Producer: Mary McPherson
Timeframe: 1987-89, 2012
Locations: Alliance, Broken Bow, Raveena
Length: 2 hours
Sources: George Redmond, Mary McPherson
A double disc set of BN and later BNSF. Runs about 2 hours. The early 1987 to 1989. George Redmond with the early videos. The later 2012, by Mary McPherson. Then and Now. The same premise as Crawford Hill.
This sub operates from Alliance, Nebraska to Raveena, NE. Powder River Coal is the main commodity.
Disc 1 contains Burlington Northern circa 1987 to 1989. Original video by George Redmond. The videographer did a fine job of shooting the BN. Imagery and composition are nicely done. Above, BN 5116 is a GE C30-7.
Only some yellow skies and minor flares are the flaws. Both programs offer, basically the same railroad equipment. More pacing shots in this show. Flatland running is the major difference. Greater emphasis on close-ups.
Disc 2 contains BNSF from 2010 and 2012. This was shot by Mary McPherson. Pro level camerawork. Above, BNSF 6289 is a General Electric ES44AC locomotive.
Mary has upped her game in all areas. More variety of locomotives and paint schemes compared to Crawford Hill.
The map solution works like a charm. Frequently used and the brief glance keeps pace with the show.
BNSF 9311 SD70ACe. Mary has an outstanding pacing sequence of this train. Check her guitar playing in the background.
The way the locomotives are so well framed and combined with the music. A memorable scene is created. You just know that this person loves trains!
Ravenna is a crew change point. A show highlight which demonstrates just how busy this route has become.
BNSF 5846 a GE ES44AC on the lead. Model railroaders will find Ravenna a location with good possibilities. The overhead walkway for example.
Cascade Green livery looked great on the long profile of the SD40-2. The extra length balanced the large numbers with the cab lettering perfectly.
Comparisons to, Heritage Series: Then and Now- Crawford Hill…
BN 5542 on the right. Another GE C30-7. These were common on Unit Coal Trains.
What is worse then having to sit through a long, 2 disc set of repetitive coal train shows?
Answer: Having to sit through a second, nearly identical set of repetitive coal trains!
BN 5019 was built 5/79. Another C30-7 from General Electric.
Which is better?
A split decision. The BN is more engaging on the Crawford Hill. Helpers and better scenery.
BNSF has more locomotive variety on this Sand Hills show.
Is there a tiebreaker?
Yes. The shorter length of Sand Hills makes a more enjoyable overall view. Compare to the longer Crawford Hill show, that just drags on endlessly.
Burlington Northern and Burlington Northern Santa Fe, Railfans. Y’all probably end up, with both shows!
Rating: 3 Stars
American Train Video Reviews 