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 1930s, documents 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.
The majority of the soundtrack is dubbed. The 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!!
Checkout the heat running in that old, snow covered caboose. Baby, it’s cold outside!.
New York Central, with rare Alco RS 32 models. Penn Central is a part of the Boston & Albany story. Much more coverage in Volume 2.
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.
Excellent show!
Rating: 5 Stars
American Train Video Reviews 