The Rutland Ry Historical Society Convention

Two thirds of the Bellows Falls convention is over. Today we are going to the B&M roundhouse before I head for home. Friday night was a nice surprise. Most of the group went to diner at the old CV Windsor, Vt. station which is a very nice restaurant. They make their own pasta. Chicken parm. was great although it all looked good to me.  I would recommend dinner here. Back to the Best Western hotel in Springfield for slide night.

After elections Bill Badger gave us an update on membership which is down to about 200 from 400 years ago. He mentioned that today the average age of members is pre-deceased. That got some chuckles. Laz is working hard on getting the Newsliner back on track. An issue should be out shortly.

The days presentation were good. Phil Jordan covered the Bellows Falls switcher, milk business and roundhouse scene. Next up Bill Schultheiss did an overview of 24 hours in Bellows Falls in 1952. He counted on most days 44 trains came into town. I can only imagine railfanning there then. In the morning it seemed there was a train coming or going every 15 minutes with sometimes two there at a time. That is not counting the local switchers or trolley. Bill is modeling Bellows Falls and did a wonderful job researching this location. After lunch Phil covered the trolley scene, then Laz covered the flood of 1927 in town. I left after that as I felt tired and maybe overwhelmed with all I learned. There was only one more clinic left. It was great to see everyone. Some I had not seen in decades...George Dutka

I guess train time at Windsor station is now beer time.

One table full at the Windsor station restaurant. There was three full tables with the last ones arriving sat at the bar.

Ray Muntz Bellows Falls model. An article on this model and plans were in a past Newsliner.

Lots of Rutland papers for sale and books.

Don talking railroading with Bill.

Don had some Rutland brass for sale.

The day began with a short business meeting. Left to right is Phil Jordan, Bill Badger and Laz.

Lunch time break