Re: News from the flatlands....

Mark, I doubt that Jim used any wooden components from the original car.
It is only a matter of semantics whether the existing caboose is a replica, restoration or a reconstruction, but the important thing is that it rides the rails with dignity and appreciation.

Attached is a photo I took during the dedication in 2005. The front rows are the Schroeder extended family. Obviously they also took significant pride in Jim's craftsmanship. Proper stewardship of the
#55 is just as much in memory of Jim Schroeder and tribute to his family as it is recognition of a 12" to 1 foot scale caboose.

The real value of the B & C caboose is that it demonstrates that narrow gauge railroads were not limited to Colorado and assorted lumber railroads. One week ago today, I drove between Ft. Madison and West Point Iowa on a highway constructed on previous right of way of the Ft. Madison and Northwestern NARROW GAUGE railroad. What Jim's efforts produced was a tangible asset that allows interpretation of this otherwise forgotten chapter in railroad history.

Yea the #55 might be narrow gauge, but as a teaching tool it is HUGE!