Thank you very much for this very interesting video, it is great that you gave the commentary as well. This is a great asset in preserving the history of the railroad.
Was for me too! First discovered the line in the mid-70s; out of service due to Hurricane Agnes knocking out the NCRY to which Stewartstown connected-plus their "Mighty Mo" loco was stuck in York and couldn't be brought home to Stewartstown due to the inoperation of the NCRY which was finally restored in the 80s and Mighty Mo finally got home! First they had to reopen all crossings as they were paved over after cessation of service in 1972. Service again stopped in Sept 2001 but fortunately restored again, allowing this ride! In fact, the line used this video on their website for a year as advertising! Some free promotion there! Also have vid posted of a Stewartstown caboose ride we took a little before this.
Love it....keep the faith, keep it alive, don't let negative posters bring you guys down! If I weren't down in Tennessee, I'd love to ride! May travel up there soon,....mom was raised in Harrisburg.....
Yeah, I do get an occasional negative post, but I don't dignify it with a response. In extreme situations I might, but I prefer not to stoop to the negative poster's level. But-if you could make it here-you'd love it! I get really good videos thanks to the cooperation of the train crew, letting me know what they're about to do and allowing me to have the best seating position for video. After I made this one, the RR used it in their ads for a while! Another RR has my videos listed on their website! So, as you can see, I have no reason to let negative posts get me down-I'm doing just fine! Back in 2015 I was in Harrisburg visiting the Amtrak station there (vid posted). Nice station, but got some overzealous security there. Still had a great visit-got to photograph an old GG-1 that's parked there! Thanx for viewing-much appreciated!
This is one of the true meanings of life! Community participation at its best! This is what made America great, you are wise to cherish its existence. Many thanks those who participate in its operation, maintenance, and to those who financially support it.
I highly agree!! I kinda liked that community participation myself! Personally, I think this is great short-line (or any) railroading, and a big difference from those Amtraks that fly by! One feels as if they're part of the ride (don't know how else to word it)! The Stewartstown RR...making America great again! Wait-where have I heard that before?? If you liked this, check out my Ma & Pa RR playlist. Very similar operation to the Stewartstown!
what a fun video and love your commentary, just found your channel as I was watching stewartstown railroad. I'm subscribed and will watch your other vids. :D
The Stewartstown Railroad is a unique railroad in our present society of cookie cutter stores and chain restaurants that all look and act alike. This is a historical gem. It is like going back a hundred years and not much has changed. This railroad is not owned or controlled by a huge Wall Street company that only looks at how much profit they can make. This is a community railroad which I understand has 70 mostly area stockholders, some whose family have owned their shares for several generations and won't sell.
That genuinely makes the Stewartstown unique-at least compared to the other lines! It's like a family atmosphere there! This video was used for a while by the line to promote their excursions which I considered a compliment! Hoping to ride again this year.
This really isn't a bad way to see the countryside! Seems like one is more in tune on a "train" like this than being in a closed coach! Thank You for viewing. -Gus
There is something beautiful about an overgrown track and the scenery is fantastic. Wish we had tracks like this in Scotland. Thanks for the video Bullfrog.
Thank You! Glad you my narration-and voice! I get mostly good comments on that, though someone once remarked I sound like a psychopath! Honestly, I do the best I can; I like explaining to my viewers what's going on. And, yes, this really is Americana; it's trains like this that started this country going, long before Amtrak. Great change-of-pace from that hi-speed stuff.
I just enjoyed this. About the very first run (1 mile) on the Stewartstown RR, here is a transcribed article June 10, 1885 York Dispatch newspaper: "NEW FREEDOM and STEWARTSTOWN Railroad. The track laying of the New Freedom and Stewartstown Railroad is progressing finely and will be completed in about 30 days. Superintendent H. W. Kupp of the N. C. R. R. with M. W. Bahn, agent here, drove over the entire length of line yesterday. About one mile of the track from this station is laid and this morning the first train ran over the newly laid rail to the end of the track. Northern Central Engine 151 in the hands of Engineer Geo. Frey with a train load of material made the first trip. The crew consisted of Conductor Ludwig and men and M. W. Bahn agent. Thos. McAbee foreman of repairs accompanied the first run. A new station will be erected by the N. C. R. R. Co,. for the accomodasion of the joint business of the companies. This is a new era in the history of our beautiful little village and we believe the enterprise will accrue to the best interests of the place in general. X. Y. Z. NEW FREEDOM, Pa, June 10 1885. "
The spirit of their trip is captured in your cool video. By the way Mr. Milton W. Bahn the agent in this article, later was the General Manager of the Stewartstown R. R. until his death in July of 1909. Thank you again.
Glad you enjoyed the video, and that was a really interesting article! So the line began as New Freedom & Stewartstown? I wasn't aware of that! I know it ran as far east as Fawn Grove; portion there to Stewartstown abandoned 1935 and now hard to tell where it ran. Wondering if New Freedom Station is the "joint" station referred to in the article. Thank You for viewing.
@@bullfrog1954 I think a smaller narrower island station somewhere between the branch and the main lines not far from the NF station. I think I may have seen a photo of it if memory serves me properly. Checking.
@@bullfrog1954 I'm back. Here is what and where I found it about that island station. The picture of the shelter at New Freedom for the Stewartstown RR. Yes the picture is in the book entitled "The Story of the Stewartstown Railroad" 1885 to 1996 by Eric J. Bickleman. I think it is still available to purchase. The description beneath the photo: "The jointly owned passenger shelter at New Freedom with what appears to be a Stewartstown passenger car in the background." Here is my own description of the photo one of several found on un-numbered pages between pages 27 and 28 of the Bickleman book. It appears to be made from an old passenger car with trucks removed, sitting upon the ground. On the visible south south-west side, the end door is revealed with a sign above it saying "New Freedom". Along the north north-west side are nine evenly spaced windows and then a porch made by (what it looks like) desconstructing and removing the last three windows to provide a porch facing north north-east, supported by the corner posts of the car. There are showing at least three sets of tracks along the north side and at least one on the opposite side where the Stewartstown passenger car sits next to it. A peaked roof has been added to the structure as the peak shows on the west end of the shelter above the entrance door. From the track blueprint of the New Freedom junction from the same book, the shelter structure stood across from the N.C.R.R. station toward the "rail trail café" end of it. If it were still there you would see it out of those café windows where you lunched. By the way, the book, says much of the connection to "The New Park and Fawn Grove R. R." which you point out in your video extended to the "east" from the Stewartstown station. There are lots of detailed history and important tidbits in that book.
@@tubite2 Now that's really interesting! I've seen the practice of using an old passenger coach-sans trucks-used as a station. Last saw that done at the former West Virginia Northern RR in Kingwood WV (vid posted). To this day the "transfer island" at New Freedom still exists. Also I've seen old maps showing the onetime multitude of tracks there, including the wye now long gone. I've tried to find a map showing the trackage from Stewartstown to Fawn Grove but no luck. Very disappointing! Even maps from before 1935 don't show it! Fortunately there's a map in Stewartstown Station which shows where the line ran. But-why isn't it on any old maps? At least Fawn Grove Station still exists, though it's a residence now. If you're interested, check out he website NETR Historic Aerials. They have great classic maps-and aerial photos too! I do a lot of my research on that site. Still-very interesting how New Freedom and Stewartstown were once hustling/bustling when the RRs ran! Also places like Hanover Junction and Parkton MD-once very busy places! And I'll have to look for that book! Wish I could still find that book on the NCRY I saw 20 years ago! Very detailed-now I'm upset I didn't jump on it! I remember, in the 90s when reviving the line for regular use was discussed, but the proposition was dropped supposedly because of the operating problems associated with that 1.5% grade on either side of New Freedom which is the high point between Baltimore and York. Would have made a great shortcut for NS, but at least the passenger specials run again after having stopped for a few years. And great Stewartstown's back too. Thank You for all the info!
