pentrexvideos
Milwaukee Road Volumes I-III
updated
BNSF's St. Croix Subdivision
Tracing the eastern banks of the upper Mississippi River is BNSF's St. Croix Subdivision, a mostly double-tracked route providing access for a nonstop parade of traffic from LaCrosse, Wisconsin to Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota. Pentrex takes you across the entire Sub, shooting throughout the seasons to bring you a unique perspective on this important, busy line.
Starting at the Grand Crossing diamond in LaCrosse, where BNSF crosses Canadian Pacific trackage, we follow intermodal, coal, grain, taconite, manifest, and other trains along the shores of the Mississippi. Bald Eagles are seen circling overhead, boats ply the waters, and train whistles echo off the surrounding bluffs.
With the variety of trains comes a great variety of motive power. Two Dash-9s make their maiden voyages in Heritage II paint schemes; an original GP30 is seen working the local at Bay City; three GP20s head up a grain train, even BN's "Pulling for Freedom" locomotive is spotted - the volume and diversity is amazing.
Whether the summer sun is beating down on the rails or winter's snows are flying off them, trains and more trains keep on rolling across BNSF's St. Croix Subdivision. Here's a great opportunity for you to enjoy the action!
The Final Three Electric Interurban Freight Survivors
At one time electrified freight interurbans operated throughout the United States. Yet today just three remain in service. Toiling under the wires as if time had passed them by, these survivors depend upon an assortment of antique freight motors to keep them rolling.
Pentrex traveled to Wisconsin to record the East Troy Electric, which still pulls freight on an as-needed basis. During 1998 the railroad utilized motor L-9 when it took part in moving fourteen special loads of stainless steel tubing.
Next we visit San Antonio where Texas Transportation uses electric freight motors through city streets to serve the Pearl brewery. Then we're off to Mason City, Iowa to view multiple motors on Iowa Traction. A ride aboard one of their historic freight motors gives us a great view of the motorman at work.
Learn why these railroads continue to operate their old freight motors in modern times. If you love traction, you'll be thrilled by the sight of these antique electrics at work today!
Quebec North Shore & Labrador
Wabush Lakes
Arnaud Railway
Heavy, long trains are the hallmark of the Quebec North Shore & Labrador. Operating some of the longest ore drags in the world at 256 cars, the trains pass through the most beautiful scenery in eastern Canada. Hundreds of lakes dot the countryside and wild rivers swirl down out of the mountains and through the thick forests. Owned by the Iron Ore Company of Canada, this isolated carrier transports ore 260 miles from the mine to a dock on the St. Lawrence River.
The QNS&L operates one of North America's most obscure passenger trains, running bi-weekly. We ride up front with the crew to bring you miles of cab footage along the scenic line. The railroad even operates a mixed train and freight trains. You may never have known about the QNS&L before, but after viewing the ride up the line you'll be making plans for a trip to Quebec.
Operations on the Wabush Lake Railway and the Arnaud Railway are also included in our presentation. A fleet of RS-18 locomotives bark and growl as they smoke it up on heavy ore drags. The Alcos are a special treat that you're sure to enjoy.
This is heavy-haul railroading with outstanding scenery and plenty of action. We visit the mine's electrified railway and watch as remote controlled robotic trains haul ore from the pits to the plant. Don't miss the excitement of iron ore railroading, Canadian style, as Pentrex brings you Eastern Quebec's Ore Lines, Volume II.
Sand Patch Grade
CSX's Sand Patch Grade in western Pennsylvania is one of the most popular railfanning sites in the eastern U.S. Heavy tonnage, high density traffic, and grueling mountain grades are trademarks of this famous ex-Baltimore & Ohio route.
In this exciting production, which was taped over a three-year period, you'll see a multitude of trains at familiar landmarks as well as the rarely seen west slope, in all seasons of the year. Many of the locomotives are seen sporting their pre-CSX paint schemes from various predecessor railroads.
Visit towers, tunnels, obscure branchlines, and see the last train to ever run on the old Berlin Subdivision out of Garrett, Pennsylvania. You'll even ride on a pusher engine shoving an eastbound freight from Connellsville, PA up the west slope to the summit at Sand Patch. It's the ultimate mountain railroading experience.!
Cumberland, Maryland to Grafton, West Virginia
The West End has been called the toughest mountain railroad in the Eastern United States. This legendary route crosses the eastern Continental Divide from Cumberland, Maryland to Grafton, West Virginia. Four steep grades of up to 2.8 percent make helper engines necessary over an incredible 66 mile district. Once the domain of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, the West End, also known as the Mountain Subdivision, is now owned by CSX Transportation.
Travel along all 101 miles of the Mountain Subdivision with Iron Horse America. You'll see nonstop freight action from trackside and in the cab from Cumberland to Grafton. Coal trains and mixed freights look fantastic battling the grades of the Allegheny Mountains in late fall and early spring, but the highlight of the show is incredible winter footage. You'll see winter railroading at its toughest as CSX keeps freight moving in spite of heavy blizzards.
The two-tape set, which was shot in cooperation with CSX, brings you the fantastic sights and sounds of Allegheny Mountain railroading - long, heavy trains grinding towards the summits, helper engines at full throttle, and twisting mountain curves.
The Marysville Sub is one of Union Pacific's busiest routes, supporting tremendous traffic between Gibbon Junction, Nebraska, and Kansas City. In Volume II, we pick up the action at Marysville, Kansas, the crew change point for this 228-mile stretch of heavy duty railroading, and follow the line east to Kansas City.
The action is unsurpassed and train meets are plentiful as up to sixty trains a day work across the single-tracked portion of the line. At Topeka, the action gets even better. Southern Pacific's "Cotton Rock" line shares track with Union Pacific from here to Kansas City. The final sixty-seven miles are all double track and the trains race along the bottom lands of the Kansas River.
