Minuteman Steam Episode 9: The Switchers

The Boston & Maine's switcher locomotive fleet was the backbone of their everyday operations, providing an invaluable service in switch yards, around passenger terminals, on mainlines, and branchlines. In this episode, we examine these small but mighty machines.

[@barbnahoumi65]

When i was a child, we could see the Hoage Sprague Factory in Lynn, from our back yard. Tracks ran behind it, and I could watch a switcher bring a cut of freight cars to the factory, then pick up other ones and take them away. The B. & M's main line between Boston and Rockport was also there and we could watch commuter trains run by.

[@brianog5267]

I cannot get over the way you present this… and how thoroughly it is researched. It is so very interesting and educational. You may want to contact the Smithsonian as these videos seem to be all encompassing reviews of an American way of life that sadly is gone forever. Great job!

[@RobertWilliams-ox4hz]

I always loved these 0-6-0 and 0-8-0 Switchers

[@sorshiaemms5959]

AGREED

[@mattydred72]

Probably my favorite episode of MMS yet. So much atmosphere, and great photos.
Really nice that you guys list some specs in blueprint form to get quick reference.

[@cooscountyrailvideos2024]

I had no idea the 444 was still around! Learn something every day!

[@leverettfernald2040]

I have had the opportunity to watch a number of these videos and I just wanted to say how well done they are. Keep up the great work!

[@joepepi7394]

Love the old B&M!I grew up near the tracks!

[@Marbleheadjed]

Great video

[@stevemellin5806]

Great video . Thank you

[@2nd66tube2]

the NY state fairgrounds are in Syracuse , Dunkirk NY is on the east shore of lake Erie , a long way from the B&M

[@matthewpowell2429]

Many of my favorite engines are switchers.

[@NorthmassRails]

Fantastic! I love the Billerica photos!

[@TheTrainDudes31]

Great job boy those switchers know how to work 😊

[@tomtomthetanktrain4619]

0-8-0 switchers are the best kind of switchers, imo.

[@gabetrain8834]

I am realizing the list of B&M steamers I want to model is growing huge. And I’m not even close to being done with my B15 model

[@stuew6]

I love Diesel Switcher, S2, SW1,SW8

[@dwiggy3153]

Been working on an HO scale model of Number 64, the F-10, never found drawings and it is definitely a challenge but I got most of it done. I just need to figure out how to make it work

[@NorthmassRails]

Sounds awesome!