Nothing like a branch or short line train ride! Thanks for letting us ride along. I remember Model Railroader doing an article on the Stewartstown RR in the mid/late 1960s when the line was still hauling freight...mainly feeds. They had two gasoline powered engines back then - Mighty Mo and Little Mo. That warehouse on the left as you rounded the curve going into New Freedom had just recently opened as a new rail customer at the time of the MR article, and the railroad was regularly shifting boxcars of wood products from the PRR/STEW interchange to the customer's siding. I see now the unloading dock door has been blocked up though the siding still remains. Hope they get back some freight business.
I wish I could've seen that MR article from the 60s! They still have Mighty Mo, but I haven't knowingly seen Mini Mo. I'm sure the line had a few freight customers, as there are areas where one can tell sidings once existed. I find this line interesting simply because of the way it just meanders through the countryside. Thanx for viewing. -Gus
Hey Gus this was really different & cool to see the RR from a different perspective! That is really up close and personal in some areas in folks yards! Really liked it & enjoyed watching it! Just really enjoy your channel and look forward to all of your trips as they are always well videoed informative and some of the most magnificent scenery with great architecture as well as very well edited! Thanks for the work & love you put into these videos it really shines through in the videos!
I guess one could say this is kinda like a day odyssey by train, though we went only 4 1/2 miles! They used one of my videos last year for promotion, so they returned the favor by allowing me to ride up front with the family members of the train crew! Yep-got my foot in the door last year, and now I have 'clout' ha ha! Truth is-I've been exploring this line for almost 40 years, and it felt good to check it out in its entirety-finally (last yr's train only went 1/2 mile)! Interesting how the line meanders through backyards! Must've been interesting when the commuter trains ran! But-to me, this is the life! And, yes, this is a very scenic area that's best seen by train! Still-big difference from before the restoration!! It is for sure a labor of love making these and putting them together, but I really enjoy it. It's therapy for me! Gets my mind off the pain, especially when I'm out in the 'field.' Will be exploring MD's westernmost county next month (I hope!) and again check out places I haven't seen in years-hope they're all still there!! Thanx again for your support!!
I would love to ride this...but it's almost 4hrs away...I would have to leave my house in corning ny about 4:00am to get there. That way I have plenty of time. You never know with traffic these days. Keep up the good videos....I love them!!!
I know how you feel...I used to have to depart at 6 AM to catch a train in Cass West Virginia! You could probably come down I-81 and 83, and not take too long getting there-unless US 15 to I-83 is better for you. Either way...hope you can make it one day! Thank You for viewing and your great comment. -Gus
'Regular' trains used it until 1972, when they had to stop after Hurricane Agnes. The storm knocked out the NCRY, and as the Stewartstown was a 'feeder' line, there was no longer anything to feed! They came back as a tourist line in the 80s, before stopping again in 2004. But-they're up and running again!
I've always wanted to visit Canada too! I do see an occasional CN train operating over CSX, which I think is cool! Hope you get to one day come down and ride! Thanx for viewing. -Gus
Hope you can get there! Many nice folks operating those trains! I revisited myself on January 11, though nothing will be running till spring. If you'd like more info, here's their website: www.stewartstownrailroadco.com/
I'm familiar with both those! Caught the Rocket in Oct 2015 on a day trip to WV, along with the Potomac Eagle. If you'd like to have a look, here's a quick snippet: ruclips.net/video/upqFT2LohjQ/видео.html But, yes, that was a fun trip! Thanx for viewing!
If we were taking that same caboose ride-the train again wouldn't have gone very far. Remember that red sign by the track we passed near the beginning? That's as far as full-size equipment can go due to more trackwork being required west of that. The 'motor car' we rode is obviously lighter and able to negotiate the lesser-good sections. It'll be a little while before they can run full-size stock to New Freedom. I subscribe to their newsletter, so hopefully I'll get word when they're able to run the 'big' stuff again to NF. Keeping the debris off the track is also a challenge!
Thought this was one of my driving videos you watched...that's why I answered about the drives I take viewers on! But-great to have been able to take this "train" ride too! Appreciate your viewing!
I have not finished the video yet but the steam locomotive "YORK" is a lot newer than the cars it is pulling. The cars are passenger car bodies built on steel flat car frames (look at the trucks)[the Huckleberry RR in MI did the same thing with 3 East Broad Top steel flat cars for simi-open gons around 1980]. I forget when it was built exactly but I think since 2000.
Great little video through some interesting countryside! I was going to suggest bringing a small tree saw and pruning shearers but i see later on you had a little chain saw! One other thing you might consider bringing is a small roll of duct tape....
Lucky we had that chain saw! Something tells me it's brought along on every ride! All that kinda added interest to the ride! Duct tape might be useful...
Great video showing the stewartstown line! I must admit, those NCRR tracks looked so nice when you pulled into NF yard. Probably because of seeing the stewartstown tracks for the previous half hour of the video ;)
Thanx a lot! The NCRY line was a former PRR line, so its tracks are laid to a higher standard than Stewartstown, hence the 'nice' appearance. It was once the Baltimore-Buffalo route! The Stewartstown was just a short-line feeder route. Still, glad they're making all the effort they can to keep it running! It's one of the few lines left whose corporate structure never changed!
+bullfrog1954 yep! I went out with them to do some track work a couple of times last year. They didn't let me use the tie inserter though... It was probably a good idea not to let me use it as I would have started laying track towards my house XD Hope you're having a good day/night.
Oh-you live by the line? And did some track work? Didn't know that! If I were younger and more energetic I might offer my services too! You're actually close enough where you might be tempted to lay track towards your house! Wouldn't mind living in one of the stations along the line myself! Hope you're having a great night too! I'm working on my next epic...
Well good luck! Have you been out to see the new NCRR crossing signals in Glen Rock and on 216 yet? They have an cool and unusual arrangement (Due to the rail trail).
Actually, I have! Found it interesting that the state considered the line 'busy' enough to reinstall the signals! I have photos of Glen Rock from the 80s showing the original signals, with remnants of crossing gates, and part of the 2nd track! I've got many photos before restoration of Stewartstown-and the NCRY! Back on June 12 I went up 116 & 616 to Hanover Jct when I first noticed those signals. They're featured here: ruclips.net/video/b1VeZCbtWjw/видео.html
I'm imagining what crazy circumstances would bring this line back up to regular operating status (enough to draw NS or CSX's interest) , even with all those houses and farms in place.
Even if the line got up to full status I don't think it would serve any purpose for CSX or NS, as there aren't any substantial business for them to offer service to. Also, some of the clearances are rather tight, and something tells me some of those bridges wouldn't be able to handle full-size engines. If it were to happen somehow...great! The Stewartstown RR people could offer light freight service if they had to.
