WESTERN PACIFIC Jl!~!~p.~Sls

'Best wishes for a verB O)errB Christmas ilepoSts Vol. x, No. 5 DECEMBER, 1958 • Mi.lepost No. 113

D ~ partment of Publi c Re lations WESTERN PACIFIC RAILROAD SACRAMENTO NORTHERN RY. TIDEWATER SOUTHERN . RY. 526 Mission Street To All Members of the San Francisco 5, California Lee " Flash" She rwood, Editor Western Pacific Family: A . L. Lioyd, Associate Editor

* Milepost No. 113: Ap­ proaching Thornton, about midway between I he year has been a trying period for Stockton-Sacramento. many. However, it now appears that CONTENTS Page with recovery on the way 1959 should be better President's Christmas Message ______2 When Santa Leaves an Electric Train ______4 for all concerned. Teachers Learn Railroad ABC's ______10 How We're Doing ______11 Dear Editor: ______12 Mileposts in Gold ______13 WP Will RemembeL ______14 I he Board of Directors and the General R ailroaders on the Move______15 In Memoriam ______16 Officers join me in expressing to all Paul J enner sez: "Don't Be HALF Safe!" 18 Caboosing ______19 members of our Western Pacific Family our very "This was Railroading" ______27 "Thirty-seven Miles of Snow" ______27 best wishes for a Merry Holiday Season, and a Christmas Lines ______. ______28 safe, bright and Happy New Year. COVER: This winter scene of the Exposition Flyer was taken at Sloat in January, 1949, by the late Fireman A. D. Vogel. The Vista-dome car midway in, the train Most sincere! y, went into Californ;a Zephyr service the following March . ~7 DECEMBER, 1958 3 area was very crowded and, quite sur­ HERE was a small pile of descriptive prising, there weren't many young­ Tliterature on one corner of the sters. Mostly men, like himself! counter, and he reached over some­ It took more than a glance to see the one's shoulder for a copy of "Life at entire pike. Trains were running in Lionel." every direction - passengers and He had never associated model elec­ freights - through tunnels, around tric trains with big business, but what curves, across mountain passes, and Dad read beginning on page 7 opened over bridges. Tiny villages, country his eyes. The story of The Lionel farms, and illuminated industries had a Corporation. realistic look. A flashing light blinked "Its steady growth over a period of on and off as a double-headed freight more than a half a century, is typical ran past a crossing. He had felt a little of thousands of American industries. foolish when he had exclaimed louder It has grown to provide more and more than he had wanted, "that's a WP employment each year and higher train!" And except for size it was no standards of living, exemplifying the when Santa leaves different than those on which he opportunities available to all under the worked. an electric train . .• American system of free enterprise. Lionel is the only toy firm listed by the A Lione l operator r emov ~s a locomotive body New York Stock Exchange. Sales run from the mold of a die-casting machine. over $20 million each year and ship­ he knows very well who it's for! ments are made to 62 foreign countries. Altogether, some 25,000 miles of Lionel track have been laid in the living HRISTMAS is a wonderful day-when Before Rusty can curl up into a ball rooms, basements and attics of six con­ C it finally arrives! The family's all at his feet, his head begins to nod. tinents. Pre-Christmas thoughts soon run together, the tree's trimmed, gifts are 58th Anniversary wrapped, and the gobbler's turning through his mind. Particularly, the brown in the oven. Dad finds the day he had gone Christmas shopping "Lionel Manufacturing Co. came into morning paper a bit easier to read after for his son. existence in 1900 in a small loft in New he's downed a second cup of coffee. Strange how, without calling the York. Its personnel consisted of its The children - not too surprisingly­ floor, the operator sensed his wants founder, Joshua Lionel Cowen, and a are especially well behaved. Even the and opened the elevator door at the single helper. Personnel today num­ family pooch, Rusty, seems to sense floor for toys. And, there was a certain bers about 3,000, and the business pro­ something's in the air. It's Christmas! sense of pride, and responsibility, too, vides them a comfortable living. as he elbowed his way through pack­ Mom has a million and one things to "Early models were made by hand do. "Better duck out of sight," Dad aged-down shoppers. "No, thank you," and resembled flat cars. Electricity was decides, "because I'll only be in her he had said to an "extra girl" over­ not in wide use for home lighting in way." He tosses an extra log on the anxious to make a sale. Cute, too! fire, loads his well-rubbed meer­ It was easy to find the right counter, those days, so each car was equipped schaum Santa left a few years back, as flashing lights brightly illuminated with a tiny motor operated by battery. and slides into his favorite chair. the big Lionel sign hanging overhead. Tracks consisted of strips of thin metal "Probably be late when I get to bed He stepped a little closer for a better inserted into slots in wooden rails. The tonight so might as well catch a couple look, and heard the familiar shrill first accessory was a manually oper­ of winks." whistle of a tiny diesel engine. The ated switch.

4 MILEPOSTS DECEMBER, 1958 5 the company was incorporated as The "With the cessation of hostilities on Lionel Corporation, with Mr. Cowen as August 17, 1945, Lionel was faced with its president. a reconversion of plant facilities to "By the late 1920's, the demand for meet the coming Christmas trade. By Lionel equipment had reached such October assembly lines were humming, proportions facilities were again inade­ and thousands of sets were delivered quate. Land was purchased at the before Christmas arrived. present plant site in Irvington, and a "In 1945, Lawrence Cowen, son of the new factory building was erected. firm's founder, became President and "Production of miniature trains con­ Co-General Manager with the elder tinued on a curtailed scale in addition Mr. Cowen. The son joined the firm in to government work when America 1937 and served in an advisory capa­ was preparing for national defense in city. 1940. All peace-time work came to an "Each year following has witnessed After the body has abrupt halt with World War II, and new additions to the plant and all have been die cast, burrs the entire plant was pressed into the been outgrown within a period of and excess metal are production of war materials. months. Lionel trains have become one removed from the casting in cleaning operation. The assembly of many small parts requires deft ees. More than SO assembly operators work on fingers as shown by these experienced employ. this 135-foot-lon9 conveyor line, one of several.