Heavy coal trains, drag freights, and fast intermodal trains ply the line. UP's newest motive power is on display, with both GE and EMD "AC" diesels on the point of many trains. Unit coal trains are seen operating with distributed power, and visiting diesels from other railroads are viewed heading up other trains. Glorious scenery and high density action fill the screen in our exciting tour of the Union Pacific's Marysville Sub!
The Marysville Sub supports high density railroading at its finest. Union Pacific sends up to sixty trains a day across its hilly terrain. This primarily single-tracked line spans the sparsely populated region between Kansas City and the junction with UP's mainline at Gibbon, Nebraska. The rails cut across a rolling landscape rich in scenic beauty, where trains work hard to conquer the uneven profile of the land.
Starting at Gibbon Junction, the incredibly active meeting point of the Marysville Sub and the Nebraska Division mainline, we follow the route east along the Nebraska prairie. A new bypass around Hastings speeds trains up and over a busy Burlington Northern line. Soon after crossing into Kansas the line becomes double-tracked and carries trains swiftly into Marysville, the crew change location and the stopping point for Volume I in our tour.
Union Pacific's diesels put on a spectacular show, rushing train after train over the line. The railroad's newest motive power can be seen pulling heavy coal trains and speedy intermodal freights. The single-tracked portions of the route provide ample opportunity to witness numerous train meets. For big-time, modern railroading, get set for nonstop action in the Marysville Subdivision, Volume I.
The Joint Line is an action filled stretch of contemporary main line with a colorful past. Two fiercely competitive railroads, the Denver & Rio Grande and Santa Fe built parallel tracks between Denver and Pueblo, Colorado in the mid 1800s. However, the competition came to a halt during World War I when the U.S. Government forced "joint" operations between the two railroads.
Today, the Joint Line supports the Southern Pacific (including the Denver & Rio Grande Western), the Santa Fe and the Burlington Northern. Coal, freight, and passenger trains utilize this heavily traveled right of way. See dozens of leased and run-through locomotives, pusher engines shoving hard against long coal drags, and some of the newest diesels including BN's SD70MACs. Old black & white photos depicting the area, as well as steam and early diesel powered trains, are also shown as an interesting comparison of the past and present.
The gorgeous scenery of Colorado is highlighted in this video that was produced over a four year period. You are treated to the splendor of the different seasons, including spectacular snow scenes. Visit many of the popular locations along the line such as Castle Rock, Palmer Lake, and South Denver. Heavy freights, nonstop action, and a variety of motive power combined with breathtaking Colorado scenery makes this an incredible video you won't want to miss!
Beautifully painted diesels shine in the brilliant sun as they operate through scenic landscapes of the California Northern. See sugar beets delivered to a sugar plant, GP-15 locomotives grinding up Creston Hill with a pipe train, talk to and ride with one of the railroad's engineers, and ride in the cab of a venerable SD-9 on the Willits Turn.
Explore the West Valley Sub as we chase beet trains along the route. Visit the Napa Sub, Napa Junction, and the line to Vallejo. West of Napa Junction we follow the Petaluma Turn over drawbridges and past vineyards. Then we catch the Hopland Turn and track it north to its interchange with the Willits Turn. While riding aboard the train we enjoy an exciting trip through scenic Cloverdale Canyon along the Russian River.
Our tour concludes with a thrilling ride across Ridge Summit aboard the Willits Turn. Heavy loads of lumber from the north are hauled over the steep mountain grade and down the treacherous slope to Ukiah. This is regional railroading at its best on The California Northern.
Experience the Auto Train-one of the most unusual trains on the entire Amtrak system. Passengers on this train not only bring their luggage, they bring their personal vehicles! Traveling between the Washington D.C. suburb of Lorton, Virginia, and Sanford, Florida, the Auto Train offers vacationers a comfortable alternative to a long road trip.
Pentrex explores the Auto Train's entire operation from loading to unloading. You'll watch as vehicles are placed aboard special carriers, and see how this long train is assembled. Once underway, you'll ride with the crew aboard the lead locomotive and learn what makes this special train so unusual. You'll also view the train from trackside, and will tour the interiors of many of the cars in this consist.
By the time the passengers are waking up and breakfasting in the full length domed dining car, the train has crossed into Florida and is sprinting toward Sanford. You'll see the train being separated and the vehicles unloaded at the end of a fascinating journey. Come with Pentrex and discover why passengers return year after year to ride Amtrak's Auto Train!
The Cheyenne Shops
The Union Pacific Railroad produced its classic documentary film Last of the Giants in 1959 as a fitting tribute to the world's largest steam locomotives-the Big Boys. UP cameramen filmed the Big Boys over a three-year period, which Pentrex re-released in 1992. It ran for a total of just 23 minutes, leaving hours of unused footage that was set aside for many years.
Now, in an exclusive arrangement with the Union Pacific Historical Society, Pentrex is proud to present Last of the Giants Volume II - The Cheyenne Shops, utilizing much of the original, unused film footage. The Big Boys were based in Cheyenne during their last years of operation, powering freights over Sherman Hill to Laramie. Cheyenne itself was THE western steam Mecca in the 1950s, and this new presentation is crammed with scenes taken throughout Cheyenne's bustling yards, showing the many steam locomotives that were in service at that time.
We tour the coal chute and servicing areas, take a spin on the turntable that served the 48-stall roundhouse, and visit the backshop where the Challengers and Big Boys were rebuilt. We also talk today with several of the machinists who once worked on these famous locomotives, and watch as Steve Lee, Manager of Steam Operations for the UP, shows us the operational layout and design of the Cheyenne yards as they were in the late 1950s.
Pentrex has painstakingly restored the original films for this exciting new production, using the latest in computerized enhancement technology. You'll be thrilled with the results in this all-color, detailed presentation.