I think someday, when local passenger service returns as a serious player backed by government intervention, laws and funding lines like this will be reborn with a practical mission. So many of these lines ran passenger service back in the days when railroads were not Amtrak (passenger) or commuter (local lines, states, etc). The ICC ruled the roost and forced the lines to provide service to underserved areas. The lines hated the ICC with a burning passion because it made them do things for the people first. When Reagan was elected in 1980 one of the first things he did in office 2 months later was neuter the ICC, taking away most of its authority to bring legal action against lines who objected to their orders. Amtrak, for example, as an invention of the Nixon Administration to avoid the ICC oversight power by allowing lines to stop their passenger service and then turn over their rolling stock and routes to Amtrak. And, as we know, the trick to this deal was Amtrak always being underfunded and not able to provide the passenger service ordered by their charter. Perfect set-up because without public support those old lines could wipe the slate clean and avoid ICC penalties. And, of course, we've seen how well things have gone since then, with passenger service gone and the massive transportation crisis and fuel shortages to be dealt with.
I wonder why the tracks are so shifted around at the road crossings. I noticed the last one at the end of the video looked like the rails were kinked at an angle too. pretty scary track conditions. That is a neat looking line.
I really didn't look too closely at the rails in the crossings, but that could be part of the reason a full-scale train can't be run yet. A little scary, but the train doesn't exactly fly down the track, so not too much danger.
At Cass they use Heislers and Climaxs, along with Shays, but they're a mountain logging line. Really think those locos would go well in an environment like Stewartstown? Well-you never know!
They're still running speeders (whenever they run, that is, with this covid thing going) but they've expressed interest in running full-sized equipment. Actually, some full-sized equipment runs, but hot sure if it goes all the way to New Freedom. You're right about the track; some parts need upgrading before the big stuff can run all the way to New Freedom.
I'm familiar with the Great Allegheny Passage! Rode parts of it in MD. I'll have to do more of it sometime! Would like to revisit the Ohiopyle area again one day.
One street had a crossbuck with an "exempt" sign on it. This means the rail line has very low traffic or is almost abandoned. This means a person carrying a flag must stop cross traffic first before the train can cross. Therefore the gravel road/driveway running parallel to the track probably is not illegal as there is extremely limited service on this line.
Many tourist lines seem to have an "exemption" at the crossings, primarily because many don't travel that fast (as with this line) or, as you mentioned, are infrequently used. It kind-of adds interest to the ride as well! Actually, that gravel driveway has been in use for many decades, even before the original cessation of service on the early 60s! The track paralleling it gives the impression of passing through peoples' backyards! Thanx for viewing. -Gus
Hey Gus -thought you might be interested - the new edition of trains magazine is about Amtrak on the Northeast Corridor and the cover id of an Amtrak train at Perryville MD.
Thanx Johnathan! Yeah, I'm definitely interested! Now to find a nearby place that sells Trains Magazine! Had a couple hobby shops in the area that carried it but they closed!
It looks like you need to add another track crew! Loved the video. When they get the right of way cleared out,maybe that 44 tonner switcher I saw at New Freedom could run on that line. Probably needs to replace more ties for greater weight capacity. I love old railroads.
I too would love to see that 44-tonner work its way back to Stewartstown! Unless it's only for display at New Freedom; might be worth looking into. There are a lot of tight squeezes along their ROW, making me wonder if those squeezes existed in the classic operating days (probably not). They're always asking for volunteers to help with maintenance, but with my bad back, I wouldn't be much help there, so I'll just do their videography! They've used my vids for advertising on their website in the past. Thanx for viewing. -Gus
Those coaches had to get there somehow...probably back when the line was first restored in the 80s and it was up to standards. What i can't imagine is going by those houses in something that rides higher up and being able to peek into those folks' bedrooms, especially that one house in Tolna!
Mill street and route 851 are another two of Stewartstown Railroad's worst crossings. On route 851, to the left it enters Stewartstown and to the right the road goes to Shrewsbury and the factory building with the Bubba D's and the Premier Eye Center.
The 851 crossing can be tricky, with that enginehouse right there on the corner! The Mill St crossing doesn't look that bad, though. At least the operators of the train use caution proceeding through, and no incidents-so far (at least I haven't heard of any).
I'd venture to say 851 is their 2nd-worse crossing. I believe Susquehanna Trail (former US 111) carries more traffic, and the crew used a bit more caution crossing that one.
I think the tickets were $20 each. Might seem a little steep for the type of "train" we were riding, but the learning experience-and riding a line like this one-makes it well worth it. Yes, it was a round trip. For that price, it better be! They'll be doing it again this year, and they're hoping to bring the line up to standards so they can run full-sized equipment.
Actually, the Stewartstown line was-and still is-its own entity. It once ran further east than Stewartstown until 1935 but never connected to anything on its east end. The former PRR line at New Freedom to which it connects would technically have been part of the NYC system, as PRR and NYC merged in 1968 to form Penn Central. That line ran until 1972 when Hurricane Agnes knocked it out.
bullfrog1954I might go there in the near future and yes I have been to Pennsylvania few time before its real pretty place. And yes I have been to Strasburg RR 2 times before its really nice place.
I gather you're an engineer! Yeah, a lot of debris from those dirt back roads tends to get into the rails. These 'trains' don't go all that fast, so not much danger. They're trying to bring the line up to standards so they can run full-sized equipment. Guess this is the best they can do with their budget. At least we made it through!
The Stewartstown has been in continuous operation for 150 years, far as I know. They didn't get bought out by Conrail like so many others did in the 70s.
Well, almost continuous operation, except for a few breaks in service. Really, there'd be no point in Conrail-or any other 'foreign' line-buying up this local short line.
Great to hear someone tell me my voice is calming, after someone else accused me of sounding like a psychopath. I have a couple university professors telling me I'm doing great-good enough for me. But-this is an actual operating line, not a museum! It's been in on-and-off operation for around 150 years. I'm hoping they can bring the standards up enough to run full-sized equipment! Thanx for viewing and commenting. -Gus
I kinda knew that, especially since those signs are typically found at barely-used crossings with little train travel, such as this one. Also, the trains here only go a few miles per hour anyway and can easily stop if necessary.
Well...kinda sorta-hard to explain. Service stopped a few times, and the line could've almost been considered abandoned, as nothing was planned to run, but periodically service would start up again. Last stoppage was in 2003, but this was more of a hiatus than an abandonment. They began running again in 2015, and still do. Original service stopped in the late 1950s-early 60s. Up till that time, they ran commuter trains which would connect with the NCRY/PRR trains for either Baltimore or York.
This takes place in Stewartstown Pennsylvania. Sorry if I made no mention during the video of it, though I did label the places we passed through 'So-And-So PA.' Much better in person!
The title gives it away, but, not always. Some lines had names that placed them in the wrong state, or along the wrong river or even in a bogus mountain range (in order to get people to think they were gold miners). So, maybe MA & PA could be somewhere else. Maybe Massachusetts & Philadelphia (MA & PH).
The Susquehanna Trail is another one of Stewartstown Railroad's worst crossings because to the left, the road goes to Dominos and Pizza Hut, and to the right the road goes to Bubba D's and the factory.
I'm sure Susquehanna Trail is much busier now than it was when the Stewartstown originally stopped running in the late 1950s! Do you believe it's bad because of all those businesses, and the extra traffic as a result?
Unfortunately, the loco can only go about 1/2 mile from Stewartstown because certain stretches of the track need upgrading. Still a nice ride on the train in the video...highly recommended! Thanx for viewing. -Gus
They somehow manage to run, despite the appearance of the physical plant! This is how railroading began, before Amtrak and their Acelas, and whatever else. That's what I think makes it great!
if it was mine i'd spray that right of way with some roundup and take back the track for safety sake. surprised some fool suburban.ite hasn't removed the rails so they could mow
Not really sure, but I know it uses a couple Chevrolet engines to power it. Appropriate, as Chevy is a GM-owned company, just as EMD was! Their engines are apparently powering many a train!
