http://www.newsleader.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20050815/NEWS01/508150305/1002Excursions planned out of Verona to Harrisonburg, near Staunton, Va. on Sundays this fall, using Jack Showalter's passenger cars and SVRR diesels. This is viewed as a trial run in several ways. It could signal a renaissance for Shenandoah Valley excursions and a future for Jack Showalter's equipment. In addition, there has been a serious proposal floated for steam excursions on the Eastern Shore RR out of Cape Charles, Va., which is owned and operated by the same company. (I should point out that this proposal came from outside the ESHR, and that acquisition of Showalter's stuff by someone or another besides the RR was reportedly being considered.)

From a source close to Jack Showalter, this is still in the proposal stage since there is uncertainty about having the equipment ready in time to market the trips.

I had heard the "proposal" from a couple places; my assumption was that, what with LeMond's photo with the "news" in the local newspaper, an agreement must have been reached. If it's still open to negotiation, I'll blame the paper and LeMond, not Showalter, for the premature announcement.

As of 8/12/05 an agreement was signed to lease the cars of the Virginia Central for excursions on the SVRR, What happens next for sure? Hopefully a very nice set of excursions, but if you'll notice, on the website you can make a reservation, but you can't actually pay for your ticket yet.....

What is the mechanical condition of the two Pacifics? How much work would need to be done to have them "green lighted" by the FRA?The idea of steam on the Eastern Shore is very cool!Alan S. Levy

Both Pacifics were last operated before the current FRA regulations. While they have been well maintained over the years, the cost of current FRA certification is high. Supposedly, 1238 did have the boiler ultrasounded a few years back, but that still leaves flue work. 1286 would have to have the full inspection. I visited the engines Sunday, the running gears look in good condition and well lubricated. As far as giving a dollar estimate, I will leave that up to someone with recent experience with boiler work. The heck with Eastern Shore, I like the idea of steam in the Shenandoah :)

Thanks Gary. Ok Ok, I will admit that steam in the Shenandoah may be cooler than steam on the Eastern Shore!Regards!Alan S. Levy

Switch'em gary, '86 has the current form 4 but needs the internal inspection. '38 needs it all.....just another sad case of only 30 or 40 days on the flues....:(I agree, the Shenandoah valley is a MUCH better place for steam than the eastern shore, heck it could almost make money here!;)

Question: What railroad was that when built? Tanks,Len.

Gary, Ben,Are they looking for volunteer help on the Excursions or are they going to Hire people to work them? If Volunteer where can one sign up ?Andrew

Ben, sorry about the blooper, my CRS is acting up. Len, see the earlier posts from Monday about Shenandoah Valley excursions for my comments on the history of the line. Andrew, there will be some volunteers used, train crew space is limited, SV employees are handling those contacts. You might check with Sally, the Showalters are handling the interior prep on the cars. I'm sure they could use some help.

Let's hope.JAC

That sorta hurts a little to see that much black smoke on the Virginia Central......After all the time my dad spent with me as a boy instilling the fact that smoke was not to be produced on Mr. Showalters locomotives.......;)However now ever time I go over that mountain in a GP 40 I'll think of that.....

Hi AllDont know if anyone put the link up here so here it is.http://www.shenandoahvalleyrailroad.com/Have fun Andrew