Pentrex has captured the excitement of big steam power in action as the 3751 returned to the Santa Fe mainline. Pentrex was there in 1986 as the 3751 was removed from its resting place in a park in San Bernardino and moved to Fontana. Years and countless man-hours later, Pentrex was there to cover the successful break-in runs and show what the dedication of many talented individuals can achieve. Pentrex crews also covered the entire four-day maiden voyage of the engine in excursion service.
The engine powered a re-creation of the California Limited passenger train, celebrating the 99th anniversary of the train's debut. Running from Los Angeles to Bakersfield, California and returning via Cajon and Tehachapi Passes, the engine performed flawlessly as it tackled the stiff grades over the mountains. Two FP-45 diesel locomotives painted in the dazzling warbonnet scheme were coupled behind the steam engine as helpers.
The natural beauty of Arizona's desert landscape creates a dramatic setting for the unique group of shortline railroads, that cut across the state. Powered by older-model locomotives from Baldwin, Alco, and EMD, Arizona's shortlines provide us with an excellent opportunity to view these classic machines in operation. When these smoking diesels are filmed against a desert alive with the colors of spring wildflowers, the result is a visually stunning experience.
The copper roads are exciting to watch. We see the Copper Basin, San Manuel Arizona, Magma Arizona, and the Arizona Eastern in action. An Arizona & California train is followed across the western part of the state to its headquarters in Parker. This new regional line is a first-class operation, and its newly-painted diesels gleam under Arizona's sunny skies.
We conclude our presentation with a tour of the Apache Railroad, and a ride on a road train to Holbrook and back. Five of Apache's Alcos power the train; it's an awesome sight and the sound is incredible! This is an exhilarating experience you'll want to watch over and over again.
Pentrex takes you where few have ventured: deep into the inner plant and strip mines of LTV Mining Company's Minnesota operation. You'll see the last intact group of EMD-delivered F-units that remain in operation on what was formerly known as the Erie Mining Railroad. There's plenty of Alco action on mine runs, and Baldwin switchers are seen working around the plant.
This is the complete "taconite" story. Starting with the removal of ore-bearing rock from pit mines, we trace the process from crushing and pulverizing to concentrating the ore and forming taconite pellets. Once the pellets have been formed, they are transported to the dock by railroad for their journey to LTV's blast furnaces.
LTV's roster of locomotives is truly unique and features units from three different manufacturers. A group of Electro-Motive F-9's are used to haul 96-car trains of taconite pellets to the ore dock. Rock is hauled from strip mines by Alco diesels, primarily RS-11 roadswitchers. Alco C-420 engines and a C-424 are also used. Supplies for the plant are handled by a fleet of Baldwin S-12 switch engines.
You'll see all these locomotives in operation as they perform their daily routines around the huge mining complex. Then climb aboard the cab of an F-9 for the trip to Lake Superior ore dock. It's an exciting and beautiful ride through the north woods of Minnesota's remote iron range country.
Cartier Railway
Quebec Iron & Titanium's Romaine River Railway
Far off in the wilds of eastern Quebec, isolated railroads haul heavy trains of iron ore from remote mines to docks along the St. Lawrence River. Volume I of Eastern Quebec's Ore Lines covers the action on the Cartier, an all-Alco-powered railroad. Cartier's fleet of big, six-axle M-636's growl and smoke as they lug long trains across the line.
One of the most remote railroads in all of North America is explored as we travel to Quebec Iron & Titanium Romaine River Railway in far eastern Canada. No access roads have been built to the company's mine, so workers must be transported to the facility on a passenger train.
The scenery is fantastic and the railroad action non-stop. You'll be dazzled by Cartier's big Alcos, working hard and toiling their way across Quebec's beautiful landscapes. We visit the open pit mine and learn how the iron bearing rock is processed. At Port Cartier, we're treated to a tour of the locomotive and car shops. A visit to the dispatcher's office reveals a modern, computerized CTC system in operation.
Experience the thrill of big-time, heavy haul railroading at its finest, filled with Alco power and fantastic scenery, as Pentrex explores Eastern Quebec's Ore Lines, Volume I.
50th Anniversary of the Santa Claus SpecialThe Union Pacific Challenger 3985 made its first-ever venture east of the Mississippi River in November, 1992, as it traveled off line onto CSX rails. This historic event was prompted by the 50th running of the Santa Claus Special, a tradition of the former Clinchfield Railroad that is being carried on by the railroad's successor, CSX. Each year, on the Saturday before Thanksgiving, the special train carries Santa Claus and his helpers as they toss candy and gifts to the children of the coal mining towns that line the route from Shelbiana, Kentucky, to Kingsport, Tennessee.
The Clinchfield Railroad at one time owned six of the big Challenger engines which were used to haul Appalachian coal. UP and CSX, in a joint effort, worked to bring a Challenger back onto Clinchfield rails again.
UP 3985 underwent a special lettering and numbering change for the event. Leaving Union Pacific rail in Memphis, Tennessee, the Challenger traveled to Huntington, West Virginia, where it was converted to "Clinchfield 676." Following the Santa Claus Special, "Clinchfield 676" ran an employee special out of Kingsport.
The Challenger is a sight to behold as it works up through the twisting, rugged Appalachian mountains. The sound of the steam whistle echoing through the hollows will take you back in time, and the coal mining towns along the route will remind you of another era in American railroading. Here is all the excitement of Union Pacific's Clinchfield Challenger for you to savor and enjoy.
Come along on a journey of discovery as Pentrex travels to the Pine Tree State in search of Today's Maine Railroads. You'll see all the current freight operations plus a fascinating tourist line. The beauty of the state is revealed as you follow trains through villages and across the open countryside.