These rides are open to all! But, at that slow speed, not really much chance of death. They have a website that lists upcoming events, and the prices. The were using this video for their promotions for a while, but not sure if they're still using it. It really is a great ride, though. One sees a lot from this "train."
Classic Bull Frog vid and one that is well viewed. I go back and watch it again to see the quality and check on the old MA & PA RR, which we old Bull Frog fans know if perhaps your fav RR of all time. Someday, I predict, this line will return to passenger and augmented freight use (as part of the plan to get large and getting larger trucks of the roads for economy, safety and the public good). You can also add in the fees charged for moving mail along the route when Congress orders the USPS (and later, the private firms like FedEx and UPS) to do the same, thus creating a large market for the service and, as in the past, a smart way to subsidize the railroads, provide a way to get the trucks off the roads and to give customers better mail service. So, when that happens you'll be held up as one of the great early backers of the plan. And, fueling public demand that at least one of the lines new power be renamed 'The Bull Frog Reprise'.
I believe they're trying to upgrade the line to allow full-sized motive power. But, as this is a mostly volunteer operation, it might be a little while before that can happen. I was just glad I could ride the line one way or another!
yes I know it is a huge undertaking to get a old branch line up to scratch to allow traffic on it again. I would assume lots of the sleepers need replacing . If you have any bridges that are wooden , they probably would need a big upgrade and or replaced. Are there any tunnels , what poundage is the line ? No doubt some of the line would need replacing , and the plates and the bolts, be realigned . Over here most of the old branch lines only had 60lb line. The main line has 90 lb line. has it got old semaphore signals along the line . All the points on the line would need servicing ,all the old stations would need upgrading and made safe. the level crossings these days need flashing lights and boom gates. the list just goes on and on. Not to mention the locomotive that will be needed for the run , plus the carriages all with new brakes and good wheels and serviced throughout to be safe for the public . Our federal govt poured 24 million into a branch line , and it still has not got up and running.
Well, I've had university professors and other PhDs compliment me on my work-and informative narration-so I can't be doin' all that bad. When a Pulitzer Prize nominee tells you you're doing great work, you know you're on the right 'track.'
bullfrog1954 : which professor? The one from Gilligans island? Just kidding. It's starting to grow on me. The quirky way the tone goes up at the end of the sentence, as if you're asking a question instead of making a statement. Are you Canadian? Lol.
Glad you enjoyed the video, but that's me and not a PC. I've gotten high marks on my narration from a USC professor who's a PhD-and a Pulitzer Prize nominee. Other PhDs have also agreed. Good enough for me.
I thoroughly agree, and at times I was tempted to tell her to keep it at a reasonable volume, but didn't want to start trouble on this ride. Background vocalization is always a risk when doing stuff like this.
Thank you very much for this very interesting video, it is great that you gave the commentary as well. This is a great asset in preserving the history of the railroad.
Glad you enjoyed, and you're quite welcome! Even the railroad itself liked it, as they used it in ads on their website for almost a year.
What fun! Thank you also for the information.
You're quite Welcome! Been studying the Stewartstown since the 80s so I'm pretty much up on most of it! Happy New Year!
That was fascinating. For me, doing this would be like a small piece of heaven.
Was for me too! First discovered the line in the mid-70s; out of service due to Hurricane Agnes knocking out the NCRY to which Stewartstown connected-plus their "Mighty Mo" loco was stuck in York and couldn't be brought home to Stewartstown due to the inoperation of the NCRY which was finally restored in the 80s and Mighty Mo finally got home! First they had to reopen all crossings as they were paved over after cessation of service in 1972. Service again stopped in Sept 2001 but fortunately restored again, allowing this ride! In fact, the line used this video on their website for a year as advertising! Some free promotion there! Also have vid posted of a Stewartstown caboose ride we took a little before this.
Love it....keep the faith, keep it alive, don't let negative posters bring you guys down! If I weren't down in Tennessee, I'd love to ride! May travel up there soon,....mom was raised in Harrisburg.....
Yeah, I do get an occasional negative post, but I don't dignify it with a response. In extreme situations I might, but I prefer not to stoop to the negative poster's level. But-if you could make it here-you'd love it! I get really good videos thanks to the cooperation of the train crew, letting me know what they're about to do and allowing me to have the best seating position for video. After I made this one, the RR used it in their ads for a while! Another RR has my videos listed on their website! So, as you can see, I have no reason to let negative posts get me down-I'm doing just fine!
Back in 2015 I was in Harrisburg visiting the Amtrak station there (vid posted). Nice station, but got some overzealous security there. Still had a great visit-got to photograph an old GG-1 that's parked there! Thanx for viewing-much appreciated!
This is one of the true meanings of life! Community participation at its best! This is what made America great, you are wise to cherish its existence. Many thanks those who participate in its operation, maintenance, and to those who financially support it.
I highly agree!! I kinda liked that community participation myself! Personally, I think this is great short-line (or any) railroading, and a big difference from those Amtraks that fly by! One feels as if they're part of the ride (don't know how else to word it)! The Stewartstown RR...making America great again! Wait-where have I heard that before??
If you liked this, check out my Ma & Pa RR playlist. Very similar operation to the Stewartstown!
Really nice. Just like we're riding along for the adventure. Thanks!
This ride is an adventure for sure-as you saw!
what a fun video and love your commentary, just found your channel as I was watching stewartstown railroad. I'm subscribed and will watch your other vids. :D
Thank You, Cat! Glad you enjoyed, and are watching more!
The Stewartstown Railroad is a unique railroad in our present society of cookie cutter stores and chain
restaurants that all look and act alike. This is a historical gem. It is like going back a hundred years and
not much has changed. This railroad is not owned or controlled by a huge Wall Street company that only
looks at how much profit they can make. This is a community railroad which I understand has 70 mostly
area stockholders, some whose family have owned their shares for several generations and won't sell.
That genuinely makes the Stewartstown unique-at least compared to the other lines! It's like a family atmosphere there! This video was used for a while by the line to promote their excursions which I considered a compliment! Hoping to ride again this year.
In some ways this is insane and other ways way-cool. Thanks for the post.
Yeah-I often tend to waiver between insane and cool! The formula does seem to work, though. Thank You for viewing.
Being a RR fan this is great. Going where trains used to run is a terrific way to go back in history.
This really isn't a bad way to see the countryside! Seems like one is more in tune on a "train" like this than being in a closed coach! Thank You for viewing. -Gus
There is something beautiful about an overgrown track and the scenery is fantastic. Wish we had tracks like this in Scotland. Thanks for the video Bullfrog.
You're right-there is something about an overgrown track...especially one that's still used! These 'backwoods' short lines are great!
I loved the commentary.
Thank You!
Great video and narration. Your voice is calming as others have said. Thank you for taking the time to make this video. This is real Americana!
Thank You! Glad you my narration-and voice! I get mostly good comments on that, though someone once remarked I sound like a psychopath! Honestly, I do the best I can; I like explaining to my viewers what's going on. And, yes, this really is Americana; it's trains like this that started this country going, long before Amtrak. Great change-of-pace from that hi-speed stuff.
This was fun, thanks for posting!
You're quite Welcome! Glad you enjoyed!
Thanks for the video. nice ride through nice country.
man i like this beautiful nature green three air so fresh indeed
This train is part of the scenery-that's why I like it! Better than that artificial Amtrak environment!
I just enjoyed this. About the very first run (1 mile) on the Stewartstown RR, here is a transcribed article June 10, 1885 York Dispatch newspaper:
"NEW FREEDOM and STEWARTSTOWN Railroad.
