Good Morning Barkeep and all Present; coffee, please; round for the house, and $ for the jukebox. Nice day here today - gas is at $2.95, and temps in the high 40s this a.m.
Mike's here.
TCA Connie - excellent!
Then we have shots of LA - Packards and Caddies, and Plymouths - oh my! Starnge thing is you can see the mountains and surrounding scenery
The shot of LAUPT with the streetcar in front shows a lot of what was involved with stringing wire around curves - take a look at it and you'll see why wire trains were kept busy.
The F3 over the wall was a good one as well.
The interior shouts of the station - check out the trai board and the sign for "The Challenger."
Then we have all sorts of power out back.
The cab forward and the railroad gun reminds me of the last darts tournament.
The PA set had some good pictures as well. There are several interesting cars in that UP passenger train - the roof lines on the baggae cars give a clue as to car dates.
The D&H PA at South Station is from when they ran in west side commuter service in Boston. This happened right after I relocated to WV. The shot at South Station shows what it looked like before they launched the big r/b project there. The tower controlled the interlocking plant at the station. Close by was signal bridge no. 7 with a forest of semaphores. The Post Office annex is the brick building behind the train. The other locomotive in the consist is an E8. The second D&H PA shot was made at Northup Avenue in Providence, RI. It's hard to say whether the PA was in service or en route to somewhere alse. The reason for this is that it kind of ratty looking and is behind a B&M switcher. There is a former New Haven GP9 barely visible behind the tank car.
The NKP PA is at LaSalle St. station in Chicago. Used to go there to watch the Rock Island. The NH PA at Old Saybrook is in the as-delivered colors. See if OSP remembers the order of stations - New London, Old Saybrook, New Haven, Bridgeport, Stamford, 125th St., GCT-New York. Quick Boris, get him a shot of the good stuff!
Also appreciated the UK pictures and the Bob and Ray material. Last - look at the closing pictures - how about that MKT unit!
DD1 - Appreciated your comments on New York. As you know, it applies to just about any place when you have been gone for awhile. Meanwhile, how about a trip to the deli. We can meet Lars there.
Lars ran the bookmobile again - Underground London looks like a good one.
Briefly spotlighting sports in the sprotlight spotlight, the frenzy seems to have died down a little in Boston after they took three from the White Sox. All that matters is that I have one more run than the other guys in a game and that I am ½ game ahead at the end of the season. 21 runs against Tampa - hope the Giants do as well; let's eee that'd be three touchdowns and three PATs - not a bad day's work.
Pete - "Wrapped around the axle" is something you here fairly often around here - generally applies to haulage-related problems. Thanks for the pictures which brought to mind some of the verses in "Drake's Drum."
Allan stopped by - good to hear from you.
OSP has provided lots of material.
Passenger switching - not something you see anymore. As for the shaved dog - he needs it as it prevents hot spots. E-mail rec'd and than you. Quigley ran on one of our many cable movie channels just the other day. "Barbarian epic?" Is that Hollywood inside stuff for a Boris biopic? Also enjoyed the ARR shots and the SP material.
Work safe
G'day Gents!
PASSENGER TRAIN NOSTALGIA #44
<A form of this was initially Posted on Page 193 of the Original Thread>
Here's something to enjoy regarding the Southern Pacific (SP) from a 1949 advertisement in my personal collection.
Come to Arizona on the swift "Golden State"
- the only streamliner direct to Tucson, Phoenix, Palm Springs
Smooth-riding, luxurious - Southern Pacific-Rock Island's fast Golden State from Chicago via El Paso and Douglas is the only streamliner direct to Southern Arizon'a resort country and Palm Springs Pullman and reclining chair car. Moderate extra fare.
Try this famous train on your next trip to Arizona or California.
Through Pullmans from New York and St. Louis.
P.S. Don't forget that our Sunset Limited (New Orleans-Los Angeles) also goes direct to Southern Arizona and Palm Springs.
S*P The friendly Southern Pacific
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Enjoy! Tom
<w/permission: http://www.scenic-railroads.com/>
A smile to begin the week!
I'm as red as a sheet.
<A Yogi-ism!>
Mid-continent USA in the summer can be intolerable - not so this year. Absolutely wunnerful temps [ yeah] as we begin this new work week <for many>.
Coffee's fresh, hot ‘n ready! The Mentor Village Bakery case is fully stocked - and - our <light> ‘n <traditional> breakfasts need orderin' . . .
News from Phoenix: Spoke with Eric's bride ‘n she says he's doing well after his heart surgery (Thursday). Email sent to "Rendezvous bunch - plus 2." Here's to a speedy ‘n full recovery for our Resident Desert Swede!
Just wonderin' - Where's Per Where's Nick Where's . . . .
And for anyone who has been following this:
http://www.cbc.ca/canada/story/2007/07/21/via.html
Customer ACKNOWLEDGMENTS (since my last narrative):
Lars (LoveDomes) at 10:12 AM Saturday - July 21st: Many thanx for the morning visit. I recall when this day "belonged" to Rob ‘n Doug - then Rob began his disappearing acts, but Doug carried on. Now . . . . oh well, personal choice, eh
Appears as if you've been able to <influence> our Bar Chandler regarding those tapes . . . Amsterdam indeed. <yikes>
Two super-fine selections for ENCOREs! Always good to read the submissions from BK (BudKarr). Wouldn't it be great to have "The Three Horsemen" ride again
Round appreciated!
Pete (pwolfe) at 3:34 PM ‘n 4:21 PM Saturday - July 21st: Appears that we did indeed Post "on top" on one another. I used the "Refresh/Reload" right after mine - but didn't catch yours. Hmmmmmm - the anomalies of the Forums, eh
It would be good to get Nick's "slant" on the Underground discussion. But alas, we haven't heard from him in weeks - so best not to get our hopes up. Ya know how it is with our wanderin' musician!
I enjoyed digging up those Alaska Pix for the ENCORE! on Saturday. Makes me want to schedule another trip.
To refresh your memory: Ours was indeed the Gold Star Service with the exclusive use of the UltraDome (double deck) car with the open end that was directly behind the baggage car. Upper deck was all reserved seating with amenities aplenty, whereas the lower level contained our private dining area. The adjacent car to the rear was a full-service diner for those traveling in the ARR coaches ‘n domes. The UltraDome cars at the rear of the consist were for the exclusive use of the cruise line passengers - with their own dining facilities as well.
Always a pleasure to read ‘n re-read the musings of CM3 Shane (coalminer3). Nice choice for an ENCORE!
We viewed "Quigly Down Under" (DVD) on Saturday night <first time for us> and it's really a good flick. A different twist on the same-ol, same-ol "good guy vs bad guys" western - but with a "twist."
Most poignant fotos via your Mate, Alan. Thanx!
Round, visit, discussion ‘n chat most appreciated!
Allan (Gunneral) at 7:13 PM ‘n 11:18 PM Saturday - July 21st: Our Resident Down Under Connection has returned! I should make mention that I did receive your Email regarding the B'day Watch List ‘n am not sure if my reply to you ever got out. Anyway, next time I "run" the list - you'll be on it. THANX!!
Hi Tom and all,
Pete. Sorry mate, entered the wrong site address in the last post! The correct address is;
http://www.railfan.org.nz/
Enjoy, I have been to Glenbrook and rode behind the restored Mallet there.
See ya, Allan
Set em` up Cindy, Tui`s all round please.
Tom. You are so right about the time zone, here in NZ we are virtually on the international date line so we are 12hrs ahead of GMT, so each new day starts here! Great pics of your train room and layouts, you sure have packed a lot in! We are having a lot of grade [level] crossing accidents over here at the moment, 5 fatalities in the last month, which is a lot, there are barrier arms in the main centres but out in the country most crossings are marked with just the US X warning sign, some have flashing lights and bells like yours in the US. In the winter we also have a "sunstrike" problem in the early morning that could be a factor for drivers.
Pete. Great pics on your posts. I have been through your hometown Rugby a few times, must have been on that train trip, plus I did go to see Rugby school once to see where Rugby football started. Gresley was way ahead of his time with rolling stock as you say, his articulated coaches were very innovative, and his Beaver-tail observation car for the "Coronation" consist was ultra modern for the UK in the 30`s. He also built the most powerful loco to run in Britain, the U1, which was a Garratt type 2-8-8-2, with a tractive effort of 72,940lb. By the way if you click on http://www.railfan-org..nz/ you will hear the NZ railways steam whistle.
DL. I did get to ride in some of Bullieds coaches in the late 50`s early 60`s, I was stationed near Bude in Cornwall, and travelled on SR quite a lot from London, now you mention it the Mk1 BR coaches do have a matching look. If you look at his Leader loco it has a similar appearance to the ACE loco experiment in the US not long ago.
Lars. Your book cover posts are great.
Time is "tight" at the moment, so greetings to those of you I`ve not mentioned in this post.
Hi Tom and All.
Another Holden's please CINDY this time the Bitter and the Steak later.
I see you posted this weeks films on at the Emporium just after I posted.
I have not see Quigley Down Under but it sounds well worth watching, an Australian western. I have seen the Vikings, but quite a long time ago now, I had not realised it was made in 1958, and , of course, the Stooges.
LARS mentioned old lines and this weeks photos from Alan are from an old trackbed in Devon England taken earlier this year.
Brentnor old Southern station, on the right, behind the waiting room,is the Great Western trackbed, (the GW did not have a station here,)
Looking away from Mary Tavy station GWR trackbed is below with the Southern trackbed up on the left.
Tavistock viaduct looking towards Plymouth.
The viaduct looking towards Okehampton and Tavistock station with houses built across the trackbed.
Alan said apart from the houses there was not a lot of other building on the trackbed.
The photos should enlarge.
Pete.
ENCORE! Saturday ‘n Photo Posting Day!
at "Our" Place!
We are CLOSED on SUNDAYs!Starting Sunday at the Mentor Village Emporium Theatre!
. . . July 22nd thru 28th: Quigley Down Under (1990) Starring: Tom Selleck, Laura San Giacomo, Alan Rickman, Chris Haywood & Ron Haddrick - and - The Vikings (1958) Starring: Kirk Douglas, Tony Curtis, Ernest Borgnine, Janet Leigh & James Donald. SHORT: The Three Stooges - Loco Boy Makes Good (1942)
Quigley Down Under (1990)
PLOT SUMMARY: Tom Selleck plays Matthew Quigley, the cowboy hero in this traditional Western, set very untraditionally in Australia. After some macho silliness in the opening minutes, the story settles into a surprisingly evocative tale of Quigley, a sharpshooter who had come to the country to work for a land baron (Alan Rickman) and who is on the mend after a brutal attack. In the company of a woman (Laura San Giacomo) abused by that same baron, Quigley gets his strength and his shooting skills back while healing in the midst of aboriginal people as well as some stunning Australian settings. Director Simon Wincer (Phar Lap) brings a lot of integrity to this rare horse opera from contemporary Hollywood. --Tom Keogh
Tom Selleck plays Matthew Quigley, the cowboy hero in this traditional Western, set very untraditionally in Australia. After some macho silliness in the opening minutes, the story settles into a surprisingly evocative tale of Quigley, a sharpshooter who had come to the country to work for a land baron (Alan Rickman) and who is on the mend after a brutal attack. In the company of a woman (Laura San Giacomo) abused by that same baron, Quigley gets his strength and his shooting skills back while healing in the midst of aboriginal people as well as some stunning Australian settings. Director Simon Wincer (Phar Lap) brings a lot of integrity to this rare horse opera from contemporary Hollywood. --Tom Keogh
from: amazon.com
The Vikings (1958)
PLOT SUMMARY: Kirk Douglas produced the trendsetting barbarian epic The Vikings and took the showiest, most aggressive role: lusty Viking prince Einar, the "only son in wedlock" of King Ragnar (a cackling, wild-eyed Ernest Borgnine). With jagged scars down his face and a milky-white blind eye that almost glows in his skull, Douglas has a rowdy time battling defiant slave Tony Curtis (the long-lost heir to the British throne) for the hand of the beautiful princess Janet Leigh. It's pure Hollywood hokum, sure, but spectacular hokum: the great cinematographer Jack Cardiff turns his Norway locations into a lush Valhalla on earth. Faced with an absurd story, journeyman director Richard Fleischer goes for the gusto in brawling Viking parties, furious sieges, and clanging broadsword battles. An enormous hit, the film spawned a huge wave of Viking movies, some perhaps smarter but none as much fun. --Sean Axmaker
Kirk Douglas produced the trendsetting barbarian epic The Vikings and took the showiest, most aggressive role: lusty Viking prince Einar, the "only son in wedlock" of King Ragnar (a cackling, wild-eyed Ernest Borgnine). With jagged scars down his face and a milky-white blind eye that almost glows in his skull, Douglas has a rowdy time battling defiant slave Tony Curtis (the long-lost heir to the British throne) for the hand of the beautiful princess Janet Leigh. It's pure Hollywood hokum, sure, but spectacular hokum: the great cinematographer Jack Cardiff turns his Norway locations into a lush Valhalla on earth. Faced with an absurd story, journeyman director Richard Fleischer goes for the gusto in brawling Viking parties, furious sieges, and clanging broadsword battles. An enormous hit, the film spawned a huge wave of Viking movies, some perhaps smarter but none as much fun. --Sean Axmaker
SHORT: Loco Boy Makes Good (1942)PLOT SUMMARY: Featuring Moe, Larry & Curly After being thrown out of their apartment, the Stooges try a new scam to gain some money: find a hotel, slip on a cake of soap, and sue the owners to get a huge settlement. In their attempts they come across an old lady hotel owner who is on the brink of losing her hotel if she doesn't pay the interest on her note. Taking pity on her, they immediately start fixing up the place, and go all out to impress important columnist Waldo Twitchell on opening night.
After being thrown out of their apartment, the Stooges try a new scam to gain some money: find a hotel, slip on a cake of soap, and sue the owners to get a huge settlement. In their attempts they come across an old lady hotel owner who is on the brink of losing her hotel if she doesn't pay the interest on her note. Taking pity on her, they immediately start fixing up the place, and go all out to impress important columnist Waldo Twitchell on opening night.
from: threestooges.net
See y'all on Monday - Enjoy! Tom
Hi Tom and all.
Taking a break from ‘honey dos' so a pint of Holden's Mild would go down a treat CINDY.
MIKE Thanks for the links. It is good to see those locomotives in BR blue livery again.
LARS All's well the tapes are back in safe hands so hopefully I shall be free from imminent attack from the Mascots, also I had noticed my pay ‘dipper' has disappeared.
I have to admit I am not all that up on the London Underground, perhaps DL can help. I am sure NICK knows a fair bit about the system as well. As Tom says it would make a good Tuesday Theme. I think there was a lot of North American influence at the turn of the 1900s when the electrified deep level tubes were built and run with electric cars and locomotives.
Many thanks for the encores from BK reading them makes one realize why he is so missed at the bar. Perhaps one day BK might call in the bar again his bar stool is waiting here if he does.
I most certainly will join in with your toast.
TOM Thanks for the kind words.
Our Canadian Rail Adventure was indeed a wonderful experience. I would love to travel on the Chaleur again as long as it is still the Budd equipment and the great city of Halifax is certainly worthy of a longer visit. The bother we did have was very minor compared to the bonus we had with the Exporail Museum having a special day the day we visited and meeting the great volunteers there.
Many thanks for the Alaska Rail Adventure photo Encore.
I noticed the steam loco outside the Anchorage AAR depot. And the different consists of the three trains including the domes. Did you travel in the Gold Star Service Car and were you allowed on to the open balcony at the end. Great photo of the dome car next to the RDC.
For my encore this week, it is a wonderfully evocative piece from CM3 on the NH from page 141 of the old Our Place.
