spam Fritters I believe. I still would not fancy them! Maybe Jan can put them on the menu some time?
Next up some info esp for Pete (but maybe also for Allan depending on what DVD system you use) - and of course anyone else interested in the British Scene. I got this of a news group I belong to. The films are superb and were made by British Railways in house film unit - here's the info:
"On Tuesday, the first volume of the BFI's DVDs - On and Off the Rails will be released in NTSC format for the USA and Canadian Market.
http://www.kino.com/video/item.php?film_id=878
You'll notice that the contents are identical to the BFI's release but are marketed under the KINO label with different packaging and with no reference to the BFI on the front."
Here's some more info on the contents:
"On and Off the Rails (over 4 hours long), contains classics from the video compilations including Blue Pullman, Snowdrift at Bleath Gill and John Betjeman goes by Train, along with films new to the series such as This Year - London, The Diesel Train Driver and On Track for the Eighties. A booklet containing an introduction and film notes by BTF historian Steve Foxon accompanies the discs."
From the dedicated website:
http://www.britishtransportfilms.co.uk/
Allan - I enjoy those meccano magazine covers too, wonderful artwork - I remember reading my father's old ones and then picking up back numbers in second hand shops - I have a few years worth from the 50s and 60s - require more effort to read than anything presented to the target age group now I think! I think you can still get copies second hand for about 2 pounds each for the post war years. Pre war are more expensive - I guess you had to save them carefully to stop them getting collected in a scrap paper wartime drive!
If you scroll down this interesting page there is a great example of cover art - world's largest boat lift lock - not sure where it is though!
http://www.btinternet.com/~a.esplen/mecc.htm
And you could scroll down this page for a picture that Tom will esp enjoy - a classic Canadian scene!
http://www.btinternet.com/~a.esplen/models/MeccanoEnthusiast.htm
Pete - yes, good to see your SW Chief stuff - how was the journey time wise, comfort wise, service wise - did it live up to expectations of both of you?
No British Brews at the Toronto Roundhouse - I think they just brew north America style beer - but very good stuff.
I was talking about Tom Rolt to a colleague of mine, who had his book about the Tallylyn Railway preservation story which he has lent me - so I'm looking forward to reading that. Here is some info from the railway's site and a link:
"By this time (1940s) the service had been reduced to two trains three days a week, in the summer only. The Talyllyn somehow escaped the nationalisation of railways in 1948, as officialdom thought it too run-down, and the level of traffic too low, to be worth taking over. Derailments were increasingly common and the railway's decline accelerated, culminating in August 1949 with Dolgoch cracking its main frames; this was repaired by welding. Sir Haydn died on 2nd July 1950, and whilst his widow kept the line going until the end of the summer season on 6th October, it then appeared that the railway had closed for good. But fortunately it was not to be. A group of enthusiasts, led by the engineer and author Tom Rolt, called a public meeting in Birmingham and the Talyllyn Railway Preservation Society was formed"
From:
http://www.talyllyn.co.uk/history.html
Pete - 1st day of the high speed Chanel tunnel link and move to St Pancras is 14th Nov. The Friends of the NRM have a tour scheduled - out from Waterloo on 13th Nov on the old route to Brussels and back on 14th to St Pancras. That would be good!
That A4 trip sounds good - I should get to Newark or Grantham to watch it (or Little Bytham perhaps!) Is the date scheduled yet - presumably they want to commemorate the actual date of the record run to the day?
Eric - Nice selection of pictures from your career Eric!
hopefully you can download the waterways map from the link below. But it is schematic and does not differentiate between rivers and canals - except by name (ie the ones called ‘canals' are man made). I've put these under a separate entry in the hope this avoids the wide page phen. Tom mentioned - Tom - does that work? Ie does the wide page only happen if the message has the long link in it - that message goes wide page - not every message on the page of Our Place?
On another question could the Raton Pass close if that Amtrak service was taken off for example?
Lars - nice tribute to BK, as others said - when I joined first time he still posted now and again and I always enjoyed his posts - you selected a couple of classics - maybe he will return to visit us from time to time in the fullness of time.
Cheerio
DL
Here's the looooong links:
Map:http://www.britishwaterways.co.uk/images/BW_Waterway_map_and_addresses.pdf
Interesting list of dimensions which effectively shows whic canas are narrow and which are broad - most were narrow really - some very much so:
http://www.britishwaterways.co.uk/images/Craft_Dimensions_tcm6-71620.pdf
Interesting list of tunnels and dimensions:
http://www.britishwaterways.co.uk/images/National_list_of_tunnels_tcm6-71612.pdf
Intersting facts ont his tunnel - I read it had an electric tug until 1954 which pulled boats through using an overhead witre like a trolley car! I could nto find any pictures though:
http://www.waterscape.com/servicesdirectory/Harecastle_Tunnel
Regards
The much needed rain, initially forecast for more than 2 inches, hasn't materialized <again>. So the arid conditions continue in mid-continent USA. But the good news is tomorrow we'll see the temps begin to become more like Fall!