The track laying of the New Freedom and Stewartstown Railroad is progressing finely and will be completed in about 30 days. Superintendent H. W. Kupp of the N. C. R. R. with M. W. Bahn, agent here, drove over the entire length of line yesterday. About one mile of the track from this station is laid and this morning the first train ran over the newly laid rail to the end of the track. Northern Central Engine 151 in the hands of Engineer Geo. Frey with a train load of material made the first trip. The crew consisted of Conductor Ludwig and men and M. W. Bahn agent. Thos. McAbee foreman of repairs accompanied the first run. A new station will be erected by the N. C. R. R. Co,. for the accomodasion of the joint business of the companies. This is a new era in the history of our beautiful little village and we believe the enterprise will accrue to the best interests of the place in general. X. Y. Z.
NEW FREEDOM, Pa, June 10 1885. "
The spirit of their trip is captured in your cool video. By the way Mr. Milton W. Bahn the agent in this article, later was the General Manager of the Stewartstown R. R. until his death in July of 1909. Thank you again.
Glad you enjoyed the video, and that was a really interesting article! So the line began as New Freedom & Stewartstown? I wasn't aware of that! I know it ran as far east as Fawn Grove; portion there to Stewartstown abandoned 1935 and now hard to tell where it ran. Wondering if New Freedom Station is the "joint" station referred to in the article. Thank You for viewing.
@@bullfrog1954 I think a smaller narrower island station somewhere between the branch and the main lines not far from the NF station. I think I may have seen a photo of it if memory serves me properly. Checking.
@@bullfrog1954 I'm back. Here is what and where I found it about that island station. The picture of the shelter at New Freedom for the Stewartstown RR. Yes the picture is in the book entitled "The Story of the Stewartstown Railroad" 1885 to 1996 by Eric J. Bickleman. I think it is still available to purchase. The description beneath the photo: "The jointly owned passenger shelter at New Freedom with what appears to be a Stewartstown passenger car in the background."
Here is my own description of the photo one of several found on un-numbered pages between pages 27 and 28 of the Bickleman book.
It appears to be made from an old passenger car with trucks removed, sitting upon the ground. On the visible south south-west side, the end door is revealed with a sign above it saying "New Freedom". Along the north north-west side are nine evenly spaced windows and then a porch made by (what it looks like) desconstructing and removing the last three windows to provide a porch facing north north-east, supported by the corner posts of the car. There are showing at least three sets of tracks along the north side and at least one on the opposite side where the Stewartstown passenger car sits next to it. A peaked roof has been added to the structure as the peak shows on the west end of the shelter above the entrance door.
From the track blueprint of the New Freedom junction from the same book, the shelter structure stood across from the N.C.R.R. station toward the "rail trail café" end of it. If it were still there you would see it out of those café windows where you lunched.
By the way, the book, says much of the connection to "The New Park and Fawn Grove R. R." which you point out in your video extended to the "east" from the Stewartstown station.
There are lots of detailed history and important tidbits in that book.
@@tubite2 Now that's really interesting! I've seen the practice of using an old passenger coach-sans trucks-used as a station. Last saw that done at the former West Virginia Northern RR in Kingwood WV (vid posted). To this day the "transfer island" at New Freedom still exists. Also I've seen old maps showing the onetime multitude of tracks there, including the wye now long gone. I've tried to find a map showing the trackage from Stewartstown to Fawn Grove but no luck. Very disappointing! Even maps from before 1935 don't show it! Fortunately there's a map in Stewartstown Station which shows where the line ran. But-why isn't it on any old maps? At least Fawn Grove Station still exists, though it's a residence now. If you're interested, check out he website NETR Historic Aerials. They have great classic maps-and aerial photos too! I do a lot of my research on that site.
Still-very interesting how New Freedom and Stewartstown were once hustling/bustling when the RRs ran! Also places like Hanover Junction and Parkton MD-once very busy places! And I'll have to look for that book! Wish I could still find that book on the NCRY I saw 20 years ago! Very detailed-now I'm upset I didn't jump on it! I remember, in the 90s when reviving the line for regular use was discussed, but the proposition was dropped supposedly because of the operating problems associated with that 1.5% grade on either side of New Freedom which is the high point between Baltimore and York. Would have made a great shortcut for NS, but at least the passenger specials run again after having stopped for a few years. And great Stewartstown's back too. Thank You for all the info!
I've seen this up at Hanover Junction before. Was quite a surprise while fishing!
You saw this exact train at the Junction? Didn't think it ran that far north, unless it was before the steam train started running.
Nothing like a branch or short line train ride! Thanks for letting us ride along. I remember Model Railroader doing an article on the Stewartstown RR in the mid/late 1960s when the line was still hauling freight...mainly feeds. They had two gasoline powered engines back then - Mighty Mo and Little Mo. That warehouse on the left as you rounded the curve going into New Freedom had just recently opened as a new rail customer at the time of the MR article, and the railroad was regularly shifting boxcars of wood products from the PRR/STEW interchange to the customer's siding. I see now the unloading dock door has been blocked up though the siding still remains. Hope they get back some freight business.
I wish I could've seen that MR article from the 60s! They still have Mighty Mo, but I haven't knowingly seen Mini Mo. I'm sure the line had a few freight customers, as there are areas where one can tell sidings once existed. I find this line interesting simply because of the way it just meanders through the countryside. Thanx for viewing. -Gus
shortliner68 i
Hey Gus this was really different & cool to see the RR from a different perspective! That is really up close and personal in some areas in folks yards! Really liked it & enjoyed watching it! Just really enjoy your channel and look forward to all of your trips as they are always well videoed informative and some of the most magnificent scenery with great architecture as well as very well edited! Thanks for the work & love you put into these videos it really shines through in the videos!
I guess one could say this is kinda like a day odyssey by train, though we went only 4 1/2 miles! They used one of my videos last year for promotion, so they returned the favor by allowing me to ride up front with the family members of the train crew! Yep-got my foot in the door last year, and now I have 'clout' ha ha! Truth is-I've been exploring this line for almost 40 years, and it felt good to check it out in its entirety-finally (last yr's train only went 1/2 mile)! Interesting how the line meanders through backyards! Must've been interesting when the commuter trains ran! But-to me, this is the life! And, yes, this is a very scenic area that's best seen by train! Still-big difference from before the restoration!!
It is for sure a labor of love making these and putting them together, but I really enjoy it. It's therapy for me! Gets my mind off the pain, especially when I'm out in the 'field.' Will be exploring MD's westernmost county next month (I hope!) and again check out places I haven't seen in years-hope they're all still there!! Thanx again for your support!!
Cool video, neat Motor Car special..
Your voice is calm!! Nice Video! Like the train ride too!
Thank You! I enjoy relating facts and things to my viewers!
I would love to ride this...but it's almost 4hrs away...I would have to leave my house in corning ny about 4:00am to get there. That way I have plenty of time. You never know with traffic these days. Keep up the good videos....I love them!!!
I know how you feel...I used to have to depart at 6 AM to catch a train in Cass West Virginia! You could probably come down I-81 and 83, and not take too long getting there-unless US 15 to I-83 is better for you. Either way...hope you can make it one day! Thank You for viewing and your great comment. -Gus
Love this video! Happy 4th folks!!
Thank You very much! happy Belated 4th to you too!
Wish I had this in my town.
can you imagine, just a few years ago, regular trains were using this line probably for 100+ years......