Good Morning All: Coffee, round and quarters as usual. Now we got MEC? Holy Cow! Since we are doing New Haven, today let's go to New Haven. This is excerpted from a longer piece in one of my notebooks. Apologies if we have run it before. Again, lots of what's mentioned in here is either gone or changed beyond recognition. Then on to New Haven. The train would approach the city on a fill that crossed over miles of swamps. This was leavened a little by a pair of short tunnels. We could see the mammoth Cedar Hill yard in the distance, dominated by its huge concrete coal dock. Here, truly, was the center of the New Haven. The double track main line passed close to the Cedar Hill departure yard, which was filled with all kinds of freight cars. The line from Hartford joined us and swept toward the New Haven station beneath a series of overpasses. We were under the wires now, which meant we were on the electrified portion of the New Haven. It was not uncommon to see three or more passenger trains moving at once, along with a freight train, and sometimes a switcher with a cut of cars. The postal facility just north and east of the station was always filled with mail cars, green cars from Railway Express and Railway Post Office cars; something I didn't see all that much in Boston, despite my encounters with the mail trains. We were getting closer now and the train was slowing. The New Haven station was a busy place as it handled lots of through trains and hordes of commuters. As I mentioned, we were now on the electrified part of the New Haven. Generally we changed from diesel to electric power at New Haven. Sometimes, though, we kept the same engines if we had FL9s for power and were going to Grand Central. The FL9s were hybrids what were diesels, but were also fitted to run off the third rail that was closer to New York. I have always liked electric locomotives. The New Haven, as befitted its history as the country's first major electrification, had a wonderful collection of electric engines that included everything from ancient so-called "Flatbottoms," to the gorgeous EP5 "Jets." A typical power change at New Haven went something like this. It's midmorning at New Haven on a cold day. The wind blows in from the harbor, and makes it seem even colder than it already is. A passenger train, from Boston, is about to arrive - we can see its headlight under the wires off to the north. The big Alco diesels slide by us and brake to a stop in a combination of sound of hissing air, ringing bells, and engine noise. It's going to get busy now, so we'd better stay out of the way. Men wheel carts of baggage and mail up the open doors of the head end cars. They're hurrying, as the train won't be here for very long. Farther back passengers are getting off the train and others are boarding. Car men are busily inspecting each car and the diner is getting refilled with water.
This is ENCORE! Saturday - and - Photo Posting Day!
Remember: "Our" Place is CLOSED on Sundays.
Thanx, Lars, for stopping by. Fine ENCORE! material - many of us miss our friends up in Alberta.
On a brighter note - here's an ENCORE! from our Alaskan Rail Adventure in June 2006. This from Page 352 of the original Thread - Posted on June 11th, 2006.
Some Pix from our recently concluded Alaska Rail Adventure! See Page 351 (near the top) for a few others. (1) AAR HQ at Anchorage Relocated from Seward in 1917. Short walk to downtown Anchorage. (2) AAR Depot at Anchorage Completed in 1942; expanded for additional office space in 1952. Short walk to downtown Anchorage. (3) AAR Coastal Classic at Anchorage Runs from Anchorage to Girdwood to Seward, daily from May 13th to Sep 18th, 2006 (4) AAR Coastal Classic at Anchorage (5) AAR Coastal Classic at Anchorage (6) AAR Glacier Discovery at Anchorage Runs from Anchorage to Girdwood to Portage to Whittier, daily from May 20th to Sep 17th, 2006 (7) AAR Glacier Discovery at Anchorage (8) AAR Denali Star at Anchorage Runs from Anchorage to Wasilla to Talkeetna to Denali to Fairbanks, daily from May 18th to Sep 17th, 2006 (9) AAR Denali Star at Anchorage (10) AAR Denali Star Gold Star Service car at Anchorage (11) AAR Denali Star at Anchorage (12) AAR Denali Star at Anchorage If you are browsing, how about letting the guys know that you've enjoyed their efforts!
Ahoy Cap'n Tom ‘n fellow travelers at the bar!
Cindy my sweet, how good to see ya behind the bar <gotta watch that phrase!> ‘n it's the only way I KNOW it's Saturday! <grin> I think just a mugga Joe with a jolt should do me fine. Hmmmmm, perhaps a couple of crullers from the bakery case . . .
Ok, Boris - wind ‘er up. Let's feed the crittAHs. Tray o' seeds for Awk - saucer o' brine for Tex - bucket of ice cubes for Frostbite ‘n a field mouse for Artie <take him outside for that!> . And the small jar of pickled pig's feet is YOURS! And TWO chew bones for Juneau, who was "missed" last time! <uh oh>
A round for whenever we get a crowd ‘n the change is yours you loveRly thing!
Noted that wolfman Pete provided the final post for the day TWO TIMES in succession. We really do have a "swing" in participation, don't we?? No matter, as long as we've got a wake behind us should indicate we've got forward momentum. Just hope they aren't circular!! <uh oh>
For Pete: I'd say you've made the right move in getting those tapes back! Hardly something that one conferred with "trust" would do to shipmates. Can surely tell you're a land lubber. <geesh> We sailors surely watch one another's back, mate! Strongly urge that you reconsider these "ventures" in the future. <groan>
Idioms of the land, I guess. "Screwed into the overhead," is another one I like.
Enlighten me a bit regarding those London Underground unused stations. Were they abandoned in favor of newer ones?? Disrepair?? Areas no longer served?? All of the aforementioned?? Curious minds need to know! <grin>
I look at that somewhat similarly to abandoned RR right of way. Once abandoned, they never come back. Then the day comes along when someone with a "brilliant" notion decides that it would be "innovative" to run trains from A to Z . . . Oh the pain! <barf>
This day, I'm resurrecting something from my "bookend," BK (BudKarr). I miss the guy very much ‘n wonder if Lydia is no longer of this world. <sad> Anyway, in celebration of those two, here's an Encore from page 251 on February 19, 2006:
Good Morning Tom and fellow bar flies! Yes, it is me, and I am back up in Alberta, Canada with my gal all settled in for what we plan to be an even greater segment to our lives than what has gone before. Yes, I do know that the bar is CLOSED and I hope you will forgive the departure from what you expect on Sundays. I returned to the states later than expected - far later, but earlier in the week than planned. If you follow that. Got finished at the main office - put my papers in for retirement and bid farewell to one and all. They still think I will change my mind. Ha! Made it back to the mountain country on Thursday last, and finally decided to come up for air to see what is going on at my favorite bar. Appears that the personalities have changed some, as I am not seeing the familiar names in the summaries that I expected to see. So many, many pages to go through. I will ultimately get there, but it will take a bit of time. It was a long, long journey and one that taxed my ability to remain rational. Between business and my personal desires to get it over with, this last experience was one of the most arduous of my career, notwithstanding being shot at, shot and all of those nasty kinds of things that occur to people doing the things I have done in the past. Never again, no more, that is it for me. Now, I do not want to turn this into anything more than a simple greeting to those of you who remember me. If the bar was open today, I would most assuredly spring for the drinks. Tomorrow, as they say, is another day. So, that sack of foreign currency is sitting inside your box on the front porch. I like that spring loaded mechanism that locks it tight once something is placed within it. Where in the world did you come up with that contraption? I want to thank you, Captain Tom, for the email traffic. It was most comforting hearing from you and kept me thinking about that light at the end of the tunnel. Just was hoping it was not the headlight of an oncoming train!<smile> When you open up the bar in the morning, please have Boris ring that bell throughout the day as the drinks are on me and have him polish up that Reserved Stool - I expect to be using it a bit more frequently. BK
and from page 253 on February 23, 2006:
Good Early Afternoon Captain Tom and all assembled! Got off to an early start up here in the high country where the air is fresh as can be and one simply gets invigorated at the sights and sounds of the Canadian Rockies! Absolutely a beautiful setting to spend our days! A bit early for me to imbibe in the spirits, but I will take one of those large mugs of hot coffee and a couple of those great looking turnovers from the pastry case. Apple will be fine, thank you! My readings are still rather far behind, but I am getting there. I am working my way backwards, which for some strange reason seems easier. Must be one of my idiosyncrasies or psychological mind games. At any rate, I appreciate the welcome back by those of you who remember me. It WAS indeed quite a long time away. I have been thinking about many things lately, some that have absolutely no bearing on what Captain Tom's bar is all about, which is the discussion of the Classic Trains with some humor thrown in. (Could have spelled that humour - but then perhaps Mr. Trolleyboy would get himself into a dither thinking that I just may be a REAL Canadian!) As told some pages back, my life has been one of privacy both on and off the job. What I did for a living has no place being bandied about here on the web, where one hardly knows who may be reading and for what purposes. So, in reference to a comment made by one of the guys - sorry, there will be no elaborations of what I did or any specifics regarding my recently concluded Marathon European trip. Trains! Well, believe it or not, I have begun to READ all about TRAINS. Picked up a few volumes while on the continent about European Railways and have also ordered several more regarding the classic passenger trains of North America (Canada & US). Sorry, but most things "south" of the US border do absolutely siberianmo Member sinceFebruary 2004 From: Chesterfield, Missouri, USA 7,214 posts "Our" Place reborn! 3rd Year of adults 'n REAL Classic Trains in a special environment! Posted by siberianmo on Saturday, July 21, 2007 8:29 AM <w/permission: http://www.scenic-railroads.com/>This is ENCORE! Saturday - and - Photo Posting Day!Remember: "Our" Place is CLOSED on Sundays.G'day Gents! It's very hard to accept that we're into the "dog days" of July with temperatures this AM well below 70 (F) ‘n the anticipated high to be 82. Once the front arrived Thursday evening, things really cooled down ‘n here we are in San Diego-like temperatures! Love it. Saturday means "kick back" day once the "chores" get take care of, that is! <grin> Begin the day with some freshly ground ‘n brewed coffee, a couple of pastries from The Mentor Village Bakery, and time permitting - order a <light> or <traditional> breakfast to go along with that 2nd mugga joe! 3rd Annual "Our" Place Classic Trains Rendezvous in Chicago 2008: Here's what I know - Doug is supposed to announce the dates. We've narrowed it down to the month of May (after Mother's Day). He was given the info shortly after he requested it many weeks ago - so, the ball is in HIS court. <this in response to inquires by Email).Customer ACKNOWLEDGMENTS (since my last narrative):CM3 Shane at 8:21 AM Friday - July 20th: So THAT's what Matapédia means! Shaved dog?!?! Juneau wouldn't have it, nope. Also, I'm not that certain he'd share the bottle for drinks at the bar! <grin>Still amazed that there are those "out there" counting the BoSox out of it. My Gawd, how much over .500 does a team have to get? Answer: At least one more than the team behind! Appears you took advantage of the public transit system up there in BahStun (Boston) - didja happen to note if the "Iron Horse" is still there???Long live "traction orange"! Thanx for the round, quarters ‘ chat! Dan (DL-UK) at 8:58 AM ‘n 9:02 AM Friday - July 20th: Gotcha! Thanx for the clarification - had me concerned there for awhile! <grin> Next we'd be accused of having a coin operated coffee gadget! <yikes> I'm going to have to look into how we get mail delivery from YOUR postal service! No fall issue of Classic Trains here <yet>. And I can only WISH for summer's end - can't come too soon for Moi. <grin>Appears you "escaped" the five dollar mug of coffee! ou see, we charge five bucks for a solo mug o' Joe (or soft drink). However, when food is ordered with it, the drink is free. And should one spring for a round, then of course the coffee or soft drink isn't charged for. <phew> Rules, rules, rules . . . Ron (DD1) at 12:29 PM Friday - July 20th: Some fine selections to treat your culinary desires, Mate! Made my mouth water just thinkin' about it . . . <grin>You don't know how relevant that comment of yours is regarding how things CHANGE once you "go back." Living in the past is a great deal of fun when it comes to things like Classic Trains, sports memories ‘n old girl friends. However, physically going back to a place ALWAYS falls far short when it comes to the expectations that accompany such a visit. Hope you're enjoying the material (narratives 'n fotos) being provided by the boyz at the bar! And we look forward to your next visit . . . Round appreciated! Lars (LoveDomes) at 1:03 PM Friday - July 20th: Was beginning to wonder, but you made it ‘in"! Most entertaining book covers for the London Underground - a subject we should consider for a "Tuesday Theme." Speaking of which, doesn't appear that the idea has caught the attention of too many of the guyz, so I'll do it once more - then let it "ride."Email received ‘n resonded to - THANX! Got a couple of fotos coming up that you'll have to check out! Monday is the resumption of the Canadian Rail Adventure "series"- gotta give myself a break. <phew> Glad you're enjoying the fotos . . . Who disconnected the Penthouse Suite Surveillance ‘n Security System?!?!? <geesh>Round, inclusiveness ‘n chat always appreciated! Pete at 4:51 PM Friday - July 20th: A fine inclusive, informative ‘n interesting Post from our Bar Chandler, Wolfman Pete! For the longest stretch of time, we ALWAYS found Montréal to be a great place Happy Railroading! Siberianmo wanswheel Member sinceNovember 2005 4,190 posts Posted by wanswheel on Friday, July 20, 2007 7:12 PM Hi Tom and everyone, a round for the houseThis is the city. Los Angeles, California http://www.yesterdayla.com/Graphics/freeway4.jpghttp://www.yesterdayla.com/Graphics/unionstation2.jpghttp://jpg2.lapl.org/pics47/00058391.jpghttp://photoswest.org/photos/00401501/00401602.jpghttp://jpg1.lapl.org/pics25/00032371.jpg http://harrymarnell.com/images/atsf19a.jpg http://harrymarnell.com/images/atsf19.jpg http://memory.loc.gov/pnp/habshaer/ca/ca1300/ca1312/photos/012256pv.jpghttp://memory.loc.gov/pnp/habshaer/ca/ca1300/ca1312/photos/012303pv.jpghttp://memory.loc.gov/pnp/habshaer/ca/ca1300/ca1312/photos/012302pv.jpghttp://www.railpictures.net/images/images2/a/ATSF_301_and_LA_City_Hall_March_1971RP.jpg.42308.jpghttp://www.railpictures.net/images/images2/u/UP_932_arrLAUPTCity_of_LA_Mar71RP.jpg.12624.jpghttp://www.railpictures.net/images/images2/0/004_restore_2.jpg.96900.jpghttp://www.railpictures.net/images/images2/s/SP_6458__6050_arr_with_1__Sept69RP.jpg.27669.jpg 50th Anniversary of LAUPThttp://www.railpictures.net/images/images2/r/rr6336.jpg.62112.jpg http://www.railpictures.net/images/images2/r/rr6312.jpg.52732.jpghttp://www.railpictures.net/images/images2/r/rr6310.jpg.90117.jpghttp://www.railpictures.net/images/images2/r/rr6289.jpg.70904.jpgConstruction http://jpg2.lapl.org/pics32/00050782.jpghttp://jpg1.lapl.org/pics27/00033041.jpgOpening Day 1939http://pro.corbis.com/images/U501972ACME.jpg?size=67&uid={f202b510-6e67-4100-8042-696c9a22d2a6}http://pro.corbis.com/images/U501975ACME.jpg?size=67&uid={26391849-9642-4a59-acfa-71ce20081c3c}Datahttp://memory.loc.gov/pnp/habshaer/ca/ca1200/ca1260/data/002.gifhttp://memory.loc.gov/pnp/habshaer/ca/ca1200/ca1260/data/004.gifUnion Pacific PA1http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=90566Nickel Plate PA-1http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=677027New Haven PA-1http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=712283Delaware & Hudson PA-4 http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=655014Alco PA Freight trainhttp://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=181788UK Blue trains http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=546812http://www.railpictures.net/images/n/NX1Z1228crop.jpg.13603.jpghttp://www.trainnet.org/Libraries/Lib019/47ALLST.JPGBob & Rayhttp://www.bobandray.com/info/encyclo3.htmlMike pwolfe Member sinceFebruary 2005 From: mid mo 1,054 posts Posted by pwolfe on Friday, July 20, 2007 4:51 PM Hi Tom and all.A pint of Bathams please RUTH, if you are still serving me.RON Many thanks for the link to the Pablo Neuruda railway museum in Chile. They're some great videos well worth watching. The people at the museum must very proud in the appearance of the running steam locomotives. In one of the videos the whistle seems like the whistles of some of the locos in the UK. Liked the clip of the loco being turned as well. Thanks for sharing and the drink. As you say when you visit a place after many years so much as changed that sometimes it makes one wish one had not gone back. DL Many thanks to a link to David Shepherd' s paintings, That art school rejecting him, in the biography part of the link, is almost as bad as Decca rejecting the Beatles. In the DVD are some of the colour sketches he painted at Nine Elms at the last days of Southern Region steam I think some were done in a very short time. If you do get the Railway Magazine and the free DVD let me know what you think. I have to play mine on the computer as our DVD player will not play it. I will look into one that will play Brit DVDs.Thanks for the LT station links; they were built with some style. Really like the little shops built in to part of the building, especially the cafes.Interesting links to what is going on with the Underground repairs. I wonder what would happen if one of the train operating companies went bust, I guess we know who would pay to keep the trains running.I too have been lucky enough to ride on the Bullied coaches on the Bluebell Railway; I found them comfortable to ride in. Looking at the photos in your links it seems to me that a lot of their design was incorporated into the BR Mark I stock. The Mark Is gave a great deal of good service to BR over many years. We used to get some Bullied coaches through Rugby Central on some of the South Coast to North East trains. CM3.Enjoyed reading about the Boston Subway, I felt I was lucky to have been able to ride the old cars on the Green line before they were withdrawn from service. The name Black Prince was originally worn by a British Railways ‘Britannia, class Pacific. Mr. Shepherds other BR loco he named, The Green Knight this name was formerly carried by a BR Standard Class 5, which worked on the Southern region of BR.LARS Seeing as you posted those wonderful London Underground Book covers I shall get those tapes back, besides RUTH as stopped serving me until I do and I hear LEON wants a word with me too.I find those disused and abandoned stations on the London Underground a fascinating subject. I know Alan has been there looking for what remains some of the stations on the ground. To think it the beginnings The Metropolitan Railway worked the cut and cover lines with steam locomotives fitted with condensing apparatus, what the conditions must have been like is hard to imagine.. Many thanks for finding ans sharing those book covers Love the term "Wrapped around the Axle" I had not heard it beforeTOM Glad Juneau passed his fitness test with flying colors, ours is not too bad with the Vet, but there again ours is 15 pounds a lot different to 59. You are right about the ones in Montreal who were, as you say, ‘ignorant', it is a shame that people WILL remember them, although in our case we had so many more people who were friendly and could not have done more for us. The worst thing to me is that the unfriendly ones we encountered were in positions that visitors to Montreal had to deal with. I found it very ironic while we were waiting for the plane home that on the TV at the airport, there was a item on it asking why there was less American tourists visiting Montreal. But as you say the overall time we were there was wonderful. It was probably the same heavy rain we had here you had yesterday. I have been listening to the radio and my part of the Midlands has been getting heavy rain again siberianmo Member sinceFebruary 2004 From: Chesterfield, Missouri, USA 7,214 posts "Our" Place reborn! 