"Lionel was quick to take advan­ the transition from hand to machine tage of the increased use of electricity work. Three years later the firm again and a transformer was developed. Bat­ needed more space to grow and moved tery operated cars gave way to house to New Haven, Conn. current and each succeeding year saw "In 1914 the firm rented half of a the addition of new items to the line. four-story building in Newark, N. J., "The natural fascination of tiny elec­ and shortly thereafter the other two tric trains was responsible for the com­ floors were acquired. Even this proved pany's growth. But two other factors inadequate, and in 1917 a large factory contributed materially to keep it mov­ building was obtained in Irvington, ing forward at a rapid pace. Its founder N. J. strove constantly to improve the qual­ "During World War I, Lionel turned ity of his product, and he put virtually to building compasses, Compensating all of the profits back into the business Binnacles, Azimuth Periscopes, and a to expand production facilities and in­ variety of signal apparatus and naviga­ crease the firm's output. tional instruments. "By 1907 Lionel had outgrown its "The expansion of the company space and moved to larger quarters. made numerous changes within the or­ P ower presses were installed, marking ganization necessary and, in July, 1918,

6 MILEPOSTS DECEMBER, 1958 7 of America's favorite hobbies. Fans consist of the great names of Broad­ way, the sports world, Hollywood and Wall Street, and ages run from little shavers of four or six to men sixty or more in every walk of life. "In 1953 a new air-conditioned fac­ tory and office building were com­ pleted, and more than 100,000 square feet of additional space is available for further expansion. "All of this came about because of the dreams and ambitions of Joshua L. Cowen, whose leadership has created employment for many people and a product that has brought happi­ ness to millions of homes." A New York restaurant operates a miniature freight train that delivers hamburgers Dad slipped the booklet into his on flatcars to youngsters around the counter. coat pocket. As the man behind the counter helped him with his selection around the pike. An unbelievable and carefully wrapped his purchase, he comparison to his own company's mod­ watched again as the tiny trains raced ern giants. Western Pacific is promi.nently featured in Lione l models, Locomotive s, cabooses, com­ partme nt cars, gondolas, Vista-dome cars and othe rs a re accurate in every detail. Many Lionel models are shipped over W P.

A SHARP whistle brought Dad out of £l. his slumber-very real and right nearby. He arose from his chair just in time to see a model Western Pacific train coming out of a curve in the track. Junior had found and opened his package and a length of track ex­ As the locomotive tended over the rug just inches away nea rs the e nd of its iourney down the from Rusty's nose. assembly line , it is Junior stepped back as Dad reached inspected and tested, for the transformer, flipped a lever, and then goes off under its own power to be watched the train switch over on packed in colorful another track. "Pretty close, eh ca rton. Rusty?" Dad turned around, and his son heard him say, "Guess you never dreamed WE would have a train like this, did you, son?"

8 M ILEP O S TS D ECEM BER, 1958 9 Teachers learn railroad ABC's How We're Doing

Sixty teachers from San Francisco the California Zephyr for a tour of in­ Railway operating revenues show Concrete lining of Tunnels 27 and 28 and Sacramento public and parochial spection and a ride to Fremont. Coffee 9.25 per cent increase in October 1958 near Paxton, about 62 per cent and schools became students again on Oc­ and doughnuts were on the house. At compared with October, 1957 ; an'd 7.25 78 per cent completed, respectively. tober 24 and November 25. The occa­ Fremont they again boarded the bus per cent decrease for first 10 months sions were annual Business-Education and returned to Oakland coach yard 1958 compared with same period 1957. * * * Day, when industries of all kind throw for luncheon in lounge cars, a tour of * * * Replacement of 1.07 track miles of open their doors to acquaint our edu­ the property, and panel discussions by 112-lb. and lIS-lb. main line curve rail cators with modern business. W P officers. However, reports from various sales with 136-lb. material in Paired Track Western Pacific was host to 30 They were then bused to San Fran­ offices indicate future business for area, Nevada, completed November 7. San F rancisco teachers (elementary cisco and presented with kits of litera­ Western Pacific most encouraging for * * * through junior college) on October 24. ture, describing railroads in general balance of year and early months of Tidewater Southern completed spur After distribution of orchids to the and Western Pacific in particular. 1959. * * * track in Turlock to serve industry ladies and name badges to all, Presi­ The program at Sacramento on No­ California Zephyr's average passen­ shipping frozen turkeys to Eastern dent Whitman welcomed the teachers vember 25 was similar except that markets via TS and WP. to our property in a short introductory Western Pacific and Sacramento ger load in October, 1958, was 63.3 per cent of train capacity, compared talk. Northern were joint hosts to a group * * * with 60.7 per cent in October, 1957. By chartered bus, the group was of thirty. Elko depot - office remodeling now then taken to Oakland yard to board The group met at Sacramento Junior completed. College and then went directly to Sac­ ramento shops where they enjoyed Ouch! coffee and breakfast rolls. After a tour of the shops and store department they At a special meeting held November returned to the lounge car and were 18, the Medical Department's Board of taken to Sacramento station. Following Directors increased medical dues from luncheon and a tour of the centralized $9.10 to $11.00 per month for benefits traffic control panels they returned to beginning January 1, 1959. The in­ creased deductions will become effec­ the car for panel discussions. tive with your paycheck for December. What these teachers, as "students," The reason? Expenses are greater learned about modern railroading will, than income. of course, provide them with fine ma­ terial for their classroom studies. Western Pacific and Sacramento Travelers deserting trains? Northern will playa prominent part Not on one of Rio Grande's passenger in keeping railroad transportation in trains, which the D&RGW describes the minds of the future passengers and as "fabulous"! shippers. During its 1958 season it ran 93 trips, * * * carried 31,984 passengers for an aver­ age of 344 per trip. Ticket sales alone The custom of lc.isring under 'he mistletoe orig­ totaled some $125,000, equal to about inated in the Scandinavian countries by Frigga, $14.50 per train-mile. goddess of love and beauty, who, being grateful for the return or her son, ;, said to bestow a kiss The train? Rio Grande's little nar­ upon anyone who shall pass under mistletoe. row-gauge Silverton.