It's TUESDAY - help yourself to the coffee ‘n pastries - on the house today! Breakfasts from our Menu Board though are "for sale"! <grin>
(repeat) Coming up in October:
(repeat) The 2nd Annual Darts Challenge ‘n Grudge Match against the thugs gang from The Second Class Saloon will take place over a three day period - beginning on Thursday ending on Saturday nite. Best two out of three wins the Can-Am County Dart's Championship trophy. "Our" Place will field two teams of 2 each ‘n 2 alternates - so Boris, that means we need SIX guys total! <uh oh> Watch for the ‘sign up'!
Customer Acknowledgments (since my last narrative)
Monday - Sep 24th:
CM3 Shane (coalminer3) at 9:12 AM: Figured the Marshall flick would "work" for you. While I knew the story, we hadn't viewed the movie ‘til the other night - it's been added to our DVD library. Movies like that never seem to get the "play" in the theatres that they deserve. Quite frankly, I don't recall seeing it advertised for very long. Anyway, well done - but I'd have picked another actor for the head coach. He did an "okay" job, but somehow I wasn't convinced of his "down hominess" if you follow my drift. Ahhh, so what, eh That's why I'm a retired sailor instead of movie critic!
We viewed the "Snowy River" flicks recently - both worthy of showing at the Emporium! Sequel wasn't bad at all - great scenery in both along with some fine looking "hosses."
Thanx for the "heads up" regarding your planned absence from the bar . . . always helps to know! [tup ] Just leave the quarters IN ADVANCE of your trip! <grin>
Emails received ‘n responded to - thanx!
Guess you're feeling somewhat "relieved" now that the BoSox have made it to the playoffs. Was there any doubt Of course! Just be thankful they had such a huge lead to squander . . .
Figured you'd have visited St. Louis in your travels from days gone by. BUT we're talking about recently - you know, since the inception of jet aircraft! Ahhhhh, but to think about "when" one could actually take a train from "wherever" to St. Louis Union Station ‘n return. Yeah, must've been a grand time! HEY - wait a minute! I recall those times! <grin>
Are you going to provide that "ace" reporter's coverage for our 2nd Annual Dart's Challenge ‘n Grudge Match coming up in October
Many thanx for the visit, chat, round ‘n quarters!
Jan (JanOlov) at 9:36 AM ‘n 12:23 AM: Steam locos - rounds, tips ‘n cigars! Does this guy ever sleep?!?!? Seems to be always logged in . . .
Lars (LoveDomes) at 10:53 AM: Many THANX for signing up for the 2nd Annual Dart's Challenge ‘n Grudge Match! And I didn't even get the "ad" out yet!
I think the thought regarding having our own web site pretty much has died on the vine. We've been through it all via Email ‘n here at the bar. I'd rather NOT get into it again. Why Simply put - we don't have the nucleus of support needed to make it work. Good Gawd Gertie, when you think about how few we really are in keeping this place up on the Forum's Page . . . I appreciate your concern - really do. But, let's let this GO - at least for the present time.
Soo
Good Morning Barkeep and all Present; coffee, please; round for the house and $ for the jukebox. It's going to be another warm day over here with temperatures in the upper 80s.
Something didn't look yesterday after I replied to Pete's question regarding long-distance steam locomotive runs on the L&N. So I had Boris fire boss the east wing, we strapped on our cap lights, and went to the "L&N room" to get the right answer.
Auxiliary tenders were used on the "Florida Arrow" which operated between Chicago and Miami. This was a joint PRR-L&N-ACL-FEC run. A 4-6-2 originally hauled the L&N portion of the run (Louisville-Montgomery) Later,
4-8-2s handled the train. These locomotives had an auxiliary ender lettered for the "Florida Arrow." You can find a picture of one on p. 162 of Prince's book, Louisville and Nashville Steam Locomotives.
In 1940, the "South Wind," an all-coach streamliner began operation between Chicago and Miami. This, too, was a PRR-L&N-ACL-FEC run. The L&N used a r/b streamlined 4-6-2 (L&N 295 in tuscan paint) with a large capacity tender (20 thousand gals.) for the "Wind."
The engine was tuscan to match PRR cars. This locomotive operated 490 miles between Louisville and Montgomery without (ideally) stopping for coal. The train did take on water at Nashville and Birmingham. There was a 7-minute station stop at both cities, so you can see that they really had to work fast. You can find more pictures and a sample timetable on pp. 163-165 in Prince's book. Charlie Caster's book, The Old Reliable, has some additional information.
