Re: Facts and Fictions about C&TS Outlook

I see a bit of twisted logic in these discussions.

For years, some folks on this list have lectured the rest of us that the C&TS is no longer the D&RGW. It can't be kept historic. It has to change to bring in the toursts. I first came to Chama in April of 1971 before the first tourist run. The railroad has changed tremendously since then...some changes for the good and some not so good.

There are those who say you have to do this, or do that to bring in the tourists. Anyone who objects that it is not historic or should not be done that we is lectured that it is a business and history has to take a backseat to bring in the average family with their kids and grandma.

But the town itself is not supposed to change? We are supposed to stay in the same ratty motels that we stayed in in the 70s where we had to wrestle with the roaches for our tooth brush.

Chama has been this way for many years before the C&TS. Jack Thode told me one of the reasons the D&RGW put eating facilites in the parlor cars of the San Juan was so the passengers would not have to get off the train to eat at Chama. A TRAINS magazine article from 1969 talked about the chicken was served still having the feathers on it.

I have heard from many how nice Roger's place is. I am sure that it is. I will find out when and if my wife is able to travel.

I just find it ironic and a bit illogical how some demand that we have to accept the non-historic paint jobs and all the other changes to the railroad, but we can't expect the town to change. I will not even touch the subject of Antonito.

Jerry Day