The Niagara Frontier Chapter National Railway Historical Society Film Collection, Vol 1 -1938-1941

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In May of 1995, I was hosting John M. Prophet at my home for one of our weekly visits where we'd talk trains and drink coffee. I had called Jim Van Brocklin, another good friend and fellow NRHS member to see if he wanted to join John and I for some fellowship. Like John, Jim was a very dedicated railfan, shooting dozens of films and making sound recordings. Jim was also the custodian of the film collection of the NFCNRHS. When Jim arrived at my home, he had with him several films from the collection for John and I to watch.
Not wanting to miss this incredible opportunity to capture what was discussed as the films played out, I rolled tape to capture everything said between the three of us. The film you about to watch was the first Jim showed over the course of what would be four "film-watching" visits.
As you might expect, John came alive as the memories of what we were seeing on the screen unfolded in front of him. He was describing the various scenes as if they were shot yesterday. Jim was no slouch either; he kept up with John pretty well even though these films were made before Jim was a member of the NRHS.
Pay particular attention to the segment featuring the inaugural run of the NYC's Empire State Express on December 7, 1941. I asked both men what time Pearl Harbor was bombed OUR TIME and if the announcement was heard on the train. Since John was riding the train, he was able to confirm the time as did Jim. John pointed out that the announcement of the bombing was heard on a radio someone had on the train. I asked what the atmosphere was like on the train after this very stressing news was heard. There's a pause for what seems like an eternity, then John sheepishly says "I don't remember... I was too busy looking out from the back of the train to think about anything else."
I find this part of the conversation hilarious since I've always pointed out that John had a photographic memory. Yet one of the most important moments in American history happened right under John's nose and he doesn't remember what happened amongst the other passengers on the train. It's very clear, and so endearing to John's character that we know where his priorities were always placed; on trains.