Along the Jersey Central Volume 1

Producer: John Pechulis

Locations: NJ, PA.

Timeframe: 1940s- 1960s

Length: 59 minutes

Sources: Angstat, Bealer, Kulp, Lehigh Valley Chapter, (collections)

This initial volume features CNJ steam to diesel. Late 1940s to early 1960s. Jersey to Jim Thorpe. Pennsylvania has more film around Allentown and Bethlehem. Reading Railroad locomotives are interspersed throughout the proceedings.

Main Chapter Menu. A chapter advance function. Frequent map references!

A single DVD-R. Mixed color plus black and white sources. JPM has an excellent restoration method for vintage movie films. Picture in fullscreen. Dubbed train sounds. Mike Bednar narration.

In the marketplace. Jersey Central is hard to find. This coverage includes plenty of Transition Era footage.

To the Trains… 👉

CNJ 774 fantrip is powered by a Camelback Steam Engine. July, 1954. Exteriors and scenery as seen from onboard the train. Black and white film.

The show continues in color within Pennsylvania. Alco RSD-4 pair leads a couple of F3A units on symbol CA-6. This was in 1959 at Bethlehem.

The show continues in color within Pennsylvania. At Bethlehem Engine Terminal on Jersey Central in 1950. Reading Crusader 118 is a rare catch. Great assortment of steam along with early diesels here.

Check the custom map for Allentown Yatd. A brief explanation by John clarifies the functions there. There is a fine variety of Steam and diesel working this location.

Tangerine and blue F3 pair at Allentown.

Train 192 to Jersey City departs Allentown. It is behind a Fairbanks-Morse Trainmaster.

Camelbacks shift cars at Gordon Street Yard area. They serve a local brewery along with various customers there.

The Scranton Flyer hustles its passenger consist in Pennsylvania.

SW1 and caboose to service customers at Northampton. This line required a lightweight locomotive. Electromotive switchers are frequently seen throughout.

Along the Jersey Central Volume 1

This is an awesome tour of Transition Era Jersey Central. Fascinating assortment of steam and early diesel power. An informative narrative, as well. Maps are well-done and the explanations add clarity.

Restored color films after the initial black and white chapter. Best possible picture plus a quality soundtrack.

Railfans and Model Railroaders can find this an excellent period piece. Seriously, one doesn’t need to be a CNJ fan to find this a satisfying show.

Allentown films are worth the price of admission! Bethlehem vicinity is just as interesting. Great roundhouse steam is there.

Vintage Jersey Central is scarce in the marketplace. This release is top shelf.

Rating: 5 Stars