Having just browsed 261's website, I am struck by the number of mainline trips they are still hauling, sometimes even on a mega-railroad like BNSF. My question: What do they know that so many other operators (apparently) don't?

Political connections?

Just a really slick organization?

Luck?

Whatever the reason, hats off to everyone who has anything to do with that engine. I had the privelage of riding behind her on one of the 1995(?) Steamtown winter trips and, of course, enjoyed it tremendously.

JPS



ironandsteam@msn.com

> Having just browsed 261's website, I am
> struck by the number of mainline trips they
> are still hauling, sometimes even on a
> mega-railroad like BNSF. My question: What
> do they know that so many other operators
> (apparently) don't?

> Political connections?

> Just a really slick organization?

> Luck?

> Whatever the reason, hats off to everyone
> who has anything to do with that engine.

IMO, conducting themselves in a business-like manner in all phases of their endeavors (not just in the operating side of it), being flexible when the situation requires it, and not trying to be God's Gift to the railroad(s).

In the case of this year's series of Grand Excursion trips, it looks like the 261 capitalized on a regionwide event with some strong general interest tourism backing all over the region. They also got started early. The fact that they have a good working relationship with the BNSF and CP is aces. I'm looking forward to riding and photographing this outing this summer. Jim

http://nctrans.org
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