DECEMBER, 1958 10 MILEPOSTS 11 ;])ear editor: MILEPOSTS IN GOLD

sensed each Western Pacific employee MILEPOSTS congratulates the following railroaders who will be eligible for feels for this train. It is special in every Service Pin Awards during the month of December, 1958: sense of the word. WP history aids student Every possible courtesy was shown 40-YEAR PINS John E . Asbury ...... Blacksmith Foreman...... __ . Mechanical Dept. I wish to express my appreciation the group with each contact in making Gordon M. Middleton. for the wealth of material you sent me Bruce O. Vance ...... _.... _.... ~:::::~ ~~~~~~tT:: ~~~f~:~~~_~ :: ...... __...... __ .... _: :::::::::: ~~~:rn~cDli.;:~~~ the necessary arrangements for the Alva E . Williams...... Locomotive EngineeL...... __ ...... Eastern Division * in answer to a request for a corporate trip, beginning with the first call made 30-YEAR PINS analysis of the Western Pacific. It is by Mrs. James D. Baker to the Stock­ Vernon W . Geddes...... Asst. Auditor of Revenues ...... San Francisco mor e than enough for the paper I'm ton reservation office. Robert B. Reynolds __ ...... _.. . Conductor ...... Eastern Division writing, and it is very gratifying to Mr. Robert Cunha of Sacramento 2S-YEAR PINS Norman W. Menzies ...... _. Supt. of Communications ... San Francisco r eceive such personal attention. was pleasant "beyond the call of duty" Walter H . young ...... _Locomotive Engineer.. _ ...... Western Division Of special value was the MILEPOSTS to the children. He answered their IS-YEAR PINS you sent, which gave a history of the questions and explained in a very in­ Winnifrede Barton ..... ,Clerk. AUd. of Revenues Dept...... San Francisco John L . Berschens.. _...... _...... _...... _...... Refund Prepaid Order and Ticket Clerk...... San Francisco road. It would have taken many hours teresting and instructive manner about John B. Dolan...... Electrician ...... Mechanical Dept. to assemble that much material by the trains and the mechanics involved. ~l~s:~r BR.F~:~~~gan ...... ·.· ...... - ...·.·.·.·.- ...... gf:rr::~n ...... -::.-::: .... :.. :.- .. ::: ...... : ~~~~:;~c~\~:i~~ research methods. You might be in­ He was careful to gear his terminology Joseph P. Helmick...... Brakeman...... Western Division terested to know that my father (Ben to our level so that we had a real op- Clara M. Knox ...... Nurse·s Aide...... Medical Dept. Battles, retired Gerlach agent) was portunity to learn. . iiaa~~~jE~M~~h~~s ...... ~:~3~~~~~ __ ... _...... ~~~~::::~~~:::::::~:::::::::::::::::: .. ::: ~~~~::;;cDli;?s~~~ Patricia Montana...... Supervisor , Calculating Machine Operators. the subject of a feature article in the Again we wish to thank you for thIS Accounting Dept• .. _ ...... 8an Francisco May, 1957, MILEPOSTS. He was also Tommie W . Parker...... Fireman...... Eastern Division privilege. Robert 8. Pendergraft ...... Clerk ...... ___ ...... Western Division pictured on the cover of that issue. Teachers, Room Mothers, John F . Quinn ... __ ...... _. Accountant, Engineering Dept...... 8an Francisco Shelton L. Sorenson ...... Fireman...... __ ..... Eastern Division Once again, thank you very much Students Thelma M . Toomey ...... Laboratory Assistant...... Mechanical Dept. Seventh-Day Adventist for your interest and assistance. IO-YEAR PINS Bruce L. Battles Elementary School Pete Bellamy...... Waiter...... Dining Car Dept. Stockton, Calif. Patrick W. Caulfield_...... CTC Maintainer ...... _...... 8ignal Dept. 4180 Fourth A venue Harry I. Hanen...... ~ Clerk, Aud. of Revenues Dept...... 8an Francisco Thomas W. Hoover...... _.. _... Electrician...... Mechanical Dept. San Diego 3, Calif. * * * Roy F . Koellman...... _Bridge and Building Carpenter .... Western Division Norman Lackey...... _...... __ .... 8ection Foreman ...... Western Division * * * * Change of address Franklin E. Louie ...... Draftsman, Engineering Dept...... 8an Francisco May we take this means of informing ~hnnn~~i~ : ..~~ .~.~~~r ...... - ...- .. .-: ~sas;in~U&~ck~;:d~.~~ortation ······:::::·::::::::: :: ::::::::: ~~sr~~ngi~~i:n Courtesy appreciated your magazine and our many friends * R eceived pin previously but \\' as not reported. The kindness shown the Third and of our change of address. We have Fourth grade students of the Stockton * * * moved from Oakland to Stockton. As for back as the reign of Queen Anne, British Santa Claus is the American version of St. Seventh-Day Adventist Elementary Mr. Edgerton waits every month for children wrote Christmas pieces for relatives, Nicholas, the bearded Saint of Europe who on School on November 11 was greatly your magazine, as it lets him know the but the first Holiday greetings, as we know Christmas Eve carried a basket of gifts for appreciated. Each of us felt it was progress the Company is making and them, were' sent in J845 by W. C. Dobson, one good children, and a bunch of birch rods for of Queen Victoria's favorite printers. the naughty ones. St. Nicholas was trans­ a very real treat to ride the beautiful he feels he is part of it. formed into Santa Claus by the Dutch selllers Zephyr and to have seats reserved Hope to see many friends at our new in New Amsterdam, and he became the fat, jolly, for us in the Vista-dome. Your train address. rosy-cheeked old fellow he is today. Carol singing began in the J 5th Century in * * * passes our school each day and we William and Mabel Edgerton England, and has been fostered by them and Sometimes Christmas is written "Xmas," because now we all feel that it is partly "our" 1617 North Eldorado Street North Americans ever since, and sung in the "X" is the Greek equivalent of "Ch" and is train and we share the pride that we Stockton, Calif. cities and churches all over the world. therefore taken to represe.nt the word "Chr;st." MILEPOSTS DECEMBER, 1958 13 12 his honor at Stockton on October 29, All of his associates wish Les and WP Will Remember attended by 104 persons. his family contentment and good for­ "When a man, has devoted a career to an industry, he has Les lives with his wife and daughter, tune in the years ahead. truly paid that industry the greatest compliment possible." Elizabeth, at 954 46th Street, Oakland. In behalf of all employees of Western Hugh P. Hetherington, machinist Elizabeth, in addition to her attractive­ Correction Pacific and its affiliated companies, helper, Portola. ness, is an accomplished singer and MILEPOSTS extends sincerest best Milton A. Jacobs, Sacramento On Page 13 of the November issue has made many appearances at Eastern MILEPOSTS reported in error the retire­ wishes for future happiness to the fol­ Northern locomotive engineer, Sacra­ Star functions, weddings, and other lowing railroaders who recently re­ mento. ment of John A. Hamilton, yardmaster social affairs. tired: Carl W. Johnston, car foreman, San at Winnemucca. Ernest B. Cross, sheet metal worker, Francisco. Les is a member of Sequoia Lodge, John will like his many friends to Oroville. Leslie L. Morris, cashier, Elko. F. & A. M., Scottish Rite, and Aahmes know that he is still very much on the George H. Heintz, mechanical fore­ Edward P . Murphy, telegrapher, ] Temple of the Shrine. job. man, San Jose. Sacramento.

