Have you ever noticed that on virtually all excursion trains, steam or diesel, the headlights are illuminated at all times that the train is in motion, day or night? In fact, that is sometimes the way to tell a vintage movie from a modern video; The headlights on on the modern; off on most of the vintage stuff. Of course there are other ways to tell vintage authenticity from modern such as automobiles, personal clothing, signage, etc. as well as the relative clarity of the production.
As I understand it, the daytime use of headlights became standard operating procedure sometime in the early 1950's. The railroads began to realize that having the headlight on helped call attention to the moving locomotive and somewhat reduced the incidence of crossing accidents. Some of the old-timers of the day, staunchly fought the new regulations: "Headlights were for night, not daytime", but that soon was thrown out the window as all railroads began requiring headlight operation at all times.
I've often wondered; what the railroads thought they were saving by NOT having the headlights on? The energy saving, if at all recognizable, would have been minute. Also, the cost of replacing a bulb a little more often would not have affected their bottom line. So, why did it take so long for RR's to all require headlight operation at all times? Interesting point.
Paul Fischer