The Bangor & Aroostook, Canadian Pacific, Saint Lawrence & Atlantic, Belfast & Moosehead Lake, and Guilford Transportation's Springfield Terminal are all covered. The Alco RS-11 of the new shortline, Maine Coast, puts on a show for us as we witness the new railroad's movements.
At Brownville Junction, we stay up all night to catch the nocturnal operations of Canadian Pacific and a VIA passenger train. Following a Bangor & Aroostook local freight, we watch as it works its way along the line. Locomotives on the Springfield Terminal will surprise you, as many older-model diesels work in daily freight service.
Maine is a state alive with railroad activity and variety. The wide range of locomotive types and paint schemes will captivate your interest, and the scenic beauty of the state provides a perfect backdrop for great railroad action. Join us for a tour around the state as we explore Today's Maine Railroads!
Pentrex presents one of the most scenic and busy railroad routes in Northern California, the Shasta Division of the Southern Pacific. The Valley and Black Butte Districts host a daily parade of heavy lumber and merchandise trains, joined by an ever-increasing number of intermodal movements. Our coverage of this division starts in Redding, California and continues to Grass Lake.
Trains cross the spectacular Redding Trestle as they start upgrade into the mountains. The constantly twisting route follows the Sacramento River to Dunsmuir. Here, diesels are added to many of the trains for the battle through Cantara Loop and up the stiff 2.1% grade through Azalea. Continuing east from Black Butte, trains climb a constant 1.4% grade as they skirt their way around the base of majestic Mt. Shasta. Pentrex is proud of this look at the trains of Southern Pacific's Shasta Division battling their way through ever-changing and spectacular scenery. Your will see trains crossing high trestles on the route and grinding up the steep grades to the summit at Grass Lake. A large number of trains with a great variety of motive power are shown against the seasonal backdrops of summer's long days and winter's snow-covered mountains.
http://pentrex.com/cpatchdvd.html
Horse Shoe Curve and Sand Patch Grade are two Pennsylvania railroading landmarks of enormous popularity, with good reason. They share long history, challenging terrain, heavy traffic, and innovative technologies. Pentrex recorded these famous sites in the late 1980s and released two outstanding shows, both of which are included on this new combo DVD.
Horse Shoe Curve
Step back to 1989 when Conrail was running from 40-60 trains a day through the 3-track curve at this historic site in central Pennsylvania. Most of the action here is led by Conrail but Amtrak makes an appearance as well. The interesting mix of motive power you'll see here includes SD40s, SD40-2s, SD45-2s, and GE C30-7As. You'll travel to Alto Tower in Altoona, Benny, the Gallitzin Twin Tunnels, AR Tower, MO Tower in Cresson, but most of all you'll spend quality time at Horse Shoe Curve itself, the granddaddy of railfan locations! (75 minutes)
Sand Patch Grade
Old and new technologies intermingle on this remote yet important route through the Alleghenies. In 1990, when our show was recorded, this former B&O trackage was known as the Mainline Subdivision, a part of CSX's Chicago-to-Baltimore mainline. CSX trains battled their way upgrade through Brackens, Fairhope, Falls Cut Tunnel, Glencoe, the horse shoe curve at Mance, and Sand Patch Grade itself. You'll see a variety of motive power including GP30s, GP40s, SD50s, the CSX F-unit, and others in an assortment of paint schemes such as B&O, C&O, Clinchfield, Seaboard, Chessie, and classic CSX colors. You'll also tour the tower at Hyndman where vintage Armstrong levers were still in daily use and visit busy SA tower at the crest of Sand Patch Summit. Sand Patch Grade, rich in history, abounds in exciting mainline railroading! (60 minutes)
In June of 1990, four of the nation's largest steam locomotives traveled to Union Station in St. Louis for the NRHS convention. Pentrex was there with six camera crews to capture all the spectacular sights and sounds of these mighty steam locomotives.
Featured at the convention were the Frisco 1522, Union Pacific 844, Norfolk & Western 1218 and the Cotton Belt 819. Our tape takes you along on the excursions with camera crews both on board and on the ground.
Plus, our tape contains footage of the special run of the 844 and 1522 double-headed! We share all of the various activities that made this the biggest steam event of 1990!
http://pentrex.com/mex1dvd.html
In 1991, Pentrex set out to explore the fascinating operations of the Mexican railway system, seeking to discover what type of equipment our southern neighbors used and how they ran their railroads. There was so much of interest to record that we were able to present multiple video releases. Now Pentrex is proud to present Volume 1, featuring the railroads of northern Mexico.
Every freight train runs with a caboose in the world of Mexico rails in the early 1990s. It's a place where the art of telegraphy is still practiced as an essential means of communication. It's a land where railway express is a thriving business. What seems odd to us is standard here. You'll see former Katy GP40s pulling passenger trains in direct contrast with new General Electric Super Sevens working on high priority trains.
Climb aboard the engine of a local passenger train and experience breathtaking views as the train grinds up seventeen miles of 3 percent grade. This ride is simply exhilarating! Your train adventures will take you into some of the most remote and beautiful locations in the country. It's an amazing trip that highlights the differences and the similarities of railroading on Mexico's northern rails!
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Central Mexico Rails (DVD)
Hop aboard as Pentrex continues its fascinating journey through Mexico. We'll travel toward Mexico City to explore the lines running east of the capital and see that railroading traditions long ago put to rest in the U.S. are still prevalent in Mexico.
You'll have an opportunity to see the new electrified section of the railroad and visit one of North America's railroading hot spots. Then we travel further east to the railway museum at Puebla, and catch lots of big Alco locomotives in all types of service along the way.
A cab ride over the last remaining section of narrow gauge in Mexico is a particular highlight of our tour. Pentrex has captured a few final moments on this soon-to-be-replaced monument of old time railroading.