Moral: Never rely on memory (I think!)
Lars stopped by with IC and related material.
Pete - I'll cast a vote for the "Surprise" being in "Master and Commander." I enjoyed the scenes in that one where they stopped at the Galapagos. Good story.
Allan visited with comments.
Eric - Sage Creek trestle! I haven't been out that way in a long time. I can't tell which way you were facing when you took the picture, but I do remember the GN station being right near the bridge as all of a sudden the westbound was "airborne." Speaking of which, at least I did well with my aircraft identification.
DL sent lots of links which I will get to when I return.
OSP provided a good six pack today. I was especially taken with the Sacramento Northern material. Had a friend in Tennessee who modeled that road because he spent a lot of time around it in his younger days. I also enjoyed the picture of the different diesel paint schemes. Got your e-mail and will reply.
Your post hit just as I was ready to send this oneThe reporter is probably still on work release, but we'll see what we can do. Amtrak 50 and 51 were reinstated after being discontinued - a long and complicated story with a fair amount of personal involvement by several of us in the area - that would be a good one for the rendezvous as well. Anyway, it's running and we're glad to see it even though its only three days a week. I heard ugly rumors about the diner being taken off (i.e. downgraded) on 48 and 49 recently (SNARGH!)
I will try and post again later today, but if not, see you all next week.
Greetings Master Tom and gentlemen....
Another rough night at work and I'm knackered.... I thought that I'd stop by anyhoo to say hello and get myself a quick pint and all that.
So, if you don't mind barkeep an extra cold Guinness for me, top up with cigars for the lads and something for yourself....please
Puts some $$$ in the cigar box and Mr Wurlitzer....
siberianmo, nice railroad ads Tom . I'd have no problem whatsoever to find a place on my walls for the Streamliner one..... Hope to see some more of your great Alaska pictures again.
pwolfe, "As we climbed the Raton Pass I kept wondering what it must have been like in steam days with those big Santa Fe steamers pounding up the grade" border="0" width="23" height="15" />." Tell me about it mate... I tend to do that sometimes reading my books... Great pics of the ships !
Gunneral, ANY 1st generation is a nice diesel and occasional 2nd too of course. Do NOT like the modern ones at all mate...
EricX2000, well mate, you haven't disappointed me at all . As for the PRR E-6's, I like them almost as much as the Milwaukee Road's class A's. Remember reading somewhere that the E-6's were good machines and well liked by the crews. Hope to see some more interesting pictures from the old country in the east...
DL - UK, interesting post my good man....
As for BK, I never met him, but I hope to do at some point, sounds like a nice chap. If anyone happen to speak with him, would you mind awfully to give him my very best and all that please.
Thanks
Ruth my deAH, a mugga Joe with a jolt AND give Eric TWO of whatever he'd like! <geesh> Surely didn't mean to "wind you up" with my ramblings. Had NOTHING to do with you . . . Here, take a sip of THIS fine "stuff" . . . <grin>
Boris, no need to look so forlorn, mate - the small jar of PPF is right where it always is - just feed the crittAHs their "due" ‘n help yourself! <grin>
So, what have we today Pretty good material to check out as those who turned out didn't disappoint!
I see Cap'n Tom "jumped" on a couple of questions directed my way - no problem for me, saved me the research! <grin> Anyway, I didn't have a "clue" regarding the GM&O question!! THANKS!!
Many thanx for the e-mail Bossman - I just may take you up on the idea of coming out to St. Louis. NevAH say nevAH . . . just that I'm pretty much spur of the moment with things like that, so as the Boy Scout motto goes, "Be Prepared"!!
Sailing ships from Pete - Jan with the steam locos - a visit from down under where Allan lives ‘n of course our West Virginia report from CM3 I'm NOT Shane! Wasn't really a bad day at all. Then the NEW day began with Eric our night owl ‘n Dan with all kinds of insights! Then along comes our man from West Virginia (again) and our Glasgow Contact! Has all the makings of a fine day!
Eric, I love wagers ‘n can "taste" my winnings already! <grin> A case of my favorite brew will be hard to locate - but a wager is a wager! And by the way, I KNEW you didn't pilot the jet - just yanking your chain.
Shane, you'll be missed at the bAH . . . Go Sox from Bahstun! Would love ANOTHER World Series between my Mets 'n your Sox - where are you Bill Buckner?!?!?
Patriots are off ' runnin' - what's new, huh Jints at least aren't "zip" for 3 . . . some daylight being seen!
Really enjoyed the spate of ads from Cap'n Tom - had not seen any of ‘em B4 at the bar! Nice work. Really "dig" that streamliner poster!