3rd Year of adults 'n REAL Classic Trains in a special environment! Posted by siberianmo on Friday, July 20, 2007 3:04 PM G'day Gents!Thanx to DL - CM3 Shane - Lars 'n DD1 for the appearances today! ACKNOWLEDGMENTS tomorrow . . .The VIA Rail journey to Gaspé, Quebéc aboard the "Chaleur" continues: Arrival at Matapédia was somewhat of a treat in that it was the first time I'd ever seen the "break up" of the train at that location. All of my prior arrivals at that destination (since 1990) were in the dark. I used to sit up in the dome of the Park Car, no matter what the hour, and try to figure out how things were being done . . . now I know! Best place to view the evolution is from the dome! The attendants from both trains, along with many passengers were milling about the station platform as crews began the process to separate the trains.Got reacquainted with "Melanie" - our terrific service car attendant from our west bound trip on the "Ocean" and "Roscoe" - also an "Ocean" crew member with a fine sense of humor. They were making the return trek to Halifax after the Sunday "turn around" in Montréal. Must say that the crews aboard the "Ocean" - both ways - were in stark POSITIVE contrast to those aboard the "Chaleur." Sounding like a broken record, this really was a hi-lite for me . . . I doubt that there'll be a next time. Only thing better, would have been cooperative weather conditions.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 09:00 on . . . >Matapédia, Québec - note the "run around" track to the rear of the station.(1) Look closely at these next fotos - this is the sequence of "breaking up" with the "Ocean" at Matapédia. <Oh, but for a clear sky morning!>(2) (3) (4) (5) Guess who?(6) (7) That's the "Ocean" crew in the background - our Chef to the right.(8) (9) Now to disconnect two of those F40PHs . . . (10) To be continued . . .Saturday is ENCORE! - and - Photo Posting Day!Tom Happy Railroading! Siberianmo LoveDomes Member sinceJanuary 2006 From: northeast U.S. 1,225 posts "Our" Place reborn! 3rd Year of adults 'n REAL Classic Trains in a special environment! Posted by LoveDomes on Friday, July 20, 2007 1:03 PM Ahoy Cap'n Tom ‘n fellow travelers at the bar!Ruth, it's Friday! I'll have a Larsman special hero of ham, Swiss, mustAHd ‘n buttAH with two extra large ‘n crunchy pickles from the barrel. And noooooooow, Boris, let's get going with the treats for the crittAHs - tray ‘o seeds for Awk - bucket of ice cubes for Frostbite - saucer o' brine for Tex ‘n a field mouse for Artie <outback, please!>. And yes, the small jar of pickled pig's feet is yours! <grin>A round for the house ‘n keep the change my radiant beauty! <blush>Looks like Shane has been in twice since my last visit, Pete once, along with three from Dan ‘n four from Ron. So, we're at least we're maintaining forward momentum quite nicley. Must make a direct comment regarding those wonderful pix from the Cap'n. Amazing how they've piled up since you ‘n the wolfman came back from Canada. Please don't STOP ‘em from coming. I surely am enjoying what you've provided ‘n am looking forward to all that you feel are "presentable" to those of us at the bar! <grin> Ida Red! Now there's a song that takes me back. Used to know a guy who was forever singing those lyrics while he worked. One day, he nearly wound up in the drink, as for some reason, the "needle" just kept getting stuck on the SAME part - over ‘n over! <geesh> <grin>Since when are "names" important in matters of the heart?? Oooooooops, sorry RUTH! <ahem> Of course I wasn't referring to present times ‘n people! For Pete: Listen wolfman Pete - you've gotta get those tapes back. We just can't have the goings on in our Penthouse Suite "entertaining" your friends in Europe. Vito is involved, you say? Now that's a twist, as he's a personal friend of our Proprietor. Gotta check this out - probably will have to enlist the services of Inspector Cluess ‘n his erstwhile assistant, Mr. Doyle, PI. Now you've done it . . . . <groan>Women ‘n shopping simply blow me out of the water. She KNOWS I detest even the thought of going with her and yet she insists I do. Must be a "control" thing . . . <grin>But if I happen to want to stop off in the hardware section of a store, or the automotive, or . . . well, that gets her looking at he watch. As if the posted sale hours for her "stuff" are about to end within the minute! <arrrrgggghhhh>For Shane: In reference to sportswriters - NY is as bad if not worse than Boston when it comes to baseball coverage. I mean this is a city where the Yanks are paid highly to bring it all home, every year. So the Mets are expected to fall in somewhere in that expectation - New York ‘n all. Gets mighty boring in my opinion. I'll admit that our group of "mercenaries" <as Tom calls ‘em> stacks up there with the best of ‘em, so there's some justification for the expectations. All crap to me. I just like watching ‘em win, but surely don't get myself wrapped ‘round the axle over it.I think the first Macys I ever saw outside of New York City was in Philadelphia. Again, I said "I think." And that was sooooooo long ago. Now they're everywhere, kinda like fly <doo doo>. For Ron: Nice link from Ron - I viewed it all ‘n enjoyed the works of Pablo Neruda. Some super stuff for Classic Steam era. Nice selection from our Mississippi Connection. Chile appears to be a fascinating country for railroading. Now, if you can't figure out "things" on the forums, no doubt our Proprietor will guide you through it all. There's a "link" to how to post photos right at the top of the forum page where you find "Our" Place - go to the General Discussions page for Classic Trains. Look at the top of the listings - it's right there. There's NO PLACE on earth that can rival a deli san dwich from New York City. No place! I like a hard roll, crunchy pickle slice, and . . . . also a hot pastrami on rye with some sauerkraut. Ummmmmmm. Like corned beef too - but ONLY on St. Pat's Day! <grin>For Dan: Man oh man did I spend some time checking out the artists link! Some great RR works ‘n makes me wonder how much wall space is enough?? <grin>A huge difference between our sides of the pond is that you expend much effort to "present" your underground, whereas to us a subway is just that. I like your way better - fine links too! In reading through the situation with that work contracted for the underground, makes me wonder. Private sector to me always spells P-R-O-F-I-T. Question is, at what cost? A sure-fire "mess" in Merrie Olde. This could rival the "Big Dig" scandal still taking place in Bahstun (Boston). Glad you "clarified" that comment regarding the coffee making ‘round here. I know the Cap'n takes great pride in brewing only the finest from Juan Valdez' Colombian coffee plantation. <grin>Here are a few more book covers to check out . . . .Underground London - Travels Beneath The City Streets. [Stephen Smith.]The Story of London's Underground. [John R. Day & John Reed.] Anonymous Member sinceApril 2003 305,205 posts Posted by Anonymous on Friday, July 20, 2007 12:29 PM Good morning Tom and all in attendance. What's your pleasure? Mine is a hot corned beef sandwich on Jewish rye, hand sliced(not machine sliced, Stage Deli style) and a Guinness draught. The last time I was in New York was 14 months ago. My wife and I drove up there in a Chevy pickup with Mississippi plates. You don't see many of them around. After the token visits to see the highlights of the city, a subway ride and bus ride, we decided we saw enough of the city. When you have been away from a place for so long and return, you expect to see things in the same way as in our memories. It doesn't work. Even the venerable Stage Delicatesan wasn't the same. Meat was now sliced on a machine. The corned beef was much more lean, but the size of the sandwich was about the same, only much more expensive. Probably the last time I ate a real corn beef sandwich at the Stage was almost 50 years ago and the taste has lingered with me ever since. Strange how a taste can linger for so long. I know this is , but I thought some of you ex NY'ers might remember. The worst thing was, I met a childhood friend and although the meeting was amiable, he just wasn't the same guy I grew up with. I've tried to get him to visit in Ms, but he's a diehard NY'er. Ms would be a complete new experience like no other in the world. Enough of this rambling.DL: I liked the links to the underground stations. The thing I like best, is the links to other sites afforded by just a few links. I found the same thing when I researched railways in Chile. I got more information than I had counted on to the point of it being overwhelming. I hope you had a chance to see my link and note the roundhouse at the lower right of the home site. The sounds are also very inspiring. That sound of a train whistle and escaping steam can bring tears (and it does) to one's eyes. Train spotting is a much more active activity in the UK than it is here, at least that's what I read. Unless you lived around and depended on trains, the interest level is minimal among today's youth's. Nascar is the big thing here with young people(those>40).Got to go now as the missus is calling me for lunch. Regards to all or as they say in Spanish, Requerdos al todas. Edit DL - UK Member sinceAugust 2006 280 posts Posted by DL - UK on Friday, July 20, 2007 9:02 AM PS - looked like Fall edition of Classic Trains arived on the door mat this morning - not had time to read it yet - is summer really nearly over?DL DL - UK Member sinceAugust 2006 280 posts Posted by DL - UK on Friday, July 20, 2007 8:58 AM Hi TomLooks like a transatlantic translation problem again - when I say 'coffee machine' I mean the equipment that percolates the hot stuff through the fresh ground stuff - maybe you call that a percolator I'm not sure. I certainly don't mean one of those machines that pumps out the chemical coffee from the dehydrated brown soluble stuff - no way - if I saw one of those in Our Place I'd fear the place was under new ownership! Migth even be tempted to try and remove the equipment myself - the rule is never (nevah) drink anything from one of those!Well, I'll have another mug of the fresh ground please and one for anyone who wants to join me!CM3 - interesting Boston transit info - one of the interesting things for me about visiting a new city is checking out the urban transit system - equipment, network etc etc - cheapest way to get to grips with a city is a one day public transit pass and a transit map - in my experience - a day riding the system tells you more about any city than any number of guidebooks and guided tours I would say!DL coalminer3 Member sinceJanuary 2001 From: WV 1,251 posts Posted by coalminer3 on Friday, July 20, 2007 8:21 AM Good Morning Barkeep and all Present; coffee, please; round for the house and $ for the jukebox. Weather is foggy here this a.m. after the area got hammered with some interesting thunderstorms yesterday - usual powerlines down, trees uprooted, etc. It's supposed to clear up later today and maybe be decent for the weekend. OSPs travelogue continues, and we're off to Matapedia (Algonquin for, "Big soft place in the middle of track 2 that swallows freight cars.")Then you had to deal with "Take the dog to the vet." That calls for the barkeep to dust off the bottle of the good stuff which we keep on the top shelf for special occasions. You give the dog a shooter, then give yourself two, etc. Pretty soon, everyone is sedated and it works out pretty well. Our K9 Korps member (only one at present) came back from the kennel the other day. We got him groomed and trimmed for the summer. I asked the cashier what I got for all that money, and she said, "A naked dog." He does look a little silly right now, but it will all grow back. He's much more comfortable and we don't have to deal with treating hot spots, and other summer induced problems.Ida Red, indeed. Bob Wills did a good rendition of that tune. Maybe we can find it on the jukebox along with "San Antonio Rose." Field Mouse Racing - yikes! We have that at the house every fall, when the weather gets cold and our little friends look for warm places to hide. Red Sox are folding up like a cardboard suitcase in a heavy rain. As I always say, "Do the math." The number of people left on base is revealing as is their batting average both with runers on aand with runners in scoring position. August is always tough on them, too and we're not even there yet. DD1 - Thanks for the information. You'll find we're interested in all sorts of stuff. It's the good meaning of being called "curious."Pete - Good to hear from you, sir.DL sent material as well. David Shepherd's work reminds me of that of Ted Rose. If you have not seen his book In The Traces, try and find a copy - you'll really enjoy looking at it."Black Prince" - excellent name for a fine looking piece of power.Speaking of underground, I rode several subway lines when I was in Boston last week. Parts of that system are always under construction. Latest item since my last trip were completion of the new station at Charles St. The Riverside line is being completely rebuilt so it is not in service this summer. This line has an interesting history as it was formerly a Boston and Albany branch line which was converted to trolley service a long time ago. That being said, a lot of the old railroad stations were retained. It had some stretches of urban operation as well as some areas which ran through open country which gave it a true interurban flavor. PCCs did the work when I was living in the area, there. They were replaced by LRVs which have since been replaced by new cars. I also rode part of the Cleveland Circle Line as I took the huns to Kenmore so we could take a tour of Fenway Park. This also included a stop at a new sports bar; have to see what the competition is doing, you know - fine looking staff, I must say, but they have neither the mascots nor the "high class" clientele that we do here. No Boris, it's a spittoon, not a helmet.Underground, there are traces of the old system left if you know where to look, including pieces of tunnels that are no longer in use, etc. Also, the Type 5 and PCC cars are still in storage at Boylston (tarped, but partially visible. These cars are in good shape, sometimes used in fan trips, and painted traction orange as God intended them to be. Work safe siberianmo Member sinceFebruary 2004 From: Chesterfield, Missouri, USA 7,214 posts "Our" Place reborn! 