Trains Unlimited Episode 25 The Engineers

[@a.leemorrisjr.9255]

I was among last generation to actually see live steam at work (they were just starting conversions to diesel.) As a young boy I dreamed of day I'd operate 1 of those mighty machines. Still recall the smells, sight, sounds, & vibrations like it was yesterday. It was like those engines were alive, they even "talked" to you.

[@wasatchrangerailway6921]

That flagman was John M. Newberry. He was drunk, and only went back 1/4 mile when he was supposed to go back at least a full mile! His wife was Janie, and he had three kids, George Helen, and Johnny. Johnny was killed in WW1. His fireman was Simeon Taylor Webb and (his) wife's name was Pearl.

[@a.leemorrisjr.9255]

Jones was probably no more reckless than many of his peers of the era. Railroading was hard, dirty, dangerous work & you were often under pressure from upstairs to keep tight schedule & even ignore possible safety hazards.

[@TRAINBUILDER]

350 psi….. Did I miss something… The Big Boy pops off at 200psi… I believe these 1800’s locos popped off at 125-150… Regardless great episode!!

[@DCSk8er529]

Not making excuses for Casey Jones, but Casey Jones was unfortunately under pressure all the time to be on time. At that time you were given the ultimatum to be suspended for being reckless and wrecking on the job, or be fired for playing it safe and being late. All the engineers were reckless without a choice at that time. Not so sure I would buy the flagman's story. According to Sim Webb, there was no flagman. Even if there was, there's no way Casey could see him on time with him being on a left hand curve. Even if he did see him from a distance, the flagman wasn't far enough for Casey to see him and be able to stop on time. Sim Webb should've been rewarded. If Sim Webb doesn't see the caboose, it's a far worse wreck.

[@stanleydomalewski8497]

Great Series !