Time again for a little "something" to generate some interest ‘n discussion . . .
Wolfman Pete ‘n Cap'n Tom should especially enjoy these, huh
Ruth, I'll be waiting in our "secret place" to get a leg up on the <ahem> admin work! <blush>
Boris, ring the bell - a round on the Manager on this fine day!
Good day Tom and all present at the bar. Drinks are on me and just a quicky for me. Sorry for the absence, but I'm rushing to get ready for a trip to Florida. I know it doesn't sound very exotic, but business calls me there to Tampa. My son and I are looking to buy a truck (Peterbilt or equal). There just isn't much around here to pick from. Trucks are in short supply because of Katrina. My son wants to get into the hauling business. Big bucks are to be made. Some haulers are taking down 20K a week with just one truck. I don't know when I'll be back, but hopefully in just a few days. Too bad there isn't a train going that way. There used to be one that ran from Jacksonville to Los Angeles, but lack of ridership, shut it down.
Pete: I think the preference for DC motors, has to do with their torque characteristics. DC motors have higher torque at low speeds, needed for long, heavy freight consists.
DL: Thanks for the link to peameal bacon. Sounds like a good product. I'll have to try getting some.
Jan: I can see from the pictures of "Atlantics" that the B&O RR also used some belpaire fire boxes, not only the PRR.
Back in the Day - Number Three
The Chiefs of the Santa Fe
Some say the 1950s were the last of the glory days for American classic trains. If true, then the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway (AT&SF - Santa Fe) was perhaps the most storied of the lot.
The Super Chief, the premier passenger train of the Santa Fe, was also known as "The Train of the Stars." The train made its eastbound voyage from Los Angeles, a "neighbor" of Hollywood and the "stars' who enjoyed the amenties offered between southern California and Chicago.
Amongst the many features found aboard that train was a private dining room, called the Turquoise Room. An experience for the gentry and celebrities seeking something set apart from the mainstream for railroad travel.
The Super Chief's route paralleled America's most famous highway, US Route 66 - the main street of American dreams.
A typical Super Chief consist from 1951 to 1956:
A typical Super Chief consist from the early 1960s (all-Pullman section):
<consist information from Wikipedia.com>
Super Chief being serviced at the depot, Albuquerque, New Mexico. March 1943. (Public Domain - wikipedia.com)
AT&SF Promotional material <Image from multiple sources>
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
The Chief offered upscale bedroom service between Los Angeles and Chicago. Its slogan, "Extra Fast - Extra Fare" exemplified the "rolling boudoir" acceptance for Hollywood
A pint of Bathams please RUTH. I see you and Leon have been quite busy since my last visit.
ALLAN It would be a shame if the Raton line were to lose its traffic. I wonder now that the line is not seeing a lot of traffic, if it would be possible to run some steam excursions on the line, I am sure they would be very popular.
Yes the four A4s will be a wonderful sight (and sound). I bet no one would have believed, when BR steam finished on the East Coast Main Line, that it would be possible to travel from London to Edinburgh and back using three A4s over 40 years later.
Thanks for the info on Derek Cross. He was a great railway photographer. He did two steam albums with a Mr. Anderson on steam in Scotland, which are truly masterpieces.
The HMS Surprise was in Master and Commander. I don't know a bout the pirate movies but below deck there is an exhibition all about pirates. AAAAAAAAHHHHH Jim lad etc.
ERIC Thanks for the answer on the 701 verses the X2000 in the driving differences. What was the top speed of the 701.
Many thanks for the kind words on the photos. I will pass them on to the bride; she takes a much better photo than I do.
Great photo of the Sage Creek Trestle, is that an Amtrak train approaching the trestle.
DL I used to like the occasional Spam Fritter, I really miss the corned beef I used to get in England. The corn beef here is a lot different; I can't recall seeing any of the Fray Bentos corned beef at all over here.
Many Many Thanks for the tip on the BTF films released over here. I am going to place an order after I have post this. Over 4 hours,it sounds a bargain to me. It is almost worth the price seeing 60017 on the non-stop Elizabethan in the 1950s and I shall look forward to seeing the film of Rail 150 at Shildon as I was there in 1975.
Enjoyed the link to Meccano, I had the ‘Quayside Crane' now long gone I'm afraid.
We had a good trip on the Chief with an excellent and friendly sleeping car attendant and a good dining car crew. The car attendant was most apologetic that we were 6 MINUTES late into Kansas City. The only slight down side was the conductor would not let people off for a smoke unless it was a designated smoking stop, not while it was a stop to load passengers and baggage, which pleased the missus but not me. Also the track was rough in places while in the sleeper, but all in all a great trip. The proof being the bride wants to go on another long distant Amtrak train.
