Hopper Train Fun

 Hopper Train Fun

We continue our posting as we follow Paul's hopper train as it goes through its paces.

This B&M modeler loves this B&M hopper car!

With his tail end departing Ironwood in the distance, the head end arrives Spruce.

Video tape as seen from Ironwood on into Spruce.

Our road switcher has already deposited two hoppers to the trailing spur track in Spruce.

Time for the crew to get back on their train.  With no other trains in the vicinity, this switching was able to be done even though the crew fouled the main.

Passing our set-outs.

Departing Spruce as caught on film.

Approaching Clarke's Gables.

On the downhill slope along Clarke Hill.

We pass below our set-outs.

Neil has brought along some interesting items.

Looks like he is working on the drivers for his steam locomotive.

Neil surprised us...and himself...realizing that one set of wheels turns one way while the other set opposes the motion!

Hi Bernie!

Nope...ya can't drink yer coffee with yer mask on!

Skipper Bill.

Paul, Moe and Pat.

Doug, Bill and Pat.

Two lads taking a break from their work.

We catch up with our Northland Road hopper train as it penetrates the canyon at the foot of Clarke Hill.

Moments later, she's at the rockery near Blockhouse.

She certainly is a "Black Beauty" in our midst!

Taking on the grade across the Brennan Gap.

The sun is in our favour.

More footage of this esteemed train.

We find Lawrence working with great diligence.

He doesn't mind us playing trains while he works.  He certainly is a good lad!

It's always fun watching our trains run!

Nearing Lilly.

Rounding the big bend...

...while still climbing.

Our train was up to the task.

Coming into view...

...on approach to the Fred Mills trestle.

Crossing the gap.

On into Glenn Hammond.

Arrival in the Glenn.

Using the main as a switching lead.

Dropping two more hoppers...

...on the second track over.

Paul is keeping plenty busy.

Heading back to his train.

Almost there.

Video clip of the switching.

More toil...

...and still some more!

Lawrence takes a breather as the hopper train passes by in behind.

I'll leave you with this great 1923 Jimmy Cox Blues Tune.  My band does a cover of the Eric Clapton version of the song.  That's little old me on lead acoustic guitar.  Check out the audio recording at one of the links below.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EOwxwYYSrl8IZyTwqvfAJhFLnP9Tibjk/view?usp=sharing

Or you can copy and paste the link below into your browser.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EOwxwYYSrl8IZyTwqvfAJhFLnP9Tibjk/view

And...here's a pic of me with my '72 Strat.  Have a great day...and remember...every day is train day!

All the best, Mike Hamer, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada