1928 Sykes Co. Doodlebug

Edwards Rail Car Co. has purchased a 1928 Sykes Co. doodlebug body. The car was de-motorized later in life and used as a baggage car/trailer. The car will be moved to the Edwards facility in Eustis, Florida and undergo a complete restoration back to its original appearance, configuration and operational arrangement. The car will then be offered for sale or lease.

Photo courtesy the Louis A. Marre Collection.

This was the last car built by the Sykes Co., Winthrop Harbor, Illinois. It was built as the motor/baggage car to pull two trailer cars. Car body built for Sykes by the St. Louis Car Co. Order No. 1488, for Oklahoma City, Ada & Atoka, road No. M-126 outfitted with a 225 HP Sterling gasoline engine.   It is planned to re-power with a diesel engine.

In other related Edwards news the company is expanding its Florida facilities with the purchase of 1 1/2 acre of land, additions of trackage and a covered shed. Edwards will now have a live connection off of the Florida Central main line, near MP 28 in Eustis, Florida. With city water, sewer and power hook-up available, as well as general car maintenance available, it is planned to offer a business or private car park. Eustis is located 25 miles north of downtown Orlando and approximately 45 minutes away from Universal, Sea World and Disney World.

(Steve Torrico)