December 17, 2011

Hello Everyone

Let me start off by wishing everyone a wonderful holiday season.  For those who haven't made it up for Winterfest, the event is a great success thanks to so many different people's efforts.

Last Saturday (12/17/11), over 1,000 rides were given through the evening.  You can see by the first picture, the large number of people entering and leaving the gift shop and main gallery.

While Winterfest takes the efforts of a lot of people to keep it running, work around the museum property has not come to a standstill.

Work in the shop continues on a number of different projects.

John is working to replace the platform flooring in 16 along with taking care of some other repairs on 16.

Work is continuing on the Type 5

The car has been jacked up and the west end truck removed.  One motor has been removed from the truck, and disassembled.  We are in the process of baking the fields and renewing them for reinstallation.  We previously sent out an armature for servicing, and have that armature back to reinstall. 

(photo of motor with armature removed, prior to removal of field coils for Type 5)

We plan on continuing work on the motors for the Type 5 throughout the winter.

Other work on the Type 5 includes work on the flooring inside the car.  These pictures were taken previously, and John has begun reinstalling the floor.  Also at this time, the wiring to the car heaters is being replaced. 

I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season, and as the last pictures show Carol hard at work during winterfest with a long line waiting for tickets (On Saturday there was a constant line, with these pictures being taken around 7:30 P.M.);

Seasons Greetings.

Galen Semprebon
President~CT Trolley Museum

November 30, 2011

Hello Everyone

Well things have certainly been hectic at the museum for the last few weeks.  The snow storm in October added a lot of extra work to the set up for the event, but despite all the extra work, we somehow pulled it off and were ready for operation last Friday.  The first night was a shorter ride, but by Saturday night, we were running to Newberry siding.  There is still some overhead work to do between Newberry siding and Wells road on the catenary.  Thanks to everyone who pitched in to make this happen.  Please consider stopping down during the holiday and visit.  I'm sure George would appreciate the company inside the visitor center, and he always likes to show people his latest aquisition.

Work is progressing in the shop on the type 5, albeit at a reduced pace since so much labor was tied up in getting the line into shape and readying the visitor center for winterfest.  Work is progressing on the floor, and preparations are beginning on getting the dust collector and wood shop machinery set up. 

Work has begun on the visitor center entrance reconstruction.  The front vestibule was damaged during last winters record snow fall, and needed to be reconstructed and reinforced to prevent similar damage in the future.

Thanks to the fire museum members for their work on the line truck.  The truck is now up and running, which helped a lot in allowing repairs to the parking lot lighting.

We have also moved the trailers for the winterfest decorations closer to the visitor center to allow for easier loading and unloading.  The hope is to be able to remove the running gear in the future to drop them down, and then hide them with plantings so that the area is more visually appealing.  Also, now that the trailers are moved, shelving is being installed in one of them to help organize the contents better, and also allow us not to have to completely unload them each year to find what we need for decorating. 
 
For anyone interested in helping out, there still are a number of projects occuring at the museum this winter.  Work will progress in the shop until the cold weather sets in, then projects will occur within the visitor center. 

Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving day and weekend, and look forward to seeing you at the museum this winter.

Galen  

November 8, 2011

Hello Everyone

I hope everyone has power back, and life is getting back to normal. 

The storm has created some issues at the museum.  The last Saturday night of Rails and last Sunday of Pumpkin patch were canceled.  This will cut into the museum finances, though the events were still both successful overall. 

We had some damage from the snowfall event.  Trees down on the line resulted in some damage to the overhead and A.C. electrical system for the signals.  Work has already been done to clear the trees from the line and repairs have begun.  We expect to be fully operational for the start of Winterfest.

The storm also delayed our start of preparations for Winterfest.  We had intended to switch the visitor center to change the layout of the cars within the building.  With the need to do work on the line, and the delay due to the snow on the ground, we have modified our plans to simplify the change up within the visitor center.  At the time of this writing, the cars are in position for Winterfest within the visitor center, much of the Winterfest decorations have been brought into the visitor center, and decorating has begun. 

We definitely need help the next two Saturday's setting up for Winterfest.  We only have two weekends left  before the start of Winterfest, and have a lot to do.  If you have time this coming Saturday, please consider coming down to help. 

Thanks to everyone who came out this past weekend to clear the line of trees and start repairing the problems on the line.  With the nature of the storm, we can be thankful that the damage wasn't much worse.

Galen

October 24, 2011

Hello Everyone

Well we had a very successful weekend for both Rails to the Darkside and Pumpkin Patch.  I don't have the numbers for Pumpkin patch for ridership, though the parking lot was very full for the event.  For Rails, we carried 462 people on Friday night and 737 people on Saturday night.  We had a great cast both nights. Saturday, we really challenged the inside cast since we sped up the tours to cut down on the wait time to enter the visitor center.  This coupled with bringing in larger groups of people has really helped keep the wait much shorter.  Scaring groups of up to 20 people in a group inside the visitor center is more of a challenge, but our cast is adapting and everyone seems to be having a great time.  

Thanks to everyone who have made the events successful.  Only one more weekend to go, and then we can start setting up for Winterfest. 

Work is progressing in the shop.  The type 5 was switched up this past weekend, and work has started on the car.  Seats are being removed to repair some heaving in the floor boards.  Also, wiring  replacement work on the heaters may be done while the seats are out.  Anyone interested in helping on this car, work is generally occuring every Saturday. 

Camillo is also working on the inside of the reading caboose, and I am guessing he would like help if anyone is interested in helping him. 

On Monday, October 31, Tim plans on switching the cars inside the visitor center in preparation for winterfest and also to help change up the display for next year.  Anyone interested in helping, please come on down. 

George has been working on preparing the small section house to be moved to the opposite side of the track.  This section house needs to be moved as part of the future track layout into the visitor center, and also provides the opportunity to get this building on a better foundation and more usable. 

As always, we can use your help at the museum.  There are projects happening all over the museum, and your help would aid in moving the projects along quicker.

Hope to see you at the museum.

Galen

October 22, 2011

Hello Everyone.

Well we are in the middle of the Halloween season, but that doesn't mean other work has stopped at the CT Trolley Museum.

We have switched the Type 5 back to the shop to allow work to continue on getting the motors straightened out on her.  We are also doing work on the air system, and contemplating putting a new canvas roof on her.  Once this work is completed, the type 5 will be able to enter the operating fleet in a good condition and be a very dependable car for operations.

836 has been operating very well since entering service. 