That does indeed sound a good trip run by the friends of the NRM. The three A4 trip from London to Edinburgh is scheduled for July 5-6 next year. This is the nearest weekend to the July 8th anniversary.
Many thanks for the links to the canal system as I have said before my old house backed on to the Oxford Canal and I see Newbold tunnel was on the list. That was very interesting about the electric tug in Harecastle tunnel, I had not heard of this before. The tunnel is visible from the train and I have always wondered about the colour of the water there, and the tunnel has a ghost. Thanks for sharing.
CM3 490 miles is a long distance on one tenderfull of coal, I guess in was a matter of pride by the engineer and fireman that the locomotive did not have to take coal on.
I bet the streamlined L&N #295 looked great in the Tuscan paint. I guess if 295 was not available an ordinary liveried locomotive stood in.
I enjoyed the book Master and Commander as well.
Really hope the reporter can be found to comment on the Dart's Match. I suppose the question of ‘Danger Money' will come in to it.
JAN Glad you were able to call in the bar after a rough night shift.
The Raton Pass must have been a great line to travel in steam days, with the sharp curves giving great views of the locomotives working hard.
Glad you liked the ship photos.
LARS Sooner or later you will forget to give BORIS his PPF and the secret hiding place will be a secret no more, still not long before the Penthouse Suite will be yours again.
Many thanks for the Missouri Pacific book covers
No, Leon. Not tonight. I have to leave right away.
Just wanted to say that I'll be back tomorrow. The doctor gave me order to get some extra rest after getting into some physical problems at the rehab. Nothing to worry about!
See you tomorrow!
Wednesday's Witticism
No matter how hard the winter, spring always comes.
Mid-week in mid-continent USA ‘n the temps have fallen into Fall!
C'mon guys, the coffee's ready, pastries freshly loaded into The Mentor Village Bakery case ‘n our <light> ‘n <traditional> breakfasts are ready for ordering!
WEDNESDAY at the bar is OPTIONAL Toy ‘n Model Trains Day!
Congratulations to Lars (LoveDomes) for making the 2,300th Post at the reborn bar!
Tuesday - Sep 25th:
CM3 Shane (coalminer3) at 8:13 AM: There resides in one of my wall mounted Lucite train display cases an all yellow - smoothsides coach - with the PRR markings. Supposedly is a replica of the Southwind . . . . way back in my mind's eye, I recall seeing a train like that - or better yet - a train with mixed passenger cars, some were indeed yellow. Goes way, way back though . . . cudda been!
Glad you found the 6-pack of interest ‘n in particular the Sacramento Northern - a road I'd never heard of previous to my "discovering" that poster! The things we learn here at the bar . . .
Sure wish a sequel to "Master and Commander" would be made - but <alas> I've read where the tempermental spoiled brat "star" won't go for it. <barf> It is a fine flick with a great continuing story yet to be told.
You refer to trains by their numbers, which of course "forces" me to look ‘em up on the Amtrak web site - which ain't easy! <grin> Anyway, I'm assuming you're referring to trains passing through Huntington, WVA - yes/no Diners?? Taken off! Good Gawd Gertie, what's next - guys coming aboard at the stations with trays of sandwiches for sale And those "conical" containers of juice. Ooooooooooops, I remember those days <daze>!!
Sad that the only way to travel to your part of the country from here is via Chicago. I could drive to Huntington faster than it takes to make connections up there, etc. Flying - well that's ‘nother matter. I'd prefer the drive - I-64 covers some decent landscape.
But, "back in the day" . . . ahhhhhhhh.
We'll be here upon your return - just be sure to come "equipped" with rolls ‘n rolls of quarters!
Thanx for the visit, chat, round ‘n cash!
Jan (JanOlov) at 8:16 AM: Our Glasgow Connection never sleeps! The man is always "lurking" about the decks.
Should have a few more weeks of Alaska fotos - then I'll have to come up with something else for Photo Posting Saturday! <grin> Glad you are finding them to you liking . . . actually, what's NOT to like, eh
I'll pass along any ‘n all comments to BudKarr (BK) should he contact me again . . . thanx! For those who "know" him - he's NOT a rail enthusiast or aficionado by any stretch. Just found this place something special ‘n he really fit in quite well amongst those who gave a Rat's Patoot about the bar ‘n the way we operate it.
Thanx for the "top up," cigars ‘n cash!
Lars (LoveDomes) at 9:15 AM: Busy morning with a most welcome appearance by our Manager. Appreciate the dedication to duty - OR does it have something to do with Ruth ‘n her break time Hmmmmmmm.
Your Email has been received ‘n responded to . . . thanx!