'Regular' trains used it until 1972, when they had to stop after Hurricane Agnes. The storm knocked out the NCRY, and as the Stewartstown was a 'feeder' line, there was no longer anything to feed! They came back as a tourist line in the 80s, before stopping again in 2004. But-they're up and running again!
I am so jealous I live in Ottawa Canada and I wish we had this. Some day I’m going to visit this.
I've always wanted to visit Canada too! I do see an occasional CN train operating over CSX, which I think is cool! Hope you get to one day come down and ride! Thanx for viewing. -Gus
bullfrog1954 yes I will it looks so peaceful. Cheers
Cheers to you too! Happy St. Paddy's!
Leisure train.. so nice 😘😘😘
Yes, it is! Thanx for viewing!
Need to visit this place. It's not far from me.
Hope you can get there! Many nice folks operating those trains! I revisited myself on January 11, though nothing will be running till spring. If you'd like more info, here's their website:
www.stewartstownrailroadco.com/
Stewartstown Railroad is celebrating 135 years.
Yep-they've been around for a while!
They sure have, haven’t they?
I bet that ride was fun
I have ridden the durbin rocket and the salamander though that was a long time ago.
I'm familiar with both those! Caught the Rocket in Oct 2015 on a day trip to WV, along with the Potomac Eagle. If you'd like to have a look, here's a quick snippet:
ruclips.net/video/upqFT2LohjQ/видео.html
But, yes, that was a fun trip! Thanx for viewing!
Very nice video!!
Thank You!
Anytime! :)
Amazing video! Right near my hometown of Shrewsbury. Love it! Subbed.
Thank You! I subbed back too!
They've really come a long way. I remember in one of your earlier videos you had to turn back in the woods.
If we were taking that same caboose ride-the train again wouldn't have gone very far. Remember that red sign by the track we passed near the beginning? That's as far as full-size equipment can go due to more trackwork being required west of that. The 'motor car' we rode is obviously lighter and able to negotiate the lesser-good sections. It'll be a little while before they can run full-size stock to New Freedom. I subscribe to their newsletter, so hopefully I'll get word when they're able to run the 'big' stuff again to NF. Keeping the debris off the track is also a challenge!
Great ride thanks for sharing
No problem at all! I enjoy taking my viewers on nice drives!
Thought this was one of my driving videos you watched...that's why I answered about the drives I take viewers on! But-great to have been able to take this "train" ride too! Appreciate your viewing!
Top videos so cute 🥰
Thank You! Happy New Year!
I have not finished the video yet but the steam locomotive "YORK" is a lot newer than the cars it is pulling. The cars are passenger car bodies built on steel flat car frames (look at the trucks)[the Huckleberry RR in MI did the same thing with 3 East Broad Top steel flat cars for simi-open gons around 1980]. I forget when it was built exactly but I think since 2000.
Great little video through some interesting countryside! I was going to suggest bringing a small tree saw and pruning shearers but i see later on you had a little chain saw! One other thing you might consider bringing is a small roll of duct tape....
Lucky we had that chain saw! Something tells me it's brought along on every ride! All that kinda added interest to the ride! Duct tape might be useful...
Wow what a cool line
Yes it is! Been exploring it since the 70s!
This guy narraited me right to sleep
There's stones in the rails. We could have an eighth derailment on the Stewartstown Railroad. I don't know. Will we make it?
I was told a rock or branch over a certain size can derail the train! Hence the slow speeds, I guess. Hey-at least we made it! Good enough!
bullfrog1954 Thank goodness you made it across the gravel driveway after the Windy Hill Road crossing.
Also is a New Freedom Wisconson that had touring train and museums. Mid-Continent Railway Museum
Another New Freedom with trains! Great!
Great video showing the stewartstown line! I must admit, those NCRR tracks looked so nice when you pulled into NF yard. Probably because of seeing the stewartstown tracks for the previous half hour of the video ;)
Thanx a lot! The NCRY line was a former PRR line, so its tracks are laid to a higher standard than Stewartstown, hence the 'nice' appearance. It was once the Baltimore-Buffalo route! The Stewartstown was just a short-line feeder route. Still, glad they're making all the effort they can to keep it running! It's one of the few lines left whose corporate structure never changed!
+bullfrog1954 yep! I went out with them to do some track work a couple of times last year. They didn't let me use the tie inserter though... It was probably a good idea not to let me use it as I would have started laying track towards my house XD Hope you're having a good day/night.
Oh-you live by the line? And did some track work? Didn't know that! If I were younger and more energetic I might offer my services too! You're actually close enough where you might be tempted to lay track towards your house! Wouldn't mind living in one of the stations along the line myself! Hope you're having a great night too! I'm working on my next epic...
Well good luck! Have you been out to see the new NCRR crossing signals in Glen Rock and on 216 yet? They have an cool and unusual arrangement (Due to the rail trail).
Actually, I have! Found it interesting that the state considered the line 'busy' enough to reinstall the signals! I have photos of Glen Rock from the 80s showing the original signals, with remnants of crossing gates, and part of the 2nd track! I've got many photos before restoration of Stewartstown-and the NCRY!
Back on June 12 I went up 116 & 616 to Hanover Jct when I first noticed those signals. They're featured here:
ruclips.net/video/b1VeZCbtWjw/видео.html
how did you get up in the front window?
I'm imagining what crazy circumstances would bring this line back up to regular operating status (enough to draw NS or CSX's interest) , even with all those houses and farms in place.
Even if the line got up to full status I don't think it would serve any purpose for CSX or NS, as there aren't any substantial business for them to offer service to. Also, some of the clearances are rather tight, and something tells me some of those bridges wouldn't be able to handle full-size engines. If it were to happen somehow...great! The Stewartstown RR people could offer light freight service if they had to.
I think someday, when local passenger service returns as a serious player backed by government intervention, laws and funding lines like this will be reborn with a practical mission. So many of these lines ran passenger service back in the days when railroads were not Amtrak (passenger) or commuter (local lines, states, etc). The ICC ruled the roost and forced the lines to provide service to underserved areas. The lines hated the ICC with a burning passion because it made them do things for the people first. When Reagan was elected in 1980 one of the first things he did in office 2 months later was neuter the ICC, taking away most of its authority to bring legal action against lines who objected to their orders. Amtrak, for example, as an invention of the Nixon Administration to avoid the ICC oversight power by allowing lines to stop their passenger service and then turn over their rolling stock and routes to Amtrak. And, as we know, the trick to this deal was Amtrak always being underfunded and not able to provide the passenger service ordered by their charter. Perfect set-up because without public support those old lines could wipe the slate clean and avoid ICC penalties. And, of course, we've seen how well things have gone since then, with passenger service gone and the massive transportation crisis and fuel shortages to be dealt with.
I wonder why the tracks are so shifted around at the road crossings. I noticed the last one at the end of the video looked like the rails were kinked at an angle too. pretty scary track conditions. That is a neat looking line.
I really didn't look too closely at the rails in the crossings, but that could be part of the reason a full-scale train can't be run yet. A little scary, but the train doesn't exactly fly down the track, so not too much danger.
They should buy and use. Climax or hiesler locomotives or small saddle tank. And there is plenty of over grown tree branches along the line
At Cass they use Heislers and Climaxs, along with Shays, but they're a mountain logging line. Really think those locos would go well in an environment like Stewartstown? Well-you never know!
watching this in 2020, i see they are still in businness . with the shape of the track, are they still running speeders ?
They're still running speeders (whenever they run, that is, with this covid thing going) but they've expressed interest in running full-sized equipment. Actually, some full-sized equipment runs, but hot sure if it goes all the way to New Freedom. You're right about the track; some parts need upgrading before the big stuff can run all the way to New Freedom.
