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"Our" Place reborn! 3rd Year of adults 'n REAL Classic Trains in a special environment! Locked

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  • Member since
    December 2002
  • From: Phoenix, AZ
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Posted by EricX2000 on Wednesday, July 25, 2007 11:51 PM

Good evening Captain Tom and Gentlemen!!

Leon, my friend! What do you have to offer tonight? Yeah, yeah, my favorite Ham sandwich! Sugar cured! Don't forget the pickles! And som more of that Tui! Yepp, put it on Manager Lars'!

After a day in a not too hot Phoenix, it is nice to be able to stop by here at the Bar by the ballast! After that it is time to hit the sack. Feels good!

Tom –  You still pay more for the gas than I do, $2.64 (rounded). We also got a lot of humidity here today. Got over 1” of rain in about half an hour in the afternoon. More is coming very soon. Smile [:)]

I have to check this new creature, Artie the Owl.Smile,Wink, & Grin [swg] I just have to find him.

It is very nice to be back to more normal routines again.Yeah!! [yeah] Took a little bit longer walk today, 2 blocks before the heat started. That was nice!

Thanks for all the ATSF info!Thumbs Up [tup] Very interesting indeed!Thumbs Up [tup] When I saw the picture of the Santa Fe FP45 I remembered I have a picture of one too. So here it is:



EMD FP45 #98.

I prefer the conventional Warbonnet scheme (red). Wink [;)]

I also have a (bad) pix of a Santa Fe in the Kodachrome livery! I took it back in 1984.Wink [;)]

Nice pictures from the CanAm room! I think I saw Boris across the tracks behind the Bar.

Now I understand your frustration, Tom! I am glad I wasn’t there, on that VIA train. I know I would have exploded!Grumpy [|(]

Lars –  A lot of glow in your eyes every morning you get here and look at Ruth!?!!Whistling [:-^]
As a matter of fact, Phoenix did not get that hot today! But we got some welcome storms dumping a lot of rain in our back yard.

Thank you very much Sir, for taking care of my food tabs until I get back to work!!Thumbs Up [tup]Thumbs Up [tup] So I can spend more in the bar.Oops [oops]

I hope Ruth was most helpful with your, hmmm, admin matters!Whistling [:-^]

Nice book covers, as usual!Thumbs Up [tup]

CM3 –  Thank you, it is very nice to be back! Thumbs Up [tup]

I had the same thoughts about the portable radio too. Heavy but, with some strength, it is portable. With real vacuum tubes!Wow!! [wow] What else could you ask for?

Kind of a mean manager, don’t you think? Smile,Wink, & Grin [swg]

DL –  Great to be back, thank you!Thumbs Up [tup] I always take it easy! I just sent the Mrs to the store to get some stuff for me!Wink [;)]

DD1 –  That expression is the one I still use to explain to my friends why I don’t have the latest of everything, “I’ll get one when they have imporved them”. No one believes me, but it kind of works! Smile [:)]

I beg to differ!Wink [;)] I don’t think English is dying. Quite the opposite. But I am concerned about not making English the official language of this country! In order to become an US citizen you have to be able to speak, write and read English! So why the heck are they allowed to use Spanish when voting?????Confused [%-)]

Pete –  Sorry to hear about your problems with the link.Sigh [sigh] I tried it tonight and it worked fine.

I just had the same thought when I saw you in the picture from that bus, he just got something to eat.Wink [;)] After reading Tom’s report it must have been something real good to put that smile in your face.Grumpy [|(]

Allan –  Stent or bypass surgery, it certainly gives you a different perspective on life. That is for sure. It was just pure luck that my problems were discovered before it was too late! Smile [:)]

 

 

Eric 

  • Member since
    September 2002
  • From: NZ
  • 242 posts
Posted by Gunneral on Wednesday, July 25, 2007 10:12 PM

Hi Tom and all,

Tui`s all round please Ruth, it`s good to be back at the BarYeah!! [yeah]

Eric. Glad to see you back on deck and making such a good recovery, I was lucky a couple of years ago and had only one stent inserted, it has certainly given me a new perspective on life.Sign - Welcome [#welcome].

Tom. Great Pt II on the Santa Fe. and also top pics of your train room.Bow [bow] I did get your e-mail about the bithday list, I think that I mentioned it in a post a while back.Confused [%-)] Thanks for the grade crossing site address, NZ and the US use virtually the same signage.Thumbs Up [tup]  Cyberspace is such a great font of info as you say, Tui is now world famous, not just in NZ!Big Smile [:D]

DD1. Yep, we are running on 3ft 6in gauge , it was cheaper and easier to build with the variation in terrain over here, they still managed to run big steam such as 4-8-4 Northern type, K and Kb class, and 4-8-2 Mountain type, J and Ja type, which Diana is. Diana is kept in mint condition, we have her over in Hawkes Bay now and then during our annual Wine Festival week in February, our high summer, she sounds great coming up the valley here, as the song goes " Hear that Train blow"! All the loco`s here have to do a lot of reverse running on a lot of rural branches, hence the cow-catchers and head lights on both ends, plus as you said it cuts the cost of installing turntables.Thumbs Up [tup]Thumbs Up [tup]Thumbs Up [tup]

Lars. Super coverage of the Santa Fe, even a shot of Amos and Andy in their original paint job.Wow!! [wow] As you will have guessed SF is my favourate road [after the LNER of course]Whistling [:-^]Thumbs Up [tup]Thumbs Up [tup]

Pete. My old spotter books are "lost in space" , with our migration to Oz in 1969,  then our move to NZ in 1972, and moving 3 times over here they have somehow disappeared, as the old saying goes "You`ll find em in the last place you look" it does`nt seem to work for me!Confused [%-)] Those later beaver-tail observation cars were`nt as pretty as the original one on the "Coronation" and the "West Riding"? The later one`s were very angular at the back and I think they looked something like a GWR railcar in some respects. Enjoyed all your posts and pics.Yeah!! [yeah]Thumbs Up [tup]Thumbs Up [tup]

DL. The Gresley thread is really interesting, he did build that Bo Bo electric loco that the class 76 was based on in 39/40, it`s number was 6701, i`ve got a photo of it somewhere,Confused [%-)] he never ever saw it run due to the war and the work on electrification being stopped, and his death of course. Thanks for the very interesting links on the beaver-tail cars and the 76 loco`s, I heard some of the original Woodhead loco`s ended up on the Dutch railways.  As I was saying to Pete I much prefer the original "Coronation" beaver- tail car shape and the original colour of two tone blue, they do`nt look as attractive in the BR maroon do they?[I`m a bit biased!]Cool [8D] I liked your bit about no trains to Bude now, we had the Bay Express here, Wellington/Napier daily both ways, but that has gone the same way too!Sigh [sigh]Thumbs Up [tup]Thumbs Up [tup]

Mike. Thanks for all the great links, i`ve got a video of The Duchess of Hamilton in steam last year taking QE to Wales for some special visit, [Nick may know about that?] anyway, I had a great session going through the links.Big Smile [:D]Thumbs Up [tup]Thumbs Up [tup]

CM3. Good to see you on board again and thanks for the interesting threads.Thumbs Up [tup]Thumbs Up [tup]Thumbs Up [tup]

Ron. Greetings and enjoyed you post.Yeah!! [yeah]Thumbs Up [tup]Thumbs Up [tup]

See ya,  Allan

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Posted by pwolfe on Wednesday, July 25, 2007 4:18 PM

Hi Tom and all.

A pint of Bathams please RUTH.Thumbs Up [tup]

ERIC Great to see you back in the bar and glad your recovery is going well.Thumbs Up [tup]Thumbs Up [tup]Thumbs Up [tup]

I can't get the link to Coal Tattoo at the presentSad [:(], I will try again later.Yeah!! [yeah]

Look after your self.Thumbs Up [tup]

MIKE Thanks for the linksApprove [^]Thumbs Up [tup]. They are very detailed links to the LIRR. Duchess of Hamilton is at the present having the streamline casing and being painted to look as she did in the photo at Hartford masquerading as Coronation. The streamline casings were removed after WWII.

LARS See you are having puter problems as well.Thumbs Down [tdn]

If I can get going in the basement I will be doing the modeling in HO gauge with hopefully some Brit trains as well.

Perhaps one day we can get over to BritainYeah!! [yeah] I am sure you will like the rail scene over there, unfortunately the loading gauge there would not allow Domes.Sad [:(]

Many thanks for the Santa Fe book coversApprove [^]Thumbs Up [tup]

I don't know how you find the strength to do all those "admin duties"Whistling [:-^]

CM3 Thanks for the details on Mike's links.Thumbs Up [tup]

The latest issue of Classic Trains seems a good oneApprove [^]I will see if it is in the local bookshop tomorrow.Yeah!! [yeah]

Enjoyed the joke.Smile [:)]

DL I was able to get your links to work.Thumbs Up [tup]

I remember often going to see, in the early weekday evening, the Manchester Pullman pass through Rugby, the next train was the Liverpool Pullman, which had ordinary coaches, as well as the Pullmans, the Manchester Pullman was all Pullman.

I see the design of the class 76s was credited to Gresley and Metropolitan-Vickers, there was a solitary example introduced in 1941, the year Gresley stepped down as CME of the LNER. The war stopped work on the Woodhead electrification and the rest of the 76s were introduced from 1950. That is a great link showing the 76s.Thumbs Up [tup] I was fortunate to go on some railtours on the Woodhead route, hauled by 76s in the later days of the line;Thumbs Up [tup] it was freight only, apart from diversions by that time, although I never saw a class 77 working.Sad [:(]

Also around that time I went on a shed visit to Manchester area depots and it included a visit to Reddish Depot.Approve [^]

As you say it was a pity that 18100/E2001 was not saved it was quite an historic loco.Sad [:(]

Thanks for the link to Sarah Siddons Thumbs Up [tup]I tried yesterday but could not find one, as you say it hard to find colour photos on the web of scenes from the 1950s and 60s.Sigh [sigh]

I have looked to try to find out more about those Metropolitan railway Electrics that were at Rugby before they were scrapped (I see Wikipedia is blank on the scrapping dates of most of the class), if you can help point me in right direction it would be great.Thumbs Up [tup]

RON Thanks for the round.Thumbs Up [tup]

I really enjoyed your post, when I was in New England I noticed the many English town names there. I noticed though at a museum at Sturbridge it was spelt how the local people say the town of Stourbridge in England. I would like to talk about this a bit more if you like.

I will type in your link to that interesting railroad after I post this.    

