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Earle Baldwin

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  1. In 1990, the former New York Central Hudson Division was abuzz with a never ending parade of trains of Metro-North Commuter Railroad, the line’s current owner, along with those of tenants Amtrak and Conrail. Vintage equipment was still the order of the day with MNCR’s ex-New Haven FL9’s providing motive power for conventional consists. Supplementing the classic cab units were Budd SPV2000’s and “Metropolitan” electric multiple unit cars. Amtrak trains were in the capable hands of that carrier’s own FL9 and workhorse F40PH fleet. Turbo trains built by Rohr were a frequent sight as well. Since their running gear provided generous clearances for the third rail in electrified territory, Conrail relied on General Electric four axle Universal and Dash 7 Series locomotives to move its freight up and down the east side of the Hudson. Given the variety of equipment, train frequency and stunning scenery, Metro-North’s Hudson Line was a train watcher’s paradise. Let us now fast forward to the present day. The line’s traffic and ridership are more intense than ever; however, many changes have been implemented since 1990. General Electric P32 “Genesis” locomotives are now the power of choice for MTA Metro-North Railroad, no longer known as Metro-North Commuter Railroad, and Amtrak. The older “Metropolitan” cars have now been supplemented with and in some cases removed in favor of new generation M7’s. Even Conrail has become a fallen flag, having been split between CSX and Norfolk Southern in 1999. CSX EMD four axle units have replaced the “Big Blue” GE’s which once roamed these rails. It has been said one can not return to the past; however, thanks to the good folks at Highball Productions who recognized the need to document this action, railroad hobbyists can again visit the Hudson Line in 1990 courtesy of its video “Rails Through the Hudson Highlands.” Coverage begins in Ossining and extends north to Poughkeepsie, pausing at many intermediate points along the way. Some of the locations visited are Croton North, Peekskill, Cold Spring and Roa Hook. FL9’s in Metro-North’s tasteful red, blue and silver scheme abound. It is this reviewer’s opinion these units were most attractive when wearing this scheme. Several Metro-North trains on the tape are powered by ConnDOT New Haven painted FL9’s. Amtrak’s FL9’s are seen in charge of numerous trains. One particularly interesting consist has an FL9 on the head end with an F40 positioned at the rear. A number of Conrail freights with B23-7’s providing the muscle put in appearances. CR also provides a treat for us on the opposite side of the Hudson with several northbound movements, including a hopper train featuring run through Norfolk Southern units on the River Line. Mix in some Rohr turbos and MNCR SPV2000’s and we have the recipe for a very entertaining program. As with a number of other railroad video producers, many of Highball Productions' early programs have been reissued on DVD; however, I believe “Hudson Highlands” is not among them as of yet. Do not be deterred as VHS tapes remain available in dealer inventories and on the secondary market. I did a recent check of this title on the web and several copies popped up as available. Its original list price was $29.95 but current pricing for an out of print program will undoubtedly vary according to condition and perceived demand. Fans of New York City Metropolitan Area action will certainly want to keep their eyes open at stores, meets and on the web for this program. Given the historical significance of the vintage equipment featured, it is definitely worth the search. Happy railroading, Earle:)
  2. Good afternoon, All. I am in the market for a simulator program for my home computer. Would anyone be kind enough to share your opinions of the available choices? Thanks in advance! Regards, Earle
  3. In 1953, Fairbanks-Morse introduced the H24-66 diesel locomotive. In order to gain the desired exposure for its 2400 horsepower leviathan, the company constructed four units to demonstrate the new locomotive's awesome power. Numbered TM-1, TM-2, TM-3 and TM-4, the units toured numerous systems. The TM-1 and TM-2 were assigned to prospective customers in the east while the TM-3 and TM-4 headed west. A total of 127 Train Masters were sold, including those purchased by Canadian National and Canadian Pacific. The TM-1 and TM-2 were eventually acquired by Wabash and the TM-3 and TM-4 were added to Southern Pacific's roster. Unfortunately, railroads were not prepared for so much horsepower packed into a single locomotive and EMD's Geeps and Alco RS units sold in much greater numbers. Despite its limited appeal on prototype rails, the Train Master has always been very popular within the rail enthusiast community, due in large part to Lionel's outstanding near scale O gauge model which was introduced almost simultaneously with its prototype. To this day, Lionel's 1954 interpretation of the TM still compares respectably in size and detail with contemporary offerings. Some of my earliest railfan recollections are of Jersey Central TM's pulling seemingly endless strings of communter coaches down the New York & Long Branch Railroad in during the 1960's. These memories coupled with my fondness for the Lionel locomotive have made the TM a long standing favorite of mine. My affinity for the H24-66 recently resulted in an effort to begin building a collection of TM models in N scale. Fortunately, Atlas offers a range of meticulously detailed and painted H24-66's. During the production run of the prototype, subtle changes were made in the appearance of the locomotive and the Atlas models are accurately appointed for each road name. When looking at the models, it is remarkable to consider so much detail can be included on such a small model. Paint is expertly applied and the overall effect is stunning. Road names offered to date include the FM demonstrators, SP, VGN, PRR, CNJ, Wabash, RDG, CN, CP, DL&W, EL and N&W. In some cases, multiple paint schemes are offered for a single road. Pulling power is awesome for N scale. It is unmatched by any single unit locomotive I have personally operated. The list price for the Atlas N Train Master is $134.95 with a DCC decoder installed and 99.95 for the DCC ready version; however, I have met with great success on eBay. My cost of acquisition for pieces in mint or like new condition has averaged approximately 50% of the retail price, including shipping. Take a look at the Atlas N Train Master at your next train show or during your next trip to your favorite train store. You won't be disappointed. Regards, Earle
