Re: Chili Line operations?

Carlos Llamas told me his grandfather was hostler/engine watchman in Antonito. I think there is one pic out there showing 216 doubleheaded down the valley to Antonito, which expanded into "this is how they did it every day".

I would not be surprised if the Santa Fe crews who lived in Alamosa didn't ride to work every morning on 216, then rode 215 home the next day.

I've wondered about the reasoning in including the Chilli line coach in the train out of Ala. I doubt they needed the extra seating capacity. In the winter it would have been much more comfy in the steam heated coach with the reclining seats. Heck for another few cents, you could ride the parlor car and breakfast on your way to Antonito, then take the mixed to Santa Fe.

A much more civilized way to travel.......