Les Henry retires Railroaders on the move On November 1, Assistant Superin­ Oakland-San Francisco, a newly cre­ Lester A. Henry, listed No.1 on the December 21, 1944, he was made as­ tendent Henry E. Stapp was trans­ ated position. Western Division's trainman-conduc­ sistant trainmaster at Oakland and on ferred from Oakland to Stockton. He Trainmaster R. A. Henderson from tor seniority list and the third oldest October 1, 1946, was transferred to now has jurisdiction over the main San Jose to San Francisco, a newly employee in years of service on that Sacramento. He became trainmaster line and branches between the west created position. roster, ended his Western Pacific serv­ at Stockton on March 16, 1952, which switching limits of Sacramento and Trainmaster R. M. Verhaege, Sacra­ ice on October 3l. position he held at the time of his the east switching limits of Oakland, mento Northern at Yuba City, to as­ Les was born in Bakersfield on Oc­ retirement. excluding Stockton yard. In addition, sistant trainmaster, Western Pacific, tober 18, 1893. He entered service with Les was highly regarded for his de ­ effective November 5, Stapp was ap­ Milpitas-San Jose, a new position. the railroad as a student brakeman on cisions in train handling matters. pointed assistant superintendent for R. A. Christ, assistant trainmaster June 26, 1914 and was promoted to That he had many friends was at­ the Tidewater Southern Railway. conductor on September 28, 1917. On tested at a retirement dinner given in South Sacramento, is assigned the ter­ On November 5, Jack E. Kenady was ritory between west switching limits transferred from Tidewater Southern of Sacramento and west switching to Sacramento Northern Railway. He limits of Oroville. will have headquarters as trainmaster The following positions have been J at Yuba City. abolished: . TRAINMASTERS MOVED Assistant superintendent, Oakland; The following changes were an­ trainmaster, Stockton, formerly occu­ nounced effective November 16: pied by L. A. Henry, retired; train­ Trainmaster L. W. Breiner from master, Milpitas-San Jose, formerly Oroville to Stockton yard. occupied by R. A. Henderson; and Mrs. Henry, Les, and their daughter, Trainmaster R. B. Redus from Ked­ assistant trainmaster, Stockton. Elizabeth. die to Oroville. RESEARCH MAN PROMOTED Assistant Trainmaster W. W. Geil Effective November 1, P. H. Van from Stockton to trainmaster Keddie. Gorp, assistant transportation engi­ Terminal Trainmaster L. D. Michel­ neer, was promoted to position as son, Oakland, to terminal trainmaster transportation engineer.