TOM I have noticed the rise in humidity around here as well and the mosquitoes seem particular mean lately.Thumbs Down [tdn]

I am having a bit of a problem with some links today.Sad [:(] I was able to read your second link on the bad LIRR crash. I wonder why the signal behind the stopped train was not red, instead of proceed caution.Question [?] I read that in 2005/6 there was not a single fatality by a passenger or crew onboard a train in Britain, although there was that Pendelino derailment that cost one life, earlier this year it is a marvelous safety record.Yeah!! [yeah] I doubt if the media has hardly remarked on this fact but if any thing does go wrong there are pages and pages slagging off the railways.

Perhaps we could go into business opening shopping malls next to railway museums, we could make a fortune.Big Smile [:D]I think where I used to live have escaped the floods, although Alan says he nearly got stranded in a pub during a period of heavy rain, he said the road outside the pub, at the bottom of a hill was like a river.

Many thanks for Part II of the Santa Fe.Thumbs Up [tup]Thumbs Up [tup]Thumbs Up [tup] It so good that the SF adopted the ‘Warbonnet' paint scheme instead of the Golden Olive pai

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"Our" Place reborn! 3rd Year of adults 'n REAL Classic Trains in a special environment!
Posted by siberianmo on Wednesday, July 25, 2007 3:07 PM

G'day Gents!

Visits from Lars (LoveDomes) - CM3 Shane (coalminer3) - Dan (DL-UK) 'n Ron (DD1) to make it a successful morning at the Tavern by the Tracks! Thumbs Up [tup]

The journey to Gaspé, Quebéc continues:

About 10 or 15 minutes before reaching New Carlisle, our "Service Manager" graced us with an appearance in the dome. He affirmed we'd be put on a bus to Gaspé. When asked "why?" his response was rather non-committal. Simply repeated that we'd have to take the bus to Gaspé.

This was infuriating to us, as we arranged the trip for a ROUND TRIP aboard the train with no overnight stay(s) in Gaspé and it made no sense to bus us up ‘n back. It was almost comical how our "Service Manager" didn't seem to grasp what I was telling him. And this in a bi-lingual country! <Sorry, but that's exactly how it "struck" the both of us.>

I asked if we could remain aboard the train at New Carlisle because of our return trip reservations to Montréal on that day - answer, "Non." When asked why, his response again was to the effect that we'd have to take the bus to Gaspé. Absolutely maddening, but that's what we did.

It was right before we boarded the bus that we found out from the Skyline car crew that using a bus between New Carlisle and Gaspé is not unusual when the train is late arriving from Montréal. That's when the "light" came on!

Of course! They'd not want to delay the "Ocean" at Matapédia for the return trip to Montréal. Which of course begged the question, "Why not just let both trains continue on separately??" Answer: Not expedient in that the "schedule" just had to be maintained for the handful traveling the "Chaleur." Yeah, right.

So, WHY weren't we informed of this in Montréal BEFORE we changed our airline flights, at considerable costs to us Question [?] After all, it was the VIA Rail people who advised us to do so given that they thought the train would be late returning on Tuesday. <geesh> <triple geesh>

Our car attendant said we could leave our luggage aboard. She seemed to be the only one who truly understood our dilemma, but was clearly "under the thumb" of the "Service Manager." Had it been up to her, we'd have remained aboard the train, sitting up in the dome, not being a burden to anyone. Or even perhaps taking in the ‘sights' of New Carlisle, whatever they happen to be. A pub Question [?] Just one wudda done quite well! Smile,Wink, & Grin [swg]

The bus was comfortable - sandwiches, snacks ‘n drinks were provided and they tried their best to accommodate the travelers. I think we were the only ones really disappointed in the turn of events, as it didn't seem to bother others.

There's more to this story, but it will be told in segments, as the fotos progress on!

Pix from Day Five: Monday - May 28th, 2007 - aboard VIA Rail's CHALEUR in Quebéc, Canada: <fotos taken from 09:15 on . . . >

Views from the Skyline dome . . .

(1)

(2)

(3)

(4)

(5)

Our bedroom car at New Carlisle

(6)

The Chaleur at New Carlisle

(7)

To the bus!

(8)

(9)

(10)

Stealthy Pete made it on board!

(11)

Are we havin' fun yet, or what!?

(12)

To be continued . . .

Tom Captain [4:-)] Pirate [oX)]

Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
  • Member since
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  • From: Chesterfield, Missouri, USA
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"Our" Place reborn! 3rd Year of adults 'n REAL Classic Trains in a special environment!
Posted by siberianmo on Wednesday, July 25, 2007 12:06 PM

G'day Gents!

So it's Wednesday ‘n time for another OPTIONAL Toy ‘n Model Trains Day! For the benefit of those guys who haven't seen this before, or who suffer from CRAFTS disease, it goes like this: If you have info or some Pix supportive of model railroading as a hobby, today's the day to Post it. Try to limit the fotos to about a half dozen . . . that's it! Thumbs Up [tup]

Some fotos from my Can-Am Trainroom . . .

The busy east side of the mountain range - looking north 

VIA Rail & Amtrak loco yard - and - approach to Can-Am City Union Station

Can-Am City Union Station

RDCs approaching Can-Am Mountain Village

Only on the Can-AM layout would you see this! And yes, the green building is "Our" Place!!

Three generations of "Canadians"

 

For those with an interest: The Can-Am Trainroom feature layout is the HO pike. This effort represents the best of experiences that my bride 'n I have had aboard VIA Rail in Canada 'n Amtrak in the U.S. (not very many with the latter!!) Anyway, the scenes are representative of things we saw in Canada.

For example, the Can-AM City Union Station arrangement is a combination of Toronto's grand Union Station with Vancouver's Central Station. <Amtrak can be seen at both locales.> The mountain run for the RDCs is a reminder of our fantastic voyage aboard BC Rail's Cariboo Prospector from N. Vancouver to Lillooet, BC back in 1999.

The period represented is 1990 to present and all of the permanent "stuff" on the layout has been selected to fit into that timeframe.  Exceptions are when I've created some commemorative runs - as with CPs "The Canadian". Those locos 'n cars are on display in a wall mounted case and are brought to "life" for special occasions!

Look hard 'n you'll be sure to find something to tweak your curiousity . . . Smile,Wink, & Grin [swg]

Enjoy! Thumbs Up [tup]

Tom Captain [4:-)] Pirate [oX)]

Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
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Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, July 25, 2007 11:57 AM

Good morning again Tom. I'm attaching a link to a small and little known railroad that has quite a history. It operates in my area and serves the industries in this area, including Northrop Grumman Ship Systems(formerly known as Ingalls Shipbuilding). I forget to mention how much I enjoyed the pictures of your Canada trip. Too bad the weather didn't cooperate.

http://www.All about Mississippi Export Railroad.htm

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Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, July 25, 2007 11:37 AM

Good morning Tom and all present. A round all around of whatever pleases you. Tom: I checked out that train wreck link and that was the one. I remember riding my bicycle down to see what happened. I was a bit off on the date. Cobwebs you know. Mike: My best friend's family got their first TV set some time in the early 50's, I remember it was a Motorola. The screens were all ghost images then and you had to fool with the rabbit ears to get the fewest ghosts. Ed Sullivan, Arthur Godfrey, Kukla, Fran and Ollie were some of the shows we watched. I would spend every evening at their house. My father finally broke down and bought a TV. It was a Zenith console. Remember when a common expression was "I'll get one when they've improved them". Lars and DL: I like those pictures of the British engines. I must comment about the track work. It is so neat and groomed with the sleepers and concrete ties. Our tracks never looked that good. BTW, you mentioned the Thames river. We have a Thames river here in Connecticut. I always pronounced it as "Tems", but here they say "Thaims" or even "James". There are many towns here in New England with the same names as in England, but people pronounce them different. Leichester, for example is pronounced "Lie chester". I believe in England it's pronounced "Lester". English certainly is not full of phonetics, but it is a beautiful sounding language. I love the precise sound of an Englishman, the lilting sound of an Irishman and the sound of rolling r's in Scotland. I'm not talking the Cockney or other dialects, but of the Queen's English as spoken by Richard Burton(I know he's Welsh), Alex Guinness, Allister Sim or Hugh Laurie. I cringe when I hear public speakers here. Although ex president Clinton spoke with a southern drawl, he was well versed in the English language. I was fortunate to have been brought up at a time when proper English was taught in schools. It has stuck with me and I regard it as an important asset, especially in the work place. So many people fail at job interviews because they can't speak well enough or able to express themselves. When I was in the work force years ago, when asked what was my greatest asset to the company, my reply would be "the ability to speak and express myself". As the French cherish their language, I cherish English. What with the Ethnic influx in this country and even in other countries as well, English is dieing. It might end up like Latin some day. Sorry for straying away from the main topic, but this being a bar, I'll bend anyone's ear who will listen and I haven't even had my first drink yet. Y'all take care. (Southern slang)

 P.S. When I first came here to Mississippi, everyone would say "y'all" and I thought they were talking about a type of sailboat.

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Posted by DL - UK on Wednesday, July 25, 2007 10:55 AM

Hello there

A pancake breakfast for me please, and yes, coffee and fruit juice please!

Thanks for your comments DD1 - I can't answer for the shopping sales - they all seem to do ‘em. Maybe if we ask the brides we'll get some clarity!!!

There's certainly plenty of steam diehards here - but also a thriving diesel and electric preservation scene. The electric locos in particular are lucky because there are no preserved rights of way wired for 25KV so they can't even run ‘em. One of the Class 86 electrics from the mid 1960s (built for the London, Birmingham, Liverpool and Manchester routes) has just been restored to a standard acceptable to run on the main network however, and has made some trips out.

Here's a picture of a Class 86 on a Pullman train

http://www.scienceandsociety.co.uk/results.asp?image=10438813&wwwflag=3&imagepos=5

And here are some pictures of a 1950s designed Brit electric locos - firstly a restored one and then some at work back in the day. These locos worked across the Pennine Hills (‘backbone of England') but I never saw them in action as the route was closed and the locos withdrawn about 1980 (despite having been heavily invested in during the 1950s)

http://www.the-siding.co.uk/class77/pages/27000.htm

http://railblue.fotopic.net/p20934909.html

http://railblue.fotopic.net/p20934917.html

I think I am right in saying that Nigel Gresley was involved in the initial design of these electric locos although none were built until after his death. Allan or Pete may know about this?

Pete - I think LT museum is still under closure with refurbishment work underway - so it must be a big re-jig they are doing. I'd like to visit their store in Acton which has open days from titm to time, but I've not got round to it.