Finally, we venture to the incredible mountain passes in eastern Mexico, where freight trains often run with two sets of midtrain helpers. The freights snake around sharp curves, pulled by sets of General Electric Super Sevens.
Mexico's railroads are truly intriguing, and you'll be captivated by the beautiful country through which they operate. Pentrex is proud to take you along on this fascinating journey.
http://pentrex.com/catsfdvd.html
The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is one of America's most popular train rides. A remnant of the once-flourishing Rio Grande Narrow Gauge network, the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic runs from Chama, New Mexico to Antonito, Colorado.
Over the years, fans have captured the operations of the narrow gauge in their photos of trains battling over Cumbres Pass. The past decade has seen several privately sponsored freight trains run especially for photographers on the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic.
A run advertised as the final one took place in September of 1990. Jim Trowbridge organized a special photographers' freight train appropriately named the San Juan Express. This trip was unusual in that it covered the entire length of the railroad, showing the wide variety of scenery along the way. The great looking train and excellent weather conditions made this an exciting and memorable two day excursion.
If you missed the trip, Pentrex has your ticket to relive the glorious days of the Rio Grande freight train, battling its way up the 10,000-foot Cumbres Pass and winging its way over the longest narrow gauge railroad in America.
Volume 1: The San Bernardino Subdivision — Los Angeles to San Bernardino
Volume 2: The Cajon Subdivision — Devore to Barstow
Volume 3: Train Meets
Volume 4: The Alameda Corridor
Volume 5: The Surfline
Volume 6: A Railroader's Perspective
DOUBLESTACKS OVER DONNER
Pentrex traveled to Donner Pass in the winter of 2009-2010, spending several weeks to capture the revitalized action that can now be found on the Roseville Subdivision. The Union Pacific had just finished a 12-month project to increase the clearances in 15 tunnels and snow sheds on Donner Pass so that doublestack trains could again be routed over this crossing of the Sierra Nevada range. Southern Pacific once ran doublestacks over Donner Pass but as larger containers with extra height evolved, its successor, Union Pacific, had been compelled to route its container trains over the Feather River Canyon instead, and traffic on Donner declined to a trickle of its former intensity. However, in 2008, UP decided it would be worth the cost to raise the roof on the shorter, faster line to expedite delivery of intermodal freight by several hours when compared to the more lengthy transit of the former Western Pacific line. As a result, traffic is now flowing over Donner in abundance!
Youll see types of trains showcased here: grain trains, fruit trains, auto trains, general freight, and Amtraks California Zephyr. Well show them battling the stiff grades and serpentine curves that railroaders face on Donner. The spotlight, however, is on the enormous doublestack trains, some of them up to 9,000 feet long! Once again, the sounds of laboring diesels hauling containers by the hundreds echo off the granite walls of this historic pass. At last you can see those massive doublestacks slugging their way over the crest of the jaw-dropping 7,000-foot summit. There is nothing quite like Doublestacks Over Donner!
2 Hours. Product Code: #DSDONR-DVD. Price: $29.95.
http://www.pentrex.com/dsdonrdvd.html
Presented in High Definition 16x9 Format.
This DVD includes Chapter Menus and the option of watching the show with or without narration.
ORDER YOUR COPY OF DOUBLESTACKS OVER DONNER TODAY!
Thank you for ordering from Pentrex the Finest in Railroad Entertainment!
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Featuring 2 Shows on 1 Disc!
Amtrak Across America: 25th Anniversary and
Amtrak's X2000 Demonstration
From the early years when a rainbow mix of motive power and passenger cars pioneered its debut service, Amtrak has been a subject of avid interest to railfans. Pentrex celebrates the first twenty-five years of Amtrak history with two special documentaries. Included on this Combo DVD are:
Amtrak Across America; 25th Anniversary. Climb aboard for a tribute to the first quarter century of Americas national passenger train service. Amtraks colorful history rolls across the screen, from the earliest years to the Genesis locomotives and high-speed corridors of the 1990s. Historic footage of passenger trains prior to Amtrak sets the stage. Then youll see great views of Amtrak as it evolved. Highlights include the Southwest Chief, Coast Starlight, Empire Builder, Desert Wind, Sunset Limited, and other well known trains as they travel on the Northeast Corridor, the Hudson Division, Horse Shoe Curve, Chicago Hub, and other famous routes. Travel to scenic locations across the country to see Amtrak at its finest!
Amtraks X2000 Demonstration. Amtraks search for new equipment to serve the Northeast Corridor allowed ABB-Traction to demonstrate its futuristic X2000 trainset. After initial testing, the X2000 began scheduled revenue service in February 1993, running from Washington, D.C. to New York City and occasionally on to New Haven and back. The sleek, high-speed train amazed everyone with its looks, speed, and ride. Pentrex takes you aboard the train to see how its radial self-steering trucks, car body tilt functions, and regenerative braking systems operate. A cab ride gives you an idea what its like to zip down the corridor at 135 mph. Then we go trackside and airborne for shots of the train racing through the countryside. Join Pentrex for a ride on Amtraks X2000 Demonstration!
Featuring These 2 Shows on 1 Disc!
* Along the Hudson Division
* Amtrak's Turbo Trains Cab Ride
The Hudson Division is one of the most scenic and interesting sections of Amtraks Northeast Corridor. Running north/south from Penn Station in New York City to Albany-Rensselaer, it follows the course of the Hudson River and offers beautiful vistas, charming old railway stations, and the special character of the river itself. However, its not just the scenic landscapes that attract railfans to this area. In 1992, when Pentrex documented the line with two video releases, the Hudson Division was FL-9 country. Well take you aboard one of these classic diesels and also treat you to a cab ride on a Turbo Train. Get ready for an exciting tour of the Hudson Division! Included on this combo DVD are:
Along the Hudson Division. Join us in the cab and trackside from Penn Station, NYC north to Albany-Rensselaer. The line is home to both Metro Norths and Amtraks fleet of Electro-Motive FL-9 diesel-electric/electrics. These unique locomotives are the highlight of our tour, but well also see Amtrak Turbos, Metro North MU cars, and Conrail freights. See Amtraks Westside line from the cab as the train snakes out of cavernous Penn Station. Cross over the newly rebuilt Spuyten Duyvil Bridge, and ride along the shore in this exciting, beautiful journey.