A question has been raised as to what we will be working on next after the Type 5.  The choices are either 1326 or 65.  Both cars need a significant amount of work, so we will need to choose one to work on.  We will be doing a full review of both cars to determine the condition of each, and making a decision based on that information and also on the cars other traits and usefullness to the museum.  Please feel free to let me know by posting a comment as to which car you would prefer to see worked on, and why. 

Its hard to believe that in 8 days, we will be dismantling Rails to the Darkside, and starting to set up for Christmas.  We hopefully will be in a good position to start unloading the trailers and starting setup for Winterfest on November 5.  If Christmas is your favorite holiday, what better way to really get a jump on the Holiday spirit. 

For anyone interested, on Monday, October 31, Tim plans on starting to do some switching into the visitor center to re-arrange the cars.  the intent is to move 840 into the visitor center and use her as a platform for a train layout along with 36.  This will allow for more cars to remain inside the visitor center and still provide the room for the train layous for winterfest.  The caboose and the Ponemah locomotive will also be switched around to provide better access to the caboose during Winterfest. 

As always, for anyone with time, we can use help for both Rails and Pumpkin Patch.  So far for both events, we have raised over $30,000.00 for the museum, and Rails will only be getting busier for tonight and the last weekend.

Take care, and hope to see you at the museum.

Galen

October 16, 2011

Hello Everyone

I had a typo in my last blog.  It should have read that 836 is now back in service.  It has been running well, and everyone seems excited to have it back in service.

Work over the last few weeks has centered around getting the trolley bus ready to move to Baltimore.  We made a deal to exchange one of the trolley buses for shipping of wheels from the west coast to the museum.  The trolley bus as of this writing is now in the parking lot, and should be loaded for shipment on Monday 10/17/11.

Rails to the Darkside is running well overall.  We have the usual hickups getting everyone coordinated and on the same page, but overall the crowds have been good, the cast has been fantastic, and people have given us good compliments as they leave the visitor center.

We are anxious to get the type 5 up to the shop to get work progressing.  John has already started some of the repairs on it where it sits in Woods barn.  It should get shifted to the shop in the next few weeks which will allow the truck to be pulled and the motor work to start.  We have one armature ready to be picked up at the motor shop.

As always, anyone who can help out with Rails to the Darkside or Pumpkin Patch, please consider it.  We are in need of additional motorman, and people for crowd control for Rails to the Darkside and for operations and helping inside the visitor center for Pumpkin Patch.

Hope to see you at the museum.

Galen

October 12, 2011

Well Pumpkin Patch and Rails to the Darkside are both off to a great start.  The weather was beautiful this past weekend.

836 is not back in service, and just in time for the events.  It is a great car capacity wise and a favorite of many.

1326 was removed from service due to some motor problems.  At this time, the concentration is going to be on getting the type 5 back into service, so 1326 will be out of service for a while.

It is a hectic time at the museum right now.  Anyone who can help with either Rails or Pumpkin patch, please call the office or come on down.  We can use the extra help, especially in operations.

Galen

October 3, 2011

Hello Everyone.

We are busy at the museum, with lots happening.

The "BIG" news is that 836 is back on its truck, and a successful test run was made this past Saturday.  I had the opportunity to move the car around the shop yard a little, and it was nice to be back at the controller of 836.  We have some maintenance work and other minor things to address (sticking governor and brake stand form sitting too long).  It will be a welcome addition back to the operating fleet.  thanks again to John, Pat and Chris for all their hard work and dedication to this project.

Work is continuing on Rails to the Darkside and Pumpkin Patch.  We are almost complete, which is good since the Press night is this Tuesday, and the events start on Friday.  Anyone interested in joining the cast of Rails or helping out with operations or for Pumpkin Patch, we need all the help we can get. 

We had two good days at the Big E promoting the museum and the upcoming special events.  We had great coverage by our volunteers for the event, and I thank everyone who came and helped out. 

We are now full swing into our busy season.  Please consider taking some time and coming down and helping out. 

See you soon at the museum.

Galen

September 27, 2011

Hello Everyone

Things are getting exciting at the museum.  We are in full swing on a number of projects and of course into our busiest part of the year.

The turning of the wheels on 836 are complete on the first axle, and now the truck just needs to be assembled and re-installed so we can test the car and return it to service.  A lot of work went into this project, and many thanks to Chris Chestnut and Pat McCann for all their hard work. 

Anyone who is interested in helping put the truck back together and re-install it under the car, please come to the museum this Saturday (10/1/11).  Hopefully if all goes well, the car may be able to be moved under its own power by the end of the day. 

We have been working hard to get Rails to the Darkside and the Pumpkin Patch area inside the visitor center set up.  Both of these events are critical for the success of the museum.  Anyone who is available, please consider helping out either in the setup of the events, or by helping during the events in operations.  During these two events, the museum makes approximately 1/3 of its income from operations for the year.

Just to make things more interesting, we need to finish getting the trolley bus ready to ship out of the museum by the middle of October.  Hopefully we can get a crew working on this project this Saturday also. 

We have a lot going on at the museum right now, and anyone with a few hours to spare, please consider stopping down at the museum this Saturday. 
Also, for Rails, we have the rehearsals coming up this Thursday at 6:00 P.M. and Saturday at 5:00 P.M.  for the cast, please try to make one of the rehearsals.  Generally we cover the same material during both rehearsals, so attendance at both is not required.  Also, we have an organizational meeting scheduled for 3;00 P.M. on Saturday.  Hopefully, this will be a quick meeting as most of the setup is complete.

Take care and I hope to see you Saturday.

Galen

September 19, 2011

Hello Everyone

It has been a very busy September at the museum, with work progressing on many fronts.

Rails to the Darkside setup is now in full swing.  We have a number of new things planned for this year, and expect the event to be better then ever.  Anyone interested in helping to either scare people, work in operations, or assist in another way, please contact the museum office at 860-627-6540, or email me at gbs2600@comcast.net

Work is progressing in the shop on a number of fronts. 

355: The compressor work is completed, and is ready to return to service.

836:  the wheels on one axle are almost completed.  While we keep running into issues, we are close to completion and once this axle is completed, it will be put back into the truck and under the car.  We expect the car to be running during at least part of the Halloween season.  There is still work to be done on other wheels under 836, but we will at least have taken care of the serious issue. 

169:  Work is progressing to get this car looking decent. 

