Locations: Systemwide
Time Period: 1950’s- 1990’s
Length: 2 hours
Sources: Robert Zook, Jack Kuiphoff, Will Whittaker, Ed Kaspriske, Nelson Rath
CSP with a double feature. The show is loaded with rarities. CSX heritage is thorough. This Hall of Fame series release contains all color film. Freight and passenger operations are seen in a wide array of trains and locations.
A single factory pressed DVD. Full screen picture .This show is all vintage film. Visual quality is very good to excellent. Digital restoration and enhancement gives the best possible picture. Audio is excellent and matched to the trains.
Custom made maps. On-screen graphics. Informative narration by Charles Smiley.
To the Trains… 👉
Chessie System and predecessor railroads : B&O, C&O and WM. These are the main subjects in the first half of the program. Interurban fans get a treat with a brief visit on Potomac Edison. Circa 1950’s era C&O showcases a Brill car operating in Appalachia.
Seaboard System and these components: SCL, L&N, and Family Lines members. There are numerous rarities to be savored within Seaboard. The majority of this collection is hard to find material.
Additional Locomotives from: NW, NS, SOU, PC, SP, EL, Conrail, IC and Monon are included.
This map displays Seaboard Coast Line. As the story develops, connecting railroads are added to the map. Specific areas are highlighted, and closer views are used as needed.
Charles is a great narrator. A wealth of historical information is discussed. Fascinating ‘what- if ‘ scenarios offer even more perspective. The nicely balanced presentation has viewers enjoying straight trainwatching sequences as well.
Chessie System
The 1970’s are great for seeing Chessie System engines with excellent paint. Most of the second generation locomotive fleet is pretty clean at the time.
Western Maryland GP35 units 3580, 3577 and NW 2910 are one of many WM trains. Fascinating , a cornucopia of colorful trains with main action in the 1960’s thru 1980’s.
Passenger trains from all three predecessors are included. This move is going to Washington, DC.
B&O 3722 is a GP40 built in 1969. Western Maryland tracks at Williamsport, MD.
C&O 7511 in 1975. The large roster of Chessie and CSX had unrepainted power roaming the rails for years, such as this SD40 with the C&O For Progress nose herald.
Chessie aficionados will be satisfied with this show. This review can only give a small sample of the numerous trains.
Seaboard System
The Seaboard Coast Line is prominently featured with a treasure trove of SCL footage. Early Seaboard Railroad is shown. Louisville & Nashville is another film rarity. Family Lines has plenty of coverage. Clinchfield Railroad even makes some cameo appearances.
After the satisfying chapters of those railroads, Seaboard System is seen, before and early CSX era. This Seaboard half of the release is worth the price of admission. Viewers will benefit with intelligent background knowledge, and a plethora of trains.
Charles is extremely thorough when he produces a program. Both shows reach back into the 1950’s with relevant footage of uncommon scenes. Various passenger trains are seen operating, but this is one of the surprises!
SCL 1753 is a GE U36B. There is a good variety of power, paint and cabooses
L&N is a major component of Family Lines. A revelation is the L&N route mileage.
Explanation of Family Lines puts that group in perspective.
Seaboard System is the final incarnation before CSX merger. A GP30 leads this freight train.
Richmond, Fredericksburg and Potomac
The RF&P bridge line is reviewed, before the line was absorbed. Yet, another hard to find railroad.
A cornucopia of assorted cabooses to see.
Chessie and Seaboard Hall of Fame
Charles Smiley is a consistent producer who maintains high production standards. He gives much value with every release. Every detail is equally important. All of the many elements that combine to create an enjoyable and informative experience, are smoothly presented.
Chessie Seaboard Hall of Fame is a big winner. Railfans and model railroaders will find this a goldmine. The rare factor alone makes this a must have program.
Once again, Charles Smiley has set the bar for vintage railroad shows.
Rating: 5 Stars
American Train Video Reviews 