I just returned from a great meeting of the C&NW and UP historical society (joint) in Omaha. All of the presentations were excellent. One was on restoration to running shape of the C&NW mid continent society 4-6-0 loco. A ton of work. You get to see first hand why it takes so long and is so pricey. They had to manufacture a lot of the engine, and will have to remake the boiler completely.
Then another fascinating presentation by Ed Dickens from the UP steam program. We saw step by step shots of the work it took to get the big boy ready to move and the actual move itself across the parking lot. A lot of closeups of the engine itself and the challenges it presents. Generated a lot of questions. I think I heard a target date of 2019. One of the logistical problems the team faces in Cheyenne is the facility itself which had to be altered somewhat to proceed with the work. When asked about a budget, he indicated that he is held to the same challenge as most corporate endeavors, that being a need to demonstrate the value to the company of the work. He is very optimistic about the future. The team is also working on the 844 and unless serious issues come up, it will be running late this year or early in 2016. The big boy has priority over the challenger at this time. He thought that it should not be a major issue to convert the big boy to oil. I guess it has been said before here but outside of overhang issues, the big boy actually can navigate a sharper curve than the 844. Mr. Dickens personally inspected any tight spots all the way from California to Cheyenne. I feel blessed to hear that presentation. Of course any corporate endeavor is subject to change but for now it sounds good.
Today, we had the good fortune to tour the Harriman dispatch center. We were thrilled to get inside the bunker where the rows and rows of dispatchers operate and their supervisors. There is a live feed from the Kate Shelley bridge. We learned the Spring Tx still has some dispatch activity, I believe there are 8 dispatchers there. Then for the major yards they have dispatch centers as well such as Bailey yard, Proviso, and San Bernadino. No pictures allowed once inside the bunker. It is supposed to withstand a tornado and it looked every bit the part.
We also toured a private museum owned by Mr. Wimmer, an ex UP exec. Way more stuff than I have ever seen at a museum, but then I have not seen Ill. I have seen the California at Sacramento. He had several of those wig wag signals which I covet for my yard. Oh well. He and his wife are very gracious. I do not believe there is ever a charge. If you get to Omaha, make it a stop.
