Producer: A&R
Timeframe: 1934-1989
Locations: B&A
Length:1 hour
Sources: Blackhawk collection
This comprehensive, historical overview is complete. History from the 1830s. Films dating back to the 1930’s, document the constant activity.
The Conrail era brings the B&A current, as of the production year. Conrail footage bookends the story.
The writers dove deep on this program. Lecturing on the early incarnations, that were later rolled into the larger company.
Frequent map usage illustrates the territories. Multiple maps are posted of various areas. Extremely helpful for those who are unfamiliar, with this region.
This program is approximately: one half, black and white, film. High quality footage, for the most part. All of this, is shot very well. Also, Hudson class steam galore!
The diesel era is in quality, color film and video. This includes some cab rides.
Majority of the film sourced audio, would be dubbed. Video of Conrail should be live. A fine sounding show.
Ted Daluku performs his usual pro level narrative. The script is very well written. Chronological progress makes it easy, for even non railfan viewers to follow. Steam to diesel. Good for family viewing.
Steam powered 20th Century Limited trains are shown.
A 1932 Chevy gives chase to this train!!
Away he goes…
Checkout the heat running in that old, snow covered caboose. Baby, it’s cold outside!
RDC car provides some interurban service.
New York Central, with rare Alco RS 32 models.
The Penn Central is a part of the Boston & Albany story. Much more coverage in Vol.2.
Amtrak SDP40F proved unsatisfactory.
Very early Conrail merger. No blue paint.
The only misstep in my opinion. The title of the two volumes. I was expecting the likes of Starucca Viaduct. After some research. Whistler’s Arches were flood damaged. Abandoned. That’s it?
Whistler’s Western – The Boston & Albany.
A traditional approach has been used to present, The Boston and Albany Railroad. Say what you will about traditional. One truth is. Traditional becomes tradition, because it works!
A&R has covered all the bases. Done their homework. Organized it all in a clear and concise presentation. Kept it nicely paced. Interesting history and brought current.
That is easier said, than done.
Excellent work!
Rating: 5 Stars
American Train Video Reviews 