The intent of the shop work at this point is to finish and return 836 to service, then pull the type 5 into the shop to go back through the motors and get this car on 4 motors and also address the air leaks and other minor problems with the car.  The type 5 has been largely restored, and once the motors and other issues are addressed, it should be a good dependable water tight car for operations.  After the type 5 is in operations, we plan on removing 1326 from service and addressing its motor issues and also go through the trucks and do a thorough job on the trucks.  1326 may at that point be out of service for a year or so to allow a thorough jobe on the car.  Other work may include substantial wiring work on the car. 

The hope is still to return 65 to service for our 75th anniversary in 2015.  In reviewing the work required on 65, it is aniticipated that one end of the car will need to be disassembled, the knees straightened, and reconstructed.  This is very similar to the work done in around 1990 on 1326.  Wiring work may also be required at the least from the motors to the controllers on both ends.  Interior restoration of the wood work etc. along with the remaining work on the roof will also be required.

840 is also a project to fit in. This may be done before 1326 in order ot provide another open car to use, and would allow us to not use 1850 as much.

Maintenance work on the operating fleet is the first priority, and will continue to be done as required. 

As can be seen, the major projects for the shop are planned out to at least 2015.  things are subject to change as new information becomes available, or as priorities of the museum change.  The shop can always use more help.  If you are interested in helping, please let me know at the above email address. 

We have a lot going on especially now that special event season is upon us.  Hope you have a chance to come on down and help out a little.

Galen

August 30, 2011

Hello everyone.

For those who are still without power, I hope you get it back very soon.

The museum survived the tropical storm Irene with some damage, but overall, we were very lucky.

A tree came down on the snack bar coach, but did not appear to do much of any damage to the coach.

We had a tree come down near woods barn which broke the high-line which supplies power to transformers along the line to power the signal system.  A few cross arms were damaged as part of this tree coming down also.

In addition the roof on the shop suffered minor damage to a cap piece, and a few panals on Woods barn were pealed off as part of the storm.

Overall, we appeared to have weathered this major storm in fairly good shape.

At the present time, work is progressing to insure that the line is safe to turn the 600 volts back on for power to the line, and to do work to get the signal system back up and running.  Once it is safe, we will open for business.

My heart goes out to our sister museum in branford that suffered the brunt of the storm.  I wish them the best of luck.  It sounds like they will be back up and running for the labor day weekend.

Galen 

August 22, 2011

Hello everyone.

We have had a lot going on at the museum through the last few weeks.

We have begun the setup for Rails to the Darkside.  the walkway between the visitor center and  members road crossing was graded off and most of the posts were set for the walkway.  We have also built a wall to block off the view from this area to the front of the site using metal shelving units. 

Work has been continuing in the shop with one wheel now complete on 836's axle, and the second wheel started.  Once the second wheel is done, we will be reassembling the truck and testing 836.  We still have some flanges on other axles that are not the best, but we have addressed the worst flange in this round.  The plan is to put 836 back in service while we work on the Type 5 motors through the winter and into the spring.  Once the motors are completed for the type 5, then probably 1326 will come in for motor work.

Here are some pictures of the wheel work on 836.

This photo shows the completed wheel.  No more sharp flange. 

Work has begun on the second wheel.  We need to match the diameter of the other wheel.

Other work going on in the shop includes the compressor work for 355 .  It is tough to see, but the compressor is under the car.  some piping work is all that remains along with reinstallation of the running board brackets and boards.  Should see this car very soon unless we have more compressor problems.

For those who don't know him.  John Pellitier (pictured above) has been instrumental in keeping the cars running and making the repairs. 

For those looking to help out, we will be starting to set up Rails in earnest starting after the Labor Day weekend. 

Tim and Xian seem to always be up to something on the track.

Hope to see you at the museum soon.

Galen

July 24, 2011

Hello Everyone

Sorry I haven't updated this in a few weeks, it has been a very busy time.

A lot has been going on despite the weather being so hot lately.

Work on 65 has begun again.  On July 9, a few of us removed a lot of the parts that were stored inside the car and then removed seats etc. to make more room inside the car for working.  The car was also leveled, and further investigations made to determine the level of work that is planned on the car.  At this point, the expectation is to disassemble one end to address issues with settlement, doing at least some wire work on the ends along with restoring the interior wood work, and roof repairs and a new canvas.  I will be setting up another work session soon.

By the way, sorry for the black and white photos.  New camera.

Work has begun on the Mansfield caboose.  George, Xian and Tim have worked to remove the interior flooring, and roofing materials. 

Work has also begun on 451.  The car is now stored in Kelly barn, and will be painted.  This is an Eagle Scout project, and once I get a schedule we hope to get some more people involved to do some body repair work that is needed.  More to come soon. 

1326 received some much needed attention over the last few weeks with work done on the steps to better reinforce them, additional work on the bumper to provide a cleaner repair, and work on the window sill including scraping and painting, along with regular maintenance work.

You may wonder why one of the trolley buses is in such an unusual position.  We worked out a trade for shipping of trolley wheels in exchange for one of the trolley buses.  The bus will be leaving the property for another museum, and work is underway to get it moved to the parking lot for transport. 

Perhaps the most exciting news is that we have finally started the turning work on the wheels on 836 that will allow it to return to service.  In this picture is a summary of the work that needed to be done to allow this project to occur.  the gantry crane over the lathe was altered to allow it to fit, then set up over the lathe.  The tracing attachment was set up on the lathe including machining and welding the support for this attachment.  Work was also done to get the lathe running again including installation of a motor, and repair to the operating equipment.  On Saturday July 16, the first few cuts were made, and Pat was busy this past Saturday working on the project.  Thanks to Chris, Pat and John for all their hard efforts to get this project to the point it is at.

Work has continued on the restoration of the compressor for 355, and 355 was moved into the shop on July 23 to allow the compressor to be re-installed.  The expectation is to see the compressor installed this coming Saturday, so anyone interested in helping out on that project, we could use a few extra hands.  Once the compressor is installed, the running boards will need to be reinstalled on that portion of the car (the running boards are removed to remove the compressor).
Planning work is well underway for Rails to the Darkside, and some work is expected to be completed on the outside walk this coming Saturday.  We need to grade the walk, then install the posts and guide rope for the walk.  Anyone interested in helping out, please come on by.  We will probably spend a few hours working on getting the trolley bus ready to move also this coming Saturday also.

As you can see, it has been a busy period at the museum.  We can certainly use help now that we are starting to get into the fall and winter special events.  Hope to see you soon.

Galen

July 5, 2011

Hello Everyone

I hope you all had a wonderful Holiday weekend. 

We were able to accomplish a few things this past weekend. 