Amtraks Turbo Trains Cab Ride. Climb aboard an Amtrak Turbo Train for a high-speed run south along the Hudson Division. The ride is as smooth as it is fast and the scenery is spectacular. Youll see Conrail freights flash past and meet other Amtrak trains on their northbound journeys. Once in Metro North territory, youll see Metro trains classic FL-9s and MU cars busily rushing New York commuters off to the City. Nearing NYC, the line diverges onto Amtraks Westside track. We cross over the bridge at Spuyten Duyvil and end our Turbo Train adventure at Penn Station.
The last diesel locomotive rolled off the Alco assembly line in 1969 but the hills of northwest Arkansas still echoed those distinctive Alco sounds in 1988, when Pentrex set out to bring you an up close and personal look at the people, places, and equipment of the Arkansas & Missouri Railroad. Running along a 139-mile corridor from Fort Smith, Arkansas to Monett, Missouri, the A&M is a longtime favorite of railfans as its fleet is comprised entirely of Alco locomotives. Heres your opportunity to see Century 420s climbing the steep slopes of the Boston Mountains, the highest mountain grade between the Appalachians and the Rockies. Youll thrill to those unmistakable throaty sounds of an Alco throttle yanked into Run Eight. Youll also ride in the cab of a smoking T-6 as it switches cars on a branch line and visit the shops in Springdale where the locomotives are serviced and kept running strong. A highlight of your adventures is a ride aboard RS-1 #22 as it pulls a passenger train just for us. This entertaining tour of the Arkansas & Missouri is a must-have addition to your railroad DVD collection!
In 1994, Pentrex went on a tour of discovery along CSX branchlines in the coalfields of West Virginia to show you how coal was brought down out of the hollows and moved out to world markets. The beauty of the Appalachian Mountains, the power of the railroad, and the importance of the task are just as riveting today as they were then. Pentrex is proud to bring you the story of Southern West Virginia Coal!
Traveling on the Logan, the Big River, and the Big Coal Subdivisions, as well as their numerous connecting subs, youll see hard working diesels pull strings of hoppers up stiff grades and twisting branchlines where the cars will be flood-loaded at the mines. Cabooses are still utilized on some trains and rear-end pushers can be seen on others. Following the loaded trains out of the coalfields, youll visit a rail-to-river transfer facility where a rotary dumper quickly unloads the black diamonds into barges. An interview with Tim Hensley, CSX Resident Vice-President for West Virginia, provides intriguing insight. Mr. Hensley was once a locomotive engineer and he reflects on his personal experience and the significance of these coal operations to the railroad and the state.
Long, heavy trains grinding through curve after curve, powering through daunting grades, loaded with the raw ore that will feed a hungry nation; thats what youll find here. The action never ceases for CSX as it meets the challenge of the coalfields of Southern West Virginia!
Venerable Budd cars, the icons of BC Rails passenger operation, are exquisitely highlighted as they work up the line. The last Alco powered RS-18 is captured as it switches cars at Squamish. Helper service is shown in detail as we ride an assisted freight up steep mountain grades. Rebuilt Cat-powered diesels are seen toiling at the large yard in North Vancouver. Youll see the school train that provides children with a unique form of transportation to and from class. Even more action is waiting to be enjoyed in this insightful look at BC Rail operations and the gorgeous British Columbia scenes that enrich the footage taken from the cab. Hop on board for the ride of your life as we travel from sea to sky on BC Rail!
Savor images of Conrail action across the Pittsburgh Line - the very soul of this once mighty transportation giant as captured during the late 1990s. See how Big Blue conquered the Allegheny Mountains and witness the diverse variety of freight it sent over the line. Huge intermodal trains powered by shiny new "Blue" diesels hustle doublestacked containers over the recently rebuilt right-of-way. Massive coal trains and high tonnage freights flow across the double and triple track of this most scenic and demanding stretch of railroad.
Starting west of Pittsburgh at the massive Conway Yard, heading east through the Steel City, Greensburg, and Latrobe to Conpit Junction, we follow the trains into the heart of the Allegheny Mountains. The line comes down through Conemaugh Gorge to Johnstown. From here most eastbounds get helpers to pull tonnage over the mountains. The trains put on great shows on the west slope as they work through Cresson, past MO Tower, to the summit at Gallitzin and down to Altoona. For a grand finale we follow westbound traffic from Altoona to the Gallitzin tunnels. View famous spots such as Alto Tower, Horseshoe Curve, Allegrippus, and Bennington Curve as train after train assaults the east slope of the Alleghenies. You'll experience Conrail to its fullest in this farewell tribute to the men, women, and machines of the railroad known as Big Blue!
Deep in the Piney Woods of East Texas, the hard working steam locomotives of the Texas State Railroad put on thrilling performances. With their stacks barking out steady cadences, the toiling engines carry their passenger trains uphill and down, across 25 miles of picturesque terrain between the towns of Palestine and Rusk. The stations and trains of this scenic tourist railroad are based at both ends of the line and its operating schedules are designed, among other features, to provide exciting mid-route train meets.