3rd Year of adults 'n REAL Classic Trains in a special environment! Posted by siberianmo on Friday, July 20, 2007 7:55 AM <w/permission: http://www.scenic-railroads.com/>G'day Gents! It's THAT day again - FRIDAY, perhaps the best of ‘em all! Well, at least when quitin' time rolls ‘round, eh Join us in a mugga freshly ground ‘n brewed coffee, some pastries from The Mentor Village Bakery. And let's not forget to order a <light> or <traditional> breakfast from our Menu Board! Big news of the day for yesterday involved Juneau. He had his "annual" visit to the Vet. Came through with flying colors, however, he surely doesn't like the experience. Have to give him a mild sedative before we embark upon his worst day of the year. It begins with putting him into the car and goes down hill from there. Fortunately, "his" crate fits quite well into the wagon, and he finds a degree of solice in it - not much. He's an aggressive little Farkle, and I'm a living example of what a frantic Husky can do to one trying to be a calming influence when he's unhappy. <groan> Muzzle-time, big time! <phew> <grin> He's 51 months old, weighs in at 59 pounds ‘n is perhaps the most "talkative" animal I've ever encountered. Before I totally forget this - and I've neglected to mention it several times - THANX to Lars for helping to keep "my other Thread" up ‘n running. While we haven't attracted that many from over there, at least we can "credit" a few from that source over the long haul of this joint. The ONLY way to keep this place functioning is to TRY attracting new customers. It really doesn't take much - just a foto now ‘n then, with perhaps a bit of narrative. Something - anything - to keep it going. Customer ACKNOWLEDGMENTS (since my last narrative):Lars (LoveDomes) at 7:45 AM Thursday - July 19th: Been quite awhile since yours was the 1st of the day! Sure is a different start to things without our Nocturnal Resident Desert Swede - who by the way, I'm hoping is doing well. My mother used to think going to Macy's "in the city" <translated: Manhattan> was the cat's meow. For us in those days, we either took a bus to the ferry then the subway, or a "long distance" bus through New Jersey via the Bayonne Bridge ‘n then through the Holland Tunnel to Times Square. Then a subway ride down to 34th Street.I'm guessing there's a <link> . . . These days I just can't imagine making that trip with so many alternatives available elsewhere. Can't figger ‘em out, can we <grin>Just think, had your bride decided on making it an evening shopping trip, you could've gotten caught up in that mid-town steam explosion! Now THAT would've ruined your day, fer sure, fer sure. So, count your "blessings," Mate! Good thinking about feeding Artie the Owl - on the back porch, yes - outside PULEEZE! With reference to the Montreal "experience," let me just say that it was the SECOND not so happy occurrence we encountered up there. I refrained from getting into the first because it had more to do with ignorance ‘n rudeness encountered during our trip in from the airport to downtown. Something Pete ‘n I won't soon forget. You are correct about the Skyline cars, Budd was "on it" when they manufactured those. Coming off the Renaissance and into the Budd cars surely gave Pete all the perspective one needed to make the assessment that there just isn't a favorable comparison. Renaissance is without charm, whereas Budd has lots of it. Many thanx for the PA/FA links along with those fine Burlington Route book covers! Visit ‘n round most appreciated! CM3 Shane (coalminer3) at 8:06 AM Thursday - July 19th: Ida Red, Ida Red - so the song goes. Ida RedTraditionalSource: Everywhere from Clifftop to The Clash. Arrangement: Uncle EarlIda Red, Ida Green, prettiest girl I ever seen.Ida Red, Ida Blue, I got stuck on Ida too.Ida Red, Ida White, love her true I think I might.Ida Red, Ida Pink, saw her in town gave me a wink.Ida Red, She ain't no fool. She could ride a straddle of a humpback mule.If I'da listened what Ida said, I'd be sleepin' in Ida's bed.Ida Red, Ida Yellow. Wish that I could be her fellow.Ida Red, She's comin' to town. Wrote me a letter she's comin' down....Ida Red, I dunno. Should I stay or should I go now?!Man if the Boston scribes have their knickers in a knot, they should cover the "home team" in St. Louis. Never know jus Happy Railroading! Siberianmo DL - UK Member sinceAugust 2006 280 posts Posted by DL - UK on Friday, July 20, 2007 6:22 AM Hello TomAm I in too early fro mentor village bakery stuff - if so I'll have to wait - coffee machine on yet? If so I'll have one!I'm enjoying the continuing Gaspe narrative report - the short instalments is a nice way to do it - digestible chunks of info.You asked Pete about David Shepherd and indeed your link is to the guy. Though regulars might like this picture he did :http://www.railart.co.uk/gallery/shepherd5.htmland some info about his own locomotive "Black Prince taking a seaside holidayDavid Shepherd's 9F 2-10-0 Black Prince is taking a trip to the Norfolk seaside. In mid-August, it will depart for the North Norfolk Railway (the Poppy Line) and this is believed to be the first time ever that a member of the class has visited this part of the world"and here he is beside it:http://www.gwsr.com/assets/images/DavidShepherdESR.jpgPete - I think you mentioned art deco stations on the London Underground - there are certainly plenty that were built as London expanded in the 1930s - here are some good pics - but we have plenty of use of brick as well as concrete - kind of making the point DD1 made in a way!http://thincities.tfl.gov.uk/projects/station.php?id=4http://thincities.tfl.gov.uk/projects/station.php?id=5http://thincities.tfl.gov.uk/projects/station.php?id=6http://thincities.tfl.gov.uk/projects/station.php?id=7Tom - you asked about the Underground repairs mess - this is indeed a mess - and sadly typical of private organisations who bit of more than they can chew after politicians believe the ‘funny money men' can deliver all - of course what happens is the taxpayer has to step in and bail it out - costs more than juts biting the bullet and paying for the work in the first place - but the consultants seem to walk away with their fees safely trousered!This report outlines the situationhttp://www.guardian.co.uk/transport/Story/0,,2129733,00.htmlThis article gives a rather thoughtful commentaryhttp://www.guardian.co.uk/transport/Story/0,,2129574,00.htmlPete - I always enjoyed riding the Bullied designed cars on the Bluebell line - so well restored too. There are some good pics here - the lozenge shape above the door window is characteristic of these coacheshttp://www.semg.org.uk/coach/bullco01.htmland some nice interior pictures showing superbly restored examples here:http://www.semg.org.uk/coach/bullco-int1.htmlThey have obviously used restored upholstery patterns too to get the correct period feelI'll have to watch out for the Railway Magazine DVD - maybe I'd better buy a copy of this months magazine.DD1 - interesting Chile link - I'd never heard of that museum - good to know it is out there.CM3 - good story which I enjoyed reading.Lars - nice to see you in.RegardsDL pwolfe Member sinceFebruary 2005 From: mid mo 1,054 posts Posted by pwolfe on Thursday, July 19, 2007 6:21 PM Hi Tom and all.A pint of Bathams please RUTH. ERIC All the best and I hope you are soon back at the bar. Watch out for Artie the Owl on your late night visits.RON Many thanks for that link to David Fletcher's superb models, there is a lot to look at on the site and it is well worth it. Thanks for sharing. LARS Glad you survived the shopping. One of the main puzzles to me is why our bride's can't understand why we don't get the same pleasure on their shopping outings as they do.Yes Tom was very restrained with the VIA rail guy, mind you the guy wasn't around very much, leaving it to the Ocean crew to answer the passengers.Many thanks for the link to the ALCO PAs and FAs, it was as a shame the prime mover was not as successful as could have been. The PAs certainly looked the part in that Santa Fe livery. although the D&H dark blue livery suited them very well also.It is OK VITO the HIT as assured me that, when the penthouse tapes are turned into DVDs in Amsterdam, they won't work over here.Thanks for more Burlington book covers. That is an impressive photo of the steam locomotive on the CB&Q in color bookCM3 It seems you are having the weather as they have in Scotland, where they say, "If you don't like it hang on for half an hour and it will change"Thanks I will use your NH post on Encore Saturday.Many thanks for reposting the ‘Of Berkshires and Roundhouse Cats'. I remember it from before but really enjoyed reading it again. A fantastic description the roundhouse at Rouses Point, having visited depots in the UK in the old days (when a polite request to the foreman would often allow a look round, days long gone I'm afraid.). I can picture the scene, and the feeling of coming across something unexpected, like 759. TOM That looks bad news from VIA rail, at the present time a strike would be the last thing they would want, I think. It must be approaching peak holiday time as well.I did like the photo that accompanied the article though.I guess the Ida Lewis you knew was not the same lady who was a lighthouse keeper, interested to hear more, of courseYes that is David Shepherd who is featured in the DVD. He is a very talented painter of steam locos, as well as wildlife, capturing locos in the last days of the Southern steam at Nine Elms (London) and Guilford loco sheds, he bought two steam locomotives in 1967.Many thanks for the next part of our trip on the Chalaur. With the late departure it did cut in to the sleeping hours but as you say it well worth getting up, as it was daylight for that 4-hour part of journey is usually in the dark. Matapedia station looks a lot like a slightly larger version of some of the stations on the West Highland line in ScotlandI wonder who is going to look after ARTIE's field mice. I am worried the Track Gang could turn late Friday night into ‘Field Mice Racing Night'.Well it was RUTH when I started but now it is LEON as a thunderstorm accompanied, with very heavy rain, passed through this afternoonand I though it best to get off the puter, anyway another pintwith a round and, of course some of H&H's Fish ‘N' Chips for .I hope ARTIE is not a fish owl as it could cause problems with FROSTBITE.Pete. Anonymous Member sinceApril 2003 305,205 posts Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, July 19, 2007 6:20 PM Good afternoon Tom and all present. Drinks are on me. I'll have the usual. I just received some links from Chile. It is quiet long, but I know you will enjoy it. Chileans seem to be as passionate about trains as we are. The link is of the Pablo Neuruda railroad museum in Temuco, Chile. Most of it is in Spanish, but the pictures are well worth it. Crank up the sound. P.S. How do I post pictures in these messages?http://www.museoferroviariotemuco.cl/video/index.htmlI posted this over on the other thread, but realized there are two threads, one for "Our Place" and the other for "Classic Trains including Traction". Am I doing this right? Edit siberianmo Member sinceFebruary 2004 From: Chesterfield, Missouri, USA 7,214 posts "Our" Place reborn! 3rd Year of adults 'n REAL Classic Trains in a special environment! Posted by siberianmo on Thursday, July 19, 2007 2:02 PM G'day Gents!Slow day at the Bar by the Ballast with Lars 'n CM3 Shane in the early AM. Ya know, it may very well have been Ida Red! The VIA Rail journey to Gaspé, Québec aboard the "Chaleur" continues: These fotos are of the scenery along the way to Matapédia. Can just imagine how nice it all would've looked had the weather been more cooperative. But then, had we not been late in departing, we'd never have seen this in the dark! Something POSITIVE came out of it, afterall. The train was hardly crowded ‘n it seemed as if we had just as many staff as passengers. But that really wasn't the case. The dome wasn't crowded at all nor was the lounge area of the Skyline car. Seems the passengers must've been content at their seats or in the bedrooms. Will say this, the attendants were "buzzing" ‘round to make sure that whatever one wanted to order was quickly made available. After such a great breakfast, there wasn't room for much else. <phew>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 09:00 on . . . >The combined "Chaleur & Ocean" heading toward Matapédia. Note the Renaissance cars.Tired ‘n feeling it - But lovin' the dome!High ‘n Dry!MatapediaTo be continued . . .Tom Happy Railroading! Siberianmo coalminer3 Member sinceJanuary 2001 From: WV 1,251 posts Posted by coalminer3 on Thursday, July 19, 2007 8:06 AM Good Morning Barkeep and all Present. Coffee, please; round for the house, and $ for the jukebox (Maine quarters today for the Owl - after all Owl's Head is in Maine). Gas is at $3.05 this a.m. We had a nice thundershower abt. 4:00 a.m. with some rain - we really need it. The entrail readers have provided five different forecasts for our area today, so pick the one you like, however, it's not uncommon to have five different kinds of weather here in a 24 hour period; kinda like New Ebgland.OSP continues the travelogue and pictures. A lovely hw car, sir. I am familiar with both lights at Nantucket. The remarks about nav. aids reminded me of the ancient story about the battleship and the lighthouse. Sorry chief, Ida Red used to be at the Iron Horse. Ida Lewis was at Newport. Anyway, with commuter trains there's always another one (LOL).Lars stopped by - Macy's is everywhere, now. I still have a really hard time with them being in Boston, Pittsburgh, Buffalo, and Chicago. But I get confused easily.I see three more Burlington items to add to the list. I love to see the bookmobile come up the drievway. Owls eat about anything so Boris better be careful with the leftovers in his trough. Mets indeed! The Red Sox are not quite in free fall, but it won't be much longer until the Boston sportswriters start rearranging the deck chairs on the Titanic. Actally, the AL Central is probably the most interesting area right now.Eric - Hope you are doing o.k.Pete - Post away if you want. DD1 - Half the fun of this place is sitting back and "listening" to the chatter. The picture of the Napierville Junction caboose which ran the other day inspired me to dig out a piece on Rouses Point that I posted awhile back. Here goes for those who missed it the first time.Of Berkshires and Roundhouse CatsThe Delaware and Hudson is an old operation, originally founded some 160 years ago as a canal company to tap the rapidly growing Pennsylvania anthracite business. Anthracite gradually succumbed to the inroads of oil and natural gas which were cheaper, cleaner, and infinitely easier to handle. After all, why shovel coal or tend a stoker when you could heat your house by flicking a switch?Declining anthracite traffic forced the D&H to look elsewhere for business. They exploited bridge traffic (handling freight quickly between connecting railroads) and also became a major carrier of paper and forest products. Thus the slogan on their boxcars, "The Bridge Line Between New England and Canada." With time, the D&H became somewhat eccentric. They were not a New England railroad in the true sense of the phrase, but they acted like one. They dieselized early, replacing their steam engines with a fleet of Alco road switchers which burbled and smoked their way between Pennsylvania and the Canadian border. The somber black and yellow paint of the early diesels gave way to a handsome gray and blue livery highlighted by yellow stripes.The Delaware and Hudson remained solvent while all those around them drowned in a sea of red ink. While nominally independent, the D&H was actually controlled by a holding company called Dereco which also owned the Erie-Lackawanna, a bloated and tarnished remnant of two once-proud railroads. Dereco was in turn controlled by the voracious and profitable Norfolk and Western, thereby creating a Gordian knot of ownership which kept the lawyers happy. Neither the N&W nor the D&H liked the arrangement, and the D&H managed to break loose and go its own way. This is when the eccentricity became more visible.The gray and blue livery gave way to blue and yellow, green and yellow, or red and yellow, or red, white, and blue on a few engines. The old Alcos were traded, scrapped, or rebuilt to squeeze a few more miles out of them. The D&H actively solicited passenger traffic and for awhile ran what was arguably the classiest passenger train in the east. Their PAs stood out in a desert of Amtrak blandness as they operated in daily service between Albany and Montreal. If that were not enough, the Baldwin freight engines that were on the property represented a change from the Alco monolith of the 1950s and 60s.Rouses Point, New York - especially in the winter - is at the end of the world. Rouses Point exists because of two things: the Canadian border and the Delaware and Hudson Railway. Rouses Point is the North Pole of the Delaware and Hudson. The town's life is tied to the ebb and flow of the railroad's traffic. The citizen's outlook is torn between nervousness over Quebecois politics and the more prosaic concerns of trying to scratch out a living and run a railroad in the pinched meanness of the North Country.There is still time, however to sit down to a breakfast of oatmeal, ham and eggs, home fries, toast or donuts, and coffee, before going out to work in the cold, and talk about hunting, ice fishing, or hockey.It never seems to snow in Rouses Point. The snow is always there, like the wind and the gray sky. The snow squishes underfoot, blows in clouds around you, or sits passively; waiting for you to slip and fall face down.So it was that I found myself in Rouses Point. The D&H has a stone station at Rouses Point, a roundhouse of uncertain vintage (with a turntable), a small fuel facility, and a yard cluttered with mangled freight cars. Winter is tough on steel.The roundhouse is really the heart of things; if only because it is warm. People can freeze outside, but diesels need some warmth when they are not running, lest they crack a block or become impossible to start because of weak batteries and congealed fuel. Most roundhouses are filled with dogs, but Rouses point is alive with cats. Cats of all types - friendly and unfriendly - black cats, orange cats, red cats, white cats, calico cats. You never see many of them, but you know they are in the shadows, watching you with unmoving eyes.It's Sunday morning, early, and there is not really much happening. The lights are on in the foreman's office and a small group of men are inside, clustered around the stove, and drinking coffee. The talk is of sick engines and bad cars, and the continual problems that they present to their keepers. This is the sort of talk heard on any railroad. Close your eyes and you could be in Radnor, Tennessee or Huntington, West Virginia. Over in a corner somebody is making a fearsome din while hammering on a piece of metal. An elderly RS3 sits dead on one of the tracks. She has come in from the cold for her monthly inspection. Then, on the other track, I see her; looking strangely out of place.She emerged from the fires of Lima in time to help win the war, and then beat the best that LaGrange, Beloit, and Eddystone could offer until the inevitable end. She sat neglected for years until she was brought back to life by the very Nickel Plate shops which spurned her so many years ago. This was Nickel Plate 759 - dead, cold, and impounded because of a political dispute. To this day, I have no idea what exactly she was doing at Rouses Point - probably hiding from those who would take her back.The lady and I got reacquainted while she slept waiting awaiting her prince's kiss. I had seen her take the railroad apart on freight and excursion