Work continued on the compressor for 355.  Over the past two weeks, the armature and field coils for the compressor were baked to thoroughly dry them out.  Once dry, the tested out well, and work has been done on the banding for both.  Also, the fields had new leads installed. The case is  being worked on with much cleaning being done.  Thanks to John Pelletier and Chris Chestnut for working on this project.

Work is continuing on the setup of the lathe for 836's wheels.  A lot of machining of parts has been completed, and it is hoped that testing will begin this coming weekend.  Pat McCann has been very busy making up the parts with the help of Chris Chestnut.  Pat has also been taking the opportunity to help teach some of our younger members, so many thanks to Pat for his efforts. 

A number of months back, we made a deal to trade one of the electric buses to the Baltimore trolley museum for shipping of trolley wheels from the west coast.  We had two sets (16 wheels) on the west coast for many years that we purchased.  Now the wheels are at the museum and available for use.  We have begun the task of getting the bus moved.  The first step is to load it onto the tag along trailer to move to the parking lot where it will be loaded onto a trailer for shipment.  At this time, the front of the bus has been jacked up and the tag along trailer moved under the front axle.  The next step will be to jack up the rear of the bus to finish loading.  Thanks to Jim Miller and Brian for helping me get it that far.  Also, thanks to Bill Wall from Branford and Bill Pollman from Seashore for their help in trying to get tires on the bus.  Unfortunately, that idea didn't work out the way we had hoped.

I announced a few weeks back the desire to start working regularly on car #65.  This Saturday (July 9) will be the first day of work.  Anyone interested in helping out, please stop on in.  Work will be starting by 9:00 A.M., with the first steps being to get the car cleaned out and the seats removed to allow work on the interior woodwork to commence.  Anyone with experience with woodwork, we also need to work on the roof of the car. 

I expect a lot to be happening at the museum this coming weekend.  Come on down and we can get you helping out in the shop, or on 65.

Galen

June 21, 2011

Hello Everyone

We had a good weekend this past weekend with work getting accomplished throughout the museum.  In the shop on Saturday, it was a mixed bag.  Work was interupted to fix motor leads on both 4 and 1850.  Both cars were repaired and returned to service.  2 different compressors were brought in to the shop for servicing.  One of the two will be used for 355. 

Work continued on the lathe setup with most of the tracing attachment now mounted on the lathe.  Welding was done on the mounting base.  We are now so close to finally starting to turn the wheels for 836. 

A while back we agreed to give one of the electric trolley buses to another museum in exchange for shipping trolley car wheels (16 new wheels) from the west coast to us.  Work started on getting the bus raised up to mount the tires on which will allow the bus to be loaded on a trailer and moved out of the museum.  We still have two other trolley buses, with one presently in the collection and the second for parts.

65 has been sitting in the visitor center for some time with very intermittent work occuring on her.  In order to help expedite this project, and at the same time get our restoration program back on track, I am taking on 65 as a project.  My hope is to get as many people involved in the project that I can.  While 65 will not be a complete restoration project, we will be restoring the interior of the car to look as good as we can reasonably accomplish.  The remaining interior woodwork that has not been refinished will be, the seats bases cleaned up and painted, seats recovered in new rattan, etc.   
I am going to be scheduling work days for this project (roughly once every 3-4 weeks), with the first day being Saturday July 9, 2011.  I will be at the museum by 8:00 A.M., and plan a number of projects for that day.  We have woodwork to do on the roof still, along with the removal of the interior seats, which will allow us room to work on the interior woodwork.  While we certainly want this car in service for our 75th anniversary in 2015, I am optimistic we will have the car in service well before then.  I will be going through my email lists to contact people who have expressed interest in working on the car previously, but please, if you are interested  contact the museum office and let us know, or email me.  I will be compiling an email list of people to help keep everyone up to date on work. 

Also, planning has begun on Rails to the Darkside.  We can always use more help, particularly more adults in the visitor center.  If you are interested in helping out, please contact either myself or the office. 

Take care and enjoy the warm weather.

Galen

June 12, 2011

Hello Everyone

Well we have had a very productive week this past week, with a lot being accomplished at the museum

1850 was switched out of Woods barn and brought up to the shop, gone over and is now back in Kelly barn and in service.  To make room for 451 back in Kelly barn, the Type 5 was switched to Woods barn.  We have one motor over at the motor shop for the Type 5, with the expectation of going through and having all the motors shopped so that the car will be 100%.

We also moved a couple of air compressors into the shop.  One of the compressors will be for 355, which developed additional problems after we had the armature shopped for her. 

4 was moved into the shop in order to go through her completely, and also to remove her line switch for repair.  We should see 4 back in service soon.

Work is progressing on the mount for the tracing tool attachment for the lathe. 

The temporary track was completed this week, and 0206 was moved under cover of the train shed next to 1739. 

Work is progressing on making the compromise joint bars for the Kelly yard track.

All in all, a very productive week at the museum.

This coming week, we will be doing work in the shop on 4 including routine maintenance, and work on the line switch.  Also, work will be done on 355 compressor.  I'm sure other projects will be underway this coming Saturday also.

Also, on June 18th, Larry will be holding a meeting regarding the day of caring.  Anyone interested in helping out that day, it is a great way to get a lot of labor to get a project done.  Last year, we did a lot of landscape work around the visitor center including the front paver section along with a number of other projects.  If you are interested, please come on down for the meeting. 

I will be working to organize the work efforts on 65.  My hope is to have 1-2 Saturday's a month work party on the car.  Initially I will need the help of wood workers/carpenters who have some experience.  There is still work to do on the roof fitting in wood for repairs.  We are still working out the extents of the project, but there will be a lot of other work to do with refinishing of wood on the inside of the car, paint touch up, seat repairs and recovering of the seats, seat frame scraping and repainting etc.  Anyone interested in helping out perhaps one Saturday a month, please contact me and I will put you on an email contact list for letting you know when work will occur.  Work will continue to occur within the visitor center, and while we need to make certain concessions in order to accomodate the public when we are open, I plan on using the project as an educational tool for the public. 

Thanks to everyone who came down to the museum this past Saturday on such a wet day and especially to those who worked in the mud and rain to get so much accomplished.

Galen

June 5, 2011

Hello Everyone.

Well we were able to accomplish a few things yesterday at the museum

1739 is now under the train shed, and the track was moved over to allow completion of the track to moved 0206 under next.

451 is now back in service, with the brakes working much better then before.  Some body work has been completed and some work on the doors has also been done. 

