Got this great info from Jerry Day on the Antonito Red Devil Coal Loader. I wasn't aware it was installed in 1956, always thought it was later in the 60's. Good to have correct information, the picture is from the Dorman Collection.
DENVER & RIO GRANDE WESTERN RR
Authority for Expenditure No. 4326
Location: Antonito, Colorado and Helper, Utah
Date Approved: 6-26-1956
Description:
Retire Red Devil Coal Loader and Track #113 at Helper and replace coal trestle with second hand Red Devil Coal Loader (from Helper) at Antonito.
Purpose and Necessity:
Present coal trestle is in very poor condition needing repairs amounting to approximately $3,500. At present all coal handled thru the chute must be shoveled by hand, if the Red Devil is installed a reduction in force of one section man can be effected amounting to $3,089 annually. Fireman’s organization have served notice that they will start claiming time if they have to continue shoveling coal at the present coal chute. They also have assured us there will be no claims for operating push button on Red Devil loader. The coal loader and track is no longer required at Helper.
PART “A” –Helper- Retire Red Devil Coal loader, servicing power line and Track #113-A.
PART “B” –Antonito-Replace coal trestle with second hand Red Devil Coaler, retire 100 feet and shift 500 feet of Track #10.
William
aka drgwk37