Thanks all. It's apparent that we'll have to look for something the looks the part, even if it isn't exactly prototypical. That's fine as a vintage bag in daily use might be a target for a '5 finger discount'.

The JW Hume bags are very expensive, but they do look great. Perhaps a search for a used bag that has a bit of 'patina' would actually be preferable.

One thing of note: A few of you posted photos. I could see 2 of them, but the other 2 posters that said they posted an image only showed a non-clickable icon.

Do an internet search for “Gladstone Duffle” and fair amount will pop up in wide price ranges. I used a soft duffle with a zipper top when we were running day excursions or overnights. It carried everything I might need and then some though it didn’t have a vintage look.

Old thread, I know. But maybe someone will need this info.
Coach Beekman Bag. For me, it captures the classic appeal and practical features I'm attracted to in conductor bags. It comes with a premium leather design, quality hardware, and thoughtful compartments.

FWIW, all shoulkd know that I did NOT author the above post dated today,12/27/2023 at 7:24 AM.

MODERATOR: PLEASE TAKE NOTE!!!

R. Paul Carey.

The last old-school MD of my childhood used a leather "Gladstone" bag on house calls in/around the small prairie town we lived in. The exterior looked remarkably like one that belonged to an acquaintance's grandfather (who was a retired IC conductor).

I believe the interior of "Doc's" bag may have had some internal partitions the other lacked, but I am no longer certain of that.

Back in the day, grips were handheld. They had to be durable and hold what you needed to bring. They had a handgrip but you couls toss it on a platform, then follow it up the steps.

Now it's a backpack. There are lots of them; get a rugged one with pockets. They have shoulder straps. Put on the straps, cinch the waistband and you have both hands free to grab something when needed.

Phil Mulligan

Class and style - two words that I like and search in every bag that I buy. And this leather garment bag from Von Baer has it. Very vintage-like. Its design is practical and has a good amount of storage space. I really need to buy it.

On the Norfolk and Western passenger conductors carried their supplies in a shop-made metal box, known as a Conductor's box. They were personal, many I have seen have the conductor's name painted on the box lid.

They had a metal clipboard contained inside the metal lid held in place with clips on most. A metal tray divided up, then the bottom of the box.

Most seemed to be about 18-20 inches wide, 10-12 inches deep, and about 10 inches tall. Normally painted in the Tuscan Red.

My father, a freight conductor carried a soft-sided grip, where he carried his food, paperwork and time book.

Best
Ken Miller

An employee carrying fusees and/or torpedoes must use a metal box for safety reasons.

Phil Mulligan