Here some pictures of the ex gas turbine loco you mentioned (which I had forgotten about) - and some history which mentions the spell at Rugby. A shame to see it lasted until 1972 but was then scrapped.

http://www.therailwaycentre.com/Pages%20Loco/Recognition%20loco/Illus_80.html

Here it is in its gas turbine guise prior to the rebuild.

http://www.therailwaycentre.com/Pages%20Loco/Recognition%20loco/Illus_18100.html

And here is the preserved LT electric loco of the class you mention

http://www.squarewheels.org.uk/rly/stock/otherStock/SSiddonsRMW-NB.jpg

I don't seem to be able to find UK colour slides from the 50s and 60s up on the web like Mike locates of the US scene. Maybe they are all in the possession of Colour-Rail who seem to get credited for great images in the railway press.

I'd like to try and get to the GCR although I have a whole load of home jobs to do too - which is a nuisance.

Mike - Nice pic of the Duchess of Hamilton amongst another great selection of links.

Eric - great to see you back friend. Take it easy, as they say!

DL

PS I prepared this earlier - since then some other posts have come in - which I will address in due course but just wanted to post this anyway.

 

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Posted by coalminer3 on Wednesday, July 25, 2007 9:57 AM

Good Morning Barkeep and all Present; coffee, please; round for the house and $ for the jukebox.  Running a little late this morning as I took the huns to the dentists (hitch up the wallet vac).  School starts in about a month so we have to get all of this stuff done.  At least I only have to purchase uniforms for one this year.

Gas is $2.95.  Weather cloudy, cool and rainy - all right!  We don't have to mow!

Lots of material to look at today.

First off - welcome back Eric.  Good to see that you are able to "Sit up and take nourishment," as one of my old Maine Central buddies used to say.  Good to hear from you and also to see the pass voucher (rtte. And metro - not bad!)

Lars stopped by with Rheingold memorabilia and a bookmobile run, as well as a DVD to examine.  I have the ATSF Vintage diesels on VHS - it's a good ‘un. 

DL stopped by with comments and a weather update.

Pete also visited with comments.

Also, hello to New Zealand and our visitor from there.

Mike's pix, Mike's pix!

I have many memories of Montgomery, not the least of which was photographing GM&O RS1s in service.  There was a lot of rail activity there with several yards, all of which were friendly to visitors. 

The train shed at Montgomery was very similar to the one at Nashville, down to the glass decorations on the end. 

I shot pictures on the hill overlooking the curve along the river.  Not that long ago, Frostbite!   Anyway, look sharp at the car at the middle bottom of the picture.  Egad, Mildred, it's an ACL ventilated boxcar - interesting beast used to haul watermelons and similar cargo.  The emblem is for Atlantic Coast Dispatch. 

I also enjoyed the shots of the SCL and Georgia units - remember them well.  In 1996, Robert Hanson did a History of the Georgia Railroad.  About a year ago he released a History of the West Point Route - both of them give a good review of rail activity on those two lines. 

Also, for those interested in smaller outfits, check out H. Roger Grant's Rails Through the Wiregrass - A History of the Georgia and Florida Railroad.

Last, I especially enjoyed the shots of Jimmy D in the sleeper.  Had a flashback when I saw the portable radio - use that term advisedly - it was called portable because it had a handle.  My dad had a radio like that - ran off dry cells - it was a monster to carry.  Yes Boris, it had real tubes.

DD1 pictures were enjoyable as well,

OSP has sent a plethora of ATSF items.  And dome pictures to accompany his travelogue.

Weather rock - good man!  Incidentally, after 10-15 Rheingolds anything would look good.   Bobby Thompson also played for the Red Sox, but that was long after he broke Brooklyn's hearts. 

Long haul RDCS had better seats.  However, I did make a few trip on RDCs from Boston to Vermont - talk about lower back pain. 

Last - Classic Trains arrived today.  Amazing coverage of St. Louis back in the 60s (in color) - we'll talk more about this later; also a fine piece on steam locomotive engineering and development on the Santa Fe.

We'll close with a bit of humor since we haven't fired up the groan-o-meter in awhile.

A sales rep, an administration clerk, and the manager are walking to lunch when they find an antique oil lamp. They rub it and a Genie comes out. The Genie says, "I'll give each of you just one wish."

"Me first! Me first!," says the admin clerk. "I want to be in the Bahamas , driving a speedboat, without a care in the world."

Puff! She's gone.

"Me next! Me next!" says the sales rep. "I want to be in Hawaii , relaxing on the beach with my personal masseuse, an endless supply of Pina Coladas and the love of my life."

Puff! He's gone.

"OK, you're up," the Genie says to the manager. The manager says, "I want those two back in the office after lunch."

work safe

 

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"Our" Place reborn! 3rd Year of adults 'n REAL Classic Trains in a special environment!
Posted by LoveDomes on Wednesday, July 25, 2007 8:58 AM

Ahoy Cap'n Tom ‘n fellow travelers at the bar!

A hard time logging in this morning. Kept trying but my password wouldn't "take." Even used Da Boss' sign-in. If you've seen this B4 - sorry - having a "bad 'puter day' thanks to these "new 'n improved" forums. Yeah, right! Thumbs Down [tdn]

Ruth my deAH, it is a grand morning once again as I take in the radiance of that glow of yours! Wow!! [wow] A round for all - a mugga Joe with a jolt if you please. Boris, set up the treats for the crittAHs, ‘n the small jar of pickled pig's feet is for YOU! Thumbs Up [tup] Keep the change my lovely! Smile,Wink, & Grin [swg]

A grand beginning to the day with the return of our very good friend, Eric out there in hot, hot, hot Phoenix! 5-Thumbs Up [tup] Salute to Eric for a full recovery! Thumbs Up [tup] Thumbs Up [tup] Thumbs Up [tup] Thumbs Up [tup] Thumbs Up [tup]

For Eric: As Manager of this joint, all of your food requests will be on MY tab until you get back to work! Yeah!! [yeah] But, you'll still be responsible for the bar portion!! <grin>

Many thanks for the email response! Thumbs Up [tup] Hang in there, mate!!

For Cap'n Tom: Some super fine shots in that Chaleur journey you've been providing, Cap'n Tom! I expected those photos to be somewhat diminished in quality (based on your ‘warnings' to us) HOWEVER, that's hardly the case. You may be just a bit too critical on yourself. They look fine to me. Those views from the dome just "do it" for me ‘n takes me back to all of those trips I've made in dome cars. Wonderful thoughts! Thumbs Up [tup] Thumbs Up [tup] Thumbs Up [tup]

Part two of the Santa Fe provides an excellent ending to a great legacy. Good idea to split the information. But then, way back we were "battling" the long-winded and seemingly nevAH ending posts from one 20 fingers Al (aka: passenger fan - permanently installed in the Legion of the Lost - RIP). Anyway, enjoyed the AT&SF material. Thumbs Up [tup] Thumbs Up [tup] Thumbs Up [tup]

Appears as if the Cap'n has started something with that innovative model RR hoist system of his. Maybe Pete ‘n I will follow suit. Mine will be O-27 ‘n S gauge. What will yours be Pete??

For DL-UK: Thanks for the brew, Dan! The links worked out just fine for me. I think you guys are determined to convert Tom ‘n I to becoming Brit Rail Fans! Wouldn't be hard to do in my case. Smile,Wink, & Grin [swg] Just gotta find some domes over there . . . Smile,Wink, & Grin [swg]

Beginning to wonder if our friend Nick (nickinwestwales) has been kept offline due to flooding. Seems there was some mention of the rains and so forth in his early post of a few weeks back. Hope all's well with our musician friend! Thumbs Up [tup]

For Ron: I was even younger than Tom when that LIRR wreck occurred, and it doesn't ring a bell to me either. Very little conversation took place at our house, or that of my grandfather, when it came to trains wrecks. Understandable, given they were B&O career guys.

A bit more supportive "stuff" for the Santa Fe, that has wrapped up this morning . . . Thumbs Up [tup]

Before leaving, I do have to <ahem> attend to some admin matters. Ready, Ruth Question [?]

Until the next time! [tup

Lars

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"Our" Place reborn! 3rd Year of adults 'n REAL Classic Trains in a special environment!
Posted by siberianmo on Wednesday, July 25, 2007 7:03 AM

G'day Gents!

The finale to yesterday's "non-theme Tuesday" offering . . .

Now arriving on track #1 .....
Railroads from Yesteryear! Number Six

<Initially Posted on Page 246 of the Original Thread>


Used with permission from: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Formatting differences made necessary due to Forums requirements. Some heralds from other sources.


Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway



PART II of II


Paint schemes & markings

Steam locomotives


(copied from public domain)
Santa Fe #5000, the 2-10-4 "Madame Queen," waits on a Ricardo, New Mexico siding to meet an eastbound train in March, 1943.


(courtesy: www.trainweb.com)
Santa Fe #3751, a restored 4-8-4 originally built by Baldwin Locomotive Works in 1927, passes through San Bernardino in January, 1999.

Diesel locomotives, passenger

(copied from public domain)
The 1926 Chief "drumhead" logo.

Santa Fe's first set of diesel-electric passenger locomotives was placed in service on the Super Chief in 1936, and consisted of a pair of blunt-nosed units (EMD 1800 hp B-B) designated as Nos. 1 and 1A. The upper portion of the sides and ends of the units were painted gold, while the lower section was a dark olive green color; an olive stripe also ran along the sides and widened as it crossed the front of the locomotive.

Riveted to the sides of the units were metal plaques bearing a large "Indian Head" logo, which owed its origin to the 1926 Chief "drumhead" logo. "Super Chief" was emblazoned on a plaque located on the front. The rooftop was light slate gray, rimmed by a red pinstripe. This unique combination of colors was referred to as the Golden Olive paint scheme. Before entering service, Sterling McDonald's General Motors "Styling Department" augmented the look with the addition of red and blue striping along both the sides and ends of the units in order to enhance their appearance.

In a little over a year the EMD E1 (a new and improved streamlined locomotive) would be pulling Super Chief and other passenger consists, resplendent in the now-famous Warbonnet paint scheme devised by Leland Knickerbocker of the GM "Art and Color Section." Reminiscent of a Native American ceremonial headdress, the scheme consisted of a red "bonnet" which wrapped around the front of the unit, that was bordered by a yellow stripe and black pinstripe. The extent of the bonnet varied according to the locomotive model, and was largely determined by the shape and length of the carbody. The remainder of the unit was either painted silver or was comprised of stainless steel panels.