This looks a lot like walking along the Great Allegheny Passage near Sutersville, PA.
I'm familiar with the Great Allegheny Passage! Rode parts of it in MD. I'll have to do more of it sometime! Would like to revisit the Ohiopyle area again one day.
One street had a crossbuck with an "exempt" sign on it. This means the rail line has very low traffic or is almost abandoned. This means a person carrying a flag must stop cross traffic first before the train can cross. Therefore the gravel road/driveway running parallel to the track probably is not illegal as there is extremely limited service on this line.
Many tourist lines seem to have an "exemption" at the crossings, primarily because many don't travel that fast (as with this line) or, as you mentioned, are infrequently used. It kind-of adds interest to the ride as well! Actually, that gravel driveway has been in use for many decades, even before the original cessation of service on the early 60s! The track paralleling it gives the impression of passing through peoples' backyards! Thanx for viewing. -Gus
Hey Gus -thought you might be interested - the new edition of trains magazine is about Amtrak on the Northeast Corridor and the cover id of an Amtrak train at Perryville MD.
Thanx Johnathan! Yeah, I'm definitely interested! Now to find a nearby place that sells Trains Magazine! Had a couple hobby shops in the area that carried it but they closed!
Hope you are able to find it. The article is really interesting about The Northeast Corridor
I hope too! Might look around tomorrow.
have a great night my friend
You too, buddy!
Grew up off Tolna Rd. Area got too close to Maryland.
It looks like you need to add another track crew! Loved the video. When they get the right of way cleared out,maybe that 44 tonner switcher I saw at New Freedom could run on that line. Probably needs to replace more ties for greater weight capacity. I love old railroads.
I too would love to see that 44-tonner work its way back to Stewartstown! Unless it's only for display at New Freedom; might be worth looking into. There are a lot of tight squeezes along their ROW, making me wonder if those squeezes existed in the classic operating days (probably not). They're always asking for volunteers to help with maintenance, but with my bad back, I wouldn't be much help there, so I'll just do their videography! They've used my vids for advertising on their website in the past. Thanx for viewing. -Gus
OK.. gotcha. Then we probably won't see those two coaches parked on the siding I saw in the photo album either anytime soon rolling on that track:-)
Those coaches had to get there somehow...probably back when the line was first restored in the 80s and it was up to standards. What i can't imagine is going by those houses in something that rides higher up and being able to peek into those folks' bedrooms, especially that one house in Tolna!
nice video! I subbed!
Thank You very much! I'm already subbing you!
Mill street and route 851 are another two of Stewartstown Railroad's worst crossings. On route 851, to the left it enters Stewartstown and to the right the road goes to Shrewsbury and the factory building with the Bubba D's and the Premier Eye Center.
The 851 crossing can be tricky, with that enginehouse right there on the corner! The Mill St crossing doesn't look that bad, though. At least the operators of the train use caution proceeding through, and no incidents-so far (at least I haven't heard of any).
bullfrog1954 So it’s only the route 851 that’s one of Stewartstown Railroad’s worst crossings?
I'd venture to say 851 is their 2nd-worse crossing. I believe Susquehanna Trail (former US 111) carries more traffic, and the crew used a bit more caution crossing that one.
are you the one who does the voice for all those military channels?
I'm not familiar with any military channels, but if ever they asked...
Not a train ride, but a speeder ride
Speeder, train...if it's on rails, we'll ride it!
How much were the tickets and how long did the trip last? was it round trip?
I think the tickets were $20 each. Might seem a little steep for the type of "train" we were riding, but the learning experience-and riding a line like this one-makes it well worth it. Yes, it was a round trip. For that price, it better be! They'll be doing it again this year, and they're hoping to bring the line up to standards so they can run full-sized equipment.
That sure looked like an interesting ride. I have never seen tracks go in those kinds of places. Thanks for the reply.
Anytime!
+bullfrog1954 is this former New York Central line that interchange with PRR at New Freedom Pa?
Actually, the Stewartstown line was-and still is-its own entity. It once ran further east than Stewartstown until 1935 but never connected to anything on its east end. The former PRR line at New Freedom to which it connects would technically have been part of the NYC system, as PRR and NYC merged in 1968 to form Penn Central. That line ran until 1972 when Hurricane Agnes knocked it out.
@@bullfrog1954 do they still run tourist trains just like this video?
Yes they do! There is a website with all the info:
www.stewartstownrailroadco.com/
They haven't announced their 2019 schedule yet, but should soon.
bullfrog1954I might go there in the near future and yes I have been to Pennsylvania few time before its real pretty place. And yes I have been to Strasburg RR 2 times before its really nice place.
Hope you can make it to Stewartstown!!
up here right now!
I've run over some bad track but this is horrid. Would definitely had a pick out there at 20:00 to dig that crossing out.
I gather you're an engineer! Yeah, a lot of debris from those dirt back roads tends to get into the rails. These 'trains' don't go all that fast, so not much danger. They're trying to bring the line up to standards so they can run full-sized equipment. Guess this is the best they can do with their budget. At least we made it through!
At first I thought it was a computer voice.
No, not a computer voice...just a computer geek, and I admit it. Are you related to Otis Campbell? Interesting thumbnail photo.
bullfrog1954 Otis was the best town drunk on TV. Just love The Andy Griffith Show.
What railroad owned this line, originally?
The same one that owns it now, the Stewartstown RR.
The Stewartstown has been in continuous operation for 150 years, far as I know. They didn't get bought out by Conrail like so many others did in the 70s.
Well, almost continuous operation, except for a few breaks in service. Really, there'd be no point in Conrail-or any other 'foreign' line-buying up this local short line.
Is this is museum, or a real RR? Also, great video. Your voice is calming. :)
Great to hear someone tell me my voice is calming, after someone else accused me of sounding like a psychopath. I have a couple university professors telling me I'm doing great-good enough for me. But-this is an actual operating line, not a museum! It's been in on-and-off operation for around 150 years. I'm hoping they can bring the standards up enough to run full-sized equipment! Thanx for viewing and commenting. -Gus
The big train 🚆 derailed seven times trying to cross Windy Hill Road on the Stewartstown Railroad.
I was told it didn't take much to derail anything on that line! That's why they keep saws on the trains! Maybe a track upgrade would help.
[EXEMPT] meanschool busses and busses and hazmat vehicles need not stop as required at grade crossings.
I kinda knew that, especially since those signs are typically found at barely-used crossings with little train travel, such as this one. Also, the trains here only go a few miles per hour anyway and can easily stop if necessary.
they should of run something like a GP40 down it first to clear the line
I don't think the bridges could handle something that heavy! They might be able to get away with an SW-1, but that too might be pushing it!
The train more slow of the world...!!!
I think I know what you're trying to say...
Is it consider abandon?
Well...kinda sorta-hard to explain. Service stopped a few times, and the line could've almost been considered abandoned, as nothing was planned to run, but periodically service would start up again. Last stoppage was in 2003, but this was more of a hiatus than an abandonment. They began running again in 2015, and still do. Original service stopped in the late 1950s-early 60s. Up till that time, they ran commuter trains which would connect with the NCRY/PRR trains for either Baltimore or York.
In what state is this RR! There is never enough info on these reports.
This takes place in Stewartstown Pennsylvania. Sorry if I made no mention during the video of it, though I did label the places we passed through 'So-And-So PA.' Much better in person!