Pentrex traveled to the Texas State Railroad in 1999 to capture an in-depth view of the its operations. The stars of this show are Baldwin Consolidation #300 and a former Santa Fe Pacific-type engine, #500. Great trackside and onboard photography showcases these classic steamers and their vintage passenger equipment. Well take you into the cab where the engineer and fireman battle the steep grades and severe curves of this backwoods country. Youll see them at work and hear them explain how they meet the challenge. A visit to the shop area finds steam locomotives, vintage freight cars, and several classic diesels on display, along with the highly esteemed Texas & Pacific 610, the only surviving example of the mammoth 2-10-4 T&P Texas-type locomotives. The historic Texas State Railroad, in its setting of woodland beauty, draws visitors from around the world. Here is your opportunity to enjoy your own private tour!
In April 2009, Union Pacific sent its goodwill ambassador, steam locomotive 844, on a 32-day excursion to help celebrate several Western railroading events. Leading its handsome, matched set of vintage passenger cars, the venerable 4-8-4 powered its train over Donner Pass on the westbound leg of its Western Heritage Tour from Cheyenne, Wyoming to Californias Bay Area, and through the Feather River Canyon on the eastbound trek home, encountering both sparkling blue skies and snow storms during its journey. Pentrex joined the train in Nevada to bring you the excitement of both mountain crossings as the train made its way to the City of Roseville Centennial and the Western Pacific Centennial at Portola.
Gorgeous weather just outside Elko, Nevada, turns into a spring snowstorm as the train works its way toward Donner Pass. Youll see incredible images of steam clouds billowing against falling snow. While at Elko, youll spot a WP GP-9 on display. After the big Northern is serviced at Winnemucca, it heads out to Sparks where Heritage Units 1996 and 1983 will join it for the trip over Donner. An exciting pacing sequence along Highway 80 and a majestic shot of the train crossing Donner highlight the run to Roseville. Included among the treats in store for you on the return trip to Portola and through the Feather River Canyon are images captured at Milepost 191.6, Oroville, the horseshoe curve at James, Portola, and more. Lots of traffic covers these rails so youll also see UP freights, SW1200 switching on the Quincy Railroad, a rail grinder, a westbound BNSF freight coming off the Highline at Keddie Wye, and a stack train at Williams Loop. But the star of this show is UP 844, the oldest steam locomotive in continual service, a powerhouse testament to the glory days of steam, and the pride of the Union Pacific as it leads the UP 844 Western Heritage Tour!
Southern Pacific's busy San Joaquin Subdivision runs through the beautiful agricultural heartland of California's Central Valley. This important North-South route helps link Los Angeles and Portland Oregon, and provides plenty of fantastic train watching spots. Pentrex takes you back to 1996 to revisit this important Southern Pacific artery. You'll visit locations such as Bakersfield, Goshen, El Pinal, Lodi, Elvas Tower, and Roseville. During your journey, you will also be treated to sights of an elegantly restored station in Modesto, and a number of unique and impressive bridges along the way.
The variety of SP trains that roll through these fertile surroundings ranges from fast freights and locals to heavy coal drags that originated in Utah. Keeping freight moving between the two West Coast shipping ports requires lots of motive power, and a large assortment of old and new locomotives can be seen working hard to keep the railroad traffic flowing. Beautiful vistas, interesting locations, ample California sunshine, and mainline activity make SP's Central California Mainline a show you'll enjoy again and again!
Enjoy the sights and sounds of 40-year old GP9, SD7, and SD9 diesel locomotives moving freight over Southern Pacific's Central California mainlines and branchlines in the 1990s. Nicknamed "Geeps" and "Cadillacs," these engines revolutionized American railroading when they were introduced by EMD in the 1950s. Their popularity among the railroads was due to their efficiency, ease of maintenance, and operational flexibility. However, old age and hard work caught up to the engines during the 1970s and 1980s, and the majority of them were retired by almost all Class 1 railroads.
Incredibly, Southern Pacific was still relying on the venerable workhorses in the spring of 1994 when Pentrex captured them on video. You'll visit SP's Fresno Line between Bakersfield and Sacramento to view the endangered diesels in action. Watch from trackside as solid sets of Geeps and Cadillacs work hard along the mainline on the Roseville-to-Fresno Local, and catch the Lodi Local as it travels over the Ione Branch out of Galt. Then ride in the cab of Geep #3742 for a thrilling return trip downgrade to the mainline at Galt. This is a fantastic opportunity to witness classic SP diesel locomotives in operation!
3751 Private Varnish Special
Santa Fe 3751 and 24 private cars graced the Surfline route in September 2008, running a special train dubbed The AAPRCO San Diegan from Los Angeles to San Diego and back as a highlight of the American Association of Private Railroad Car Owners annual convention, held this year in San Pedro, California. Pentrex fielded several camera crews to bring you the all excitement of this rare event!
Departing Amtraks 8th Street Yard early in the morning, the San Diegan slipped from the Metrolink River Sub onto the BNSF San Bernardino Sub for the trip to Fullerton. Following behind the 4-8-4 locomotive were three Amtrak P42 DC units and a rainbow array of 24 unique private cars, including the Observatory Dome Car. Passing through Fullerton, the train entered the Metrolink San Diego Sub and continued on its way toward the blue Pacific coast. Rolling across trestles, speeding below sand bluffs flanking the coastline, steaming past scenic lagoons, the San Diegan thrilled both riders and railfans lined up to watch its progress. After powering over the grades of Miramar Hill, the train glided into San Diegos Old Town Station, where the power was cut out and moved to the Miramar Wye for turning, and giving its passengers plenty of time to tour the Old Town area before boarding for the trip home in the darkening twilight. Steam, smoke, echoing whistles, glorious landscapes, and a fabulous collection of vintage private varnish make this special train excursion one youll never forget. Plus, weve included bonus footage of a private car ride from Oakland to Los Angeles the following week as a special treat! San Diegan Surfline Steam is a ride the whole family can enjoy!