All units wore a nose emblem consisting of an elongated yellow "Circle & Cross" emblem with integral "tabs" on the nose and the sides, outlined and accented with black pinstripes, with variances according to the locomotive model. "SANTA FE" was displayed on the horizontal limb of the cross in black, Art Deco-style lettering. This emblem has come to be known as the "cigar band" due to its uncanny resemblance to the same. On all but the "Erie-built" units (which were essentially run as a demonstrator set), U28CGs, U30CGs, and FP45s, a three-part yellow and black stripe ran up the nose behind the band.

A "Circle & Cross" motif (consisting of a yellow field, with red quadrants, outlined in black) was painted around the side windows on "as-delivered" E1 units. Similar designs were added to E3s, E6s, the DL109/110 locomotive set, and ATSF 1A after it was rebuilt and repainted. The sides of the units typically bore the words "SANTA FE" in black, 5"- or 9"-high extra extended Railroad Roman letters, as well as the "Indian Head" logo, with a few notable exceptions.

Railway identity on diesel locomotives in passenger service:

Loco Type.."Indian Head".."Circle & Cross".."Santa Fe"..Logotype.....Starting Year.....Comments

ATSF 1 and 1A Yes Yes* Yes No 1937 "Circle & Cross" added to No. 1 after rebuild in May, 1938

EMD E1, E3, and E6 Yes* Yes Yes No 1937 "Indian Head" added to B units at a later date

ALCO DL109/110 Yes* Yes Yes No 1941 No "Indian Head" on B unit

EMD FT Yes* No Yes No 1941 "Indian Head" added to B units at a later date

ALCO PA and PB Yes* No Yes No 1946 "Indian Head" added to B units at a later date

EMD F3 Yes* No Yes No 1946 "Indian Head" on B units only

FM Erie-built Yes* No Yes* No 1947 "Indian Head" and "SANTA FE" on A units only

EMD F7 Yes* No Yes* No 1949 "Indian Head" on B units only; "SANTA FE" added in 1954

EMD E8 Yes* No Yes No 1952 "Indian Head" on B units only

GE U28CG No No No Yes 1967 "Santa Fe" logotype in large, red "billboard"-style letters

GE U30CG No No Yes* No 1967 5"-high non-extended "SANTA FE" letters

EMD FP45 No No Yes* No 1967 9"-high "SANTA FE" letters

Source: Pelouze, Richard W. (1997). Trademarks of the Santa Fe Railway. The Santa Fe Railway Historical & Modeling Society, Inc., Highlands

Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
  • Member since
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"Our" Place reborn! 3rd Year of adults 'n REAL Classic Trains in a special environment!
Posted by siberianmo on Wednesday, July 25, 2007 6:31 AM

<w/permission: http://www.scenic-railroads.com/>

Wednesday's Witticism

Some folks can see no higher than the steam from their own pot of stew.

G'day Gents!

The mid-point has been reached once again here in mid-continent USA. The menu board is chock full o' great selections for <light> 'n <traditional> breakfasts. Coffee is fresh 'n the pastries are fully stocked in The Mentor Village Bakery case. Let's GO! Thumbs Up [tup]

Topped off the wagon yesterday at $2.76 (rounded) up at "Collusion Corner." Got some outside work accomplished, but noticed the humidity is on the rise - which chases me indoors quick as a light diminishing from an extinguished bulb. Wow!! [wow]

Customer ACKNOWLEDGMENTS (since my last narrative):

CM3 Shane (coalminer3) at 9:13 AM: What can be better at the Saloon by the Siding than having our Resident WVA Connection begin the day for us?!?!? The clink of quarters, the drawing of the brew along with the discussion topics. Ahhhh, life behind the bar! <grin>

There's MORE going on in that lumber yard than is being revealed here . . . I know about those "false walls" ‘n such. All reminiscent of the "speak easy" days <daze>! <uh oh> The Mentor Village Cyber ‘n Poop Scooper Patrol is keen on finding those portable links to the internet. <double uh oh?>

Well, I know that I was on the correct train - but one can never tell with Stealthy Pete! <grin>

Not HBO connected here, so the answer is "nope." Some years back I watched some really good stuff on the "Boys of Summer," either on ESPN or . . . was at least a week of the Brooklyn Dodgers with all of "my" guys featured. I was in heaven, fer sure, fer sure. Taped it, of course. I "have" Campy - Gil - Pee Wee - Jackie - the Duke ‘n so many others to bring back the best of my early days. Ahhhhhhh.

I HAVE a weather rock! It was given to me as a "gag" gift from my "guys" in one of the places I happened to wind up as boss - a long, long time ago. Also have a "Pet Rock." Remember those?? How I'd love to have been the person to come up with those gimmicks - I know the latter made a zillion. Oh well, we takes what we earns in life, eh Question [?]

Appreciate the visit, quarters ‘n round! Thumbs Up [tup] Thumbs Up [tup]

Lars (lovedomes) at 11:06 AM Tuesday - July 24th: Can't imagine this place without our "man" Lars! [yeah=

That beer tray brings back some memories! Those gals in the annual Miss Rheingold contests were probably my very early first "fantasy" babes! Wow!! [wow]

And to think we used to PLAY along the 3rd rail of the S.I.R.T. <ommmmigosh> "Tommy, get away from THAT!!!" <not good>

Quite possible that our new friend, Jan Olov over in Glasgow may very well be caught up in the disaster unfolding in the British Isles. Rapidly rising waters are nothing to fool with - has a way of sneaking up on you, then . . .

I'm using a software package called "The Print Shop 20," which has more features in it than any twenty people I know would ever need, much less use. Anyway, it does a decent job with enhancements. However, when a foto is blurry - well, that's what you get. It takes out "minor" blurriness, but that's about it. Does well with brightening up ‘n so forth. And yes, of course it's work.  I have about a dozen blurry shots that make me feel very sad when I realize there's apparently nothing "out there" to create a fix. <barf>

All not lost in the Ether though, as I print out many of those Pix for my "old fashioned" photo albums. Have a great little digital photo printer that connects directly to the camera or ‘puter, and away she goes with 4x6 prints looking ". . .very well, very well indeed! <Pirates of Penzance in reference to a "different" Ruth, for those who follow these kinds of things!>

Many thanx for those fine book covers of the AT&SF - excellent supportive material for our "non-theme Tuesday." Yeah!! [yeah]

Round, visit, chat ‘n book covers most appreciated! Thumbs Up [tup] Thumbs Up [tup] Thumbs Up [tup]

Dan (DL-UK) at 11:09 AM ‘n 11:15 AM Tuesday - July 24th: A relief to know that all's still well with you. Hopefully your brothers concerns will not materialize.

Really wouldn't spend too much time being concerned about the "wide page" - it's an anomaly of these Forums. Apparently some "get it," whereas others do not. If you've tried to downsize the font of the URL and keep it on a separate line, that's about all I know to recommend.

Ah, relief! Pleased to know that all's not lost regarding your ability to view the Canadian Railway Adventure! Thumbs Up [tup]

Many thanx for the visit ‘n chat! Thumbs Up [tup] Thumbs Up [tup]

Ron (DD1) at 11:13 AM Tuesday - July 24th: You are correct, Sir! Taking care of ourselves should be priority #1 - the alternative stinks! Thumbs Down [tdn]

Here are two links that you may be referring to:

http://www.richmondhillhistory.org/LIRRcrash.html

Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
  • Member since
    December 2002
  • From: Phoenix, AZ
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Posted by EricX2000 on Wednesday, July 25, 2007 12:35 AM

Good morning Captain Tom and Gentlemen!!

Leon, old friend! Good to see you again. How about a Rumpsteak Café de Paris with all the usual sidings? But today I would like to try Tui's to drink!

Feels good to be back here again after a week at other places. My surgery went very well and everything is pointing up and forward. But even with all the time at home there isn't enough of it. So my first visit will be a little bit on the short side, I have a lot of things to read catching up. This time it is all from today, hmm, Tuesday. I just noticed it is a little bit later/earlier than I thought. Anyway, my comments about the past days will come one of these days! 

CM3 –  I found it, “Coal Tattoo”! Try this link!

http://www.oldielyrics.com/lyrics/the_kingston_trio/coal_tattoo.html

Tom –  ATSF!Thumbs Up [tup] Interesting info on an interesting railroad! I have to get back to this piece tomorrow and read about the Passenger train service!Smile [:)] For whatever reason I couldn’t find the Santa Fe X2000 under the on-time-trains! But on the other hand, that was a roundtrip Stockton - Fresno - Stockton. Hmmm, who knows?Confused [%-)]

Very nice pictures from your trip to Gaspé! It looks like it was a rainy day though.

Received mail today!Thumbs Up [tup] Response today or tomorrow!   

Lars –  Thanks!Thumbs Up [tup] Email received and responded to!

Nice SF book covers!Thumbs Up [tup] The Trademarks of the Santa Fe Railway and Peripheral Subjects is kind of like a book I have, General Instructions for ATSF Car Lettering!

DL –  Good to hear that you are on safe ground when it comes to all the flooding.Yeah!! [yeah] I saw all those pictures and videos from UK on TV several times every day while I was in the hospital. Hope your brother will make it without getting wet feet!Smile [:)]

DD1 –  You are right about us taking better care of ourselves!Thumbs Up [tup] Stents was something I thought would be the result from last week, but I was wrong. So now all I have to do is taking care of my heart and myself.Wink [;)]

Pete –  Hi Pete! Nice to see you again!Smile [:)]

Mike –  Thanks for the nice picture of the X2000 in Washington D.C!Thumbs Up [tup]Thumbs Up [tup] I am trying to remember the name of the conductor walking on the platform, but right now my memory doesn’t work at all. Anyway, that guy was a very nice and friendly person and worked on the X2000 for quite some time! I know for sure that I was in the cab when the picture was taken.

The future world’s oldest living Swede!?Question [?] Hmmm, I don’t know, are you refering to me?

