Has anyone visited the PA Historical Society to use the Brill Archives, or used their reserach service? I am looking for any detailed information for a specific 1912 car order, especially car plans, and original Brill specifications for the 27G1 truck.

Wesley

Wesley- I've done research into specific Brill orders there, although not recently. I noticed that they recently updated their web content on this collection: http://www2.hsp.org/collections/manuscr ... ll1556.htm

They have a very large collection of builder's photographs and some fascinating photos of the plant itself, as well as the original order books, but I'm not sure about what else if anything they have.

If you haven't done so already you should find out what Brill Magazine may have published on the car order you're researching, they often published detailed equipment descriptions and drawings.


-John Smatlak

Thanks, John!

I have the car specs from the Electric Railway Journal and some other promotional materials. Do you think it makes any difference to visitthe archives vs. work with staff on line?

Wesley

About 12 years ago we contacted them about the Death Valley RR 5, M-55 motor car, and they were able to provide 8x10 glossy photos from the original negatives. Additionally, they provided copies from the order entry book and their house magazine. This was pre-internet. Their service was good and the price was fair.

I would start with working online. The Brill Magazine is a good source. Brill liked to brag about their cars and published detailed specs on some of the features of the cars.

From a shop floor prospective, their construction methods seemed to be typical for the time. We didn't encounter any real surprises. They did seem to have some good craftsmen working for them.

Good luck,