TRACK SWITCHES

[Greenhornet]

I was watching some Civil War photos, and I saw some strange rail switches. I would call them a "Butt switch." Any history and proper names.

[Anonymous]

I think what you saw are called stub switches, so your choice of words is pretty close.  They were popular before switch points were developed.  That is an interesting subject, and I would be interested in more information on the evolution of switches and frogs.

Here is some switch detail: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Railroad_switch

Also google "stub switch."

[arkansasrailfan]

DRGW narrow gauge used them in some places up until the mid-late 50s.

[carknocker1]

 

The LNAC still has a couple in theie old yard in Corydon , IN. I believe they still get used ocassionally.

[jchnhtfd]

Hard to maintain and adjust (to put it mildly)... kind of rough ride... very very dangerous if even slightly out of line -- and they get out of line at the drop of a hat.

[Ishmael]

East Broad Top in Pa. still has them. I believe they are mainly a low speed operation. Never got a chance to visit EBT in my wanderings around Pa. and Md.