I know engineman clothing has been discussed here before, but what kind of clothing and equipment would a trainman back in the 30's-40's use at different times of the year? Passenger or freight? I'm talking about gloves, watch styles, hats or caps, boots, ties, and maybe some tools handy in their grip.

I'm aware different railroads issued different uniforms, modernized lanterns and radios at their own pace, and I'm not concerned about generic items like hose gaskets or rule books. What do you do to be prepared, safe, and maintain a little tradition? Where and what do you buy?

I carry my timetable in my back pocket, along with a pair of leather gloves, switch keys, radios, watch, ticket forms, pen, and warrants all on my person which is about the minimum for anyone in passenger service. Narrow gauge cars are a lot more interesting to negotiate when you are wearing all of that on a full train.

Passenger trainmen generally wore a sack coat and vest. Hat styles varied based upon the preference of the railroad-some preferred military style caps to the old pillbox style hat.

Watches would have been open faced, railroad pocket watches specifically approved for railroad time service. Wrist watches essentially did not appear on the scene until the 1950s. Winter hats would be cloth and summer hats wicker or cane mesh. Winter uniforms were of a heavier material.