"Delaware & Hudson '89 " - Parts I and II (Video)

[Earle Baldwin]

Delaware & Hudson has long been a favorite of the railroading hobbyist community. It was well known for its fleet of well maintained ALCo and General Electric locomotives, operating many of these units after they had largely faded from the rosters of Class One roads. D&H gained particular notoriety when it purchased four former ATSF PA's and two ex-Monongahela BLW RF16's during the 70's. Operating alongside other classic units such as RS3's, C628's and six axle U-boats, these six locomotives garnered a great deal of attention for D&H. Due to financial difficulties, the road was later included in the Guilford Transportation merger with companion Northeastern carriers Boston & Maine, Maine Central and Springfield Terminal. Control of D&H was relinquished by Guilford in June 1988 with the Interstate Commerce Commision and bankruptcy court appointing New York Susquehanna & Western (NYS&W) the D&H's designated operator.

 

JMJ Productions has released two separately available programs, titled "Delaware & Hudson '89" Parts I and II which concentrate on action during this transitional period. Part I begins with superbly reproduced vintage film of D&H steam followed up by scenes of first and second generation diesels to set the historical perspective. The program then progresses to contemporary scenes featuring professional camcorder footage of outstanding quality. NYSW's own motive power roster featured a great deal of variety at this time. SD45's, F45's and the new B40-8's are prominently featured. Also seen in action is a classic former New York Central C430. Accompanying the "Susie Q" units are D&H's own locomotives, most of which wear Guilford paint with a few still dressed in classy but faded D&H colors including an RS36. CSX power, some still wearing the Chessie System image, and Norfolk Southern locomotives put in appearances as well. Not to be outdone, leased power, including a VERY rare former Burlington Northern SDP40, is seen on multiple occasions. Diesel enthusiasts are treated to one additional gem: Rahway Valley General Electric 70 tonner 17 assisting in the removal of Penn Division trackage. The occasion was solemn but the scenes of the RV 17 at work help lessen the blow.

 

Each program is available in DVD and VHS format and is priced at $29.95 with quantity discounts available for multiple purchases made at the same time. JMJ's catalog contains many excellent programs which will be reviewed here in the future. JMJ may be contacted at the following address:

 

JMJ Productions

1621 North 74th Terrace

Hollywood, FL 33024

 

Happy Railroading!

 

Earle