14 MILEPOSTS DECEMBER, 1958 15 t:~ ~f In Memoriam -~.~ Harry A. Mitchell w .~ With deep regret we report the death Club of San Francisco, a former district ~"':'~-:''':~-~~-~7~....:·-;; ';~~-~_4~~C~.'~-~....£,...... q// ..;. __ ....,...... ,=.~_':.~ ... _- -:_-_~-~__ ... ~~ __ : ____::. ::' of former president, Harry A. Mitchell, governor of Rotary International, and on November 4 at St. Francis Memorial past chairman of the finance commit­ Hospital where he had been confined tee, Rotary International. Other presi­ since October 5. He was 75 years of age. dencies included California Transit Mr. Mitchell was born in San Fran­ Association, Pacific Railway Club, the In behalf of all employees of Western Lowell R. Keener, Sacramento cisco on J une 20, 1883. His California State Chamber Pacific and its affiliated companies, Northern carman, November II. long distinguished career of Commerce, and Cali­ MILEPOSTS extends sincerest sympathy Frank King, yardmaster, October 2L began in 1898 with the fornia Society for Crip­ to the loved ones of the following John Leahy, retired stationary en­ Equitable Gas Company. pled Children. He was employees whose death has been re­ gineer, August 25. ported: He became auditor for the chairman of San Fran­ Nita F . Lemenager, Sacramento Central California Trac­ cisco's 1949 March of John Q. Adams, retired conductor Northern agent, September 1L tion Co. in 1907 and in Dimes Campaign. Other November 23. ' Han'y M. Leonard, retired conduc­ 1909 was made general civic posts included trus­ Andrew L. Anderson, retired loco­ tor, October 21. manager and secretary of teeship of St. Mary's Col­ motive engineer, October 12. William H. Lucas, conductor, Octo­ that company. In 1913 he lege, and past chairman­ Milton E. Baust, conductor, Octo­ ber 9. became general manager ship of the Bay Area ber 2. Henry T. Malone, retired switchman of the S an Francisco­ Rapid Transit Committee. Woodrow J. BOire, fireman October September 11. ' Sacramento Railroad, and He was a member of the 29. ' L. Ivan McAtee, crew clerk at Stock­ served as president of the Bohemian and the Sutter Sacramento Northern Walter Callahan, switchman, Sep­ ton, November 24. clubs, and served as tember 13. Harold L. Myhl'e, Oakland Terminal from 1929 to 1946. He served as vice­ Mayor of Atherton, California. president and general manager, West­ Harry Mitchell's friends were too Don B. Crosby, brakeman October Railway chief clerk, September 26. 26. ' Mike Nannini, retired section fore­ ern Pacific, from 1946 until he was numerous to count and he somehow man, September 28. made president on J anuary 1, 1949, always found time to strengthen their Vance A. Garwood, telegl'apher, No­ which position he held at the time of friendship through kindness. He will vember 16. Leon C. Organilla, retired marine fireman, September 5. his retirement on June 30, 1949. long be remembered. Kathryne R . Gill, statistical clerk In addition to his railroad duties, Mr. Funeral mass was held at Old St. September 21. ' C. M. Pendergast, SWitchman, No­ vember 3. Mitchell was very active in civic affairs. Mary's Church on November 7, and Roy 1. Groseth, bridge and bUilding He was past president of the Rotary interment was at Holy Cross Cemetery. foreman, November 3. George A. Rixon, retired Alameda Belt Line fireman, October 3. Edwin Haraldson, retired bridge and Han'y B. Stevenson, retired conduc­ Ralph G. Randolph bUilding carpenter, September 30. tor, October 10. LesterW. Hardy, retired Sacramento Arthur G. Tibbetts, Tidewater Funeral services for Ralph G. Ran­ In 1921 he became traveling freight Northern chief marine engineer, No­ Southern agent, September 28. dolph, 73, were held October 31 in and passenger agent for Western Pa­ vember 7. Walter R . Umshler, switchman, Oc­ Fresno. cific with headquarters in Fresno. Roy Hood, retired brakeman Au- tober 9. Mr. Randolph was Fresno general After his retirement he worked for gust 31. ' * * * agent for Wetsern Pacific at the time a time as traffic manager for the Cali­ John W. Housel', retired machinist of his retirement in 1950. He began his fornia Trucking Exchange. August I. ' Holly wreaths a re used at Christmas be cause of railroad career in 1904 as a night bag­ He was a past president of the that plant's a ssociation w ith the Cru cifixion . Leonard A. Jarrell, retired brake­ According to legend, the crown of thorns was gageman in Newkirk, Oklahoma, and Fresno Transportation Club, and a man, September 5. planted from b ranches which bore white berries in 1911 came to Fresno as chief clerk member of the Elks Lodge who offi­ but after the Crucifixion they beca me red. ' in the Santa Fe's district agent's office. ciated the funeral services. 16 MIL EPOSTS DE CEMB ER, 19 5 8 17 "A bowl ninety per cent full of warn­ paul Jenner dez: ing about accidents on each job under­ taken at time started, mixed with ten "Don'l Be HALF Safe!" per cent interest on the part of the worker, will make a splendid desert. HE following talk - "Recipe for a "Mix thoroughly division engineer, ea&oosing T Good Safety Record"-was given assistant division engineer, supervis­ at a recent Oakland motor car shop ors, foremen and employees, and you safety meeting by Machinist Martin L. will have cooperation and efficiency for Stokely-Van Camp Cannery closed Canfield. I thought all of our railroad­ better success in safety. OROVILLE its packing operations on October 1 ers would like to read what "Doc" had "Discuss mashed toes, hands, fingers, Helen R. Small to say: after turning out the second highest etc., until it becomes a boiling hot dis­ Retired Carman NEAL HAGEN of Oro­ pack on record. During the height of cussion every time you go around your ville returned October 6 from a three the season, approximately 700 persons. group of men. months' visit to Norway, Sweden and were employed at the cannery. "One hundred per cent contact with Denmark where he enjoyed a reunion employees by the officers will prevent with his three brothers after a separa­ Now in operation are the Butte men from going around half-baked tion of 35 years, the amount of time County olive canneries. Several vari­ and, instead, they will be constantly Mr. Hagen has spent in this country. eties of olives are grown in this area in boiling and striving to improve the Now recovering nicely at home from which 4,500 acres are under cultivation safety program. an injury due to a recent fall is Mrs. for pickling, curing and oil processing. "It is clear th is points chiefly to our Elizabeth Fike, widow of Trainmaster Queen olives are shipped fresh to the supervisory personnel. But if all work­ C. L. FIKE. Mrs. Fike celebrated her east, while Missions and Manzinellos men, the skilled and the unskilled, are harvested a little latter. would trouble themselves to under­ 94th birthday while in the hospital. stand this recipe I am sure the burden Machinist and Mrs. C. E. HUMPHREY Best wishes to an for a Merry Ch1'ist­ on the supervisor would be greatly re­ have announced the birth of a grand­ mas and a Happy New Year! ~uced, an~ the safety record greatly daughter. The infant, named L eslie Improved. Ann, is the first born of their son "ROUND TRIP, PLfASE ... DEC£MB£R 2 S1!!" • Steven and his wife. "Use a large portion of Human Rela­ Sympathy is extended to the family tions, pour it into the hearts of the em­ Three lIe's" for of Yardmaster FRANK KING who died ployees, and keep it stirred up amongst Holiday Safety them regularly. suddenly on October 23 at the age of "Keep the Safety Rules in a constant Highway accidents don't "just hap­ 69. He had been employed by Western stir daily, adding sufficient diplomacy pen." They are caused, usually by fac­ Pacific for 22 years, 20 of these in Oro­ and enough kindness to make the rules tors that the individual can control. ville. A native of Birmingham, Ala., stick in the employees' minds. To help keep you safely in control on Frank was a member of Anchor Lodge "Once each month pour out a letter the highway during the year-end holi­ No. 182, F&AM, of Key West, Fla., and to all employees, patting them on the day season, here are three "do-it­ the Railroad Yardmasters of America. back when they work safely. Keep this yourself" road rules worth remem­ He is survived by his wife Marie and bering: method well stirred so it won't settle. son Frank Junior. "Use a small bowl half-full of Hu­ 1. Courtesy to all other drivers and Our sympathies, too, to the family of pedestrians. man Relations; and add a cupful of EDVIN HARALDSON, who died in Oroville warning to each bowl whenever any 2. Coffee when weary or overin­ on September 30. A retired bridge and particular job of unusual nature is dulged. undertaken. construction worker for WP, Edvin 3. Caution at all times. was a native of Sweden. 18 M ILEP O ST S DE CE MBER , 1958 19 SACRAMENTO STORE The party was at the Parry residence Irene Burton where the honored couple received The Blood Bank was at the Sacra­ congratulations of their many friends. mento Shops on October 30 to receive Mr. McEnerney retired in September 53 donations from employees in the 1950. Mrs. Bea Brickley, Sacramento area. CHARLES REID, GALE Former Laborer MODESTO YSAGUIRRE national recording MINTLE and G. W. BREEDLOVE have all of Winnemucca left late in October for secretary for Railway r eceived keyrings for donating eight Business Women's New York City to board a ship for Association, chats w ith pints of blood apiece to date. Lequito, Spain, where he will retire Dr. Cushman, W p i S LEE WILLIS is back at work after with his wife and family after living in chief surgeon, Mrs. being out a few days because of sur­ the United States for 19 years. Modesto Edna Spratt. RBWA gery on her right hand. Sacramento Chapter was a laborer at the old Winnemucca president, and Mrs. All of us at the Stores wish all of you Roundhouse for several years. Claro Thompson, a v ery Merry Christmas! Weare sorry to report the death of chairman for recent retired Conductor HARRY M. LEONARD . "bossesll dinner meet­ ing in Sacramento. WINNEMUCCA Mr. Leonard, who worked for Western Sacramento Bee photo. Ruth G. Smith Pacific between 1915 and 1946 when Celebrating their 50th wedding an­ he retired, died October 21 in Winne­ niversary recently were retired Car­ mucca. man ANDREW C. McENERNEY and his New parents are Section Laborer wife Bertha. They were honored on and Mrs. CLARENCE R. TEARS to whom this occasion, on October 21, with a a son was born on October 22 in Win­ paign. As chairman for the mechanical 650 largest corporations in the nation. party given by their daughters, Mrs. nemucca. This is the third child in the department, we're happy to report that Western Pacific is pleased to partici­ Joseph de Arrieta and Mrs. Ted Parry. Tears family. there was 1000 per cent participation pate in the prosperous business life of Happiest Season's Greetings to all from the electricians, laborers, paint­ this city. ou?· friends. ers, blacksmiths, boilermakers, shop From all employees in Chicago-a foremen and the CMO's office, with a Merry, Merry Christmas to all our total over-all mechanical department readers! SACRAMENTO SHOPS participation of 83 per cent. Marcella G. Schultze OAKLAND With the thought of this spirit of Betty Hill and John Leland Retir ed Carman and Mrs. H . H. giving and helping others, it seems Oakland Clerk DON HILLYER an­ EVERS left October 27 for a six months' very appropriate to wish everyone a nounces the birth of his fourth son, visit in Australia, Henry's birthplace. very Merry Christmas and Happy New Edward James, on September 2. (No Thirty- two members of their family Year! girls yet in the Hillyer family.) were at the dock in San Francisco CHICAGO Weare sorry to report the tragic when the Evers departed on a British Carroll W. Wilkie death of GLENN MCCORMICK on Sep­ liner for a 19-day cruise to Sydney Latest addition to our Chief Clerk's tember 3 as the result of an auto acci­ with stopovers in Honolulu, the Fiji family is Theresa Marie Coffey, born dent on the Nimitz Freeway. His family Islands and New Zealand. While in October 14 at Geneva, Ill. Theresa is and many friends will miss him greatly. Australia, Henry plans to spend much the fourth child born to GERRY COFFEY JIM DUYN, traffic representative, will of his time with his sister in Mt. Mor­ and his wife, Genevieve. further enhance his already well estab­ gan, Queensland. Chicagoans were pleased to learn, lished reputation on December 7 at Our thanks to all the Shop em­ through a recent Fortune Magazine Oakland Auditorium. Jim will per­ ployees and to the CMO's office for survey, that the windy city can boast form the baritone solo in the Unruh their splendid cooperation in the re­ the home offices of at least a big share Philharmonic's presentation of the Andrew and Bertha M cEnerney cently completed United Crusade cam- of the operations of over 500 of the "Messiah." Last year, Jim played 20 M ILE POST S DECEMBER, 1958 21 "Woodie" in "Finian's Rainbow" at off duty for some time due to illness; to SAN FRANCISCO W oodminster Amphitheatre, and this Carman G. F. SMITH, and Roundhouse George Bowers, Doug Bruce, Kathleen Brunette, past summer played "Curley," the lead Clerk MAY ELLIOTT who recently Rita Connolly, EIi~abeth Fagan, Lawrence in "Oklahoma." The latter played to underwent surgery. Gerring, Carl Roth the largest houses W oodminster has Newest member of the correspond­ From Stockton comes very best ever had, and was a complete sell-out ents' staff is KATHLEEN BRUNETTE, ~~ wishes for a safe, but real merry, on two nights. freight traffic department. Kathleen, Christmas, and a New Yem' filled with R. F. RICKMON, writeup man, and COMPANY steno-clerk, has been with Western happiness! Carman and Mrs. DICK SELLERS vaca­ Pacific just over two years. She will tioned together in San Diego. J. J. welcome items of interest from mem­ HALE, laborer, vacationed in Texas. PORTOLA bers of the department. Roadmaster DAN LAUGHLIN vaca­ II JIMMY B. CURREY, head freight traf­ tioned for a week in Winnemucca, Gladys Largan fic department file clerk, is doing fine visiting with his family and hunting Our sympathy to the families of at St. Joseph's Hospital recovering ·deer. He and his son each got a buck. Conductor M. E. BAUST who died in St. ----- Joseph's Hospital on October 2 and of from his coronary which he suffered While BETTY HILL, roadmaster's .clerk, was vacationing in Dunsmuir Fireman W. J . BOIRE who died on Oc­ on October 9. with her husband, "Bud," a SFe train­ tober 29 in the Portola Hospital. WILLIAM "TEX" BLACKERBY was pro­ man, attending the Trainmen's Tri­ Honored at a retirement dinner on moted to position of traffic representa­ State Convention, they met D. A. October 22 at the Log Cabin restaurant tive, San Francisco general agent's MILLER and O. E. RONEY, WP train­ ing Trainmaster LESTER A. HENRY who in Portola was HUGH P . HETHERINGTON, office. He assumed his new position retired October 31 with over 44 years men and BRT representatives from machinist helper. He retired from the on October 1. service. Les was No. 1 on the Train­ Stockton. railroad on October 1, 1958. DOROTHY and FRITZ CASPERSON are Assistant Roadmaster JACK JONES men-Conductor's seniority list and the Portola employees extend their sin­ the proud parents of a baby girl­ has a new daughter, born October 7. third oldest employee in years of serv­ Kirsten-born October 8. "Dottie" was This makes the third daughter for ice on the roster. In wishing him the cerest wishes for a Merry Christmas formerly secretary to F. B. Stratton, .Jack, who also has one son. very best in his retirement he was pre­ and Happy New Year! RAY L. ACKERET, district car foreman sented a Polaroid Land camera with and his wife celebrated their 13th wed­ accessories and a gift certificate, wit­ .ding anniversary by attending the WP nessed by the 104 in attendance at the annual dance in San Francisco on Oc­ dinner. tober 25. Other Oaklanders seen at the Congratulations to Car Foreman and dance were GORDON SWITZER, JACK Mrs. G. J. BENEDICT, whose daughter, ,CAMPBELL, W. D. GOOD, BOB FAILING, Shirley, and son-in-law, Richard Sick­ HAROLD WYMAN, BETTY HILL and their ert, presented with their first grandson better halves. Section Foreman JOHN on October 27. The young man is David ·O'LOUGHLIN and his wife from Sunol, Allen. and retired Roadmaster J . P. CON­ A warm welcome to Assistant Su­ NELLY and wife were also present. perintendent HENRY E. STAPP and Our best Christmas and New Year Trainmaster L. W. BREINER, now head­ ·Gl·eetings to everyone! quartered at Stockton. Congratulations and good luck to STOCKTON W. W. GEIL, promoted to trainmaster Elaine Obenshain at Keddie. A retirement dinner was held at We wish very speedy recoveries for Clarence Crawford and "Red" Harvey, left, watch witnessed by A. V. Hughes, Bill Nixon, J. Giles, Stockton Ballroom October 29 honor- Carman J . D. HUGHES, who has been Bob Crumpacker hand gift to .Hugh Hetherington, Roy Wright, Charles Hicok and Ralph Sarbach .

