Re: Narrow Gauge in Thompson Springs

dcsunderland Wrote:
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> Were you able to find anything related to the
> Ballard & Thompson Railroad? Where did it run?
> Was it up Sego Canyon? I would like to check it
> out the next time I go through there.
>
> Thanks,
> Dave

The Ballard & Thompson grade is pretty much intact. It does run up Sego Canyon. The paved road is the grade for the first few miles, but then branches off at the confluence of Sego and Thompson Canyons, with the road going up Thompson's and the grade going through a cut to the town of Sego. There is a small cabin built on the west side of the beginning of the cut.

The grade is very prominent throughout the canyon, as it is the only thing straight, and cuts across the wash in several places. Bridge abutments are still in place, although only three trestles are still in place (one is currently supporting Thompson Spring's waterline). I visited in December, with two feet of snow obscuring the details. When I go in June I'll get more detailed pictures and measurements, as the bridges that remain are in danger of collapsing in the next flash flood.

The grade ends at the site of the mine. It is hard to miss; it's that huge black eyesore sticking out of the mountain (the tailings seemed to be made up mostly of coal dust!).

Apparently, the B&T had no stations. I was recently in touch with a resident of Sego in the 20's, and she stated that the train would stop in front of the schoolhouse (I am still trying to find the location of it).

I have heard that at one time there was a wye in Thompson, but I have not found any traces of it.

I'm working on a short history of the line, which MIGHT (no promises-)
get published. If anyone's interested, I'll keep them informed on its final fate.
I think the grade is marked on the USGS map for the area...