Posted by Trail Nut
on August 5, 2009, 10:17 am
70.226.95.X
I have an article in the April 1988 issue of Passenger Train Journal on the C&O's "Mini-Marquette", a passenger train that ran between Holland and Muskegon. I think these trains would make a great layout if you were into passenger trains. In the 1940's these trains were handled by one of the 700 Pacifics, from 1949 to 1962 they were pulled by one of the steam generator BL-2's, and then GP7's #5886 and 5888, and later GP9's 6084 and 6088. These trains were short, heavyweight RPO-baggage and a coach. Later they used just a baggage car and a coach. They were trains 201, 206, 203,and 208 on the C&O timetable.
You could also model the Grand Rapids to Chicago passenger trains, maybe have them on a loop so that one train could represent two trains each way. Throw in the Cannonball freight from GR to Muskegon, the local switcher in Muskegon, and the freight between Muskegon and Holland and you have a busy railroad. The depots at Holland, Grand Haven, and Muskegon are beautiful, and the Grand Haven swing bridge would be the scenic highlight of the layout, I can see a BL-2 leading a passenger train over the bridge. If anyone is interested in this line, let me know, I have photos and info on it. Maybe I could work up a layout plan also. Hey Fritz, maybe you'd be interested? TN
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