17” TV set in 1957? That is exactly like the first TV set my parents bought in 1957.Wink [;)]

Allan –   Nice to see you again even if it’s just for a brief moment!Thumbs Up [tup] So Tui’s is a good beer?  Smile [:)]

 

 

 

Eric 

  • Member since
    September 2002
  • From: NZ
  • 242 posts
Posted by Gunneral on Tuesday, July 24, 2007 8:58 PM

Hi Tom and all,

Tui`s all round please barkeep.Sign - Welcome [#welcome]

Tom. Where on earth did you dig up the Tui Beer sign?Big Smile [:D]Yeah!! [yeah]  And, it`s got to be Santa Fe "All the Way" , great post.Thumbs Up [tup]Thumbs Up [tup]Thumbs Up [tup]

Mike. Saw your post just now, will have a look at your links ASAP!  No doubt they will be VERY interesting.Yeah!! [yeah]

Am a bit pushed for time at the moment so will catch up with you all soon with answers to all your queries.Bow [bow]

See ya,  Allan

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Posted by wanswheel on Tuesday, July 24, 2007 8:28 PM

Hi Tom and everyone, a round for the house

X2000 for the future world's oldest living Swede

http://www.railpictures.net/images/images2/x/X2000_-_a_Washington_Union_Station_16MAR_1993.jpg.81724.jpg

Dutchess of Hamilton in Hartford

http://www.railpictures.net/images/images2/b/BS22010001.JPG.13176.jpg

Ron, I don't remember the 2nd crash of 1950 because I was a 3-year-old in Iowa then. We moved to Long Island in 1955, just in time to watch the Dodgers on the radio. Dad finally bought us a TV set in 1957, near the end of summer. Hotpoint portable, 17 inch screen.

http://www.oldkewgardens.com/ss-lirr/lirr-0650-02-OL.jpg

http://www.oldkewgardens.com/ss-lirr/lirr-0650-12a-OL.html

DD1 pics

http://www.trainsarefun.com/lirrphotos/photos/DD-1-352-LICity-1950.jpg

http://www.trainsarefun.com/lirrphotos/electric%20-%20mu/DD1-350-MPShops-6-4-39.jpg

http://www.trainsarefun.com/lirrphotos/electric%20-%20mu/DD1-341-343-MPShops-8-26-39.jpg

http://www.trainsarefun.com/lirrphotos/electric%20-%20mu/DD1-356-SmokeWashr-MPShops-11-12-39.jpg

 2 LIRR websites, both jampacked with pictures

http://www.trainsarefun.com/lirr/lirrcontents.htm

http://arrts-arrchives.com/

After Nashville and Louisville, might as well put links to one more L&N train shed

http://www.trainweb.org/hotrail/odd/unionstational2.jpg

http://memory.loc.gov/pnp/habshaer/al/al0600/al0667/photos/006022pv.jpg

http://memory.loc.gov/pnp/habshaer/al/al0600/al0667/photos/006021pv.jpg

http://memory.loc.gov/pnp/habshaer/al/al0600/al0667/photos/006009pv.jpg

http://memory.loc.gov/pnp/habshaer/al/al0600/al0667/photos/006020pv.jpg

http://www.railpictures.net/images/s/SCL0301montgomeryALnov74.jpg.89987.jpg

http://www.railpictures.net/images/a/april15-2005-csx7872a-sharpened.jpg.49125.jpg

http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/pictures/1606/lnsys.jpg

Jimmy Durante

http://pro.corbis.com/images/BS001058.jpg?size=67&uid={782e040f-8fa4-4003-b80f-362b40534d23}

http://pro.corbis.com/images/BS001060.jpg?size=67&uid={f8025bbb-e2ac-414f-a315-8ece017fff18}

Trigger

http://memory.loc.gov/service/pnp/cph/3c20000/3c28000/3c28500/3c28588v.jpg

Mike
  • Member since
    February 2005
  • From: mid mo
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Posted by pwolfe on Tuesday, July 24, 2007 5:15 PM

Hi Tom and all.

A pint of Kimberley Mild please RUTH.Thumbs Up [tup]

DL Many thanks for the linksThumbs Up [tup]. That indeed is great London Transport museum in Central London,Approve [^], if I remember right,  it is next door to Convent Garden shops so the ladies can look at the shopsSigh [sigh] while us men folk can spend more time in the museumApprove [^], although when the bride to be was on one of her visits to England she was as interested in the LT museum as I wasYeah!! [yeah]. I think the museum was about to be refurbished shortly after our visit.

Yes the AC locomotive group have done well to save an example of each of the early AC locos,Approve [^]Bow [bow], it was a shame the early test loco E1000/E2001, which was converted from the Metropolitan Vickers gas turbine built for the Western Region,did not survive.Sad [:(] I can remember E2001 being stored along side Rugby steam shed for quite a while in the late 1960s.

 Talking about stored withdrawn locomotives, I recall about the same time, there was several ex Metropolitan Railway/ London Transport, electric locomotives stored near the old loco testing station. I guess they were on their way to a scrapyard in the West MidlandsSad [:(], I guess someone must have taken a photo of them and knows where they were scrapped.Yeah!! [yeah] but I cannot find out any info on them on the webSigh [sigh]

It is a shame the GNER got into trouble, as you say they ran a real quality service with their on-board staff being efficient and friendlyApprove [^]Thumbs Up [tup], at least in my experience.

Thanks for the ‘Beaver Tail' links.Thumbs Up [tup] It shows the amount of work that it takes to get them back to their former gloryYeah!! [yeah]. Will you be going to the GCR this weekend.Question [?]

Glad you are away from the Flooded area,Yeah!! [yeah] and the rivers are going down.Thumbs Up [tup] I heard that Rugby escaped the majority of the floods with places farther down stream of the River Avon being badly affected.Sad [:(]

I am sure LARS will enjoy the shopping links.Smile [:)]

CM3 I will have a look on the net and see if I can get to hear Coal Tattoo by Billy Edd Wheeler. Yeah!! [yeah]Almost heaven was quite a bit hit in the UK.

I have not been able to see much of the flooding on the TV. I read today that it is the worst since 1947. My hometown of Rugby used to be badly effected by flooding but they made improvements to the river and it is a lot better.Yeah!! [yeah]

LARS Totally agree with your comments to Tom on the Chaleur photos.Approve [^]Thumbs Up [tup]

Yes I meant to put an and between the Lionel and American Flyer.Ashamed [*^_^*] It seems with our basement it is one step forward and two back at the minute,Sigh [sigh] I guess it will all come out right in the end. A hoist system would be the way to go for me as well.

I had a look in at the other threadThumbs Up [tup] although I was having a problem with my photos on the puter yesterdaySigh [sigh]. I will have another look.Yeah!! [yeah]

I agree with you about the third rail v overhead. I guess that is why I enjoy traveling on the ex Southern Region lines in England where it is third rail where it is electrified.Approve [^]

Many thanks for the Santa Fe book covers, they do indeed look good.Thumbs Up [tup]

 TOM That is great news about ERIC with him being back home again.Thumbs Up [tup]Thumbs Up [tup]Thumbs Up [tup]

I, for one, will be sad that our Canadian Rail Adventure photos will be finishing they will always be a reminder of a really great time.Yeah!! [yeah]

Thanks for the link to the Australian track gauges.Thumbs Up [tup] It is good that they have an example of the triple-gauge track at the museum. Another thing that caught my attention in the link, was the length of that straight line of track, 297 miles.Wow!! [wow]

I didn't think there would be many spare seats on the Gold Star Service car. I bet it would be a great trip in the RDC as well.Approve [^]

Many thanks for Santa Fe Railroad from Yesteryear EncoreThumbs Up [tup]Thumbs Up [tup]Thumbs Up [tup]. Well worth reading again,

  • Member since
    February 2004
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"Our" Place reborn! 3rd Year of adults 'n REAL Classic Trains in a special environment!
Posted by siberianmo on Tuesday, July 24, 2007 2:19 PM

G'day Gents!

I see we've had visits from CM3 Shane - Lars - Dan 'n Ron. Nice morning at the Tavern by the Tracks! Thumbs Up [tup] 

The VIA Rail journey to Gaspé, Quebéc aboard the "Chaleur" continues:

Now for the "other shoe" that must be dropped. About an hour or so after we got settled in the dome, rumors began spreading that the train wasn't going to continue on to Gaspé and that we'd be put aboard a bus. When I pursued this with the car attendants, they said our "Service Manager" would make an announcement to explain what was going on. That never happened.

There's more to this story, but it will be told in segments, as the fotos progress on!

Pix from Day Five: Monday - May 28th, 2007 - aboard VIA Rail's CHALEUR in Quebéc, Canada: <fotos taken from 09:30 on . . . >

More views from the Skyline dome . . .

(1)

(2)

(3)

(4)

(5)

(6)

(7)

(8)

(9)

(10)

 

To be continued . . .

Tom Captain [4:-)] Pirate [oX)]

Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
  • Member since
    August 2006
  • 280 posts
Posted by DL - UK on Tuesday, July 24, 2007 11:15 AM

Hey Lars - I see you are just in as I posted that - come and have a beer whilst you peruse those 'special links' I posted for yer!!!

Sorry about the wide page problem (I don't get it wide paged).

By the way Tom, occasionaly I can look in (but not post) from another 'puter - I'm hoping to be able to do that - I think it will show the pics OK as I'm keen to see those Chaleur ones.

Cheers

DL

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Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, July 24, 2007 11:13 AM
Good morning Tom and all hands, a cup of your strongest brew if you please. Your're welcome to join me if you can handle the strong stuff. I'm glad to hear Eric is on his way to recovery. I never had a triple bypass, but did have two stents inserted two years ago. We got to take better care of ourselves. For DL, thanks for the four rail link. That explained everything. Also I looked at the department store links for Harrods.Liberty, etc. I would not have thought a store with such a reputation, would be putting merchandise on saleConfused [%-)]. Must be a recent thing. It's like asking for a discount at Tiffany's. I was wondering what with the love of steam in the UK, how the railway fan was able to embrace electrics. For CM3, I grew up not far from the NYC trackage and for the early part of my life, watched in awe the NYC electrics pass by beneath the viaduct on Riverside Drive and 155th street. Later on after moving to Long Island, did the LIRR absorb my interest. Mike; Do you or anyone remember the big train wreck near the Ideal toy factory on Jamaica Avenue around 190th street? I think it was around 1953 or 4. Many people were killed in that wreck. Time sure flies when you're having fun, so sayonara for now.
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Posted by DL - UK on Tuesday, July 24, 2007 11:09 AM

Hello Tom

I'll have something off the lunch menu please, and a beer to go with it - thanks.

Sorry about the wide page problem Tom, I reduced the size of those links but it maybe that one was still too long!

Thanks for your comments CM3 - I'm well above the water line here but in the great scheme of things you don't have to go too far to find thousands of people who are not. My brother said he was 5m above the level of the River Thames in Oxfordshire and was getting worried, but he says the water levels have started to drop today (although more rain is forecast for 2 days time). They have had the army and the navy in to help the fire service prevent a power station flood out in one part of the flooded zone. The main problem seems to be the inability of the water courses to drain fast enough due to heavy down pours, together with reduced absorbancy of the land.

Not sure when the railways will be re-opened in the areas concerened. Before I have to use them lets hope!