The title gives it away, but, not always. Some lines had names that placed them in the wrong state, or along the wrong river or even in a bogus mountain range (in order to get people to think they were gold miners). So, maybe MA & PA could be somewhere else. Maybe Massachusetts & Philadelphia (MA & PH).
The Susquehanna Trail is another one of Stewartstown Railroad's worst crossings because to the left, the road goes to Dominos and Pizza Hut, and to the right the road goes to Bubba D's and the factory.
I'm sure Susquehanna Trail is much busier now than it was when the Stewartstown originally stopped running in the late 1950s! Do you believe it's bad because of all those businesses, and the extra traffic as a result?
bullfrog1954 No, I can’t believe it.
Is the persons narrating name Joe Friday?
Might be...
30:44. Been nice if you shot more of the 4-4-0 before moving on..
I do have videos of that loco posted. Chased it around in 2016! Plan to ride behind it one day.
Does the locomotive run this far?
Unfortunately, the loco can only go about 1/2 mile from Stewartstown because certain stretches of the track need upgrading. Still a nice ride on the train in the video...highly recommended! Thanx for viewing. -Gus
bullfrog1954 Thanks for the reply! That kinda stinks, hopefully they can get it running farther someday!
You're welcome! Hey-if you're in the area and would like to help 'em out, they're always looking for volunteers!
+bullfrog1954 I would really like to, but I live in Michigan. I am a volunteer at the Michigan Transit Museum railroad though
They could of took OUT ALL the high weeds with a high-wheel 3-4Hp. Briggs mower!!
Those weeds seem to add to the authenticity of this historic line! But, still, can't have too many.
HOW is this railroad able to run, tracks covered, weeds, trees, in back years ......
They somehow manage to run, despite the appearance of the physical plant! This is how railroading began, before Amtrak and their Acelas, and whatever else. That's what I think makes it great!
oi pessoal tudo bom
train for Lake Wobegon?
Where's Lake Wobegon?
fictional town Garrison Kielor's stories originate in
oh my the tracks a mess weeds brush grass id probbly make piles of money clearing all that mess up lol
To me that seems to add to the adventure! What makes me LOL is the thought of Amtrak going through there!
if it was mine i'd spray that right of way with some roundup and take back the track for safety sake. surprised some fool suburban.ite hasn't removed the rails so they could mow
Get rid of the weeds? That wouldn't be any fun! Those weeds add to the excitement! But those thick branches should really be removed.
what kind of engine.
Not really sure, but I know it uses a couple Chevrolet engines to power it. Appropriate, as Chevy is a GM-owned company, just as EMD was! Their engines are apparently powering many a train!
ok thanks.
HIGH TRESTLE FILL & LOW TRESTLE FILL
Yep-the best of both!
teletubbies are moving to sweet knowle farm
Got to keep a machete in the tool box to clear the overgrowth. Maybe a chainsaw. Ha, then I hear the chainsaw going.
Yeah, we had to break out the heavy artillery!
What guitar song is it at 48:27
I'll have to look into that. I'm on a library PC now that doesn't play sound!
thank you
Is this ride open to the general public who have a death wish? I'd love to take the ride sometime.
These rides are open to all! But, at that slow speed, not really much chance of death. They have a website that lists upcoming events, and the prices. The were using this video for their promotions for a while, but not sure if they're still using it. It really is a great ride, though. One sees a lot from this "train."
Classic Bull Frog vid and one that is well viewed. I go back and watch it again to see the quality and check on the old MA & PA RR, which we old Bull Frog fans know if perhaps your fav RR of all time. Someday, I predict, this line will return to passenger and augmented freight use (as part of the plan to get large and getting larger trucks of the roads for economy, safety and the public good). You can also add in the fees charged for moving mail along the route when Congress orders the USPS (and later, the private firms like FedEx and UPS) to do the same, thus creating a large market for the service and, as in the past, a smart way to subsidize the railroads, provide a way to get the trucks off the roads and to give customers better mail service. So, when that happens you'll be held up as one of the great early backers of the plan. And, fueling public demand that at least one of the lines new power be renamed 'The Bull Frog Reprise'.
I thought it was going to be a full size diesel locomotive and carriages taking you for the ride. a let down.
I believe they're trying to upgrade the line to allow full-sized motive power. But, as this is a mostly volunteer operation, it might be a little while before that can happen. I was just glad I could ride the line one way or another!
yes I know it is a huge undertaking to get a old branch line up to scratch to allow traffic on it again. I would assume lots of the sleepers need replacing . If you have any bridges that are wooden , they probably would need a big upgrade and or replaced. Are there any tunnels , what poundage is the line ? No doubt some of the line would need replacing , and the plates and the bolts, be realigned . Over here most of the old branch lines only had 60lb line. The main line has 90 lb line. has it got old semaphore signals along the line . All the points on the line would need servicing ,all the old stations would need upgrading and made safe. the level crossings these days need flashing lights and boom gates. the list just goes on and on. Not to mention the locomotive that will be needed for the run , plus the carriages all with new brakes and good wheels and serviced throughout to be safe for the public . Our federal govt poured 24 million into a branch line , and it still has not got up and running.
I dont see much difference from today and the 80s. LOL!
Not much difference in the physical plant, and I hope it stays that way. The line seems to fit in with the countryside through which it passes.
Could've been cool, but the robot sounding narration just killed it.
Well, I've had university professors and other PhDs compliment me on my work-and informative narration-so I can't be doin' all that bad. When a Pulitzer Prize nominee tells you you're doing great work, you know you're on the right 'track.'
bullfrog1954
I'm not referring to the content. Just the sound.
Oh, OK. Best I can do at my age and in my condition. The professors don't seem to mind...
bullfrog1954 : which professor? The one from Gilligans island? Just kidding. It's starting to grow on me. The quirky way the tone goes up at the end of the sentence, as if you're asking a question instead of making a statement. Are you Canadian? Lol.
The Prairy Home Companion,
Prairy Home Companion?
the name of Keilor's fictional magazine and his autobiographic book
It is or was a weekly show on National Public Radio out of Minneapolis-St. Paul, MN.
Great video. Awesome old tracks. Just one thing, next time get a human and dump the computer generated voice narration.
Glad you enjoyed the video, but that's me and not a PC. I've gotten high marks on my narration from a USC professor who's a PhD-and a Pulitzer Prize nominee. Other PhDs have also agreed. Good enough for me.
The Windy Hill Road crossing is another one of Stewartstown Railroad’s worst crossings.
I looked on Google Maps but couldn't find Windy Hill Road! Whereabouts is it?
Much to slow.. Could not stand to take this ride...
Such are curvy short lines!
Does the narrator always talk like a computer?
He seems to, and quite a bit! Maybe that comes from being around computers since 1971 at age 17! After all that time, it can grow on you!
at 3:18 - 3:23 - the woman in yellow - oh my - I want a woman like that. Let her know tat if she is single so am I...
I gather you mean the woman in yellow!! Wish I thought to ask!!
hahahahahaha lol going through the neighbours yards hahahaha
After a point that's how it felt!
its like riding with Garrison Kielor
Kinda sorta.
"there you go again" (Reagan aside to Carter)
This could be much better if you didn’t have a high pitched woman trying to over talk everyone,thing.
I thoroughly agree, and at times I was tempted to tell her to keep it at a reasonable volume, but didn't want to start trouble on this ride. Background vocalization is always a risk when doing stuff like this.
Why does the narrator sound like an android?
Because that's what he does best-and it works. He has a DVD release out. Android-like, but informative.
up here right now!
Oh, wow! I'm missing out on something!