MAY 2024: We visit R.J. Corman’s home state of Kentucky to learn how smart acquisitions and trackage rights agreements result in a thriving short line operation. Garland McKee takes us on a tour of RJC’s colorful Kentucky operations. A number of contributors come together in a special Photo Line honoring the final days of regional Montana Rail Link, while Michael Burkhart brings us to the island of Barbados to ride a new heritage steam line. Gordon Lloyd, Jr., brings us the first of a two-part series on Fairbanks-Morse diesels in unexpected locations. All this and more in the May issue of Railfan & Railroad!
Pinsly Lives: Gulf & Atlantic Rebrands Itself With Iconic Short Line Name
Gulf & Atlantic purchased Massachusetts’ Pioneer Valley Railroad, the last railroad owned by the iconic Pinsly Railroad Company, in 2023.
UP Tests First-of-its-Kind Hybrid Locomotives
Union Pacific unveiled the first of six hybrid battery-electric locomotives this week.
R.J. Corman Lines in Kentucky
After R.J. Corman purchased the former Louisville & Nashville ‘Old Road’ from CSX in 2003, clever trackage rights agreements allowed the short line to develop steady new business and thrive.
The Unexpected Fairbanks-Morse: Part 1
While domestic production of Fairbanks-Morse locomotives was brief, its beefy diesels turned up in ‘unexpected’ short line, main line, and industrial operations from coast to coast.
Photo Line: Steam at the Fort Steele Heritage Town
Venture to Fort Steele, British Columbia, to see an operating 2-6-2 at the Fort Steele Heritage Town.
Camera Bag: Pre-Envisioning
While we seldom consciously think about it, one of the skills that we acquire as railfan photographers is the ability to “pre-envision” a picture.
No Regrets?
Don’t wait for the last run… Get out, ride every train you can, visit every line you want to see, and take nothing for granted.