Re: Fremont Pass Facilities (Again)

Posted by Jim Courtney on Jul 01, 2015; 10:55pm
URL: http://c-sng-discussion-forum.254.s1.nabble.com/Fremont-Pass-Facilities-Again-tp2712p2713.html

Jimmy,

Thanks so much for the maps.  Any idea of the date of the lower map?

The enginehouse dimensions of 60 foot square, suggests that it may have not been an enginehouse per se, but rather a covered turning, watering and coaling facility, analagous to the stone structures at Alpine and Boreas, though on a smaller scale.  Any notation on the maps or other written materials to confirm a turntable at Fremont, later Climax?  The second map is very detailed, notes an office building that shows up in later photos from the early 19teens, but no wye for turning helpers has been installed.

I'm not surprised that the D&RG didn't have an engine house or even turning trackage at Fremont Pass, as the Blue River branch was essentially a Leadville to Dillon out and back operation, with a daily mixed train providing service for most of its existence.  Other than snow trains, I've never seen a photo of more than one engine on a train on the Blue River branch.

The South Park/C&S, on the other hand was running Denver to Leadville thru traffic, which would have required multiple helpers on both sides of the pass, with the need for turning facilities at the top.

Thanks for starting a potentially great thread.  Can't wait for Chris to weigh in with some of his DPL gems (and I've already started looking).