trains; listened as she walked up Horseshoe in 1969. Now she was at Rouses Point. Somehow, it did not seem the same, but I felt good knowing that she was in out of the cold and the snow. It wasn't Buffalo or Bellevue, but it was at least warm under the watchful eye of the roundhouse cats.Work safeAny more guesses on PAs in freight service? LoveDomes Member sinceJanuary 2006 From: northeast U.S. 1,225 posts Posted by LoveDomes on Thursday, July 19, 2007 7:43 AM Ahoy Cap'n Tom ‘n fellow travelers at the bar!An early arrival for me, but I didn't want to miss two days in a row, so bettAH early than nevAH! Ruth my deAH, a mugga Joe with a jolt if you please. My, my, that outfit your almost wearing is just . . . Yesterday was one of those unspeakable events in a married man's life. What the Mrs. sees in Macy's is beyond me. The thing is, with all of the satellite stores WHY do we have to go to the original place??!! <arrrrggghhh> Hit me again, Ruth! <grin>What's with the case marked "Field Mice" that is sitting on the back porch? Ohhhhh, I get it, "food" for Artie the Owl. That crittAH scared the wits outta me this mornin' when I came in early to get some matters squared away. B4 I even turned the lights on, there's was this "hoooooooooot, hoooooooooot" sound, followed by some "flapping." Then right in front of me was Artie, all decked out in a TUX!! Another mouth to feed, but most welcome here at the Sanctuary. Boris, feed the crittAHs will ya?? And the small jar of pickled pig's feet is for you! Watch those mice, we don't want ‘em getting loose. That's all we need in here. Anyway, just one at a time should do it. <grin> Just let it loose on the back porch 'n Artie will do the rest. <ugh>Appears as if we've settled back to somewhat of a "normal" week ‘round here. Ya know, I kinda like the slower pace, for it's much easier to keep up with. Don't get me wrong, it's great to have a crowd stopping by, but when there's an abundance of material, well it just gets a bit difficult to keep up. By the way, nice words of encouragement for Ron! Gotta kick out of that "story" you were beginning to tell - especially the reference to waiting to miss your 3rd train! Been there, done that, mate! <oh yeah>Enjoying your story ‘n pix for the beginning of the Gaspe trip. Really wudda ticked me off if I had to put up with that crap. Sounds to me as if Via Rail isn't any different from airlines, and of course Amtrak, when it comes to keeping the people informed. Surprised you didn't pull the guy over the kiosk ‘n do a number on his head! <grin> Then again, you'd have been locked away in some dark ‘n dusky dungeon, nevAH to be seen or heard from again. <uh oh>Love those dome shots! The Skyline car looks great. I've traveled in 'em on other roads. Budd knew what they were doing when those were designed! Wonder why the conductor permitted the JO to sleep in the lounge?? Wouldn't have happened on roads I traveled aboard . . . A round of greetings to Shane - Pete - Dan ‘n Ron! Good to see youse guyz supporting the bar! A comment for Pete: Amsterdam?!?!?! Hopefully you aren't serious! <grimace>Special for Eric: Hope all's going well!! Me, Guru of the New York Central?? Hardly. That title rightfully belongs to Shane! Anyway, I just had a love affair with the railroad, never immersed myself into the details of this or that. Call me superficial if you wish. <grin>Don't know the answer to Shane's question, but here's a link on the PA's . . . http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ALCO_PAHere's one for the FA's too . . .http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ALCO_FADoesn't appear as if the Tuesday Theme got much of a "kick," although Pete did provide some fine supporting "stuff." Maybe we should just take a wait ‘n see approach to bringing it back. Try one more, though - then maybe a monthly would work, as Shane suggested. But it is summAH, ‘n we KNOW what that brings ‘round this place. <ugh>Ok, time for me to get going. Have some <ahem> admin work to attend to this morning. Then, it's off for a round of places to go, people to meet ‘n things to do. Some book covers left over from the other day . . .LETS GO METS! Until the next time! siberianmo Member sinceFebruary 2004 From: Chesterfield, Missouri, USA 7,214 posts "Our" Place reborn! 3rd Year of adults 'n REAL Classic Trains in a special environment! Posted by siberianmo on Thursday, July 19, 2007 6:00 AM <w/permission: http://www.scenic-railroads.com/>G'day Gents! I see where VIA Rail union employees are threatening a walk out on July 22nd if they don't get a new contract. http://www.cbc.ca/money/story/2007/07/17/viarailnotice.htmlLast time I checked, petrol had DROPPED to $2.82 (rounded) - temps unbearable yesterday with high humidity ‘n generally a great day to spend indoors with the A/C at full bore. A front is supposed to move in bringing some relief for the weekend. The Mentor Village Bakery case is fully stocked - our <light> ‘n <traditional> breakfasts are ready for orderin' - and the urns of coffee are full! So, what's the problem?!?! <grin>Customer ACKNOWLEDGMENTS (since my last narrative):CM3 Shane (coalminer3) at 8:49 AM Wednesday - July 18th: And a fine morning it was as our WVA Connection has resumed his AM activities at the Bar by the Ballast! Some things to make comment on:As mentioned yesterday - YOU ARE indeed the Great Guru for all things New York Central! Thanx for the Alco PA info - and I'll take a "bye" on that question of yours. Let's see if we can get some participation ‘round here . . . A fine observation of a bedroom being attended to! You, Sir could easily "win" appointment as Oh-Fish-Ul Voyeur of "Our" Place! [wow Nantucket Light was indeed a lightship - or in fact, more than one. The proper name was Nantucket Shoals . . . Both of the lightships (WLV-612 & 613) were taken out of service in 1983. Anyway, the lights of Nantucket Island include the fixed structures known as Brant Point Light ‘n Sakaty Head Light (both automated now) ‘n presumed to still be in operation. I'm hardly an aficionado of these things and don't want to come across as if I am. There were many, many facets of my former organization that I had no first hand experience of or with. However, anyone who sailed the waters off of our coasts surely had to know of the aids to navigation available visibly, audibly or electronically. Otherwise, one could really have a lousy day . . . <uh oh>Ida Lewis . . . hmmmmm. There was this gal I met at the "Iron Horse," used to wait tables (she, not I). Anyway, one evening as I was waiting to miss my 3rd train home, I . . . oh never mind. You're certainly not interested in THAT, are you?? Ida Lewis (1842-1911), female lighthouse keeper of the U.S. Lighthouse Service (which later merged with the U.S. Coast Guard in 1939). A most famous lady who was awarded this nation's highest honor for lifesaving - the Gold Lifesaving Medal.Always thought those New Haven "American Flyer cars" were something else. Wonder if any are in preservation??Good idea regarding the Tuesday Theme for the Day - let's see if anyone else comes up with a thought or two . . . I may try one more, then "cool it" if there aren't any takers.And finally, we'll have to be sure that Artie the Owl isn't permitted to perch anywhere near the Penthouse Suite! <hoooo hoooo> It's bad enough that we've got Eagle Eye Pete selling off the security tapes for marketing in Amsterdam . . . <yikes>Way back when I was a smoker, I couldn't handle Menthol cigarettes - can't imagine a cigar with that flavor. <ugh>Texas quarters, round ‘n fine chat most appreciated! [tup ]Dan (DL-UK) at 11:21 AM Wednesday - July 18th: Really don't understand why you are able to view Pix from one of my archive sites, but not the other. Hmmmmmm. Anyway, glad you at least saw the Can-Am layout, et al. Wasn't going to "do" a trip report per se. However, now that we've gotten most of the fotos out, a bit of narrative regarding the final portion of our Canadian adventure seems appropriate. And yes - you'll have to WAIT for the next installment! <grin>As always, most interesting dialogue supplemented by equally intriguing links! Keep us posted on that developing story regarding the situation with the upgrading to the Underground. Thanx for the visit! Pete (pwolfe) at 4:53 PM Wednesday - July 18th: When we first began traveling to Halifax from Montreal, I can recall spending hours in Central Station. Back in those times our flight got us into Montreal much earlier and it was always enjoyable to take in the sights ‘n sounds of the station. Also, prowling the underground shops ‘n mall was something special too. Really a remarkable set-up and well worth the while to explore. Can't say I've heard of David Shepard. Is this the guy?? http://www.collector Happy Railroading! Siberianmo Anonymous Member sinceApril 2003 305,205 posts Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, July 18, 2007 5:13 PM Good evening Tom and all at the bar. Nothing much to report except a quick reference to http://4largescale.com/fletch/. He is a master model builder by the name of David Fletcher, a Britisher I think. His site is long, but full of interesting stuff. Check it out if you have a chance. This is my offering for today, model and toy train day. Unfortunately there is not much in the way of railways or history of down here in the deep south. We have CSX and that's about it. We do play a little game here that revolves around the unguarded railroad crossings. At present the score is trains - 0; cars - 8. That was the reason given to me why British locomotives don't have headlights, their crossings are gate controlled. Edit pwolfe Member sinceFebruary 2005 From: mid mo 1,054 posts Posted by pwolfe on Wednesday, July 18, 2007 4:53 PM Hi Tom and all.A pint of Holden's Mild please RUTH on this hot day.ALLAN Thanks for the kind words. I have only seen those Gresley P2s in photos it must have been a wonderful sight to have seen them in the flesh. The first two looked a lot different to the usual British steam locos. The locos had some great names as well, at least, 5 of the names lived on until fairly recently on the BR class 87 electric locomotives, although mainly running on the ex LMS main line.Another thing Bullied and Gresley designed was good rolling stock. It is possible to still travel on the Gresley teak coaches on preserved line and there are some Bullied coaches on the Bluebell Railway in Sussex.As DL says there are several re-built West Countries saved, They all came from Dai Woodhams scrapyard in South Wales, without that there would have been just two unrebuilt Bullied pacifics and just one Merchant Navy saved.I wonder on your trip from Newcastle to Bristol if you traveled over the old Great Central line through my hometown of Rugby.ERIC Thanks for the photos of the MOW cranes. I think that is a great photo of the UP crane CM3 I did have a look at your posts from the old Our Place on the NH. I was going to post the one on the change of locomotives from diesel to electric at New Haven but thought that you may have posted it as an encore, with your permission I would like to re post it as it captures the changing of engines perfectly. It was a scene I witnessed at Rugby for a period as the electrification on the West Coast Main Line spread south towards London in the mid 1960s, even the sound of the points was the same, they could have both been manufacture by Westinghouse. I had to go in to town early this morning and in the rail yard here there was an unusual MOW train. It was painted in UP colors and had it looked like 2 cars with power equipment then a couple of tank cars, and the thing that caught my eye there were two cars, one looked like a sleeping car,they looked like a similar design to the cars in the UP heritage train although they looked to have been modified. There were not any locomotives coupled to the train, although it was hard to see, the first car may have had a driving cab and the train being able to propel itself. The only sign I could see were H.I.T. Any ideas what the train could have been, my thought that perhaps it could be used for weed killing. Menthol cigars.DL Many thanks for the Link to Surbiton station. I believe London Underground has some very good Art Deco stations still in existence.Great lithographs on the wooden viaducts. I guess most were replaced about the time of the conversion from broad to standard gauge on the Great Western in 1892.Thanks for the tips on the computer.I really do hope there will be a massive publicity campaign when the new Channel Tunnel High Speed Rail Link opens with some promotional fares to at least give those who normally fly to Europe a chance to try the new service.With the Bullieds it was odd that the pacifics used at the very end of steam of the Southern did not make it to Barry. There is a very good DVD free with the latest Railway Magazine featuring the artist David Shepherd and his memories and paintings at Nine Elms and Guilford loco sheds as well as some archive film footage from the last days of Southern steam. It is hard to believe that some the locos looking in such a run down condition were capable of the100MPH running that was recorded in the last weeks of their running.TOM Yes I remember the hall of Montreal Station well, there are lot worse places to wait for a train. Looking at the photo of me, it looks like I am reading the guidebook from Exporail. I wonder whose beer that is on the table. It is great to see those Budd cars again.Thanks for the links to the American Flyer modelsWas the first lighthouse in Boston or Providence RI.I can still look at that penguin clip for ages.Always great to see photos of the Can-Am, S-Capades and the Polar Express.Thinking of the DVD I mentioned to DL, I was wondering if you had heard of the wildlife and steam painter David Shepherd.Many thanks for the photos and description of our trip aboard the Chaleur, wonderful photos from the dome c siberianmo Member sinceFebruary 2004 From: Chesterfield, Missouri, USA 7,214 posts "Our" Place reborn! 3rd Year of adults 'n REAL Classic Trains in a special environment! Posted by siberianmo on Wednesday, July 18, 2007 3:26 PM G'day Gents!Good to see ya Dan (DL-UK) 'n it's nice to know there's someone about the decks today! I'll get to some specific comments in the AM ACKNOWLEDGMENTS! The saga continues: Once the train finally departed Montréal, we found our way to the Skyline Dome car and "imbibed" a bit ‘til the midnite hour. It had been a rather long day on Sunday - arriving at Central Station on board the "Ocean" early that morning - arranging for a rental car ‘n heading off to ExpoRail for the day - the unexpected delay in departure along with the VIA Rail inflicted anxt upon the passengers waiting to board both trains. (The "Ocean" ‘n "Chaleur" left Montréal as one unit, "splitting" at Matapédia, Quebec.) So whatever the problem was - which we were NEVER fully given an explanation - both sets of passengers wound up with the same dilemma of a very late departure. As previously mentioned, we departed Montréal's Central Station at 22:43 with the "Ocean" in tow. With three F40PH locos, we were an impressive array of Budd stainless steel streamliners . . . The consist for the "Chaluer" - our train - included one F40PH loco, a baggage car - coach - Skyline dome - full service diner - ‘n two bedroom cars. For some unexplained reason, the full service dining car was not used for either portion of our round trip.Our bedroom car attendant was "Sonia" - Skyline dome attendant "Serge" ‘n Dining area attendant - "Fred," all congenial people. Our Chef was "Richard" - an excellent cook! Service Manager was "Jon" - and there's nothing to add. The Skyline dome car features an area where meals are served along with a lounge area and of course the dome.We awoke Monday morning to a rather gloomy day as the drizzle had set in with attendant lo-ceiling. Not the greatest for sightseeing from the dome. I got up to the dome at about 06:30 while things were being made ready for breakfast in the dining area of the Skyline car. After a fine breakfast prepared by a real Chef, it was back to the dome . . . Pete arrived somewhere between rain drops to claim his seat in the dome shortly before arriving at Matapédia at 09:00, where the "Ocean" split from the "Chaleur."There were many foto opportunities, and in spite of the limited visibility, there should be plenty to keep you guyz interested in the weeks to come!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:Just looked out of the window approaching station stop at Amqui, and . . .And . . . .Skyline domeSkyline dome lounge area <with coach passenger sacked out!>Skyline dome dining areaSkyline domeThat's the "Ocean" Renaissance consist way back there!To be continued . . .Tom Happy Railroading! Siberianmo « First«75767778798081»Last » SUBSCRIBER & MEMBER LOGIN Login, or register today to interact in our online community, comment on articles, receive our newsletter, manage your account online and more! 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It's very hard to accept that we're into the "dog days" of July with temperatures this AM well below 70 (F) ‘n the anticipated high to be 82. Once the front arrived Thursday evening, things really cooled down ‘n here we are in San Diego-like temperatures! Love it.
Saturday means "kick back" day once the "chores" get take care of, that is! <grin> Begin the day with some freshly ground ‘n brewed coffee, a couple of pastries from The Mentor Village Bakery, and time permitting - order a <light> or <traditional> breakfast to go along with that 2nd mugga joe!
3rd Annual "Our" Place Classic Trains Rendezvous in Chicago 2008: Here's what I know - Doug is supposed to announce the dates. We've narrowed it down to the month of May (after Mother's Day). He was given the info shortly after he requested it many weeks ago - so, the ball is in HIS court. <this in response to inquires by Email).
CM3 Shane at 8:21 AM Friday - July 20th: So THAT's what Matapédia means!
Shaved dog?!?! Juneau wouldn't have it, nope. Also, I'm not that certain he'd share the bottle for drinks at the bar! <grin>
Still amazed that there are those "out there" counting the BoSox out of it. My Gawd, how much over .500 does a team have to get? Answer: At least one more than the team behind!
Appears you took advantage of the public transit system up there in BahStun (Boston) - didja happen to note if the "Iron Horse" is still there???
Long live "traction orange"!
Thanx for the round, quarters ‘ chat!