  4. Presented for your consideration is a review of the video titled "South Shore Line" by Green Frog Productions. The Chicago, South Shore & South Bend Railroad has its origins early in the 20th Century. Since its inception, the railroad has provided high speed electrified passenger service between Downtown Chicago and South Bend, Indiana. Interestingly, in order to reach Chicago's Randolph Street Station, CSS trains for decades utilized trackage rights over former Illinois Central right of way which operated its own electric communter trains. By the time the majority of this video was filmed during the late 1970's, CSS had earned the unofficial title of America's last great interurban railroad. In 1978, I had the good fortune to make a railfan pilgrimage to Chicago and personally participate in the South Shore experience. I was therefore quite enthusiastic about the release of this program on VHS during the late 90's. As mentioned above, the majority of the video was filmed during the late 70's. At this time, CSS was under control of Chessie System which was vigorously pursuing the abandonment of passenger service. The railroad's infrastructure was aging and its continued existence very much in doubt. Accordingly, it received a great deal of attention from the enthusiast community, although motion picture records regrettably appear to be minimal. Luckily enough, Dan Morris, who provided the vintage film for this program, was trackside with a sound equipped movie camera. The video contains plentiful scenes of the 1920's era orange and brown cars which were the hallmark of South Shore service. Many locations are shown in a variety of lighting and seasons. Most of the material is presented from a trackside perspective although we are treated to the on board experience as well. Most of the program is focused on passenger operations; however, CSS hosts its share of freight traffic and scenes of trains powered by the "800" class Little Joe locomotives and former C&O GP7's are shown. It is interesting to note by the time these images were made, the 800's, despite their immense size, were limited to way freights. This restriction was the result of the extensive power draw these monsters generated in hauling heavy tonnage. The power supply system had deteriorated to the point it could not deliver the juice required for such assignments so the Joes were assigned to local service and Chessie supplied the above mentioned GP7's for heavier trains. Also included are several views of ICG's vintage and more modern bi-level multiple unit cars. The quality of the images are quite acceptable given the cameras and film available at the time. A true gem is the fact Mr. Morris used sound film and the whine of traction motors and thumping of compressors is enough to warm the heart of any traction enthusiast. Following the main presentation of sixty minutes is an additional ten minutes of camcorder footage presenting the contemporary CSS featuring Japanese built stainless steel passenger equipment and GP38-2 powered freight trains. Despite the uncertainty of the late 70's, CSS passenger service has survived, thrived and even expanded with the extension of service to Michiana Regional Airport in South Bend. This is a true American railroading success story. "South Shore Line" is now available on DVD with a list price of $24.95 although it is available at a discount from the larger dealers who typically advertise in hobby publications such as "Trains" and "Railfan and Railroad." I have owned the program on VHS since its original release and recently purchased the DVD version which will enable me to donate the VHS copy to the collection of one of the enthusiast organizations of which I am a member. "South Shore Line" serves as a wonderful time capsule of a truly historic railroad and should find a welcome home in the collection of any traction enthusiast. Best Regards, Earle
  5. Hi, Brighton. Thanks for the excellent review of the DAP R32 set. Perhaps the folks at MTA should take a look at some of my mid-80's IRT photos. Maybe that would get them to amend their position regarding models decorated with graffiti. I have seen discussion on the O Gauge Railroading Forum regarding the application of available aftermarket stickers to enhance the accuracy of equipment released by MTH following the loss of the license. These include TA logos and proper route signage. Do you have any experience with these stickers? Thanks, Earle
  6. Hi, Harry. These programs begin during the late 90's concurrent with delivery of the initial DE30AC's and multi-level cars. RVP catalogs an additional LIRR trackside program titled "Long Island Rail Road Hot Spots." It was taped several years before delivery of the new equipment so all diesel consists are the old cars with Geeps, MP15AC's, F-units and FA's. Also, the Metropolitan cars had not yet been fitted with the high headlight so they were still equipped with their factory built headlight configuration when this program was filmed. This material may be more reminiscent of the LIRR you rode. Still, the "Tracking" series contains many scenes featuring older equipment, including the ex-MNCR FL9AC's. I hope this helps. Regards, Earle
