The Desert Princess
A & R Productions
Length: 40 minutes
Time Period: 1950- 1955
Locations: Laws, Owenyo, Keeler, Mohave
Sources: Catenary Video Productions
MSRP: 30.00
A detailed program of Southern Pacific narrow gauge operations in southern Nevada and into California. Having good color film of this line in the early 1950’s is rare. Viewers will see narrow gauge SP #18 at work in the early 1950’s. No dual trackage here. All freight was cross-docked with standard gauge cars. The desert environment is a different world to see.
Engine #9 is seen during the last few minutes of the presentation.
Sacks of talc get hauled to transfer to the regular Southern Pacific in boxcars.
Switching with 18 at Owenyo. Late 1952.
Model railroader types will appreciate this cross-dock facility. Build this in HO scale.
The station at Keeler.
The maps are not attractive ones. A couple of close ups around station trackage are thoroughly examined. Better than nothing.
Some cab ride views are included. This one is approaching Laws.
Good narration by Ted Dalaku. Script is informative, History and operations have in depth discussions. Audio train sounds are obvious dubs. Oddly, this lonely stretch of railroad has not a single steam whistle. We never hear, that lonesome whistle blow.
Fortunately, the film has a nice appearance. Pretty clean images overall. Cameras are mostly solid. Train sounds are the weak ingredient, but only to those who know the difference will notice.
A humorous moment as a dog chases the departing train.
Caboose 401 has lost it’s clerestory roof.
A 2007 update, briely explores the remains of the line. The 40 minute program length is somewhat short. However, the operation has good coverage.
The Desert Princess, gives railfans and model railroaders, a fine look at a past line. Narrow gauge enthusiasts can obtain this as a contrast to the famed Rocky Mountain lines. Solid steam show and a rare subject.
Rating: 4 Stars
American Train Video Reviews 