DL

  • Member since
    January 2006
  • From: northeast U.S.
  • 1,225 posts
Posted by LoveDomes on Tuesday, July 24, 2007 11:06 AM

Ahoy Cap'n Tom ‘n fellow travelers at the bar!

Ruth, time for a bottle of Rhiengold. cold mug please. I'll pass on the lunch right now, but will enjoy basking in your sunshine glow! <blush>

Boris, set the gang up with their treats this morning - the crittAHs are looking hungry! And after that, you may have the small jar of pickled pig's feet. Ring the bell for a round while you're at it. Thumbs Up [tup] The change is for you my deAH! Thumbs Up [tup]

Sparse, but interesting material from the gang as we move into the week.

That's great news about Eric and here I was just about to mail him a card. Guess I'll just send him an Email greeting now that's he's home. Thumbs Up [tup]

Thanks for the RENDEZVOUS update, was beginning to wonder . . .

Also nice to know that Dan (DL-UK) is still with us, was wondering about those floods and his situation. How about the guy in Scotland - Jan Olov?? I read where Glasgow has been hit very hard. Although he didn't really stick around, perhaps it was because of the flooding. Don't know.

Thanks for the Ashfield & Pick Url. I too got the "wide page thing" with your post. Looks to be that particular link causing it. Anyway, most interesting material and it all goes to my continuing education ‘round here. <grin>

My guess is the form over function was a factor in designing the Underground entrances whereas in the states it was the opposite. Although now with more modern systems in place (Washington, DC comes to mind) some of those entry ways are works of art.

We're no strangers to 3rd rail systems in this neck of the woods what with the subway system and our own electrified surface rail system (formerly S.I.R.T.). I'd rather see the 3rd rail than unsightly overhead wiring, any day.

Really some fine pix continuing from our Mentor ‘n Cap'n - great work! Thumbs Up [tup] Having to enhance these things on top of everything else involved with getting photos ready for posting is certainly above ‘n beyond "the call"!! LOVE those dome shots! Yeah!! [yeah]

5-Thumbs Up [tup] to our Cap'n!  Thumbs Up [tup] [tup ]Thumbs Up [tup] Thumbs Up [tup] Thumbs Up [tup]

Yeah, Shane, one just can't be in the vicinity of "Our" Place ‘n escape our "spotters" - Awk is perched atop the roof, dontchaknow!? Anyway, you were seen at another site B4 coming in for your daily! The "report" came to us pronto-quick. Figured there was something rather clandestine going on in that lumber yard . . .

Gotta give credit where it's due - the Cap'n began the SP material with that fine Nostalgia post of his with drumheads. Mine was the supplement. But, glad you're enjoying the "stuff" . . . Thumbs Up [tup]

Looks like we're seeing some dialogue from our new friend Ron (DD1), down in Mississippi! Great to have you on board. See it isn't as difficult as it may have seemed to join in ‘round here! Thumbs Up [tup]

Pete, if I construct a layout in the basement, it will be for the Lionel AND American Flyer sets that have been boxed up for years. I'm still way off from seeing it done, but it is fun thinking ‘n planning . . . Tom's hoist system appears to be the way I'll go. We don't have that much floor space to free up, but I can surely find enough room to have it drop down for my infrequent use - then hoist away, ye hearties! <grin>

By the way, you started something over on Tom's other thread - check it out! Thumbs Up [tup]

I see the Cap'n has dropped off his Santa Fe theme. Wow!! [wow] Always a good read and a sure-fire reminder of better times. Why it wasn't that long back when we'd have at least 4 or 5 guys "chipping" in with material. Yes, those were good times at the bar. But as the Cap'n says, this is now and "We takes what we gets!"

Some Santa Fe material you've seen B4, but it always looks GOOD! Thumbs Up [tup]

One more Ruth, then I'm skedaddling for the day as I hear my name being bellowed called! <ugh>

Until the next time! [tup

Lars

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"Our" Place reborn! 3rd Year of adults 'n REAL Classic Trains in a special environment!
Posted by siberianmo on Tuesday, July 24, 2007 9:20 AM

G'day Gents!

Here's a Blast from the Past - an ENCORE! of a Tuesday Theme for the Day . . .

<Initially Posted on Page 246 of the Original Thread>

Now arriving on track #1 .....
Railroads from Yesteryear! Number Six




Used with permission from: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Formatting differences made necessary due to Forums requirements. Some heralds from other sources.


 

Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway



PART I of II

Locale: Arizona, California, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas

Reporting marks:
ATSF

Dates of operation: 1859 - 1995

Track gauge: 4 ft 8½ in (1435 mm) (standard gauge)

Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois

The Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway (AAR reporting mark ATSF), often abbreviated as Santa Fe, was one of the largest railroads in the United States. The company was first chartered in February 1859. Although the railway was named in part for the capital of New Mexico, its main line never reached there as the terrain made it too difficult to lay the necessary tracks (Santa Fe was ultimately served by a branch line from Lamy, New Mexico). The Santa Fe's first tracks reached the Kansas/Colorado state line in 1873, and connected to Pueblo, Colorado in 1876. In order to help fuel the railroad's profitability, the Santa Fe set up real estate offices and sold farm land from the land grants that the railroad was awarded by Congress; these new farms would create a demand for transportation (both freight and passenger service) that was, quite conveniently, offered by the Santa Fe.

History

Startup and initial growth

Cyrus K. Holliday, the first president of the railroad.

The railroad's charter, written single-handedly by Cyrus K. Holliday in January 1859, was approved by the state's governor on February 11 of that year as the Atchison and Topeka Railroad Company for the purpose of building a rail line from Topeka, Kansas, to Santa Fe, New Mexico, and then on to the Gulf of Mexico. On May 3, 1863, two years after Kansas gained statehood, the railroad changed names to more closely match the aspirations of its founder to the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad. The railroad broke ground in Topeka on October 30, 1868 and started building westward where one of the first construction tasks was to cross the Kaw River. The first section of track opened on April 26, 1869 (less than a month prior to completion of the First Transcontinental Railroad) with special trains between Topeka and Pauline. The distance was only 6 miles (10 km), but the Wakarusa Creek Picnic Special train took passengers over the route for celebration in Pauline.

Crews continued working westward, reaching Dodge City on September 5, 1872. With this connection, the Santa Fe was able to compete for cattle transportation with the Kansas Pacific Railway. Construction continued, and the Santa Fe opened the last section of track between Topeka and the Colorado/Kansas border on December 23, 1873. The Santa Fe's tracks reached Pueblo, Colorado on March 1, 1876. Serving Pueblo opened a number of new freight opportunities for the railroad as it now could haul coal from Colorado eastward.

(copied from public domain)
An ATSF passenger train in operation circa 1895.

Building across Kansas and eastern Colorado may have been technologically simple as there weren't many large natural obstacles in the way (certainly not as many as the railroad was about to encounter further west), but the Santa Fe found it almost economically impossible because of the sparse population in the area. To combat this problem, the Santa Fe set up real estate offices in the area and vigorously promoted settlement across Kansas on the land that was granted to the railroad by Congress in 1863. The Santa Fe offered discounted passenger fares to anyone who travelled west on the railroad to inspect the land; if the land was subsequently purchased by the traveller, the railroad applied the passenger's ticket price toward the sale of the land.

Now that the railroad had built across the plains and had a customer base providing income for the firm, it was time for the railroad to tackle the difficult terrain of the Rocky Mountains.

Crossing the Rockies, competition with the Rio Grande

Construction over the Rocky Mountains was slow, difficult and went as far as armed conflict with competitors such as the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad in Colorado and New Mexico, and after capturing Raton Pass, the Southern Pacific Railroad in Arizona and California.

The troubles for the railroad were more than just skirmishes with competitors. In the late 1880s, George C. Magoun, who had worked his way to become Chairman of the Board of Directors for the railroad, was progressively losing his own health. In 1889 the railroad's stock price, which was closely linked in the public's eye with the successes of the railroad's chairman, fell from nearly $140 per share to around $20 per share. Magoun's health continued to deteriorate along with the stock price and Magoun died on December 20, 1893. The Santa Fe entered receivership three days later on December 23, 1893, with J. W. Reinhart, John J. McCook and Joseph C. Wilson appointed as receivers.

Expansion through mergers

A brief look at some key figures comparing the railroad's extent between 1870 and 1945 shows just how much the railroad had grown:

....................................................1870.....................1945

Gross operating revenue..................$182,580................$528,080,530
Total track length.............................62 miles (100 km).....13,115 miles (21,107 km)
Freight carried.................................98,920 tons.............59,56

Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
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Posted by coalminer3 on Tuesday, July 24, 2007 9:13 AM

Good Morning Barkeep and all Present; coffee, please; round for the house and $ for the jukebox. 

Geez, a guy can't do anything in a small town w/o being spotted.  I had to go to the yard to get replacement "winders."  Had five "winders" installed at the house yesterday and are they ever getting wet this a.m.  We have had continuous thunderstorms and heavy rain since abt. 5:30 a.m. - entrail readers last night said, "Slight chance of scattered showers."  All I know is that the weather rock was wet when I brought it back inside this morning.

Lars - Golden State material was good to see.  The Sp had all sorts of colors on their E units.  I should mention that Otto Perry is one of my favorite photographers. 

Sports talk over a sandwich and a cold one?  Sounds good.

DD1 - Appreciate your interest in electrics.  I am an NYC devotee, but also an SPF which is why I appreciate your "name."  Incidentally, have you seen the book Conquering Gotham?  Good recounting of the building of Penn Station and associated systems. 

The Long Island Rail Road?  Somewhere in my material I have an LIRR commemorative glass, complete with a picture of "Dashing Dan."  Commemorative glasses at "Our Place" feature "Bulky Boris," and he's anything but dashing (both in appearance and speed afoot - sorta like the Red Sox outfield at times).

The branch lines of the LIRR are fascinating to study, especially the stuff that's toward the far end of the Island such as the Montauk Branch.  Your comments on snap track were interesting.  Most places I have been around refer to it as "panel" track.   

Many work outfits carry it either on flat cars or in gons.  Interesting to watch it being installed as it goes very quickly.

Pete - "Almost Heaven" has a lot of geographical license, but it is a good tune.  See if you can find one called "Coal Tattoo" which is much more descriptive of our part of WV.  Artist is Billy Edd Wheeler.

DL visited with some good links.

Note to both of our UK connections - hope you are above the waterline.  Pictures on news here have been sobering to say the least.

OSP stopped by with another installment of his travelogue. Hope you were on the right train.  It was very good to hear about Eric.

Have you seen the HBO documentary on the Dodgers - fine material - check it out.

