Penn Valley – American Train Video Reviews

Producer: Jeff Pontius

Timeframe: 1940’s- 1956

Locations: Sunbury, Shamokin, Enola, Susquehanna Valley, Locust Summit

Length: 45 minutes

Source: Clarence Weaver

Visit steam era Reading Railroad, in stunning 16mm, all color film. Shot as late as 1956. Power shortage on the Pennsylvania Railroad, had leased T-1 types operating.

What we have here, is a Penn Valley Pictures release. First one to be reviewed on my site. Let’s see it…

This DVD has no extras. Appears to have the film been restored. Soundtrack contains authentic Reading sounds. Levels are nicely balanced. Excellent scene, at Sunbury above.

Full narration by Joe Pastuszek. Good script.

Locations are called out by the narrator. Not being familiar with the Reading territory, this information is not very helpful on it’s own. The value of maps!

Nevertheless, the imagery is fascinating. Reading steam of this high quality is rare. Northern Pennsylvania, is the general territory. Shamokin.

Several classes of steam locomotives are seen. Atlantic, Pacific and more.

The King Coal is behind steam power.

The caboose fleet is in red paint.

Cinematographer had first rate skills.

Early in the program. The film has some looseness. It quickly settles down. The T-1 dominates the show.

An abundance of footage of the previous mentioned leased T-1 engines. These were on lease to a power short Pennsylvania Railroad in 1956. Serving on the Susquehanna Division.

The blat – blat of the single airhorn on the F7 units is quite different from the multi chime horns of 2nd generation units that followed.

Of interest, are the old style windows that passengers could elect to crank open, weather permitting.

A big Reading steam locomotive, is near Locust Summit.

Northumberland Yard and a Pennsylvania steam engine leads a doubleheader, with a Reading T-1.

A feature of this program. Composite chase of a T-1 led Pennsylvania freight train. Northumberland Yard to destination at Enola Yard.

Rockville Bridge. Yes, close-ups when the train gets near the camera.

Kase Tower. Approaching destination Enola Yard.

A unique visit to a steam era Reading Railroad. The show length is extended, by inclusion of leased T-1 locomotives in 1956. Close enough, given the high quality here. Besides, the steam era is still present.

Penn Valley has certainly a first rate show. Anyone with an interest in viewing a steam engine in service, should find this enjoyable. Excellent for family, as well.