Re: More on the Silverton Line

Going along with Bradshaw's improvements was the track work and strengthening of the bridges, which then allowed the K-36's and K-37 497 to be used on the line for the first time to Silverton.

Regarding freight when we honeymooned at the AH Wilderness Ranch in 1981, owner Ross McCauslin(SP), spoke highly of their relationship with the railroad, and anything they needed hauled up there was not a problem. They hauled in the horses and other stuff, besides the patrons who also came by train. Ross's daughter was married to the guy who started Tall Timbers as I recall. I had stayed at that ranch in 1956 as a little kid then again in 1966, and finally in 1981 the last year it was open. It was a nice warm family friendly place to visit.

Speaking of shipping I think sometimes the ranch had to have a horse drive taking the livestock to Tacoma to get them out in the fall. They had a suspension bridge over the river just south of the ranch, which they used on trail rides.....including a pancake breakfast ride one morning. A fun place, and seeing the 2 steam trains a day made it even better!!!

Greg