Pat is progressing on the  machining work for the mount for the tracing tool for the big lathe that will allow us to complete 836's wheels.  It looks like possibly as early as next weekend, the mount for the lathe will be ready to weld togeather and install.  We are all anxiously waiting for that first cut on the wheels. 

355 unfortunately has developed additional problems with her compressor.  It appears that there are additional issues with the armature.  The plans now are to service one of the spare compressors and install it until such time that we can fully rebuild the origonal style of compressor for 355.

This coming weekend, it is hoped to finish the track and move 0206 under cover.  Once this is done, we will be putting even more emphasis on work on the trolley cars that are presently in operation.  Work this coming weekend on trolleys will include work on 355 and her compressor.  We also hope to move 1850 back to Kelly Barn and switch it with the Type 5.  Once 1850 is serviced, she can also be put back into active service

We also had our first Rails to the Darkside meeting this Saturday.  We have some good discussions, and have some really imaginative new ideas that we hope to have for this years event. 

Anyone who is interested in helping out, please contact either myself or the museum office.  We have accomplished much already this year, but have a lot more to get done.

Galen 

June 3,2011

Hello Everyone

We made great progress last weekend both on the temporary trackage to the visitor center and in the shop.  As you can see, the wheels for 836 are now in the lathe.  The work is progressing on fabricating the support structure for the tracing attachment, so we should see work on the wheels progressing soon.  Getting this far involved a lot of work including modifying and setting up the gantry crane (yellow), getting the lathe running and moving the chuck over from the lower to upper position.  thanks to everyone who has worked so hard to keep this project moving forward.

Hopefully this Saturday, we will be moving 1739 under cover and then moving the track over to put 0206 under cover in the train shed.

Other work this weekend will include shop work on probably 355 to check the compressor.

As always, anyone who has a few hours, we can always use help.

Galen

May 23, 2011

Hello Everyone

Well the flea market is now behind us, and we can concentrate on proceeding with some of the projects on our plate.  Thanks to everyone who came out to help with the flea market.  While we had a few hickups, the event went well with everyone pitching in and doing what was needed to make it work.

George Contrada and Xian Clere have begun work on the Mansfield Caboose.  Anyone interested in helping him, please contact either George or Xian.  This should be an interesting project, especially for those who enjoy woodwork.

Out in the shop, work is progressing on body work on 451, and on the mounting of the new tracing attachment to the lathe in the shop.  Anyone interested in work in the shop, please contact either myself or John Pelletier.

I plan on getting back to track work this coming Saturday down in front of the visitor center.  Most of the ties have been laid out, and rail layed out.  Now we need to put it togeather so that we can move 1739 and 0206 under cover.  Anyone interested in helping out, please come on down this Saturday.

Looking forward to better weather and seeing what we can get done in the coming weeks.  Take care and hope to see you at the museum.

Galen

May 15, 2011

Hi Everyone

Well we made some excellent progress this last weekend at the museum. 

Over the previous week, Xian and his crew installed the new rail in Kelly yard and on Saturday was able to drill and re-install the guard rail.  There is still some work to do, but overall it is very close to completion.  Great job.

Up in the shop, the large lathe is now running again.  For those who are not familiar with the shop, the large lathe is a 22' long lathe that is large enough to turn entire wheel sets (wheels on axles).  The motor was installed last weekend, and was hooked up and tested.  We had some problems with the control equipment for the motor, but through some creative engineering, have developed a solution to allow the lathe to operate safely while we figure out the issues with the control equipment.  We still have some machine work to make a tool holder for the new tracing tool, but are very close to the point of actually starting to turn the wheels for 836.  We have also installed the gantry crane system over the lathe on Saturday, so we are not set to install the axle in the lathe.  A lot of work has gone into making the lathe operational, and thanks go out to Pat, Chris and John for all their hard work on getting us to this point.

Next Saturday (May 21) is the Flea Market.  We expect a lot of people will be coming to this event.  Anyone who can help, we can use people to help park cars, crowd control to make sure no one gets in front of a trolley car, etc.  Please contact either myself or Carol, or come on down on Saturday.  The flea market starts at 8:00 A.M.

A lot of grading, tree clearing etc. has been occuring at the museum, so thanks to everyone helping out in this endeavor. 

Galen 

May 9, 2011

Hello Everyone

Well we have had a few busy weeks, with a lot happening all over the museum.

In the shop, 451 is waiting for some final adjustments and she should be back in service soon.

We now have the tracing attachment for the lathe in the shop, and last I heard, the motor has been installed in the lathe.  Hopefully the lathe will be under power this coming weekend.  Once that is done and the gantry is set up, we will be ready to load the wheels from 836 and start working to get them turned. 

Some more progress has been made to get the temporary track completed so that we can move 1739 and 0206 under cover in the train shed. 

The annual meeting diverted some efforts last weekend, so we should be getting back on track to get the shop and track projects going again this coming weekend.

The annual meeting and the check ceremony for the donation from the WLPA for the caboose and Isle of Safety was a great success.  We were visited by the East Windsor Selectmen for the ceremony. 

Coming up in two weeks (May 21) we have the flea market.  Anyone interested in helping out that day, please contact either myself, Tim, Xian, or the office. 

Coming up in July, we have a barbeque planned on July 27.  For information or tickets, please see Morgan or contact the office.  Morgan is a newer member who has taken on the position of events coordinator. 

Also, if you see something around the museum that you feel should be done, and are willing to roll up your sleeves and lead the effort, please feel free to contact either myself or Carol in the office and we can help get things rolling.

We have a lot happening at the museum.  Please feel free to drop on down and see for yourself and perhaps help out for a few hours. 

Galen

April 26, 2011

Hello Everyone

Well in spite of the weather we were able to accomplish a lot this past weekend.  I won't reiterate what Tim has already reported in his blog, but I will say that the museum is certainly changing for the better.  A lot of cleanup is occuring, and the momentum is carrying it.  We have gotten so efficient at cleaning up that computers that Xian had arranged for to be picked up for recycling were accidently put in the scrap dumpster for disposal.  The computers were later retrieved from the dumpster and have been picked up for recycling.  Having so many volunteers now thinking about how they can help clean up the museum is a real positive for the museum.

Coming up this Saturday (April 30) there is a fundraising meeting at 8:30 A.M. for anyone interested.

We expect that there will be a lot happening at the museum this weekend.

In the shop, work will continue on getting the lathe ready for turning 836's wheels.  A gantry crane has been altered (shortened) to fit over the lathe which will make loading of the wheel sets much easier and safer.  We expect to be putting the gantry crane togeather this weekend.  Also, once the machining is complete for the motor belt drive, the motor will be installed. 