Dan (DL-UK) at 8:58 AM ‘n 9:02 AM Friday - July 20th: Gotcha! Thanx for the clarification - had me concerned there for awhile! <grin> Next we'd be accused of having a coin operated coffee gadget! <yikes>
I'm going to have to look into how we get mail delivery from YOUR postal service! No fall issue of Classic Trains here <yet>. And I can only WISH for summer's end - can't come too soon for Moi. <grin>
Appears you "escaped" the five dollar mug of coffee! ou see, we charge five bucks for a solo mug o' Joe (or soft drink). However, when food is ordered with it, the drink is free. And should one spring for a round, then of course the coffee or soft drink isn't charged for. <phew> Rules, rules, rules . . .
Ron (DD1) at 12:29 PM Friday - July 20th: Some fine selections to treat your culinary desires, Mate! Made my mouth water just thinkin' about it . . . <grin>
You don't know how relevant that comment of yours is regarding how things CHANGE once you "go back." Living in the past is a great deal of fun when it comes to things like Classic Trains, sports memories ‘n old girl friends. However, physically going back to a place ALWAYS falls far short when it comes to the expectations that accompany such a visit.
Hope you're enjoying the material (narratives 'n fotos) being provided by the boyz at the bar! And we look forward to your next visit . . . Round appreciated!
Lars (LoveDomes) at 1:03 PM Friday - July 20th: Was beginning to wonder, but you made it ‘in"!
Most entertaining book covers for the London Underground - a subject we should consider for a "Tuesday Theme." Speaking of which, doesn't appear that the idea has caught the attention of too many of the guyz, so I'll do it once more - then let it "ride."
Email received ‘n resonded to - THANX!
Got a couple of fotos coming up that you'll have to check out! Monday is the resumption of the Canadian Rail Adventure "series"- gotta give myself a break. <phew> Glad you're enjoying the fotos . . .
Who disconnected the Penthouse Suite Surveillance ‘n Security System?!?!? <geesh>
Round, inclusiveness ‘n chat always appreciated!
Pete at 4:51 PM Friday - July 20th: A fine inclusive, informative ‘n interesting Post from our Bar Chandler, Wolfman Pete!
For the longest stretch of time, we ALWAYS found Montréal to be a great place
Hi Tom and everyone, a round for the house
This is the city. Los Angeles, California
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50th Anniversary of LAUPT
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Opening Day 1939
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Data
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Union Pacific PA1
http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=90566
Nickel Plate PA-1
http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=677027
New Haven PA-1
http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=712283
Delaware & Hudson PA-4
http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=655014
Alco PA Freight train
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UK Blue trains
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Bob & Ray
http://www.bobandray.com/info/encyclo3.html
Mike
A pint of Bathams please RUTH, if you are still serving me.
RON Many thanks for the link to the Pablo Neuruda railway museum in Chile. They're some great videos well worth watching. The people at the museum must very proud in the appearance of the running steam locomotives. In one of the videos the whistle seems like the whistles of some of the locos in the UK. Liked the clip of the loco being turned as well. Thanks for sharing and the drink.
As you say when you visit a place after many years so much as changed that sometimes it makes one wish one had not gone back.
DL Many thanks to a link to David Shepherd' s paintings, That art school rejecting him, in the biography part of the link, is almost as bad as Decca rejecting the Beatles.
In the DVD are some of the colour sketches he painted at Nine Elms at the last days of Southern Region steam I think some were done in a very short time. If you do get the Railway Magazine and the free DVD let me know what you think. I have to play mine on the computer as our DVD player will not play it. I will look into one that will play Brit DVDs.
Thanks for the LT station links; they were built with some style. Really like the little shops built in to part of the building, especially the cafes.
Interesting links to what is going on with the Underground repairs. I wonder what would happen if one of the train operating companies went bust, I guess we know who would pay to keep the trains running.
I too have been lucky enough to ride on the Bullied coaches on the Bluebell Railway; I found them comfortable to ride in. Looking at the photos in your links it seems to me that a lot of their design was incorporated into the BR Mark I stock. The Mark Is gave a great deal of good service to BR over many years. We used to get some Bullied coaches through Rugby Central on some of the South Coast to North East trains.
CM3.Enjoyed reading about the Boston Subway, I felt I was lucky to have been able to ride the old cars on the Green line before they were withdrawn from service.
The name Black Prince was originally worn by a British Railways ‘Britannia, class Pacific. Mr. Shepherds other BR loco he named, The Green Knight this name was formerly carried by a BR Standard Class 5, which worked on the Southern region of BR.
LARS Seeing as you posted those wonderful London Underground Book covers I shall get those tapes back, besides RUTH as stopped serving me until I do and I hear LEON wants a word with me too.
I find those disused and abandoned stations on the London Underground a fascinating subject. I know Alan has been there looking for what remains some of the stations on the ground. To think it the beginnings The Metropolitan Railway worked the cut and cover lines with steam locomotives fitted with condensing apparatus, what the conditions must have been like is hard to imagine.. Many thanks for finding ans sharing those book covers
Love the term "Wrapped around the Axle" I had not heard it before
TOM Glad Juneau passed his fitness test with flying colors, ours is not too bad with the Vet, but there again ours is 15 pounds a lot different to 59.
You are right about the ones in Montreal who were, as you say, ‘ignorant', it is a shame that people WILL remember them, although in our case we had so many more people who were friendly and could not have done more for us. The worst thing to me is that the unfriendly ones we encountered were in positions that visitors to Montreal had to deal with. I found it very ironic while we were waiting for the plane home that on the TV at the airport, there was a item on it asking why there was less American tourists visiting Montreal. But as you say the overall time we were there was wonderful.
It was probably the same heavy rain we had here you had yesterday. I have been listening to the radio and my part of the Midlands has been getting heavy rain again
Thanx to DL - CM3 Shane - Lars 'n DD1 for the appearances today! ACKNOWLEDGMENTS tomorrow . . .
The VIA Rail journey to Gaspé, Quebéc aboard the "Chaleur" continues:
Arrival at Matapédia was somewhat of a treat in that it was the first time I'd ever seen the "break up" of the train at that location. All of my prior arrivals at that destination (since 1990) were in the dark. I used to sit up in the dome of the Park Car, no matter what the hour, and try to figure out how things were being done . . . now I know! Best place to view the evolution is from the dome!
The attendants from both trains, along with many passengers were milling about the station platform as crews began the process to separate the trains.
Got reacquainted with "Melanie" - our terrific service car attendant from our west bound trip on the "Ocean" and "Roscoe" - also an "Ocean" crew member with a fine sense of humor. They were making the return trek to Halifax after the Sunday "turn around" in Montréal. Must say that the crews aboard the "Ocean" - both ways - were in stark POSITIVE contrast to those aboard the "Chaleur."
Sounding like a broken record, this really was a hi-lite for me . . . I doubt that there'll be a next time. Only thing better, would have been cooperative weather conditions.
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 09:00 on . . . >
Matapédia, Québec - note the "run around" track to the rear of the station.
(1)
Look closely at these next fotos - this is the sequence of "breaking up" with the "Ocean" at Matapédia. <Oh, but for a clear sky morning!>
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
Guess who?
(6)
(7)
That's the "Ocean" crew in the background - our Chef to the right.
(8)
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Now to disconnect two of those F40PHs . . .
(10)
To be continued . . .
Saturday is ENCORE! - and - Photo Posting Day!
Tom
Ruth, it's Friday! I'll have a Larsman special hero of ham, Swiss, mustAHd ‘n buttAH with two extra large ‘n crunchy pickles from the barrel. And noooooooow, Boris, let's get going with the treats for the crittAHs - tray ‘o seeds for Awk - bucket of ice cubes for Frostbite - saucer o' brine for Tex ‘n a field mouse for Artie <outback, please!>. And yes, the small jar of pickled pig's feet is yours! <grin>
A round for the house ‘n keep the change my radiant beauty! <blush>
Looks like Shane has been in twice since my last visit, Pete once, along with three from Dan ‘n four from Ron. So, we're at least we're maintaining forward momentum quite nicley.
Must make a direct comment regarding those wonderful pix from the Cap'n. Amazing how they've piled up since you ‘n the wolfman came back from Canada. Please don't STOP ‘em from coming. I surely am enjoying what you've provided ‘n am looking forward to all that you feel are "presentable" to those of us at the bar! <grin>
Ida Red! Now there's a song that takes me back. Used to know a guy who was forever singing those lyrics while he worked. One day, he nearly wound up in the drink, as for some reason, the "needle" just kept getting stuck on the SAME part - over ‘n over! <geesh> <grin>
Since when are "names" important in matters of the heart?? Oooooooops, sorry RUTH! <ahem> Of course I wasn't referring to present times ‘n people!
For Pete: Listen wolfman Pete - you've gotta get those tapes back. We just can't have the goings on in our Penthouse Suite "entertaining" your friends in Europe. Vito is involved, you say? Now that's a twist, as he's a personal friend of our Proprietor. Gotta check this out - probably will have to enlist the services of Inspector Cluess ‘n his erstwhile assistant, Mr. Doyle, PI. Now you've done it . . . . <groan>
Women ‘n shopping simply blow me out of the water. She KNOWS I detest even the thought of going with her and yet she insists I do. Must be a "control" thing . . . <grin>
But if I happen to want to stop off in the hardware section of a store, or the automotive, or . . . well, that gets her looking at he watch. As if the posted sale hours for her "stuff" are about to end within the minute! <arrrrgggghhhh>
For Shane: In reference to sportswriters - NY is as bad if not worse than Boston when it comes to baseball coverage. I mean this is a city where the Yanks are paid highly to bring it all home, every year. So the Mets are expected to fall in somewhere in that expectation - New York ‘n all. Gets mighty boring in my opinion. I'll admit that our group of "mercenaries" <as Tom calls ‘em> stacks up there with the best of ‘em, so there's some justification for the expectations. All crap to me. I just like watching ‘em win, but surely don't get myself wrapped ‘round the axle over it.
I think the first Macys I ever saw outside of New York City was in Philadelphia. Again, I said "I think." And that was sooooooo long ago. Now they're everywhere, kinda like fly <doo doo>.
For Ron: Nice link from Ron - I viewed it all ‘n enjoyed the works of Pablo Neruda. Some super stuff for Classic Steam era. Nice selection from our Mississippi Connection. Chile appears to be a fascinating country for railroading.
Now, if you can't figure out "things" on the forums, no doubt our Proprietor will guide you through it all. There's a "link" to how to post photos right at the top of the forum page where you find "Our" Place - go to the General Discussions page for Classic Trains. Look at the top of the listings - it's right there.
There's NO PLACE on earth that can rival a deli san dwich from New York City. No place! I like a hard roll, crunchy pickle slice, and . . . . also a hot pastrami on rye with some sauerkraut. Ummmmmmm. Like corned beef too - but ONLY on St. Pat's Day! <grin>
For Dan: Man oh man did I spend some time checking out the artists link! Some great RR works ‘n makes me wonder how much wall space is enough?? <grin>
A huge difference between our sides of the pond is that you expend much effort to "present" your underground, whereas to us a subway is just that. I like your way better - fine links too!
In reading through the situation with that work contracted for the underground, makes me wonder. Private sector to me always spells P-R-O-F-I-T. Question is, at what cost? A sure-fire "mess" in Merrie Olde. This could rival the "Big Dig" scandal still taking place in Bahstun (Boston).
Glad you "clarified" that comment regarding the coffee making ‘round here. I know the Cap'n takes great pride in brewing only the finest from Juan Valdez' Colombian coffee plantation. <grin>
Here are a few more book covers to check out . . . .
Underground London - Travels Beneath The City Streets. [Stephen Smith.]
The Story of London's Underground. [John R. Day & John Reed.]
Good morning Tom and all in attendance. What's your pleasure? Mine is a hot corned beef sandwich on Jewish rye, hand sliced(not machine sliced, Stage Deli style) and a Guinness draught. The last time I was in New York was 14 months ago. My wife and I drove up there in a Chevy pickup with Mississippi plates. You don't see many of them around. After the token visits to see the highlights of the city, a subway ride and bus ride, we decided we saw enough of the city. When you have been away from a place for so long and return, you expect to see things in the same way as in our memories. It doesn't work. Even the venerable Stage Delicatesan wasn't the same. Meat was now sliced on a machine. The corned beef was much more lean, but the size of the sandwich was about the same, only much more expensive. Probably the last time I ate a real corn beef sandwich at the Stage was almost 50 years ago and the taste has lingered with me ever since. Strange how a taste can linger for so long. I know this is , but I thought some of you ex NY'ers might remember. The worst thing was, I met a childhood friend and although the meeting was amiable, he just wasn't the same guy I grew up with. I've tried to get him to visit in Ms, but he's a diehard NY'er. Ms would be a complete new experience like no other in the world. Enough of this rambling.
DL: I liked the links to the underground stations. The thing I like best, is the links to other sites afforded by just a few links. I found the same thing when I researched railways in Chile. I got more information than I had counted on to the point of it being overwhelming. I hope you had a chance to see my link and note the roundhouse at the lower right of the home site. The sounds are also very inspiring. That sound of a train whistle and escaping steam can bring tears (and it does) to one's eyes. Train spotting is a much more active activity in the UK than it is here, at least that's what I read. Unless you lived around and depended on trains, the interest level is minimal among today's youth's. Nascar is the big thing here with young people(those>40).
Got to go now as the missus is calling me for lunch. Regards to all or as they say in Spanish, Requerdos al todas.
PS - looked like Fall edition of Classic Trains arived on the door mat this morning - not had time to read it yet - is summer really nearly over?
DL
Hi Tom
Looks like a transatlantic translation problem again - when I say 'coffee machine' I mean the equipment that percolates the hot stuff through the fresh ground stuff - maybe you call that a percolator I'm not sure. I certainly don't mean one of those machines that pumps out the chemical coffee from the dehydrated brown soluble stuff - no way - if I saw one of those in Our Place I'd fear the place was under new ownership! Migth even be tempted to try and remove the equipment myself - the rule is never (nevah) drink anything from one of those!
Well, I'll have another mug of the fresh ground please and one for anyone who wants to join me!
CM3 - interesting Boston transit info - one of the interesting things for me about visiting a new city is checking out the urban transit system - equipment, network etc etc - cheapest way to get to grips with a city is a one day public transit pass and a transit map - in my experience - a day riding the system tells you more about any city than any number of guidebooks and guided tours I would say!
Good Morning Barkeep and all Present; coffee, please; round for the house and $ for the jukebox.
Weather is foggy here this a.m. after the area got hammered with some interesting thunderstorms yesterday - usual powerlines down, trees uprooted, etc. It's supposed to clear up later today and maybe be decent for the weekend.
OSPs travelogue continues, and we're off to Matapedia (Algonquin for, "Big soft place in the middle of track 2 that swallows freight cars.")
Then you had to deal with "Take the dog to the vet." That calls for the barkeep to dust off the bottle of the good stuff which we keep on the top shelf for special occasions. You give the dog a shooter, then give yourself two, etc. Pretty soon, everyone is sedated and it works out pretty well. Our K9 Korps member (only one at present) came back from the kennel the other day. We got him groomed and trimmed for the summer. I asked the cashier what I got for all that money, and she said, "A naked dog." He does look a little silly right now, but it will all grow back. He's much more comfortable and we don't have to deal with treating hot spots, and other summer induced problems.
Ida Red, indeed. Bob Wills did a good rendition of that tune. Maybe we can find it on the jukebox along with "San Antonio Rose."
Field Mouse Racing - yikes! We have that at the house every fall, when the weather gets cold and our little friends look for warm places to hide.
Red Sox are folding up like a cardboard suitcase in a heavy rain. As I always say, "Do the math." The number of people left on base is revealing as is their batting average both with runers on aand with runners in scoring position. August is always tough on them, too and we're not even there yet.
DD1 - Thanks for the information. You'll find we're interested in all sorts of stuff. It's the good meaning of being called "curious."
Pete - Good to hear from you, sir.
DL sent material as well. David Shepherd's work reminds me of that of Ted Rose. If you have not seen his book In The Traces, try and find a copy - you'll really enjoy looking at it.
"Black Prince" - excellent name for a fine looking piece of power.
Speaking of underground, I rode several subway lines when I was in Boston last week. Parts of that system are always under construction. Latest item since my last trip were completion of the new station at Charles St.
