Rolling Stock

The most feasible and efficient way we can power our train is by engine driven alternating current (AC) generators. Our current configuration has a diesel engine driven AC generator beneath the coaches that is capable of producing the needed 15,000 to 20,000 watts per coach. While this solution does keep our train cool and the lights working, it is not the ideal situation due to the noise, vibration, and heat produced beneath the coaches. In order to give our passengers a more historically accurate and comfortable ride in our coaches, we will be moving away from the individual, coach-engine driven generators to a central, train-engine driven generator. Within the center of our Southern Baggage Car 139, we are installing a 150,000 watt self-contained, “quiet” diesel generator. Once completed, this will be capable of supplying all of our electrical requirements onboard the train, while still leaving the baggage car intact for people to relax in the open doors to enjoy the open feel that has always made this car so popular. Additionally, this generator gives us the capacity to add additional coaches in the future. We are hoping to add our Southern Sleeper Car, as well as an additional diner car. This install is taking place in such a way that the historical fabric of the baggage car is being kept intact and very little permanent changes being made within the car itself. We are hoping that with this renovation, our train should have a much more accurate representation of comfort, quiet, and smooth ride of days gone by.

North Alabama Railroad Museum

The museum's Railway Post Office car was bult in 1928 by Bethlehem Steel Corporation and was owned by the CNO&TP and later the Southern Railway. It was operated by U.S. Postal employees until retired from service sometime in the 1950s and last operated along several routes in North and South Carolina. The car number is 3585 and it is a 60-foot combined baggage and R.P.O. car with one end devoted to each function. Recent restoration began in 1991 when members removed all non-R.P.O. items from the car and cleaned it enough to see that a lot of work was needed. Work began with the oak boxes that are suspended from the ceiling which were used to sort flats (flat packages larger than standard envelopes). As layers of built-up paint were removed, a beautiful oak finish was discovered. That work extended through the first years in confined spaces combined with noxious fumes. That part completed, four coats of polyurethane varnish were applied. Then removal of cabinets and fixtures was begun, carefully recording the details to ensure proper re-installation and as a record of the car's history. The ceiling and overhead vent doors along with light fixtures and heavy electrical conduit appeared at first to be a most daunting task. However all surface rust and loose paint were removed and resulting bare surfaces were primed and the entire ceiling spray painted with an original cream color. Meanwhile, the outside and baggage section of the RPO was being restored. The rotten wooden window frames were rebuilt and the glass was replaced with Lexan plastic to prevent vandalism. The windows are capable of opening and appear identical to the original. Rust was removed from the car exterior and two coats of highly durable paint of the original Southern Railway color (Pullman green) were applied. Finally the car was lettered "United States" and "Southern Railway" giving it that finishing touch.

North Alabama Railroad Museum