You mentioned different gauges of track.  Certain pieces of D&RG (and other railroads) track in Colorado come to mind where standard and narrow gauge rail were together.  Also, in the southern US there were pieces of dual gauge track as well before it got standardized.

Work safe

  • Member since
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"Our" Place reborn! 3rd Year of adults 'n REAL Classic Trains in a special environment!
Posted by siberianmo on Tuesday, July 24, 2007 8:21 AM

<w/permission: http://www.scenic-railroads.com/>

G'day Gents!

Some great news to begin the day! Spoke with Eric last evening - he's home from the hospital ‘n on the mend - triple by-pass surgery went well! Said he'll have lots of time on his hands for several weeks to come, so guess who will be back at the bar pretty soon?!!?! Good news all ‘round, eh Question [?]

Runnin' a bit behind - but what the heck, it's summertime! Temps are outstanding 'n this remarkable run of comfortable conditions continues . . . Petrol at $2.80 (rounded) up at "Collusion Corner." Why am I pleased about THAT?!?!?

The 2nd day of the work week <for many> ‘n it's time again to grab a mugga freshly ground ‘n brewed coffee, some pastries from The Mentor Village Bakery and if you're still hungry, order a <light> or <traditional> breakfast from our Menu Board! Thumbs Up [tup]

I should be wrapping up the Canadian Rail Adventure segment this week. And probably none too soon for some. Anyway, there's a wealth of fotos on this Thread covering many aspects of Classic Trains ‘n then some, far too many to chronicle. Surely is worth the while to check ‘em out, but of course that would mean going back to Page One. <phew>

It always has "bugged" me how sometimes we may take the efforts of those who entertain us - for granted. Many THANX to all who've taken the time ‘n made the effort to Post Pix, not to mention the creativity that has gone along with so many of those wonderful Posts! A 5 Thumbs Up [tup] Salute to YOU!

Thumbs Up [tup] Thumbs Up [tup] Thumbs Up [tup] Thumbs Up [tup] Thumbs Up [tup]

Wonder if Per (marthastrainyard) down in Plano, Texas has been impacted by those floods???? Hope not . . .  Was also wondering about Dan (DL-UK) ‘n the continuing flooding in the UK.

Customer ACKNOWLEDGMENTS (since my last narrative):

CM3 Shane (coalminer3)at 9:53 AM Monday - July 24th: Man oh man, sure was surprised to see ya roll past the front doors yesterday. Wondered where you were goin' in such a hurry. <grin>

Those movie reviews surely do evoke a thought or two, ehQuestion [?] Well, the idea is to get the boyz interested - I don't compose ‘em, I just find ‘em. <grin> Run right over to the video rental joint - or in cases like mine, purchase the DVD. I think our library of VHS tapes ‘n DVDs have grown to a point where we should consider renting them out. <wow>

Appears as if the BoSox are back on track, but my guess is the Globe up in the Bay State probably doesn't think so. Thumbs Down [tdn] Oh yes, methinks you gotta finish a full game "up" to win it. Half-games don't get it. Smile,Wink, & Grin [swg]

Good start to the week - thanx for the quarters, round ‘n offerings! Thumbs Up [tup]

Pictures really do "tell" a story, eh Question [?] Nice supplemental material for the Southern Pacific! Thumbs Up [tup] Where IS West Coast S Dave when we need him???? Surely seems that everytime I do an SP "thing" - he never catches it. <groan>

Lars (LoveDomes) at 10:42 AM Monday - July 24th: We had a rather nice ‘n solitary weekend as well. The bride worked out in her garden, I mended a fence, Juneau took it all in, ‘n life was (and is) good here in mid-continent USA. Thumbs Up [tup] Weather in these parts has been terrific with temps so comfortable, it hardly seems like July. But - it ain't over YET! <groan>

Your Email has been received ‘n responded to - thanx! I should go "public" with some of it.

Regarding the 3rd Annual "Our" Place Classic Trains Rendezvous in Chicago 2008:

Here's what I know:

(1) It is to take place in May.

(2) Doug has offered to be the host.

(3) Thus far we have 4 "definites," one "maybe" and one "I'd love to come, but . . . " for attendees.

(4) Doug was provided with the input in early June from those planning to attend insofar as the choice of long weekends go. He hasn't responded - yet.

(5) I am responsible for coordinating the planning.

(6) Doug will put together the agenda.

(7) WE are responsible for getting there ‘n having a great time!

Planning will be deferred to Email with only the generalities Posted at the bar. Things have a way of getting lost, ignored, etc. here in the Ether. So, if anyone is interested in our Rendezvous, drop ME an Email and I'll add you to the list.

The hoist system info is included within my Email, along with Pix (which were Posted over on the Original Thread) from my S-Capades layout in the development stage. Good luck! Thumbs Up [tup]

Many thanx for the visit, round ‘n helping to keep a smile on Ruth's pretty face! Wow!! [wow]

Ron (DD1) at 11:49 AM ‘n 12:16 PM Monday -

Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
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    August 2006
  • 280 posts
Posted by DL - UK on Tuesday, July 24, 2007 6:30 AM

Hello Tom and all in

Full breakfast for me please, yep - and with some of that fresh brewed coffee please. Was that a coffee machine coin in the slot vending machine salesman I just saw leaving the establishment? I guess he made a wasted journey!!!

A few recent posts demand comment so here goes.

Tom - Thanks for posting the news from Eric. Sounds more serious than he put it himself, but we all wish him well of course.

Ron mentioned rail fanning in the UK - yes it certainly does have a good base here still, although the younger generation are open to the same distractions as in North America. Mind you my 4 year old nephew has been taken to his local steam centre recently and there was no holding him back! (Maybe it's genetic?). I've noticed in the US and Canada when checking newsagents for magazines a good number of them are actually British railway magazines that are on sale!

You asked about the 4 rail system - as far as I know this only on the London Underground and in that respect is unusual. Pete answered this with more info that I knew but I looked this up and here is a FAQ on it from the excellent London transport Museum (that is one great museum in central London so the website is well worth exploring)

http://www.ltmuseum.co.uk/research/faqs/13.shtml

Ron, you also mentioned your interest in electric locos - I thought you'd like this link:

http://www.aclocogroup.co.uk/

This group has preserved at least one example of all the UK AC electric loco designs - most dating fro the early 1960s but some later models. They are based not too far from me but I've never visited their site (an old Roundhouse) - but it is on my list of things to do. I guess you are quite far from the sparks in MS?

Lars - you mentioned the design and presentation on the Underground - this dates from the 1930s when the system was unified under the control of a chap named Frank Pick - he put a lot of store behind top quality design and employed the architect Charles Holden to design a lot of station in what I would call a subdued Art Deco style - brick, concrete, glass and steel.

As you say, presentation was key to his philosophy and we are lucky because it has left us with a legacy of high quality space.

Here is some info.

http://www.ltmuseum.co.uk/learning/online_resources/ecobus_omnibus/pg/1919.htm#72

Sadly, due to this financial mess they have got in the refurbishment of some of these stations will now almost certainly be postponed.

Nice selection of related book covers too.

Pete - you mentioned the problem of train operators going bust in the UK - and of course this is more or less what has happened with GNER due to Sea Containers who owned them getting into difficulties. The Government (ie taxpayer) is now meeting the costs prior to a new contractor being awarded in November - I'm sure the on board service quality (dining cars etc) will go down with that.

I think you are right about the Mk1 coach design and Bullied influence - I'm not familiar enough with LMS and GWR designs to know what was the most influential.

The rain situation has led to serious disasters in some parts - mostly Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire and Worcestershire (the rail lines north and south of Oxford are closed, as is the Cotswold route through Evesham - due to extreme flooding).

Allan - Pete picked up on your point about the Beaver Tail observation car - I have visited this where it is undergoing restoration and I see it will be running this weekend. Scroll down for a picture of the one restored to 1950s style:

http://www.geocities.com/rvp_ltd@btinternet.com/

The second one is to be restored to 1930s style:

http://www.geocities.com/rvp_ltd@btinternet.com/beaver.htm

And these pics show the derelict condition it is in - apparently one individual has donated the money for the restoration!

http://www.geocities.com/rvp_ltd@btinternet.com/images/1729-1.jpg

http://www.geocities.com/rvp_ltd@btinternet.com/images/1729-2.jpg

http://www.geocities.com/rvp_ltd@btinternet.com/images/1729-4.jpg

By the way - it is sad that you can't even get to Bude by train now!

Mike - great links - enjoyed the US ones but thanks for the BR era ones - sadly these loco hauled runs are now very rare and we have to put up with much more cramped railcars on many routes - those trains have some cars behind them and that is how it should be!

Regards

DL

PS Guys - after recent comments I put these links together esp for Lars - but occurs to me others might have use of them - I leave them here as a public service:

http://www.harrods.com/Cultures/en-GB/Home/homepageindex.htm

http://www.selfridges.com/

http://www.liberty.co.uk/what_s_in_store

http://www.galerieslafayette.com/magasin/home.do?f=votre_magasin&magasinid=39

 

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Posted by pwolfe on Monday, July 23, 2007 6:20 PM

Hi Tom and all.

A pint of Holden's Mild please RUTHThumbs Up [tup]

ALLAN Thanks for the kind words.Thumbs Up [tup]

I must admit I have never been inside Rugby SchoolAshamed [*^_^*]. I know before the last Rugby Union World Cup a lot of Rugby fans from all over the world visited the school to see the birthplace of the gameApprove [^]. Was anything said to you in NZ when England won it.Whistling [:-^]

One of Gresley's Beaver Observation Cars has been restored and is now run now and then on the preserved Great Central RailwayApprove [^]Thumbs Up [tup]. I believe it is in the modified condition it was used by BR in 1950s on the West Highland Line in Scotland. Another Beaver Tail is being restored to the Coronation condition.Thumbs Up [tup]

The Gresley ‘Garrett was a mighty locomotiveWow!! [wow], it was used for a short while,banking the Lickey Incline, at the same time as the ex Midland Railway 0-10-0 ‘Big Bertha' which spent its whole career banking the Lickey.

Many thanks for the Link to the Glenbrook Vintage RailwayApprove [^]; I tried the first link, thanks for the new linkThumbs Up [tup]. It looks a great preserved line,Yeah!! [yeah] I really like the way the train stopped at the workshop so people could have a look round at the other locomotivesApprove [^]Thumbs Up [tup], something that is not allowed anymore at some preservation railways in the UK.Thumbs Down [tdn] The two locomotives on the video look superb, a great tribute to the volunteers on the railway.Bow [bow]Thumbs Up [tup]

Have you still got any of your spotting books from the UK.Question [?]