The Riverside line is being completely rebuilt so it is not in service this summer. This line has an interesting history as it was formerly a Boston and Albany branch line which was converted to trolley service a long time ago. That being said, a lot of the old railroad stations were retained. It had some stretches of urban operation as well as some areas which ran through open country which gave it a true interurban flavor. PCCs did the work when I was living in the area, there. They were replaced by LRVs which have since been replaced by new cars.
I also rode part of the Cleveland Circle Line as I took the huns to Kenmore so we could take a tour of Fenway Park. This also included a stop at a new sports bar; have to see what the competition is doing, you know - fine looking staff, I must say, but they have neither the mascots nor the "high class" clientele that we do here. No Boris, it's a spittoon, not a helmet.
Underground, there are traces of the old system left if you know where to look, including pieces of tunnels that are no longer in use, etc. Also, the Type 5 and PCC cars are still in storage at Boylston (tarped, but partially visible. These cars are in good shape, sometimes used in fan trips, and painted traction orange as God intended them to be.
It's THAT day again - FRIDAY, perhaps the best of ‘em all! Well, at least when quitin' time rolls ‘round, eh
Join us in a mugga freshly ground ‘n brewed coffee, some pastries from The Mentor Village Bakery. And let's not forget to order a <light> or <traditional> breakfast from our Menu Board!
Big news of the day for yesterday involved Juneau. He had his "annual" visit to the Vet. Came through with flying colors, however, he surely doesn't like the experience. Have to give him a mild sedative before we embark upon his worst day of the year. It begins with putting him into the car and goes down hill from there. Fortunately, "his" crate fits quite well into the wagon, and he finds a degree of solice in it - not much.
He's an aggressive little Farkle, and I'm a living example of what a frantic Husky can do to one trying to be a calming influence when he's unhappy. <groan> Muzzle-time, big time! <phew> <grin> He's 51 months old, weighs in at 59 pounds ‘n is perhaps the most "talkative" animal I've ever encountered.
Before I totally forget this - and I've neglected to mention it several times - THANX to Lars for helping to keep "my other Thread" up ‘n running. While we haven't attracted that many from over there, at least we can "credit" a few from that source over the long haul of this joint. The ONLY way to keep this place functioning is to TRY attracting new customers. It really doesn't take much - just a foto now ‘n then, with perhaps a bit of narrative. Something - anything - to keep it going.
Lars (LoveDomes) at 7:45 AM Thursday - July 19th: Been quite awhile since yours was the 1st of the day! Sure is a different start to things without our Nocturnal Resident Desert Swede - who by the way, I'm hoping is doing well.
My mother used to think going to Macy's "in the city" <translated: Manhattan> was the cat's meow. For us in those days, we either took a bus to the ferry then the subway, or a "long distance" bus through New Jersey via the Bayonne Bridge ‘n then through the Holland Tunnel to Times Square. Then a subway ride down to 34th Street.
I'm guessing there's a <link> . . . These days I just can't imagine making that trip with so many alternatives available elsewhere. Can't figger ‘em out, can we <grin>
Just think, had your bride decided on making it an evening shopping trip, you could've gotten caught up in that mid-town steam explosion! Now THAT would've ruined your day, fer sure, fer sure. So, count your "blessings," Mate!
Good thinking about feeding Artie the Owl - on the back porch, yes - outside PULEEZE!
With reference to the Montreal "experience," let me just say that it was the SECOND not so happy occurrence we encountered up there. I refrained from getting into the first because it had more to do with ignorance ‘n rudeness encountered during our trip in from the airport to downtown. Something Pete ‘n I won't soon forget.
You are correct about the Skyline cars, Budd was "on it" when they manufactured those. Coming off the Renaissance and into the Budd cars surely gave Pete all the perspective one needed to make the assessment that there just isn't a favorable comparison. Renaissance is without charm, whereas Budd has lots of it.
Many thanx for the PA/FA links along with those fine Burlington Route book covers!
Visit ‘n round most appreciated!
CM3 Shane (coalminer3) at 8:06 AM Thursday - July 19th: Ida Red, Ida Red - so the song goes. Ida RedTraditionalSource: Everywhere from Clifftop to The Clash. Arrangement: Uncle EarlIda Red, Ida Green, prettiest girl I ever seen.Ida Red, Ida Blue, I got stuck on Ida too.Ida Red, Ida White, love her true I think I might.Ida Red, Ida Pink, saw her in town gave me a wink.Ida Red, She ain't no fool. She could ride a straddle of a humpback mule.If I'da listened what Ida said, I'd be sleepin' in Ida's bed.Ida Red, Ida Yellow. Wish that I could be her fellow.Ida Red, She's comin' to town. Wrote me a letter she's comin' down....Ida Red, I dunno. Should I stay or should I go now?!
Ida RedTraditionalSource: Everywhere from Clifftop to The Clash. Arrangement: Uncle EarlIda Red, Ida Green, prettiest girl I ever seen.Ida Red, Ida Blue, I got stuck on Ida too.Ida Red, Ida White, love her true I think I might.Ida Red, Ida Pink, saw her in town gave me a wink.Ida Red, She ain't no fool. She could ride a straddle of a humpback mule.If I'da listened what Ida said, I'd be sleepin' in Ida's bed.Ida Red, Ida Yellow. Wish that I could be her fellow.Ida Red, She's comin' to town. Wrote me a letter she's comin' down....Ida Red, I dunno. Should I stay or should I go now?!
Ida Red, Ida Green, prettiest girl I ever seen.Ida Red, Ida Blue, I got stuck on Ida too.
Ida Red, Ida White, love her true I think I might.Ida Red, Ida Pink, saw her in town gave me a wink.
Ida Red, She ain't no fool. She could ride a straddle of a humpback mule.If I'da listened what Ida said, I'd be sleepin' in Ida's bed.
Ida Red, Ida Yellow. Wish that I could be her fellow.Ida Red, She's comin' to town. Wrote me a letter she's comin' down....
Ida Red, I dunno. Should I stay or should I go now?!
Man if the Boston scribes have their knickers in a knot, they should cover the "home team" in St. Louis. Never know jus
Hello Tom
Am I in too early fro mentor village bakery stuff - if so I'll have to wait - coffee machine on yet? If so I'll have one!
I'm enjoying the continuing Gaspe narrative report - the short instalments is a nice way to do it - digestible chunks of info.
You asked Pete about David Shepherd and indeed your link is to the guy. Though regulars might like this picture he did :
http://www.railart.co.uk/gallery/shepherd5.html
and some info about his own locomotive
"Black Prince taking a seaside holidayDavid Shepherd's 9F 2-10-0 Black Prince is taking a trip to the Norfolk seaside. In mid-August, it will depart for the North Norfolk Railway (the Poppy Line) and this is believed to be the first time ever that a member of the class has visited this part of the world"
and here he is beside it:
http://www.gwsr.com/assets/images/DavidShepherdESR.jpg
Pete - I think you mentioned art deco stations on the London Underground - there are certainly plenty that were built as London expanded in the 1930s - here are some good pics - but we have plenty of use of brick as well as concrete - kind of making the point DD1 made in a way!
http://thincities.tfl.gov.uk/projects/station.php?id=4
http://thincities.tfl.gov.uk/projects/station.php?id=5
http://thincities.tfl.gov.uk/projects/station.php?id=6
http://thincities.tfl.gov.uk/projects/station.php?id=7
Tom - you asked about the Underground repairs mess - this is indeed a mess - and sadly typical of private organisations who bit of more than they can chew after politicians believe the ‘funny money men' can deliver all - of course what happens is the taxpayer has to step in and bail it out - costs more than juts biting the bullet and paying for the work in the first place - but the consultants seem to walk away with their fees safely trousered!
This report outlines the situation
http://www.guardian.co.uk/transport/Story/0,,2129733,00.html
This article gives a rather thoughtful commentary
http://www.guardian.co.uk/transport/Story/0,,2129574,00.html
Pete - I always enjoyed riding the Bullied designed cars on the Bluebell line - so well restored too. There are some good pics here - the lozenge shape above the door window is characteristic of these coaches
http://www.semg.org.uk/coach/bullco01.html
and some nice interior pictures showing superbly restored examples here:
http://www.semg.org.uk/coach/bullco-int1.html
They have obviously used restored upholstery patterns too to get the correct period feel
I'll have to watch out for the Railway Magazine DVD - maybe I'd better buy a copy of this months magazine.
DD1 - interesting Chile link - I'd never heard of that museum - good to know it is out there.
CM3 - good story which I enjoyed reading.
Lars - nice to see you in.
Regards
A pint of Bathams please RUTH.
ERIC All the best and I hope you are soon back at the bar. Watch out for Artie the Owl on your late night visits.
RON Many thanks for that link to David Fletcher's superb models, there is a lot to look at on the site and it is well worth it. Thanks for sharing.
LARS Glad you survived the shopping. One of the main puzzles to me is why our bride's can't understand why we don't get the same pleasure on their shopping outings as they do.
Yes Tom was very restrained with the VIA rail guy, mind you the guy wasn't around very much, leaving it to the Ocean crew to answer the passengers.
Many thanks for the link to the ALCO PAs and FAs, it was as a shame the prime mover was not as successful as could have been. The PAs certainly looked the part in that Santa Fe livery. although the D&H dark blue livery suited them very well also.
It is OK VITO the HIT as assured me that, when the penthouse tapes are turned into DVDs in Amsterdam, they won't work over here.
Thanks for more Burlington book covers. That is an impressive photo of the steam locomotive on the CB&Q in color book
CM3 It seems you are having the weather as they have in Scotland, where they say, "If you don't like it hang on for half an hour and it will change"
Thanks I will use your NH post on Encore Saturday.
Many thanks for reposting the ‘Of Berkshires and Roundhouse Cats'. I remember it from before but really enjoyed reading it again. A fantastic description the roundhouse at Rouses Point, having visited depots in the UK in the old days (when a polite request to the foreman would often allow a look round, days long gone I'm afraid.). I can picture the scene, and the feeling of coming across something unexpected, like 759.
TOM That looks bad news from VIA rail, at the present time a strike would be the last thing they would want, I think. It must be approaching peak holiday time as well.
I did like the photo that accompanied the article though.
I guess the Ida Lewis you knew was not the same lady who was a lighthouse keeper, interested to hear more, of course
Yes that is David Shepherd who is featured in the DVD. He is a very talented painter of steam locos, as well as wildlife, capturing locos in the last days of the Southern steam at Nine Elms (London) and Guilford loco sheds, he bought two steam locomotives in 1967.
Many thanks for the next part of our trip on the Chalaur. With the late departure it did cut in to the sleeping hours but as you say it well worth getting up, as it was daylight for that 4-hour part of journey is usually in the dark. Matapedia station looks a lot like a slightly larger version of some of the stations on the West Highland line in Scotland
I wonder who is going to look after ARTIE's field mice. I am worried the Track Gang could turn late Friday night into ‘Field Mice Racing Night'.
Well it was RUTH when I started but now it is LEON as a thunderstorm accompanied, with very heavy rain, passed through this afternoonand I though it best to get off the puter, anyway another pintwith a round and, of course some of H&H's Fish ‘N' Chips for .I hope ARTIE is not a fish owl as it could cause problems with FROSTBITE.
Good afternoon Tom and all present. Drinks are on me. I'll have the usual. I just received some links from Chile. It is quiet long, but I know you will enjoy it. Chileans seem to be as passionate about trains as we are. The link is of the Pablo Neuruda railroad museum in Temuco, Chile. Most of it is in Spanish, but the pictures are well worth it. Crank up the sound. P.S. How do I post pictures in these messages?
http://www.museoferroviariotemuco.cl/video/index.html
I posted this over on the other thread, but realized there are two threads, one for "Our Place" and the other for "Classic Trains including Traction". Am I doing this right?
Slow day at the Bar by the Ballast with Lars 'n CM3 Shane in the early AM. Ya know, it may very well have been Ida Red!
The VIA Rail journey to Gaspé, Québec aboard the "Chaleur" continues:
These fotos are of the scenery along the way to Matapédia. Can just imagine how nice it all would've looked had the weather been more cooperative. But then, had we not been late in departing, we'd never have seen this in the dark! Something POSITIVE came out of it, afterall.
The train was hardly crowded ‘n it seemed as if we had just as many staff as passengers. But that really wasn't the case. The dome wasn't crowded at all nor was the lounge area of the Skyline car. Seems the passengers must've been content at their seats or in the bedrooms.
Will say this, the attendants were "buzzing" ‘round to make sure that whatever one wanted to order was quickly made available. After such a great breakfast, there wasn't room for much else. <phew>
Pix from Day Five: Monday - May 28th, 2007 - aboard VIA Rail's CHALEUR in Quebéc, Canada: <fotos taken from 09:00 on . . . >
The combined "Chaleur & Ocean" heading toward Matapédia. Note the Renaissance cars.
Tired ‘n feeling it - But lovin' the dome!
High ‘n Dry!
Matapedia
Good Morning Barkeep and all Present. Coffee, please; round for the house, and $ for the jukebox (Maine quarters today for the Owl - after all Owl's Head is in Maine). Gas is at $3.05 this a.m. We had a nice thundershower abt. 4:00 a.m. with some rain - we really need it. The entrail readers have provided five different forecasts for our area today, so pick the one you like, however, it's not uncommon to have five different kinds of weather here in a 24 hour period; kinda like New Ebgland.
OSP continues the travelogue and pictures. A lovely hw car, sir. I am familiar with both lights at Nantucket. The remarks about nav. aids reminded me of the ancient story about the battleship and the lighthouse.
Sorry chief, Ida Red used to be at the Iron Horse. Ida Lewis was at Newport. Anyway, with commuter trains there's always another one (LOL).
Lars stopped by - Macy's is everywhere, now. I still have a really hard time with them being in Boston, Pittsburgh, Buffalo, and Chicago. But I get confused easily.
I see three more Burlington items to add to the list. I love to see the bookmobile come up the drievway.
Owls eat about anything so Boris better be careful with the leftovers in his trough.
Mets indeed! The Red Sox are not quite in free fall, but it won't be much longer until the Boston sportswriters start rearranging the deck chairs on the Titanic. Actally, the AL Central is probably the most interesting area right now.
Eric - Hope you are doing o.k.
Pete - Post away if you want.
DD1 - Half the fun of this place is sitting back and "listening" to the chatter.
The picture of the Napierville Junction caboose which ran the other day inspired me to dig out a piece on Rouses Point that I posted awhile back. Here goes for those who missed it the first time.
Of Berkshires and Roundhouse Cats
The Delaware and Hudson is an old operation, originally founded some 160 years ago as a canal company to tap the rapidly growing Pennsylvania anthracite business. Anthracite gradually succumbed to the inroads of oil and natural gas which were cheaper, cleaner, and infinitely easier to handle. After all, why shovel coal or tend a stoker when you could heat your house by flicking a switch?
Declining anthracite traffic forced the D&H to look elsewhere for business. They exploited bridge traffic (handling freight quickly between connecting railroads) and also became a major carrier of paper and forest products. Thus the slogan on their boxcars, "The Bridge Line Between New England and Canada."
With time, the D&H became somewhat eccentric. They were not a New England railroad in the true sense of the phrase, but they acted like one. They dieselized early, replacing their steam engines with a fleet of Alco road switchers which burbled and smoked their way between Pennsylvania and the Canadian border. The somber black and yellow paint of the early diesels gave way to a handsome gray and blue livery highlighted by yellow stripes.
The Delaware and Hudson remained solvent while all those around them drowned in a sea of red ink. While nominally independent, the D&H was actually controlled by a holding company called Dereco which also owned the Erie-Lackawanna, a bloated and tarnished remnant of two once-proud railroads. Dereco was in turn controlled by the voracious and profitable Norfolk and Western, thereby creating a Gordian knot of ownership which kept the lawyers happy. Neither the N&W nor the D&H liked the arrangement, and the D&H managed to break loose and go its own way. This is when the eccentricity became more visible.
The gray and blue livery gave way to blue and yellow, green and yellow, or red and yellow, or red, white, and blue on a few engines. The old Alcos were traded, scrapped, or rebuilt to squeeze a few more miles out of them. The D&H actively solicited passenger traffic and for awhile ran what was arguably the classiest passenger train in the east. Their PAs stood out in a desert of Amtrak blandness as they operated in daily service between Albany and Montreal. If that were not enough, the Baldwin freight engines that were on the property represented a change from the Alco monolith of the 1950s and 60s.