Hey Mate! Gotta go easy on the guys - don't want you "lighting up" the customers! <geesh> I mean, it's tough enough keeping the place opened as it is! <double geesh> BUT if it's any solace to you - I'm in complete agreement
Ruth my deAH you are radiance personified! Mind if I just stare at you for a few hours <grin> Ok, ok - I know . . . a mugga Joe with a jolt, a couple of crullers from the bakery ‘n a round of that spiked OJ for the gang! Yes, Boris - feed the crittAHs ‘n the PPF jar is for YOU!
Slim pickin's since my last visit - with nothing of substance from anyone other than Da Boss ‘n our Bar Chandler! Sure will be "different" around here without the guy who is NOT Shane!! <grin>
Didn't attach any significance to my 2,300th post . . . . just happened! <grin>
Gotta make a quick reference to Da Bossman's concerns: I'm FINE - don't need the time "off" - this is "play time" (as you've called it ) and NOT work. Not to worry, mate - but I appreciate your concern!
My BIG THING about these forums has to do with ignorance, rudeness 'n taking advantage. Something that there is NO control over when it comes to the "freebie" nature of this thing. I'm in favor of paying with control over who can 'n who cannot access OUR material! But yeah, we don't have the numbers we once had to make it work . . .
Now to be really concerned - well let's keep a "watch" on our Swede out there in the desert called Phoenix. What's going on ???????? Maybe an e-mail to the "core" would be in order, huh Doc knows best, mate - so let's not hear anything about "no problem." There IS a problem so take care of it.
Some great stuff from Cap'n Tom (what's NEW?!?!?) with that fine submission on the Santa Fe Super Chief 'n Chief . . . . really enjoyed it!
I wish we had someone at the bar who could elaborate some on those fine trains. We HAD a guy way back when - called himself Trainnut484 (Russell) - but he too skeedaddled without so much as a goodbye or reason . . . he was a Santa Fe kinda guy if my memory is correct. I can still "see" his avatar . . . Reason I ask is I've wondered WHEN domes were included in the consists and were they on both Chiefs
So Wolfman Pete stays off the ‘puter when the thunder boomers come to town! BettAH safe than sorry, but I must admit to ignoring the precautions myself. Every now ‘n then the Mrs. asks, "Shouldn't we shut off the TV?" and I tell her to just go over ‘n hang on to something made of metal! <grin> Only kidding . . . Come to think of it, I bettAH take a look to see if the lightning rod I had installed on her broom is ready for Halloween flights!
Ohhhhhhhhhhh, how I long for those carefree days at sea where my only concerns were keeping the engines on the line, screws making turns ‘n everything ship-shape below decks. Sometimes we just don't know when we have it so good, huh
For Pete! Some fine looking ships in those pix your Mrs. took. So as Cap'n Tom said, WHERE ARE THE TRAINS!?!?! <grin>
Bet you didn't know that I spent a couple of summAHs aboard sailing vessels when I got out of the Navy. Kinda was bumming around, looking for work when I was in those long periods between "merchie" trips. Signed on for work as the engineer aboard a sailing vessel. What! you say . . . yeah, the modern ones have diesel back ups. It was a blast. The Mrs. was a "bit concerned" that I'd be spending far too much time with the tourists (female) than what I was there for. HA - fooled her. <grin>
Glad you enjoyed the MoPac covers! I'd like to see some of those stations that you ‘n Cap'n Tom see on your trips in Missouri. Some REAL railroad history I'll bet . . .
Ooooooooooops, forgot to ask: So, what about your hat from the train wreck bar????
Counting down the days to our my return to the Penthouse Suite!
Some MORE from my archives of book covAHs! <grin>
Ok Ruth, I'll be waiting in our "secret place" to get going on that <ahem> admi
Hello Tom and all in
Pint of Harvey's best Bitter for me please.
Tom - I liked the Santa Fe info - very informative - contributes to the learning process! Nicely complemented by Lars' picture selection.
Ron - good luck with your trip (you're probably en route). I guess you will have to check out a few trucks! As Tom says the passengers service you mentioned was the Sunset Limited - that this is not running yet is a great shame - as I think this was really he only coast (nearly) to coast service in North America. A route I'd like to ride.
Pete - I think you will NOT be disappointed by the BTF DVD I'm sure - will wait to here what you think - there are 5 volumes of the DVDs now from the BFI and they have great stuff - films made to the highest professional quality ‘back in the day' - some by top film makers. I have a number and enjoy them (I was watching Farmer Moving South last night - all about how BR picked up a farmer, farm equipment. Staff, animals house contents the lot and moved them by special train from Stokesly (near Whitby) to Hartfield near East Grinstead in Sussex overnight.
"The farmer's move from Skutterskelf Hall Farm, near Stokesley in North Yorkshire, to Perry Hill Farm, Hartfield, Sussex takes place on the 31st December 1950 - a date that was recorded as the coldest night of the year."