  7. Railroad Video Productions of Leola, PA offers a four piece series of DVD's titled "Tracking the Long Island Rail Road." Volumes are appropriately designated Parts 1,2, 3 and 4 and each is approximately sixty minutes in length. The separately sold programs present contemporary LIRR action in a variety of locations. Much of the video was taped as the newest generation of rolling stock and motive power was entering service; therefore, a varied mix of equipment including GP38-2's, MP15AC's, and cab unit power packs with old coaches are seen operating alongside brand new locomotives and multi-levels. In addition, the viewer is treated to many views of now vintage Metropolitan multiple unit cars. Some of the more stunning images of the M.U. cars were filmed at night as the trains generated dramatic arcing along the third rail. Camera work is excellent featuring rock steady images. Narration is limited but appropriate. Sound quality is superb. As a vintage diesel fan, it's nice to be able to sit back and listen to one of the Geeps start a heavy train from a station stop.....true nostalgia for this reviewer! Railroad Video Productions does not deal directly with the public. Rather, a very limited network of distributors is used to market the product. Strasburg Rail Road, my source for these fine programs, is one of the designated dealers and its train store consistently stocks a complete selection of RVP titles. SRC's price is $26.95 each and the proceeds of every purchase serve as a contribution to SRC's admirable effort to preserve America's magnificent railroad heritage. I have also seen RVP programs for sale at train shows but at a higher price of $29.95. By purchasing them at Strasburg, one can save $3 and help railway preservation at the same time....sounds like a win-win to me! The Strasburg Rail Road site can be accessed at www.strasburgrailroad.com. In summary, Railroad Video Productions' "Tracking the Long Island Rail Road" series provides a thorough treatment of modern LIRR operations. All four volumes would be a worthwhile addition to the collection of every LIRR follower. Please feel free to post any questions and I'll try to answer them. Regards, Earle
  8. Valhalla Video of Tustin, CA offers a video which should be of interest to many NYCTA followers. It is titled "Redbird Farewell Special" and covers the operation of a special train consisting of R33's for the benefit of the March of Dimes. I'm sure some participants on this forum were passengers on the trip. The footage is primarily from the Motorman's perspective from the head end. Taping begins at Grand Central as the train travels the Lexington Avenue Line downtown. It traverses the loop at City Hall Station and heads north into the Bronx on the Pelham Line to Westchester Yard. The camera continues to roll as the train tours the yard and many superb views are provided, particularly as the train passes the locomotive shop with engines sitting outside. After leaving the yard and heading back toward Manhattan, the trip's next segment is up the Jerome Avenue Line to Concourse Yard. Departing Concourse Yard, the train travels B Division trackage to reach 207 Street Yard. After the train tours the yard, it heads up the connecting track to the Number 1 Line and runs to the terminal at Van Cortlandt Park. The balance of the program is the train's fast run to completion of the trip at Times Square. Again, the majority of the program is taken from the head end although because of the nature of the trip, several reverse moves were required so the head end becomes the hind end for some segments. In addition to the on board footage, a few trackside scenes along the Pelham Line are included. The program's length is three hours on two VHS tapes or DVD discs, depending upon your preference of media. At $39.95, it's a great value and provides solid NYCTA entertainment. A B Division trip using vintage BMT equipment was operated the day after this trip and Valhalla offers a companion program of that outing. I have yet to purchase it but, based upon my satisfaction with the IRT program, I'll be sure to add that one to my collection as well. Regards, Earle
  9. Harry: I have the night cab ride video. It's one of my favorites. The combination of the snow flying and drama of night make it very exciting. I will post a short review of it in the Amtrak Forum in the next few days. I'm sure any Amtrak fan would like it. Regards, Earle
  10. NJTransitFan: You probably noticed it already if you checked the website but Neff also offers a program titled "New Jersey Transit Push Pull." It's a high quality program covering the North Jersey Coast Line between Bay Head and Matawan. It was taped before the arrival of the ALP44's so there are numerous scenes of E60's and Arrow III's while they were still running on the NJCL. If you're an NJT fan you'll like it. Regards, Earle
  11. Neff Video Productions offers an hour long program titled "PCC in Toronto." It was filmed in 1974 and provides fairly comprehensive coverage of Toronto's trolley network prior to delivery of the CLRV's when regular service was still covered exclusively by PCC cars. The camera work is well done and the quality of the pre-camcorder images is fine for its time. The film is accompanied by a jazzy soundtrack suitable for vignettes of vintage electric traction. Included in the action are scenes of multiple unit operation along Queen Street and views of cars at the outlying end of the Long Branch Line, a nice bonus. I owned the VHS version of this program for years and purchased its DVD equivalent when it became available. At a price of $24.95, it is money well spent for the enthusiast who would like a concise, well produced motion picture record of PCC operation in Toronto. For those interested, Neff's website is www.neffvideo.com. Regards, Earle
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