Rouses Point, New York - especially in the winter - is at the end of the world. Rouses Point exists because of two things: the Canadian border and the Delaware and Hudson Railway. Rouses Point is the North Pole of the Delaware and Hudson. The town's life is tied to the ebb and flow of the railroad's traffic. The citizen's outlook is torn between nervousness over Quebecois politics and the more prosaic concerns of trying to scratch out a living and run a railroad in the pinched meanness of the North Country.
There is still time, however to sit down to a breakfast of oatmeal, ham and eggs, home fries, toast or donuts, and coffee, before going out to work in the cold, and talk about hunting, ice fishing, or hockey.
It never seems to snow in Rouses Point. The snow is always there, like the wind and the gray sky. The snow squishes underfoot, blows in clouds around you, or sits passively; waiting for you to slip and fall face down.
So it was that I found myself in Rouses Point. The D&H has a stone station at Rouses Point, a roundhouse of uncertain vintage (with a turntable), a small fuel facility, and a yard cluttered with mangled freight cars. Winter is tough on steel.
The roundhouse is really the heart of things; if only because it is warm. People can freeze outside, but diesels need some warmth when they are not running, lest they crack a block or become impossible to start because of weak batteries and congealed fuel.
Most roundhouses are filled with dogs, but Rouses point is alive with cats. Cats of all types - friendly and unfriendly - black cats, orange cats, red cats, white cats, calico cats. You never see many of them, but you know they are in the shadows, watching you with unmoving eyes.
It's Sunday morning, early, and there is not really much happening. The lights are on in the foreman's office and a small group of men are inside, clustered around the stove, and drinking coffee. The talk is of sick engines and bad cars, and the continual problems that they present to their keepers. This is the sort of talk heard on any railroad. Close your eyes and you could be in Radnor, Tennessee or Huntington, West Virginia.
Over in a corner somebody is making a fearsome din while hammering on a piece of metal. An elderly RS3 sits dead on one of the tracks. She has come in from the cold for her monthly inspection. Then, on the other track, I see her; looking strangely out of place.
She emerged from the fires of Lima in time to help win the war, and then beat the best that LaGrange, Beloit, and Eddystone could offer until the inevitable end. She sat neglected for years until she was brought back to life by the very Nickel Plate shops which spurned her so many years ago. This was Nickel Plate 759 - dead, cold, and impounded because of a political dispute. To this day, I have no idea what exactly she was doing at Rouses Point - probably hiding from those who would take her back.
The lady and I got reacquainted while she slept waiting awaiting her prince's kiss. I had seen her take the railroad apart on freight and excursion trains; listened as she walked up Horseshoe in 1969. Now she was at Rouses Point. Somehow, it did not seem the same, but I felt good knowing that she was in out of the cold and the snow. It wasn't Buffalo or Bellevue, but it was at least warm under the watchful eye of the roundhouse cats.
Any more guesses on PAs in freight service?
An early arrival for me, but I didn't want to miss two days in a row, so bettAH early than nevAH!
Ruth my deAH, a mugga Joe with a jolt if you please. My, my, that outfit your almost wearing is just . . .
Yesterday was one of those unspeakable events in a married man's life. What the Mrs. sees in Macy's is beyond me. The thing is, with all of the satellite stores WHY do we have to go to the original place??!! <arrrrggghhh> Hit me again, Ruth! <grin>
What's with the case marked "Field Mice" that is sitting on the back porch? Ohhhhh, I get it, "food" for Artie the Owl. That crittAH scared the wits outta me this mornin' when I came in early to get some matters squared away. B4 I even turned the lights on, there's was this "hoooooooooot, hoooooooooot" sound, followed by some "flapping." Then right in front of me was Artie, all decked out in a TUX!! Another mouth to feed, but most welcome here at the Sanctuary.
Boris, feed the crittAHs will ya?? And the small jar of pickled pig's feet is for you! Watch those mice, we don't want ‘em getting loose. That's all we need in here. Anyway, just one at a time should do it. <grin> Just let it loose on the back porch 'n Artie will do the rest. <ugh>
Appears as if we've settled back to somewhat of a "normal" week ‘round here. Ya know, I kinda like the slower pace, for it's much easier to keep up with. Don't get me wrong, it's great to have a crowd stopping by, but when there's an abundance of material, well it just gets a bit difficult to keep up. By the way, nice words of encouragement for Ron!
Gotta kick out of that "story" you were beginning to tell - especially the reference to waiting to miss your 3rd train! Been there, done that, mate! <oh yeah>
Enjoying your story ‘n pix for the beginning of the Gaspe trip. Really wudda ticked me off if I had to put up with that crap. Sounds to me as if Via Rail isn't any different from airlines, and of course Amtrak, when it comes to keeping the people informed. Surprised you didn't pull the guy over the kiosk ‘n do a number on his head! <grin> Then again, you'd have been locked away in some dark ‘n dusky dungeon, nevAH to be seen or heard from again. <uh oh>
Love those dome shots! The Skyline car looks great. I've traveled in 'em on other roads. Budd knew what they were doing when those were designed!
Wonder why the conductor permitted the JO to sleep in the lounge?? Wouldn't have happened on roads I traveled aboard . . .
A round of greetings to Shane - Pete - Dan ‘n Ron! Good to see youse guyz supporting the bar!
A comment for Pete: Amsterdam?!?!?! Hopefully you aren't serious! <grimace>
Special for Eric: Hope all's going well!!
Me, Guru of the New York Central?? Hardly. That title rightfully belongs to Shane! Anyway, I just had a love affair with the railroad, never immersed myself into the details of this or that. Call me superficial if you wish. <grin>
Don't know the answer to Shane's question, but here's a link on the PA's . . .
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ALCO_PA
Here's one for the FA's too . . .
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ALCO_FA
Doesn't appear as if the Tuesday Theme got much of a "kick," although Pete did provide some fine supporting "stuff." Maybe we should just take a wait ‘n see approach to bringing it back. Try one more, though - then maybe a monthly would work, as Shane suggested. But it is summAH, ‘n we KNOW what that brings ‘round this place. <ugh>
Ok, time for me to get going. Have some <ahem> admin work to attend to this morning. Then, it's off for a round of places to go, people to meet ‘n things to do.
Some book covers left over from the other day . . .
LETS GO METS!
Until the next time!
I see where VIA Rail union employees are threatening a walk out on July 22nd if they don't get a new contract.
http://www.cbc.ca/money/story/2007/07/17/viarailnotice.html
Last time I checked, petrol had DROPPED to $2.82 (rounded) - temps unbearable yesterday with high humidity ‘n generally a great day to spend indoors with the A/C at full bore. A front is supposed to move in bringing some relief for the weekend.
The Mentor Village Bakery case is fully stocked - our <light> ‘n <traditional> breakfasts are ready for orderin' - and the urns of coffee are full! So, what's the problem?!?! <grin>
CM3 Shane (coalminer3) at 8:49 AM Wednesday - July 18th: And a fine morning it was as our WVA Connection has resumed his AM activities at the Bar by the Ballast!
Some things to make comment on:
As mentioned yesterday - YOU ARE indeed the Great Guru for all things New York Central! Thanx for the Alco PA info - and I'll take a "bye" on that question of yours. Let's see if we can get some participation ‘round here . . .
A fine observation of a bedroom being attended to! You, Sir could easily "win" appointment as Oh-Fish-Ul Voyeur of "Our" Place! [wow
Nantucket Light was indeed a lightship - or in fact, more than one. The proper name was Nantucket Shoals . . . Both of the lightships (WLV-612 & 613) were taken out of service in 1983. Anyway, the lights of Nantucket Island include the fixed structures known as Brant Point Light ‘n Sakaty Head Light (both automated now) ‘n presumed to still be in operation.
I'm hardly an aficionado of these things and don't want to come across as if I am. There were many, many facets of my former organization that I had no first hand experience of or with. However, anyone who sailed the waters off of our coasts surely had to know of the aids to navigation available visibly, audibly or electronically. Otherwise, one could really have a lousy day . . . <uh oh>
Ida Lewis . . . hmmmmm. There was this gal I met at the "Iron Horse," used to wait tables (she, not I). Anyway, one evening as I was waiting to miss my 3rd train home, I . . . oh never mind. You're certainly not interested in THAT, are you??
Ida Lewis (1842-1911), female lighthouse keeper of the U.S. Lighthouse Service (which later merged with the U.S. Coast Guard in 1939). A most famous lady who was awarded this nation's highest honor for lifesaving - the Gold Lifesaving Medal.
Always thought those New Haven "American Flyer cars" were something else. Wonder if any are in preservation??
Good idea regarding the Tuesday Theme for the Day - let's see if anyone else comes up with a thought or two . . . I may try one more, then "cool it" if there aren't any takers.
And finally, we'll have to be sure that Artie the Owl isn't permitted to perch anywhere near the Penthouse Suite! <hoooo hoooo> It's bad enough that we've got Eagle Eye Pete selling off the security tapes for marketing in Amsterdam . . . <yikes>
Way back when I was a smoker, I couldn't handle Menthol cigarettes - can't imagine a cigar with that flavor. <ugh>
Texas quarters, round ‘n fine chat most appreciated! [tup ]
Dan (DL-UK) at 11:21 AM Wednesday - July 18th: Really don't understand why you are able to view Pix from one of my archive sites, but not the other. Hmmmmmm. Anyway, glad you at least saw the Can-Am layout, et al.
Wasn't going to "do" a trip report per se. However, now that we've gotten most of the fotos out, a bit of narrative regarding the final portion of our Canadian adventure seems appropriate. And yes - you'll have to WAIT for the next installment! <grin>
As always, most interesting dialogue supplemented by equally intriguing links!
Keep us posted on that developing story regarding the situation with the upgrading to the Underground.
Thanx for the visit!
Pete (pwolfe) at 4:53 PM Wednesday - July 18th: When we first began traveling to Halifax from Montreal, I can recall spending hours in Central Station. Back in those times our flight got us into Montreal much earlier and it was always enjoyable to take in the sights ‘n sounds of the station. Also, prowling the underground shops ‘n mall was something special too. Really a remarkable set-up and well worth the while to explore.
Can't say I've heard of David Shepard. Is this the guy??
http://www.collector
Good evening Tom and all at the bar. Nothing much to report except a quick reference to http://4largescale.com/fletch/. He is a master model builder by the name of David Fletcher, a Britisher I think. His site is long, but full of interesting stuff. Check it out if you have a chance. This is my offering for today, model and toy train day. Unfortunately there is not much in the way of railways or history of down here in the deep south. We have CSX and that's about it. We do play a little game here that revolves around the unguarded railroad crossings. At present the score is trains - 0; cars - 8. That was the reason given to me why British locomotives don't have headlights, their crossings are gate controlled.
A pint of Holden's Mild please RUTH on this hot day.
ALLAN Thanks for the kind words.
I have only seen those Gresley P2s in photos it must have been a wonderful sight to have seen them in the flesh. The first two looked a lot different to the usual British steam locos. The locos had some great names as well, at least, 5 of the names lived on until fairly recently on the BR class 87 electric locomotives, although mainly running on the ex LMS main line.
Another thing Bullied and Gresley designed was good rolling stock. It is possible to still travel on the Gresley teak coaches on preserved line and there are some Bullied coaches on the Bluebell Railway in Sussex.
As DL says there are several re-built West Countries saved, They all came from Dai Woodhams scrapyard in South Wales, without that there would have been just two unrebuilt Bullied pacifics and just one Merchant Navy saved.
I wonder on your trip from Newcastle to Bristol if you traveled over the old Great Central line through my hometown of Rugby.
ERIC Thanks for the photos of the MOW cranes. I think that is a great photo of the UP crane
CM3 I did have a look at your posts from the old Our Place on the NH. I was going to post the one on the change of locomotives from diesel to electric at New Haven but thought that you may have posted it as an encore, with your permission I would like to re post it as it captures the changing of engines perfectly. It was a scene I witnessed at Rugby for a period as the electrification on the West Coast Main Line spread south towards London in the mid 1960s, even the sound of the points was the same, they could have both been manufacture by Westinghouse.
I had to go in to town early this morning and in the rail yard here there was an unusual MOW train. It was painted in UP colors and had it looked like 2 cars with power equipment then a couple of tank cars, and the thing that caught my eye there were two cars, one looked like a sleeping car,they looked like a similar design to the cars in the UP heritage train although they looked to have been modified. There were not any locomotives coupled to the train, although it was hard to see, the first car may have had a driving cab and the train being able to propel itself. The only sign I could see were H.I.T. Any ideas what the train could have been, my thought that perhaps it could be used for weed killing.
Menthol cigars.
DL Many thanks for the Link to Surbiton station. I believe London Underground has some very good Art Deco stations still in existence.
Great lithographs on the wooden viaducts. I guess most were replaced about the time of the conversion from broad to standard gauge on the Great Western in 1892.
Thanks for the tips on the computer.
I really do hope there will be a massive publicity campaign when the new Channel Tunnel High Speed Rail Link opens with some promotional fares to at least give those who normally fly to Europe a chance to try the new service.
With the Bullieds it was odd that the pacifics used at the very end of steam of the Southern did not make it to Barry. There is a very good DVD free with the latest Railway Magazine featuring the artist David Shepherd and his memories and paintings at Nine Elms and Guilford loco sheds as well as some archive film footage from the last days of Southern steam. It is hard to believe that some the locos looking in such a run down condition were capable of the100MPH running that was recorded in the last weeks of their running.
TOM Yes I remember the hall of Montreal Station well, there are lot worse places to wait for a train. Looking at the photo of me, it looks like I am reading the guidebook from Exporail. I wonder whose beer that is on the table. It is great to see those Budd cars again.
Thanks for the links to the American Flyer models
Was the first lighthouse in Boston or Providence RI.
I can still look at that penguin clip for ages.
Always great to see photos of the Can-Am, S-Capades and the Polar Express.
Thinking of the DVD I mentioned to DL, I was wondering if you had heard of the wildlife and steam painter David Shepherd.
Many thanks for the photos and description of our trip aboard the Chaleur, wonderful photos from the dome c
Good to see ya Dan (DL-UK) 'n it's nice to know there's someone about the decks today! I'll get to some specific comments in the AM ACKNOWLEDGMENTS!
It had been a rather long day on Sunday - arriving at Central Station on board the "Ocean" early that morning - arranging for a rental car ‘n heading off to ExpoRail for the day - the unexpected delay in departure along with the VIA Rail inflicted anxt upon the passengers waiting to board both trains. (The "Ocean" ‘n "Chaleur" left Montréal as one unit, "splitting" at Matapédia, Quebec.) So whatever the problem was - which we were NEVER fully given an explanation - both sets of passengers wound up with the same dilemma of a very late departure.
As previously mentioned, we departed Montréal's Central Station at 22:43 with the "Ocean" in tow. With three F40PH locos, we were an impressive array of Budd stainless steel streamliners . . .
The consist for the "Chaluer" - our train - included one F40PH loco, a baggage car - coach - Skyline dome - full service diner - ‘n two bedroom cars. For some unexplained reason, the full service dining car was not used for either portion of our round trip.
Our bedroom car attendant was "Sonia" - Skyline dome attendant "Serge" ‘n Dining area attendant - "Fred," all congenial people. Our Chef was "Richard" - an excellent cook! Service Manager was "Jon" - and there's nothing to add.
The Skyline dome car features an area where meals are served along with a lounge area and of course the dome.
We awoke Monday morning to a rather gloomy day as the drizzle had set in with attendant lo-ceiling. Not the greatest for sightseeing from the dome.
I got up to the dome at about 06:30 while things were being made ready for breakfast in the dining area of the Skyline car. After a fine breakfast prepared by a real Chef, it was back to the dome . . . Pete arrived somewhere between rain drops to claim his seat in the dome shortly before arriving at Matapédia at 09:00, where the "Ocean" split from the "Chaleur."
There were many foto opportunities, and in spite of the limited visibility, there should be plenty to keep you guyz interested in the weeks to come!
Pix from Day Five: Monday - May 28th, 2007 - aboard VIA Rail's CHALEUR in Quebec, Canada:
Just looked out of the window approaching station stop at Amqui, and . . .
And . . . .
Skyline dome
Skyline dome lounge area <with coach passenger sacked out!>
Skyline dome dining area
That's the "Ocean" Renaissance consist way back there!
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