.22 MILEPOSTS DECEMBER, 1958 23 industrial department, and Fritiz is fraternity. Also studying at the Uni­ NANDEZ and their children enjoyed a chief clerk at San Jose. versity now is Judy Hansen, daughter similar vacation in California. A delightful and real jolly retire­ of Conductor and Mrs. R. L . HANSEN . Following is a "card of thanks": ment party was given on November 6 Judy, whose major is social science, is "Your kindness and sympathy are for EDWARD M. HANSON, chief ticket a pledge of Delta Delta Delta. more deeply appreciated than any clerk, who retired on August 3l. Proud owners of new cars are Con­ words of thanks can ever express. President F. B. WHITMAN was one of ductor and Mrs. FRANK P. BOULWARE "Mrs. WALTER R. UMSHLER" four San Francisco business executives and Brakeman and Mrs. BRUNO B . Merry Christmas one and all, reelected board members of the Na­ PERRI. Merry Christmas great and small, tional Industrial Conference Board at Our deepest sympathy is extended to A Happy New Yea1' to you too, its meeting in New York on October the families of Brakeman DONALD B. Is the wish from me to you. 24. Founded in 1916, the Board is an CROSBY, Retired Conductor HARRY B. independent and nonprofit institution STEVENSON and to Engineers G. B. and ELKO for business and industrial fact finding R. B. GORHAM, whose homes have been John l. Murphy through scientific research. saddened by the sudden deaths of loved After 39 years with Western Pacific, HAROLD CONTOIS, draftsman, moved ones. LESLIE L. MORRIS, cashier in the Elko with his wife, Lois, to a new home at A speedy recovery is wished to Mrs. Freight Depot, has retired with best Mariners' Cove, Corte Madera. They Daniel W. Sullivan who has again been wishes from all his friends. Les joined were married in Sacramento a little stricken with serious illness. She is the WP as a machinist's helper in October over a year ago. wife of Conductor D. W. SULLIVAN. 1919 at Elko. He transferred to clerical ERNIE PERRY, estimating engineer, is Merry Christmas to each and every service the next year as a warehouse­ another new Mariners' Cove bound one of you and may your New Year be man and later became cashier. resident and will soon move into a new chock-full of peace and happiness. A member of the Masonic Lodge in home with his wife and two children. HAROLD DmKS, assistant estimating engineer, and a bachelor, has pur­ SACRAMENTO NORTHERN department. He is a true Scott and can Milton Ziehn chased two houses in Westlake Dis­ tell many tales of his ancestor, the wiz­ trict, and has installed himself in a Everyone on the Sacramento N01·th­ ard Michael Scott. He was formerly ern, including YOU1' reporter, takes new de luxe apartment right along with the Santa Fe at Denver. the ocean. pleasure in extending the warmest Warmest Christmas Greetings to Season's Greetings to all of our MILE­ ALBoCHATEY, engineering secretary­ Western Pacific railroaders every­ POSTS f1·iends. clerk, just returned from a holiday where from your fellow workers in spent in Mexico and was charmed by San Francisco! the country and the courtesy and hos­ WENDOVER pitality of its people. SALT LAKE CITY Esther A. Witt AL THOMAS, valuation accountant, is J. B. Price Mechanical Foreman ROBERT COLVIN back at work after a minor operation Brakeman and Mrs. GERALD C. TUR­ has spent three weeks visiting his on his head. He hopes to soon get rid VILLE became new parents on October brother in Pacific Grove, Calif., and re­ of the bandage. 8. The baby boy, named Tod, is the newing old acquaintances with friends GEORGE P. PURCHASE, lease clerk, was grandson of Conductor and Mrs. FITZ­ in Sacramento. He also had a good off for over ten days with a severe at­ GERALD TURVILLE. time fishing during his vacation. tack of the "£iu." We welcome his smil­ The son of Conductor and Mrs. AL­ Back from a month in California are ing face. FRED G. WOODWARD, Arlan, has started Retired Boilermaker and Mrs. JAMES DONALD F . SCOTT, junior engineer, is studying law this year at the Univer­ A. MONAHAN, who visited relatives and the newest member of the engineering sity of Utah and has pledged Sigma Chi friends. Laborer and Mrs. JOE HER- Les Morris

