734 was, when in good shape, able to haul eight cars to Frostburg if the rail was dry and clean.
The steep part of the grade is the last bit to the Frostburg Depot, about 2.75%
I think Helmstetter's Curve is 1.76, then a good bit of 2.2 here and there.
When the rail was wet and covered with leaves they would use a diesel even on
four car trains. I've seen them, when in those conditions and with no helper,
cut the engine and run it light to the depot with the rail washers on, and sand
back to the train. Worked most of the time.
Things change over time, and I don't hang around down there much any more.
I've never seen the 1309. Did ask if I could go over to the shop and take a few
photos, was told that was not possible. In the past, I'd taken more than a few
shots over there.
Like I said, things change, time moves forward, I still have a couple of friends
there. but I was only down there three times last year, just to watch her
pull into the station and maybe chase the old girl to Frostburg. Did make
some real pals, Cody Cook, Mike Spooler and Nick Bennet. Great fun with these
young men in'09,'10 and 11! Thanks boys, I'll never forget those years.
Ed
Well That's too bad, You've certainly provided us with some great shots over the years. You should be proud of that and thank you.