South West Chief only 6 minutes down - what's going on with Amtrak when that sort of timekeeping is going on? Nicely done - and the bride enjoyed it to - is she now a convert. So, time to plan the next long distance Amtrak journey - what will you go for?
Thanks for the A4 dates - they're in my diary. The tour has already sold out though!! See:
http://www.steamdreams.com/content/view/42/58/
Harecastle Canal Tunnel - Orange Canal water is presumably due to some ore deposit it goes through I suppose?
Cheers
Hello all - Trip Report
Drinks are on me whilst I recount my Toronto to Cochrane by Ontario Northland Railway experience.
Here's the first part of my trip report which I've promised for a while. So here goes.
I'd booked the ONR tickets in advance but did not want them posted internationally - so asked for them to be ready at the ONR counter (open every day the service runs - which is 6 days per week - not Saturday) at Toronto Union Station. I went in a couple of days before we were due to travel to collect them and the friendly member of staff gave me the ‘heads up' on the journey.
I must say that friendly staff was a feature of the whole ONR operation - from booking over the phone, to travel on the Northlander Train and through to our experiences at Cochrane and on the Polar Bear Express.
On the day of travel the service departs Toronto at 8.40 so we were advised to get down there about 8.15 and queued up accordingly. There were not a great deal of passengers - but a decent handful. Passengers were also already at the station waiting for The Canadian as it was also one of the days Via's Transcontinental was due to depart.
We would be leaving from Track One - so we queued at one end of the station near the walk to the CN Tower.
It was not too long before we were advised to board and we went up on to the platform. The train consist was 3 seated passenger cars (all one class) and 1 buffet counter car. Traction was one of these (GP9) - backed up with
http://www.onrgallery.com/july/july0305.html
an auxiliary power unit (presumably for train supply) that looked rather like the units I associate behind the driving / power cars of E or F units (hopefully one of you guys can help me out with this) - looked like a vintage equipment, complete with its round port hole windows in any case.
Passengers cars were very comfortable - I understand that they were 1990s rebuilds of old single Decker GO commuter cars - interior were spacious. My only criticism is that the window layout was of smaller windows - this pic pretty much shows the cars and consist
http://www.onrgallery.com/previews/preview0073.html
and this shows it at Cochrane rather well:
http://www.onrgallery.com/previews/preview0346.html
I'm not sure if the predominantly white livery is for the best - it shows dirt - but inside these cars were nicely done.
It's a shame there is no proper diner, but we took some food to supplement the buffet counter car (which in fact served some good stuff) as we would be on board all day -until at least 7.25 pm.
Anyhow - we left on time going east bound in nice sunshine - giving great views of The Canadian three or 4 tracks across. Anyway - we head out and up the Don Valley (under the impressive double deck bridge that takes the TTC subway across the valley) along the route used by GO Transit trains to Richmond Hill (I'm not sure if we are on CN or CPR trackage - CN I think) (where oh where is Trolley Bob Rob when you need him?.....)
An uneventful ride takes us up past Lake Simcoe (?) and on towards the first stop Washago.
I must say it does not take too long before the scenery gets better and better - lakes, woods, remote cottages beside lakes - we're in Toronto's cottage country as we head up through Bracebridge to North Bay - it really is picturesque country and very reminiscent of the paintings made by the Group of 7 artists - if interested in that see:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Group_of_Seven_(artists)
But it is how you imagine this sort of Canadian landscape.
This goes on for mile after mile - twisty stretches, lakes, forest, sun shine and great views opening up over lakes, some small some big. All very interesting.
North Bay is where we cross the southbound service - a similar consist, and there is a prolonged stop here. We've got late unfortunately (about 35 mins), but this stop does not permit us to catch up much time. There is quite switch over of passengers at North bay with many getting off and a similar number getting on.
The stretch of line from North Bay, through Temagami to New Liskeard is especially scenic - with stretches of line in a narrow valley taken at low speed due to the twisty nature of the track.
Of interest (if you know of him) is that this is the area where the somewhat controversial character Grey Owl pursued his interests back in the 1920s - more on that is here:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grey_Owl
Definitely an interesting individual!
After New Liskeard - and completely taking us by surprise - the landscape opens up into rolling farming country for quite some distance.
Of interest along this northern stretch is Temiskaming & Northern Ontario Pacific number 701 on display in Englehart, on a plinth beside the station - see
http://www.steamlocomotive.info/vlocomotive.cfm?Display=1871
Sadly this is looking like it needs a bit of care, what with it being open to all weathers in what must be a harsh environment - I reckon over here that would be restored to steam able condition - but I guess such a remote community just does not have the ability to raise the funds for such a restoration - it was smart looking loco as you will see.