24 MILEPOSTS DECEMBER, 1958 25 Elko, Les served as Master during 1951. lived in Crescent Mills and leaves a "This Was BailroadiDIJ" He is also a member of the Royal Arch, wife and five children. Knights Templar, the Shrine and is a On the sick list for several months, By George Abdill 32nd degree Scottish Rite Mason. One Brakeman HUGH AUSMUS is now back There have been a good many books proved with a few maps of the area. of the first members of the Brotherhood at work. on American railroad history pub­ However, despite these minor short­ of Railway Clerks, his membership Mrs. Pearl Bohanon and her family lished during the last few years, but comings, "This Was Railroading" is dates back to 1920. have moved to Oroville. She is the few of them have dealt with the Pacific definitely a worthwhile book and one Les was born in Custer, South Da­ widow of Engineer BOHANON. Also Northwest. George Abdill's "This Was which will appeal particularly to Mr. kota, in 1893, and his family moved to leaving Keddie are Engineer and Mrs. Railroading," just published, make up Abdill's fellow railroaders. Most of his Idaho four years later. Les grew up in I. GREGORY who have bought a home in in part for this neglect. material is new to the printed page and Bellevue and, in 1914, moved to Mac­ Quincy. Subtitled "An Historical Collection he has unearthed a truly astounding kay. In 1917 he married Edna Paris. Mrs. Martin and Mrs. Laurel Fisher of Rare Photos and True Stories About assemblage of old-time photos ranging Honored at a retirement party on were the hostesses for a reception hon­ the Tracks, Trains and Trainmen of from the balloon stack woodburners October 30 at the Stockmen's Hotel, oring Mr. and Mrs. THOMAS BERRY, Op­ the Pacific Northwest," the volume is with which the rails invaded the Les was presented with a certificate of erator, of Oroville, on their 50th anni­ just what it claims to be. As a matter of Northwest to the sleek turn of the cen­ appreciation from Superintendent J. F . versary. The party, including 20 for fact it would have been improved had tury varnish representing the so-called LYNCH on behalf of President F. B. dinner and dessert served during the fewer pictures been used and the ne­ "Golden Age of Railroading." WHITMAN. The Brotherhood presented evening to many friends and neighbors, cessity for using too small cuts avoided. All in all, MILEPOSTS can heartily him with a trophy engraved "The was held in Paxton. A gift from all It would have been improved also had recommend "This Was Railroading" World's Best Storyteller" and also an their friends was presented to the Ber­ its locomotive engineer author availed by George B. Abdill. The Superior electric drill. rys, who are former K eddie residents. himself of a little professional editing. Publishing Company, Seatle, Washing­ Merry Christmas and Best New Greetings to all and best wishes for And it certainly would have been im- ton, 192 pages, $10. Year Wishes to all our friends! Christmas and the New Year! KEDDIE ---=- "Thirty-seven miles of snow" Elsie Hagen "I got up the other morning, feeling fine; Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Cy Was called to work, and arrived on time. BATES on the arrival of their baby son. We deadheaded to Westwood for a regular run The Bates family, formerly of Keddie, But was released up there and it was not for fun. now live in Sacramento where Cy Plowed sixteen miles of nine-foot snow works in the WP filing department. And the Boss asked us to plow some more. WAYNE GEIL, assistant trainmaster Plowed twenty-one miles m01·e and what did we get? from Stockton, is replacing BOB REDUS, Another day older and feet that were wet. Keddie trainmaster, and Bob is going Worked twenty-six hours doing our best to Oroville. And we all agreed there would be no rest Until we plowed the snow off the railroad tmck Yardmaster CHARLEY SELF and his So the trains could roll and make some jack wife have moved into their new home To pay us boys for clearing the track. at Taylorsville. The Selfs have re­ Now, Mr. Trainmaster, don't call us cently returned from a vacation visit­ 'Cause we don't want to go ing their daughter Norma and her To plow any more of that cold, cold snow." family. Our deepest sympathy to the BILL The above bit of poetry was found in February 1956. Bob said in his ac­ Cox family of Oroville, formerly of on the desk of R. A. Henderson, then companying letter to the editor: "No Keddie, on the loss of their son Jiggs, trainmaster at Keddie, after fighting signature, so I don't know who our who was killed in an auto accident. He heavy snow on the Keddie-Bieber line 'talent' is!"