CM3 Thanks for details on the photos in Mike's links.Thumbs Up [tup]

Glad you liked the photosThumbs Up [tup], I had a look at Drake's Drum it was good to read it again.Yeah!! [yeah]

LARS Glad you escaped the shopping this weekend.Thumbs Up [tup]

I turned on the radio on the computer earlier today and guess whatThumbs Up [tup], John Denver's Almost Heaven was playing.Yeah!! [yeah]

It will be good to hear updates on the American Flyer layout in the basementYeah!! [yeah], many thanks for the ‘Golden State' photos and advert.Approve [^]Thumbs Up [tup]

RON Thanks for the drink.Thumbs Up [tup]

I hope DL can shed a bit more light on the London Undergrounds fourth rail. I believe the live rail is outside of the right hand running rail, and the center rail is for the negative return of the current, which as you say is usually returned through the running rails. I am sure I read somewhere that the 4th rail was to protect sewer and water pipes etc from damage from stray electric currants.

I enjoyed reading about the LIRRThumbs Up [tup] I am sure Lars and Tom will have some comments, it would make a good theme day. Approve [^]

TOM Thanks for the news of ERIC. I would like to join LARS and yourself in wishing Eric a speedy recovery.Thumbs Up [tup]Thumbs Up [tup]Thumbs Up [tup]

That is good news of the VIA Rail strike being called offThumbs Up [tup], thanks for the link, I see another item in the link was the severe flooding that is affecting England, with the worse not expected, in some areas until tomorrow.Sad [:(]Thumbs Down [tdn]

The UltraDome was certainly the way to travel on the ARR, with that great scenery. I guess the Gold Star Service sells out pretty quickly on those trains. I meant to ask does, that RDC in the consist, carry passengers.

I glad you enjoyed the Quigley Down Under DVD; it sounds a film I would likeYeah!! [yeah]

That is a very sobering link to the grade crossings and the accidents on themSad [:(], but I don't think there were many that were caused because there was a mechanical problem with the warning barriers or lights.

Many thanks for the SP ‘Golden State' nostalgiaApprove [^]Thumbs Up [tup], I liked the attractive first Golden State Drumhead.Yeah!! [yeah]

The more I see the ‘Chaleur' photos the more I think I shall have to go back some day.Yeah!! [yeah]. Despite the poor light the photos have come out great

  • Member since
    February 2004
  • From: Chesterfield, Missouri, USA
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"Our" Place reborn! 3rd Year of adults 'n REAL Classic Trains in a special environment!
Posted by siberianmo on Monday, July 23, 2007 2:23 PM

G'day Gents!

The VIA Rail journey to Gaspé, Quebéc aboard the "Chaleur" continues:

The journey resumed at 09:30 as we headed up the Gaspé Peninsula in the darkening skies ‘n rain.

Much of what we saw was so shrouded in fog ‘n low ceiling along with the light rain, that it's hardly worth Posting. However, I'll provide just a few, for y'all to get the "flavor."

There's more to this story, but it will be told in segments, as the fotos progress on!

Pix from Day Five: Monday - May 28th, 2007 - aboard VIA Rail's CHALEUR in Quebec, Canada: <fotos taken from 09:15 on . . . >

Skyline dome car

(1)

Forward portion is the lower lounge - aft is the dining area.

(2)

(3)

Baggage car

(4)

Separated trains, heading in different directions!

(5)

Adieu, l'océan, don't know when I'll see ya again in daylight!

(6)

Heading up to Gaspé along Chaleur Bay.

(7)

(8)

(9)

(10)

To be continued . . .

Tom Captain [4:-)] Pirate [oX)]

Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
  • Member since
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  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Monday, July 23, 2007 12:16 PM
Hi Allan, I just watched the two videos from your link. Diana is a beautiful engine and looks like they keep her in good condition. I noticed the cow catchers on the rear of the tender and the tank engine. I'm guessing they spend much time running in reverse (Lack of a turntable maybe?) Is that 3'-6" gauge? Anyway, I fully enjoyed the videos.
  • Member since
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Posted by Anonymous on Monday, July 23, 2007 11:49 AM
Good morning Tom and all hands. It's 1100 hours central daylight time here in Ms. Choice of drink all around of course. I must say I enjoy looking at all the pictures that have been posted. With a love of trains, one can never get enough. As you might have guessed, I'm kind of into unusual trains, like camelbacks and electrics. It was interesting to me to learn that some of the trackage in the UK was a four rail system, using two rails between the running rails for pick-up and return. Maybe DL can explain the why of this system and why not just a single rail with the running rails as the return, as is common for most third rail systems. I remember when purists used to slam Lionel for their non-prototype center third rail track system. Maybe most didn't realize some European railways used a central third rail system. I know it for sure, but not able to place my finger on it at the moment. I think it's in one of my coffee table railroad books. Another one is the "snap track". When I was working in New London, I walked along the right-of-way of the former NYNH&HConfused [%-)] and saw sections of track that had been pulled up and stacked along side the ROW, ties still attached to rails. They looked just like model "snap track". Too bad I didn't take pictures. It's great these days what with digital cameras and cell phone cameras that we always have a means to take a picture of something interesting at any time. Remember what people used to say!? "If only I had a camera". Although I don't have a camera phone, I keep my digital camera handy everywhere I go. To tell you the truth, I'm not a travelling type of person. I don't mind travelling somewhere, but I want to stay there for a good length of time. No "Cook's tour"Thumbs Down [tdn] for me and of course, I don't like airplanesThumbs Down [tdn]. Although I like to see steam in action, diesels sort of leave me cold. Electrics are my first love. I guess if you were to ask me what my favorite railroad is, I would say the LIRR followed by the Pennsylvania. The Pennsy being dead, that leaves the LIRR. I have been doing some research on the LIRR and did you know it is the longest existing railroad still operating on the original charter? To this day, the LIRR serves the needs of commuters like no other means of transportation. It is an indispensible line and will probably be in service long after we are all gone. When I lived on Long Island, commuting by automobile was totally out of the question. Commutes of 5 or more hours are common if one chooses to do so. As long as road traffic is as it is in the larger cities, there will always be a place for the commuter rail system. Sorry for the long rantSoapBox [soapbox]. Sign - Off Topic!! [#offtopic] I have been cooking corn beef for years and now think I can cook one that rivals the Stage Delicatessin. P.S. I heard the Carnegi Deli was now the top deli. Have a good one.
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Posted by LoveDomes on Monday, July 23, 2007 10:42 AM

Ahoy Cap'n Tom ‘n fellow travelers at the bar!

Ruth my deAH you are the breath of fresh air that rekindles my desires in . . . Wow!! [wow] A mugga Joe with a jolt, treats for the crittAHs, a round for the house, ‘n the change is yours! Thumbs Up [tup] Of course Boris, you get the small jar of pickled pig's feet! <grin>

An observation as I pulled into the front parking area. I saw a rather "used" pick-up pass by. It had West Virginia plates with "Almost Heaven" scrawled across the tail gate in some sort of script. Also a bumper sticker that read, "You can't drive a railroad spike with a tack hammer." Figured it must've been CM3 Shane - BUT - he didn't stop here! Went on down the dirt road into the lumber yard. Hmmmmmm. That's a first - not stopping at "Our" Place first thing. Hmmmmmmm.

Thanks to our Cap'n for the "heads up" email about our friend, Eric. Surely hope all turns out well. These things are far less worrisome than they were 20 or 30 years ago. Not that any heart surgery is routine, surely don't mean that. Just that the medical people have gotten it perfected. Best in terms of recovery to the Night Owl from Phoenix! Yeah!! [yeah]

A fine weekend ‘round the Larsman hut as we pretty much spent it doing nothing. Yeah!! [yeah] No "visitors," as in neighbors, friends or family, just us. Worked out well - no talk of "shopping," either! Wow!! [wow]

Began checking out the basement to see what the feasibility is for a model railroad. Figured I could drag out those Lionel ‘n Gilbert American Flyer trains to at least get ‘em up ‘n running. I like the idea that our Cap'n came up with for that "hoist system." If you will, Tom, please send me an email with details (web site, etc.). Thumbs Up [tup]

The idea wouldn't be anything more than perhaps a 4x8 ft oval within an oval. Something just to watch ‘em run ‘round ‘n ‘round. Well, there's time - so we'll see where this goes.

Not the busiest of times, although it's good to see that two of our newest customers seem to have latched on. Appreciate the presence of Ron down in Mississippi ‘n Allan way down in New Zealand! <grin> Then of course our Bar Chandler held up the late PM "slot" for Friday ‘n Saturday, which helped greatly. Many thanks to all as it is what keeps us afloat. Thumbs Up [tup] Thumbs Up [tup] Thumbs Up [tup]

I see Da Bossman has come up with a Nostalgia "trip' for us with his Southern Pacific advertisement. So, here's a bit of supplemental ‘stuff' to go along with it!

The RI / SP Golden State passenger train makes a station stop in Palm Springs, California in 1948. (Fair Use - wikipedia.com)

Southern Pacific Railroad EMD E7 diesel locomotive #6001 in Golden State paint, photographed at Carrizozo, New Mexico, September 22, 1947 by Otto Perry. (wikipedia.com)

1951 SP Golden State ad (wikipedia.com)

Ah ah! I see CM3 Shane has made his morning visit, and a fine one indeed! Thumbs Up [tup] Thumbs Up [tup] Thumbs Up [tup] Wherever you were, it must've "worked." <grin> Just odd seeing our Oldest Continuing Bar Fly (OCBF) pass us by . . . <did I get that right??>

Anytime you wanna connect at a "deli," let me know. We can discuss things like how it takes a full game difference to claim title to first place in a division. Half-games require something else, which I think is a one game winnAH take all. Or maybe those idiotic "tie breakers." Anyway . . . always can gin up some sports tAWk . . .Smile,Wink, & Grin [swg]

That flick, "The Vikings," wasn't received quite the same in our "squarehead" community as perhaps in others. Hollywood was "alive 'n well" back then too, with many liberties taken with their version of "history." But then, this was simply a story with all kinds of "celebraties" getting into the act. <barf> But it did have some good moments . . . Some rather good "stuff" available from other sources if one has interest in Vikings. There's a documentary 'n another movie with the same title, I think. Maybe something for the Emporium.

Ruth, if you have a minute, there's some <ahem> admin matters that need attending to. Smile,Wink, & Grin [swg] Boris, keep an eye on things, willya?? <that's pretty much all a Cyclops can do, huh??>

Until the next time! Thumbs Up [tup]

Lars

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