RJT posted:
Rick,
Thanks for sharing that. The video was nicely done. I wish them luck.
Tom
Rick, Thank you also for the Website link! Well done and the trailer is impressive! I'm looking forward to returning to Orbisonia as it has been too long for us.
I understand where the Aughwick stone bridge is, but where is the western end of the ownership now? Wood Township? Do they own the track through both tunnels? I hope they do eventually rebuild more of the line for tourist service. Especially the opposite way from Rockhill/Orbisonia toward Saltillo. The line is in sad shape on the out of service since 1956 portions. Rails are in, but rotting ties, trees growing in the tracks, crossings paved over, bridges in poor condition, etc. Are the tunnels caved in? If they can get as far as Robertsdale wye and rebuild the wye, then they will have a good chunk of the mainline for tourist trains. How many miles is it from Orbisonia station to Robertsdale wye?
Robert K posted:I understand where the Aughwick stone bridge is, but where is the western end of the ownership now? Wood Township? Do they own the track through both tunnels? I hope they do eventually rebuild more of the line for tourist service. Especially the opposite way from Rockhill/Orbisonia toward Saltillo. The line is in sad shape on the out of service since 1956 portions. Rails are in, but rotting ties, trees growing in the tracks, crossings paved over, bridges in poor condition, etc. Are the tunnels caved in? If they can get as far as Robertsdale wye and rebuild the wye, then they will have a good chunk of the mainline for tourist trains. How many miles is it from Orbisonia station to Robertsdale wye?
The only statement I've seen for the south end of the line is "the road crossing in Wood Township." Robertsdale is in Wood Township so it could mean the crossing of route 913 right at the post office and the old Robertsdale station. What I suspect is more likely is that it is the road crossing in or near the village of Wood which is a few miles further south. Regardless, they do own the track through both tunnels which are north of Robertsdale and the wye at Robertsdale is north of the road crossing but there wouldn't be much of a south leg if ownership ends at that road crossing. I don't have the track mileage handy, but the highway mileage from Rockhill Furnace (Orbisonia Station) to Robertsdale is about 17 miles. I am guessing the track mileage would be 19 miles or less. Maintaining that much track will be a huge project and require a tremendous amount of support.
A big problem is the railroad is located in the middle of nowhere. The trolley museum complex, while wonderful, is located too close to the historic terminal , and the modern buildings are inappropriate for a historical replication circa 1920's. The shade Gap extension ends in the middle of nowhere.
Hopefully, new development will not interfere with the character of The complex.
There is no local bus service, nor motels convenient to the complex.
The actual train ride also ended in the middle of nowhere, and most importantly there were no appropriate restroom facilities at the destination. Developing a picnic area at the end of the ride should be a high priority. and perhaps some small recreation facilities for children. A few swings and a teeter totter, for example . Or perhaps a corral with a few horses
In addition to trains there should be a few other items to add patina to the location. One or more chain drive Mack trucks parked near the station, and perhaps some horse-drawn wagons .
I remember riding the line many times during the 1990's. It was a memorable experience.