At the visitor center, the shifting of the Mansfield caboose over one track is expected to happen this
Saturday.  This will allow the caboose to be moved under the train shed for work to commence.  The work on the roof and siding will start after the check ceremony on May 7.

A lot of cleaning up around the property has been occuring including cutting of trees.  I am sure that additional cleanup work will be occuring this coming Saturday also.

As usual, we are only restricted in our progress by the help we have on hand.  I have been delighted this spring at all the help we have had at the museum, and continue to look forward to seeing all the new faces and of course our usuals.

Don't forget our Annual meeting is on May 7, and we will be having the check ceremony with the Windsor Locks Preservation Association.  Everyone is welcome. 

Looking ahead, we have the Preservation (flea) market on May 21, and Larry Lunden will be holding a meeting on June 18th at 9:00 A.M. to kick off the planning for the Day of Caring.  this is the annual event where people from different companies volunteer for a day.  Last year, we had a great group of volunteers who helped re-landscape the front of the visitor center islands, and installed the brick pavers at our front entrance.  We need volunteers to help lead different projects, so if you are interested, come and help plan our effort this year. 

Hope everyone is having a good spring, and I look forward to seeing you at the museum.

Galen  

April 17, 2011

Hello Everyone

We had another successful Saturday.  The weather wasn't very nice, which kept some of our volunteers away, but we still got a lot done.

Track work continued in Kelly yard, with the expectation that it will continue next Saturday.  Keep up the good work guys.

Work in the shop progressed on 836.  The car has now been jacked up, the west end truck removed, disassembled and the wheel set removed for machining.  During the week, a special tracing tool was purchased for the lathe which will allow the wheel work to progress.  Machining work also was done which will now allow the motor to be installed in the lathe.  This coming weekend, we expect to install the lathe motor, test the lathe, and start setting up a second gantry crane inside the shop to allow safer loading of the lathe.  Hopefully within the next two weeks we will have the wheel set in the lathe, and ready to start the machining work.

451 is in the shop and awaiting work on her control equipment.  Some patching work was done on her east end doors and the doors primed.

Hopefully we will get warmer and clear weather for next Saturday, and work can once again progress at the great pace we have seen this spring.

I would like to thank all the volunteers including the many new volunteers and returning volunteers.  It is a great pleasure to see progress being made in so many different areas at the same time.

Galen

April 13, 2011

Hello Everyone.

Well the news has officially been released.  The Trolley Museum is the recipient of a generous donation from the Windsor Locks Preservation Association (WLPA).  The WLPA was formed to raise money to preserve the Windsor Locks Train Station.  Unfortunately, the plans did not work out for them, and the organization decided to disband.  They voted to turn over their remaining funds to the museum to fund two specific projects; the Isle of Safety and the Mansfield Caboose.

The Mansfield Caboose will get a new roof and exterior siding along with repairs to windows and doors to make her watertight and looking good.  The caboose will then be set up for birthday parties and other events. 

The money for the Isle of Safety will allow work to be done to repair the woodwork and roof structure and hopefully refinish the tiles, replace the missing tiles, and complete the roof back to her origonal green color.  We still have to get final prices to see how far the money will take us, and the hope is to raise enough money to reproduce the origonal walls that once provided shelter within the Isle of Safety.

A dedication ceremony regarding this bequest will be held on May 7th (Annual meeting day) at 2:00 P.M.  All are welcome to attend.

This year is shaping up to be one of the best years for the museum.  This past Saturday, we had an incredible turnout of volunteers. 

Work this coming weekend includes continuing track work in Kelly yard.  Also, now that we will need to get the caboose out for a dedication ceremony, there is a renewed urgency to building the temporary track in the visitor center area to move 1739 and 0206 out of the way before the caboose needs to be moved on May 7th.

Work of course will continue in the shop.

As always, the operators will be doing their thing to keep the public happy and the trolleys running.

If you have some time, come on down and join the fun.  There is plenty to go around.

Upcoming events include

Easter Bunny fun day on Saturday April 23
The Annual meeting and dedication ceremony on May 7th
Preservation Market on May 21.

Have a great Spring, and hope to see you at the museum.

Galen

April 10, 2011

Hi Everyone.

Things are moving along very nicely at the museum.

We had a great turnout to do track work in Kelly yard and 7 timbers were replaced.  6 more timbers still need to be completed, then the rail changed out, and the repair to the switch will be complete.  It was a great chance for those interested in working on the track to learn from our members who are involved in the railroad industry.  A lot of good training took place along with all that was accomplished.

Work in the shop is progressing well.  The first motor for the type 5 was transported to a motor shop in bloomfield for an overhaul.  Once this motor is returned, it will be traded out of the car for a second motor and so on until all 4 motors in the car have been overhauled.  This will give us another larger capacity car in great condition that will be very dependable.

355 was reassembled, motors repacked with waste, and all maintenance work completed on Saturday, and the car moved back to Kelly barn for service.  451 is now in the shop for maintenance and to trouble shoot the delayed  braking issues with the car. 

Work on 836 is progressing.  We have the motor ready for installation in the lathe, but need to machine the assembly that allows the motor to drive the belt on the lathe.  Pat and John are working to get this done.  We have also located the tracing attachment that we need to purchase and are working to get that to the museum.  Once both of these projects are completed, we will be ready to jack and start work on the axles on 836.

On another front, we have started grading work to allow us to build the temporary track into the south side of the visitor center train shed.  This will allow us to put 0206 back under cover along with 1739.  As part of this grading work, fill is being placed in the area of the previous storage track adjacent to the single car barn which is required for the construction of the permanent track into the visitor center. 

We had a really great turnout of volunteers this past Saturday, with a number of new faces.  Because of this turnout, progress was made in many areas. 

Coming up this coming Saturday, work will progress in the shop on 451, and work on the lathe.

We also will be progressing with work on getting the trackage into the visitor center. 

I suspect work will also continue on Kelly yard track repairs.

Anyone interested in helping out, please email me or come on down on Saturday.  We have plenty to do, and hope to keep up the wonderful progress we are making this year.

Galen

April 5, 2011

Hello everyone

We had a very successful day on Saturday and accomplished a lot.

The motor for the lathe was removed from the box car, moved into the shop, cleaned out of a few mice nests, tested and is almost ready for installation to run the lathe.  We have some minor machining work to do to allow the motor to be installed.

