Memories of Steam on the Burlington Route

Producer: Mary McPherson

Locations: Chicago, St. Louis, more.

Timeframe: 1950s – 1960s

Length: 52 minutes

Sources: Jim Adams, Don Morice, Albin Jensen, McPherson collection

The Heritage Series with an episode on vintage steam. Memories of Steam On the Burlington Route. Color film from the 1950s into the excursions during the 1960s.

A single DVD-R. Main Chapter Menu. A chapter advance function. No maps. Narration by Mary McPherson.

Fullscreen aspect. Sound is dubbed. Although some is actual CB&Q. Colors look good. Visual quality ranges from fair to very good.

Balanced soundtrack with some musical background, as well. The narrative is relaxed and informative.

To the Trains… 👉

Steam has several introductory brief looks. A quick variety of early diesels on different railroads. Also, random scenes of operating Chicago, Burlington & Quincy steam from the 1950s in color.

Some of the early diesels are shown.

A bumpy cab ride aboard Colorado & Southern Consolidation 641. This was the last steam engine in regular revenue service on a class one US Railroad. 1962 was the final year.

Shown in reverse at Cicero, Illinois. Northern 5632 was kept for excursions. Lasted until 1964.

The 5632 pulls some excursions. This shot is in Iowa.

The star of this show. Mikado 4960 was a Baldwin built product. This one also served in excursion service. In fact, it was the last operating Burlington steam engine.

St. Louis on another excursion day.

4930 is being paced.

Double decker passenger consist.

Numerous scenes of the 4960 dominate this program. There are a variety of views. Screenshots reflect the assorted looks.

Memories of Steam on the Burlington Route

First off. Vintage color films of CB&Q steam are uncommon. A complete full color Burlington Route program is most welcome. It becomes the Mikado 4960 show. Last steam engine that was operating for the railroad.

This is mostly period 8mm film. Do not expect modern video standards. A historical value production. The colors are generally vibrant. Care has been taken regarding locomotive sounds. Good instrumental music, as well.

The composition of scenes is a variable. Different years with assorted viewpoints. This show is well-paced.

A satisfying release. Steam fans, Railfans and Model Railroaders should enjoy this latest Heritage Series by Diverging Clear Productions.

Rating: 4 Stars