Heading on towards Cochrane we go back into forested area with lots of signs of logging activity. At a few of these stations up here I note that ONR has connecting road coaches which wait for the train in the station yards - providing excellent integrated transportation services for the area. One of these heads on to Hearst (where the passenger service no longer runs although the lines go on north from Cochrane) - where it would be possible to join up with the Algoma Central passenger route from Sault Ste Marie (Agawa Canyon route). That would make a good round trip - give enough time!
After Swastika and Metheson the 4 of us make up 50% of the passenger complement on the train!
Eventually we roll into Cochrane about 1 hour late - which is a shame. Lucky I rang ahead to tell the folks at the restaurant at the Station Hotel we were coming - as they stayed open JUST FOR US ! (We arrived about 8.30pm - they usually close at 9pm and would not normally have taken bookings for us) - pretty lucky as I don't think there is any other eating choice in town apart from a Tim Horton's 24 hour café!
The Station Hotel is owned by ONR (who staff the station right through to 11pm too with full service tickets etc available) - that shows you how friendly and hospitable they are in this small town where ONR's Polar Bear Express is responsible for bringing in a lot of tourism.
The Station Hotel (all part of the depot building) would certainly be the place to stay - but unfortunately when I arranged the trip they were booked up by coach parties also travelling the next day on the Polar Bear Express. ONR fixed for us to stay at a nearby Motel - and paid for taxis to take us there and back too - so once again great service from the ONR staff.
Also at Cochrane is a railway museum
http://www.museumsnorth.org/cochrane/
Which essentially consists of a train parked up in the open beside the station with various cars you can look at and a steam loco - but once again the ravages of the weather are taking their toll on this vintage equipment. Once again it would be nice to feel that boiler warm again!
All in all this is a very scenic trip - in some ways of more interest than the more notable Polar Bear Express. So Tom, if it is on your list of trips to do in Canada then I would very much recommend it - the fares are pretty cheap too - and the accommodation costs booked through ONR were very reasonable.
Return journey was pretty much the same apart from being a Sunday the passenger loading was heavier - and sadly due to delays awaiting freight services on the line north of Toronto we got later and later - being 2 hours late back into Union station which was rather poor.
More on the Polar Bear Express next time.
Greetings Tom and fellow Knights Of The Turntable....
May I trouble you for an extra cold guinness, top up with cigars for the lads please? Here's something for yourself asd well....
Da..Da..Da Larsman, nice pics as always my good man . Never been much of a fan of Missouri Pacific, but I understand that they had some really nice trains....look forward to see more covers.
DD1, I didn't know that first. I always thought that PRR and GN were the only ones with Belpaire fireboxes....
siberianmo, another great post mate . I really liked the AT&SF on the different Chiefs. Wouldn't mind to have an heavyweight Chief with a Hudson....yummmmy! Didn't the Super Chief exist as a heavyweight limited as well?
pwolfe, had a even worse night last night mate, one of those "off...days" you sometimes have, when nothing works your way etc..... I'm sucker for old ships as well, clippers, ocean liners and yachts.... . More nice pics to go.....great!
EricX2000, sorry to hear mate.... Well, enjoy your time "off" and see you soon again.
.....and some ten wheelers to go.
Southern Pacific heavy 4-6-0, #2371Southern Pacific 4-6-0, #2371, Class T-40, was believed bymany authorities to be the heaviest Ten-Wheeler ever builtand run in the United States. It is seen here sitting atSanta Cruz with a section of the "Suntan Special" waitingto return to San Francisco via Watsonville Junction.
St. Louis Southwestern 4-6-0 Loco #657 The fireman in the cab gazes off at the photographer asthis pristine shot of Cotton Belt 4-6-0 #657 is recordedfor posterity. The #657 was one of the original G0 classof Cotton Belt Ten-Wheelers with Walschaert type valvegear. Built by Baldwin in 1913, it had 69-inch drivers.
Photograph By: Paul Stringham
Soo Line 4-6-2 #2722/Pass, 1948Soo Line Pacific locomotive #2722 is seen on anafternoon passenger train at Enderlin, North Dakota,1948.
Photograph by: Robert Gray
Chesapeake & Ohio 4-6-0 #89
A Cheseapeak & Ohio ten-wheeler #89 sits in storage inan unknown yard.
Photograph by: Unknown.
Photograph from the original Paul Eilenberger Collection
Lehigh Valley Camelback 4-6-0 #1623 Lehigh Valley 4-6-0 Camelback locomotive #1623is captured in this view at an unknown location
Credit: yesteryeardepot, ironhorse, prrsteam.
Edit: Does anyone know if and where I can find this 3 DVD set from Pentrex in the PAL system for Europe?
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