The Swan Songs of Central City - Part 7

[Kurt Maechner]

Here is part 7 of a series I have been working on to chronicle the history of the C&Sng displays and restorations in Central City.  

This seventh part covers the 'forced' return of C&S 71 from Silver Plume to Central City/Black Hawk and the subsequent whirlwind restoration of the engine to working condition.  It then looks at the equally whirlwind rebuild of the track on the same spot operated by the CCNG and the short two-year operation of the Black Hawk and Central City Railroad that operated with 71, gondola 4319, combine 20, and, in year 2, a former C&S boxcar-turned flatcar-turned rider car.  Festivities of opening day are detailed, followed by the railroad's ambitions, and sudden closure.

I'm hoping some of you will enjoy hearing the story, but I am also sharing in hopes to learn more.  I would be happy to receive any information that my readers, especially those involved with rail restoration work in Central City, may have to add to, adjust, or correct the content.  

Enjoy,
Kurt



Sept./Oct. 1988 Narrow Gauge & Shortline Gazette