Rio Grande Rememberances

Producer: Charles Smiley

Timeframe: 1954- 1969

Locations: Durango, Arboles, Salida, Antonito, Gunnison, Farmington…

Length: 1 hour 36 minutes + previews

Sources: Andy Payne, Fred Hust, Harvey Laner

A fascinating, time travel visit, into vintage Rio Grande Narrow Gauge steam. Andy Payne was a Rio Grande Engineer. He was also an independent Railfan / Cinematographer. Early on, he acquired a Bolex 16mm movie camera. Filmed mostly in 16mm. All films are full color. Only some highlights here.

Harvey S. Laner digitized Payne’s film collection in 2008. Three narrators: Laner, Payne and Smiley.

Durango

Films begin in 8mm and progress to 16mm. Mostly freight trains.

Charles’ custom made maps are fantastic! Best in the business.

Alamosa to Antonio. Dual gauge trackage. San Juan extension. Model Railroaders should enjoy the various equipment.

Assorted Mikado locomotives reviewed. A K-36 above. Andy filmed maintenance and Hostler duties.

The soundtrack has authentic steam sounds and background music.

Old Arboles is seen, before a water dam buried this area.

Gunnison in 1955. Engine 268 is a Baldwin from 1882.

Durango Loop

The Durango Loop was constructed about 1967.

Andy rode freights on his off days. Assortment of views.

See how to get a Mike rerailed, without a crane.

Oil and the Freight business. Farmington Branchline in 1955. South of Durango. Carbon Jct. had a small switch yard.

This is a wonderful collection of vintage Rio Grande Narrow Gauge action! Inclusion of rare locations and singular viewpoints, set it apart from the competition. Not too mention Andy Payne’s first person accounts of the action. Harvey Laner provides the bulk of a clear narrative. Many are interview style, with his friend Andy.

Starting as a Los Angeles Transit Motorman. Andy hired on as Fireman with DRGW in 1957. He loved his work and filming the trains. He passed away in 2012.