We are also looking into purchasing a tracing tool for the lathe that should help speed up the work on the wheels.

As soon as we are all set with the lathe, we will be jacking up 836 to do her motor.

Work has continued on 355 with the compressor now completed.  The running boards need to be reinstalled that were removed to allow work to occur on the compressor, and routine maintenance needs to be completed.  The goal is to complete this work and move 355 out of the shop this weekend and release her for service.  451 will then be moved into the shop to work on her.

There will be a lot happening this coming Saturday (04/09/11).

Work as always will be occuring in the shop.  Maintenance work on 355, will be the main focus.

The track department will be starting work on repairing the broken joint in Kelly yard.  Ties will be replaced along with 1 rail. 

Please consider coming down to help out.  If you are not sure how you can help, please email me and we can talk about your interests.

For anyone interested, the next Directors meeting is on April 13, 2011 and the meetings are open to everyone.

Galen

March 27, 2011

We are less then 1 week away from opening day and things have certainly been happening at the museum.  This past weekend, I was happy to see so many of our regular motormen back for spring certification, and a few new faces this weekend. 

The shop has been making wonderful progress this year dispite the weather.  So much cleaning and coordinating of the materials in the shop has really helped allow work to now progress.  2600 is now out of the shop and in service.  We still have some minor air leaks and other items to address, but these can be taken care of once some other projects are completed.  We have got the compressor armature for 355 back, and I heard that John has already installed and tested the compressor.  Once he finished buttoning up the compressor, we can service 355 and put her back in service. 

The other big news is that 836 has been moved into the shop.  I think we have a consensus on doing the wheel work on her in-house.  In order to do this, we have a couple of big projects.  First up is getting the wheel lathe back into service.  The motor in the wheel lathe was used in 5645, so now we need to pull a spare motor we have in the chessie box car out and install in the lathe.  Once the wheel lathe is operational, we will jack the west end of 836 and pull the truck out with the worst wheel flange, disassemble the truck and put the wheels in the lathe for turning. 

I hope to have the lathe in operation and the wheels in the lathe by the end of April.  Anyone who wants to help, please let me know.  I had the pleasure of working with a new volunteer (Russ) this past Saturday, and one extra set of hands helping was a real help.  This coming Saturday we will have some heavy lifting and moving of materials inside the Chessie to get the motor out, and then some work to get the motor installed in the lathe.

We will also need help in oiling, greasing etc. on 355 this coming Saturday. 

For those who don't want to get that dirty, there is still some light work to do around the visitor center.  We also need to move the Halloween materials out of the Northern into storage.  This had to wait for all the winterfest materials to be put away since we need to get to the Halloween materials first.

I am looking forward to another great year at the museum.  I think we will be seeing alot of progress this year.  Come on down and get involved.  It is a lot of fun and very rewarding.

Galen 

March 20,2011

Hello Everyone

We have made some good progress in the last few weeks, though we still have much to do before opening day on April 2. 

2600 is now back on its truck with the 4th motor installed.  We have not switched it out of the shop yet to do a test run, though it seemed to run fine within the shop. 

This coming Saturday (3/26/11), the plan is to switch 2600 out and 836 into the shop early in the day before operator certification starts.  2600 will then be checked out and hopefully released for operations.

The plan is for work to commence immediately on 836.  The car will be jacked up and one truck removed and dis-assembled.  The wheels with the sharp flanges will be turned down on the lathe in the shop, misc. bearing and other work completed, and then the truck reassembled and reinstalled.  Once both trucks are completed, the car should be ready to reenter operations some time this year.  As part of the process, we need to reinstall the motor on the big lathe in the shop.    

Work will need to continue inside the visitor center to make one last push to finish cleaning up, putting everything from Winterfest away, and putting the visitor center into shape for the start of operations.

Other work needs to be done around the property including putting up the fencing, greasing the track for the beginning of operations, cleaning cars etc.   

We will need to get a lot accomplished on 3/26/11, so anyone who can come down and help, it would be appreciated.  See you then

Galen

March 14, 2011

Hello Everyone

Well this spring is shaping up to be an unusually busy spring.

Work is progressing inside the visitor center, though there is still much to do before opening day in less then 3 weeks.  The last of the winterfest materials need to be put away, cars cleaned, floors swept, displays cleaned and set up etc.  Tim is planning on working again next Saturday, so if you have some time, please come down and help.

Work on 2600 will be progressing next Saturday as well.  The car this past Saturday has been jacked up, the truck disconnected and rolled out.  The motor was re-assembled, and installed in the truck.  Other work on the truck included replacing two brake shoes, greasing the brake rigging, and repacking one motor's armature and motor support bearings. 

Work remaining before the truck can be re-installed includes completing the mounting of the motor support bearings, repacking the second motor's bearings, and installing the gear cases.   The plan is to complete this work and re-install the truck next Saturday (3/19/11).  After final winter maintenance is completed, 2600 will be ready for opening day. 

Thanks to Roger P. and Brian S. who helped jack the car up.  Their help allowed John to work on the motor while the jacking was being done, so much progress was made.

For those who haven't been in the shop lately, I encourage you to come out to see the great job of cleaning up the shop that has occured.  While we still have some work to do, it is almost a joy to work in the shop now.

Coming up this spring, we will be having a flea market on May 21, with a rain date of June 4.  Anyone who is interested in helping out that day, please let either myself or Carol know.  We hopefully will have big crowds that day.

Also planned this Summer are Farmers markets to be held at the museum.  Todd Chichoine is organizing these events. 

Watch soon for more breaking news. 

Galen
 

March 7, 2011

Hi All

It was another busy day at the museum this last Saturday.

There is still some Christmas decorations to take down inside the visitor center, though most of the materials including much of the train displays were packed up this last weekend and put in the trailers.  Work is weather dependent, but hopefully we can work to finish up packing up winterfest this coming Saturday and start arranging the visitor center.

Pat worked on the machining of the motor bearing for 2600, so we are on target to jack 2600 this coming Saturday.  Anyone interested in helping out, let me know.  I need 3-4 able bodied people to help with the disconnecting of the brake rigging and motors, jacking, handling blocking etc.  We will also need help re-assembling the motor to reinstall.  Work should be underway by 9:00 A.M.

For anyone interested, the monthly Directors meeting is this coming Wednesday (3/9/11) at 6:30 in the library at the visitor center.  Everyone is welcome to come.

Galen 

 

March 2, 2011

Hi All

Well things are starting to pick up at the museum, with a few things going on this weekend.

