In the 1950’s the diesel was emerging as the new motive power… but steam still prevailed on most railroads. It was no different with the Brisbane & Bushong Railroad. This small branch line, which was headquartered in the town of Beawslaiw, built the small Double Tracks Rail Yard with its engine service area. It was also used by the Southern Pacific since the B&B ran into the SP main line somewhere between San Francisco and Los Angeles. In a joint venture, the SP and the B&B built a coaling tower in the yard to service the big coal-burning Berkshire. The B&B had recently acquired a coal-burning 0-6-0 switcher from the Texas and Pacific Railroad. The B&B yard personnel had a reputation for great service and the word spread. The SP and B&B also shared fee revenues when visiting coal-burners from other railroads, such as the Union Pacific, fueled up at the tower. There were railroad rumors that engines came from “far away” to get the B&B coal service. Who knows if they’re true!
Matt