The Kearney Sub
Travel with Pentrex to the busiest freight mainline in North America. Union Pacifics Kearney Subdivision lies in the heart of central Nebraska. The 110-mile portion from North Platte to Gibbon Junction can see an average of 100 trains a day. In 1999, Union Pacific completed construction of a third main track to ease the congestion. Pentrex cameras captured some awesome railroading action here, including many meets and passes.
This is Class One railroading at its best! Many different types of trains can be seen rolling across the sand hills and between farm fields. We take some extra time to view trains rounding Buttermilk Curve, which is the best spot for watching trains on the line. Coal shipments are a big reason for the increase in traffic on the Kearney Sub. But with the worlds largest classification yard at the west end of the line in North Platte, many other freights traverse the triple track main as well.
Ninety-two different trains are captured running along the triple track with all kinds of motive power utilized, including distributed power coal trains. Pre-merger power can also be seen, including C&NW, Southern Pacific, and Rio Grande! You won't want to miss this show!
Featuring The Pennsylvania Railroad Collection and The Standard Railroad of the World
For 125 years, the Pennsylvania Railroad was the leader of its industry and proudly called itself the Standard Railroad of the World. Now, for the first time, two outstanding video productions about the Pennsy have been combined onto one DVD for your total viewing entertainment! Featured are:
The Standard Railroad of the World: The mighty Pennsy is well represented in this superb video biography. Youll see steam, diesel, and electric power including K-4s and GG-1s, T1 Duplex 4-4-4-4s, shiny E-units, and even doodlebugs. Penn and Washington Union Stations are shown and youll enjoy images of the Broadway and Congressional Limiteds. Also featured are the Northeast Corridor (including the Long Island Railroad) and commuters; inclined planes of the 1830s; Horseshoe Curve, Rockville Bridge, and Enola Yards; the wreck of the Federal Express and the birth of the Metroliners. Producer and director Bill Warrick spent years poring over archival footage and data and the result is this milestone production. Color and B&W.
The Pennsylvania Collection: The Pennsylvania Railroad of the 1950s was a railroading show unlike anything else. With powerful duplex-drive T1s, classic GG-1 electrics, and next generation cab unit diesels, the Pennsy was truly a class act. In this video youll get to sample that era through a collection of previously released Pennsylvania Railroad publicity films. Included are: Progress on Rails, Wheels of Steel, Opening a New Frontier, and Clear Track Ahead. B&W.
3 Shows on 1 Disc!
Here is a priceless collection of vintage films that highlight the style and efficiency of the mighty New York Central Railroad. These three videos were selected for their intriguing mix of motive power, variety of trains, historic scope, and exciting display of rare images. Included are:
The Water Level Route. Noted rail photographer Bill Warrick created this documentary stretching from the 1905 Empire State Express to the end of the 20th Century Limited era. Youll delight to K-Class Pacifics, Niagaras, Mohawks, and Hudson locomotives; the Century Mercury, James Whitcomb Riley, and other name trains; first generation diesels and early electrics; Grand Central, Buffalo Union Terminal, Cleveland Union Terminal, and La Salle Street Station; and many other fascinating views. B&W and Color.
Within the Oval, the NYC System. This PR film was made by the NYC in the early 1950s to demonstrate the railroads involvement in the nations economy. Featured are day-to-day operations with Pacemaker freights, passenger trains, first generation diesels and electrics, as well as Hudson, Mohawk, and Niagara type steam locomotives. At the time this film was made, the NYC ran over 26,000 miles of track, and was a major force among Americas railroads. Color.
The 20th Century Limited on TV. In 1955, the TV series Omnibus sent host Alistair Cooke, Trains Magazine Editor David P. Morgan, and a team of cameramen to Grand Central Station for a live broadcast about NYCs most famous train. At track 25, Morgan explains the trains consist, introduces the 46-member crew, and interviews the engineer and fireman as we wait for the Century to depart. We move to Tower A for a demonstration of the control board and to the dispatchers office for further information. Then were inside the cab of the moving train for a brief chat with the engineer. Its a piece of railroading history youll want to watch over and over again! B&W.
Outside Chicago
Chicagos 3 Interurbans
90 Years of Chicago Traction
Noted railroad historians Bill Warrick and Walter Keevil have assembled an amazing assortment of rare color and black & white footage to document electric railroading operations in and around the Chicago area from the 1990s all the way back to 1900. Originally released by Interurban Press as three separate VHS videos known as the Midwest Traction Classics, this series is now available for your enjoyment on one combo DVD! Included on this disc are:
Outside Chicago; Midwest Electric Lines I. The lines outside Chicago are brought back to life in this fascinating documentary. The Indiana Railroad; the Illinois Terminal; the Crandic; and the Waterloo, Cedar Falls & Northern are just a few of the interurbans covered here. Plus, streetcars in Indianapolis, St. Louis, and the Twin Cities are shown as well! 30 minutes, color footage, produced in 1987, formerly titled Midwest Traction Classics.
Chicagos 3 Interurbans; Midwest Electric Lines II. This film has it all, from Electroliners to Birneys. Visit Insulls Big Three: the North Shore; the South Shore; and the Chicago, Aurora & Elgin, with footage from every era plus present day action on the two survivors. Youll also ride the Illinois Central Electric and the Gary Railways. 30 minutes, color and B&W footage, produced in 1988.
90 Years of Chicago Traction; Midwest Electric Lines III. This film treats you to images of the Chicago Surface Lines and its predecessors, including horse, cable, and electric service from around 1900 to the 1950s. The famous CSL drop-platform cars and plenty of Chicago PCCs are shown across the windy city. The Chicago Elevated Railways are also covered in scenes throughout the system from 1900-1990. Youll see cars swinging around curves and through interlockers, crowds boarding at stations, trains of wooden and later steel cars, the Skokie Swift, and other unique Chicago El lines! 58 minutes, color and B&W footage, produced in 1990.