First, the hope is to be moving some of the Winterfest material into the trailers this Saturday.  Tim and George are going to be coordinating this work.  Not sure if they will be at the museum early, so figure on help being needed later morning and afternoon.

We are just about ready to jack 2600 and pull the truck.  The motor is not back togeather, so we will play it by ear this weekend whether we will proceed or wait one more week.

On another note, nominations to the board of directors need to be in within the next two weeks or so.  If you think you would be interested in serving on the board, we need directors who can help the museum move forward and see the big picture.  On typical boards, the directors main objective is to help the museum raise money.  Here at the trolley museum, due to the high level of involvement that is required by the members to keep the museum running, we need directors that can not only help the museum raise money, but have the knowledge to help steer the museum in the right direction.

If you think you have the ability to help the museum move forward, I encourage you to run for the board of directors.

Other on-going work includes cleaning and straightening up the shop which has taken tremendous strides forward in the last few months despite the cold. 

There is a lot going on this year.  Hope you all can get involved and help out, and have some fun.

Galen

February 20, 2011

Hi All

We are still making progress at the museum dispite the deep snow.  A lot of work occured over the weekend in the shop, with much progress made toward cleaning up and making room to do the jacking on 2600.  Work also progressed on the bearing for 2600, so we should be on track at this point.  Next Saturday (2/26/11), we will finish up the preparation work and should be on target to jack the car on March 5th.  If all goes well, we could jack the car, remove the truck, install the motor and reinstall the truck all on 3/5/11.  Other work on 2600 includes sanding the doors/prime/paint and some air system work along with general maintenance.  Anyone interested in helping out, please contact myself, or come down to the museum on any Saturday.

Once 2600 is completed, and the snow allows, we will move 836 into the shop and work will begin immediately on her.   

We will be having a fundraising meeting on 2/26/11 at 8:30 A.M. at the museum.  Discussions will center around the new summer events being planned including the farmers market and also the flee market.  Anyone interested, please feel free to attend.

We are only 6 weeks away from opening weekend.  Anyone interested in learning to operate this year, please contact Sheila or Dale.  They will be having recertification in March, and a new training class this spring.

I hope that you do consider coming down and helping out.  We are in an excellent position to get a lot of good work completed this year.  The more volunteers involved, the more we will accomplish.

Take care.

Galen 

February 13, 2011

Hi Everyone

Yesterdays membership meeting was very successful, and I would like to thank everyone who came and contributed.

Now that the some warmer weather is hear, more then planning is happening.  Between now and opening day on April 2, we have a lot to do.

Tim Lesniak will be leading the charge to clean up and set up the visitor center.  This is still dependent upon some snow melting for access to the trailers for the winterfest material.  I will keep you posted on when this will resume. 

For shop work, maintenance of the operating fleet for opening day is required.  Once again, with the snow, work cannot proceed until we can get access to the shop.  John will be heading this effort, and as soon as this work is scheduled for, I will let you know.

Work that can proceed includes the projects inside the visitor center, ie 2056 and 65.  If you are interested in working on either of these projects, please see either myself or John. 

Work is progressing on 2600 which is inside the shop.  Preparations (cleaning up the areas around 2600 so we can safely jack 2600 on track 2 of the shop, assembling blocking etc.) are underway, with the tentative timetable for finishing this work on February 19 (weather permitting), and  being ready to jack on February 26.  The motor for 2600 still needs some repair work to the bearing, so jacking may not occur until march 3.  Other work required on 2600 includes work on one door motor, some minor air leaks, and sanding/priming/painting the doors.  I am overseeing the jacking of the car, so if you are interested in helping out, please let me know. 

The plan is to have 2600 ready for opening day, and then switching in 836 to the shop.  The car will be jacked and work begun on 836 to address the sharp flange issues.
 
Cleanup in the shop is progressing with the expectation of finally setting up the new wood shop machinery this year.  If you are interested in helping in this endeavor, please contact either John or myself. 

One idea that was brought up at the membership meeting on Saturday was the possibility of having a group or committee whose purpose would be helping with communications both interior to the museum and to the outside (advertising etc.).  Anyone interested in this endeavor, please let me know.  I will set up a time to meet and we can discuss how to proceed.

We have a lot planned this year, and am looking forward to another great year for the museum. 

Galen  

February 11, 2011

Hello everyone

I have started this blog for two basic reasons.

The first  is to help keep everyone up to date on projects that are occuring at the museum so those who want to help, will know what is happening and how they can help.  Tim does a wonderful job with his "unofficial" blog reporting work that has occured at the museum, so I will not try to duplicate his efforts.

The second is to provide an avenue to allow me to report to the membership on other events, issues etc. occuring with the museum. 

Well the snow has certainly hampered things at the museum lately, though things are still happening and help is always needed.

This Saturday (1/12/11) is another membership meeting where we will be talking about the special events and regular operations.  Please come and see what ideas we can come up with.  As with the last meeting, discussion will be what can "we" do. 

Work is progressing on 65, and anyone interested in helping on that car, please talk with John Pelletier.  The hope is to find someone to continue working on 65 during the spring and summer when John is pulled onto other projects.

The work on 2056 scraping paint etc. is progressing.  There really is not a project leader designated for this project yet, so if someone is interested in overseeing this project, please let me know.

Once the weather starts to break (and hopefully this coming week is the start), then work on the operating fleet can resume.

2600 is first on the agenda this spring, and the plans are to jack and re-install the 4th motor for 2600 before operations begin in April.  I am planning on leading this effort, and will start preparing the shop for this work as early as this Saturday (1/12/11) after our meeting.  Anyone interested in helping, please let me know.

Once 2600 is completed, the plan is to move 836 into the shop and jack her to start the wheel work.

The major theme of the last membership meeting was the discussion on maintenance of what we have, and that that needs to be a major emphasis of the museum.  Since that meeting, the budget was finalized, and as part of the budget process, we allocated a substantial amount of money to the car department this year for motor work, etc.  We have a very ambitious program this year, with the money allocated to allow this to happen.  We will be looking for help on seeing these projects through.  The one thing that I have seen over and over is that the help is available, we simply need to be organized so that we can take advantage of the help available.  Through this blog, I hope to be able to do that more effectively.

I hope everyone has faired ok through this most difficult winter, and I look forward to seeing you tomorrow at the membership meeting.  We will have the end door by the Bradley People mover cars open because of ice piles at the membership door.  Please be careful in walking due to the ice in spots.

Galen 

02/10/11

I am starting the following blog to help keep members and those who are interested in helping out up to date on the activities at the museum.