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|  Message 2515  |
|  hancock4@bbs.cpcn.com to All  |
|  Set-out Pullmans--energy supply and wast  |
|  15 Apr 14 07:12:32  |
 questions on Pullman operation... In the days of Pullman travel, it was common to set out a Pullman on a siding when the train stopped in the middle of the night. Passengers could stay in their berths until morning. The car would be picked up on the next run. (Likewise, passengers could board a Pullman in the evening, which would actually leave in the middle of the night). These services continued until Amtrak, and even Amtrak may have had a few. In the old days, power for lights and a/c was provided by batteries charged by generators attached to the wheels. Steam from the locomotive provided heat. Can one presume that every set-out siding had steam and electric lines to support set-out sleepers? What about special events? Sometimes a fleet of Pullmans would arrive at a major sports event, political convention, etc. Passengers would use their Pullman cars as an hotel for the event. Again, were their electric and steam lines available for a whole fleet of cars? Now, the tricky question. On old trains, restroom waste was dumped directly onto the tracks. While the train was moving that wasn't a problem, but it wasn't good in a station. Indeed, signs were on toilets asking not to flush in a station. So, what about set out Pullmans, which would be in a spot for at least several hours? Passengers have to go. Without other means, in the morning the siding would not be a pleasant place, especially in the summer. Thanks. [public replies, please] --- SoupGate/W32 v1.03 * Origin: LiveWire BBS -=*=- UseNet FTN Gateway (1:2320/1) |
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