Memorial Day (Sunday)

 Sunday of Memorial Day Weekend was a beautiful day at IRM, with excellent weather, two steam locomotives, electric trains, and a good crowd of visitors.  What more could anyone ask?

In the morning, both locomotives are steaming up on the turntable leads.

First train out was the 309 and 319.  We ran all day with no problems.

Seating capacity is still limited, but we had the maximum on nearly every trip.

I was too busy to take many pictures, and these aren't the best, but there were lots of photographers around and I'm sure there will be plenty more online soon.  In the distance you can just make out the coach train with the 1630, and the caboose train with the Shay.

For a trip or two, the 409 and 431 were in service, so we had two CA&E trains meeting.  Just like Wheaton!

Later, the 749 and 251.

Finally, the required crew shot.  From left to right, trainman Jay Ellis, motorman Larry Stone, and me.  I hadn't met Jay before, but he lives in the Quad Cities so it's quite a drive.  But we hope to see more of him.

The VC 19 and the 4391 were also running, but as I say I was busy.  Thanks to all the operating crews and support people who make a day like this possible!