Caledonian Railway Association Forum

As many of you will know, as best we can in the pandemic situation, some of us are dealing with Jim MacIntosh's collection to make it available in the archives in due course. This picture appeared without any hints as to its origin. I thought it was such a pleasant old scene that it was worth puttin...

Yes, correctly identified and in in record speed. The description on the photo which emanated from the BRB (don't ask) has no date, but says: "Removal of 'Spion Kop' Bridge (CR Rutherglen to Blochairn Line, Closed 1964) between Camlachie and Parkhead". I never saw it in real life. It must have shake...

This might be a challenge to pass some time. It shows a bridge being demolished, and we can assume it is related to the days of the Glasgow suburban electrifications. But where? Having decided to offer it for comment, I then discovered the official description, so the answer is known. However I thou...

Thanks, Paul. I knew that certain moulds changed hands, but the amount of changing was revealing. Indeed the moulds for the Model Wagon Company and the various fittings of Caledonian wagons have been through a few hands. Your comment on preparing for a winter's modelling is beginning to look ever mo...

Lovely work, Alan.
You might like this photo of one at work in the days of my youth.

Many thanks for recording all your stages of work.

JimS

Now there is a suggestion which the Committee will consider. This may be an opportunity to say that of course the Committee has been evaluating how we should go forward in these trying times, and I have written a piece thereon in the forthcoming TTL. It is at the printers now, and incorporates a tre...

Thank you everyone, especially John Paton who persisted with Fife.

It is hard to see how some of these things could be solved without an active Forum like this. Long may we all continue to enjoy it.

JimS

Thanks everyone for the thoughts so far.

Anything else which you think of will be welcome.

The original, and four other interesting glass slides have now been kindly donated to the Association archives.

JimS

Many of us know of Mike Yeoman's project of reconstructing Ferryhill shed and environs, albeit in 4mm scale in New Zealand. Mike has participated on this Forum as he pursues his aim of absolute accuracy. The following link will take you to a recent article in the famed P&J on his aims, progress and ...

Well that last one was fun. Alan Brotchie has asked for help with this one. It came to him along with some pictures of the Carse of Gowrie, but I hae ma doots. The prominent bridge may be a clue for some. Other interesting features are the brick tower with a finial, and the adjacent roofs seem to be...

Thank you, John.
I had a feeling that it was in that airt, but did not remember it well enough.
It is a real bonus that you have included the aerial views - always fascinating. Thank you.

JimS

Can anyone help with this location, please? JimS

The Association is contemplating re-issuing an updated etch of useful Caledonian things (in 4mm scale). At the moment, we have a list of suggested items, which needs a bit more work before publishing for comments. Jim's 2mm model of cattle pens is delightful, as we expect, but Jim rightly warns that...

I love the picture, John, quite apart from the Caledonian premises. Town offices might well receive parcels, as it might be more convenient for customers and the railway, but I doubt if it was very common. In an area like this, with potentially much parcels traffic for despatch, and with the confine...

Not only great to see the loco at work, Dave, but it was a delight to see all the work on your layout. Thanks,
JimS

Four minutes well spent by your lineside, Ross.
A wonderful variety of stock to behold. I didn't expect the Birdcage ones, though.
Many thanks,

JImS

Instantly, it exudes the Caledonian look all right.

JImS

Thanks for those, Ross. Very nice work, and such important vehicles for atmosphere.
JimS

The inquiry into the whistle or two of Cardean was inspired by Donald Yule as an aspect of the story of his family. He eventually published the account and sent us a copy. He has asked me to greet all members once more and to draw your attention to a new small book of little tales based on historica...

Tony asked what I use myself for lining. I have two Swiss Kern bow pens, which are no longer available. The first must be about 40+ years old, and was expensive in those days. The second came from a batch which the Scalefour Stores came by a few years ago and sold off very reasonably. Both are an ab...

And now for something completely different . . . . During the lockdown I have been doing quite a lot of lining models using bow pens and compasses. In my collection thereof I had forgotten that I have two examples of instruments which are alleged to have been liberated from St Rollox. Some pictures ...

On the Fairfield engine, I thought I would mention, in case anyone is not aware that it now resides in the Museum of Scottish Railways at Bo'ness. In the last year it acquired the livery and signwriting of an earlier era than that quoted as being in the book. Incidentally, it reverted to the bow tra...

This may interest those staying at home. It's a bird's eye view of the old Caley routes to Leith and Granton superimposed on today's scene.

https://youtu.be/xYZ4cfJDTHE

And if you want to go by the other railway, then look at

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0EHRQYC ... e=youtu.be


JimS

I always thought these wee pugs had delusions of grandeur, Steve.
But what value for money!

JimS

That's really coming to life in the late sunshine, Paul.

JimS