26 M IL EPOST S DECEMBER, 1958 27 Sec. 34.66, P. L. & R. WESTERN PACIFIC MILEPOSTS U. S. POSTAGE 526 Mission St., San Francisco 5, Calif. PAID Return Postage Guaranteed San Francisco, Calif. P.rmit No. 5371 M:1. ALAN ASKE 18 1 SO . LINCO~N ST . r.J S ~ VILLE . CALIF .

Porm 3547 Reque.ted

At Christmas time travelers and shippers alike feel the warmth of the railroads' sincere message of "Peace on Earth, Good Will Toward Men," expressed by public celebrations across the nation. MILEPOSTS commends the railroads and their employees, one and all, for these Yuletide activities, a few of which are- Commuter carol singing in stations ... A 55-foot holly tree,by the tracks with J 1358 colored lights ... Employee Christmas parties for underprivileged children ..• Glee clubs performing at charitablE1 institutions ... Station tableaux depicting the storypf CHristmas and the Nativity ... Christmas tree formed by lighting some, blacking out others, office windows ... Special excursions for u! derprivileged youngsters ... Christmas story printed \ dining car menus .•. Choral groups serenading arr ving and departing trains .•. Christmas decorations in lounge and tavern cars .. . Christmas carols over stati 1loudspeaker systems .. . Gifts of holly, cigars and candy in dining tars for women, men and children ... An ~ any more. To railroads and railroaders everywhere-a very Merry Christmas!