Chama Stock Loading

Some weeks back someone asked about loading animals in the D&RGW stock cars. I took these in October of 1966 during the loading of sheep that I believe was the last shipment of this type on the narrow gauge. A cut of stock cars that had received minor repairs in Alamosa (repaired roof walks, and the like) were brought over to Chama. One of the cars was not double decked, so was not used but went back to Alamosa empty. The 498 switched the lumber mill, picking up 3 loaded cars and replacing them with empties, took those cars down by the depot, returned with the stock cars, and the loading began.
The stock pens in Chama, and also Silverton, were located on one of the legs of the wye, so the loading chutes were positioned in the curve of the track.
The Chama stock pens had been repaired the week before by the section crew, and some new wood is evident in these pictures.
The first view, though not a real good print, is the view from the cab of the 498 as loading progressed.
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The next 2 shots are of the actual loading of the sheep and how the stock chutes were extended. As the engine moved each car into position, these chutes would be repositioned. After the cars were loaded, the train was assembled in the yard and then they took off for Cumbres with the 487 as the helper.
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