A few more of these.
Even after getting the 346 1st steamed up, for the first few years we did get some interesting ones.
Visitor to engineman: Just what is that black stuff (in the tender)? (The person had no idea what coal was.) A common question knowdays in areas where coal is not prevalent.
On another occasion: One father type visitor apparently trying to impress his son on his knowledge of things mechanical - Question to fireman while craning neck looking intently in the gangway - What makes this thing run? When told it was propelled by steam, generated by the burning of coal the visitor, not believing the answer, and still reviewing every inch of the gangway, asked "Where the diesel engine is and the fuel tank? We tried to explain it one more time, but to no avail. HE remained unconvienced.
Just one more (if my recollection serves my right):
When Dick Cooper was still firing on the NG in the late 50's early 60's, he related that after arriving at Silverton with Steve Connors, the enginemen had some spot time while the passengers unloaded from the train. This to get all passengers off the train before backing up for turning, re-spotting and eventual reloading.
Well the practice for the enginemen was to stay on the engine, close the cab windows and wait until all the tourists finished streaming by the engine and cab. As the looks and incredable amount of questions were often too much for the "older heads" to take.
Anyway, one day, a particular tourist, would not take a closed window for an answer and had to have his question asked. After repeated knocking on said window, Connors, fed up, but trying to hold his temper, opened the window and the tourist quired if he could ask a question. Yes, was the answer. Then the classic question and answer. "Gee, why did the build the engine 3 foot gauge?" And Connors answer? "To fit the G-- Damn track!" And with that the window was slammed shut leaving the tourist to ponder a question that obviously confounded the masses!
We all have these stories to tell. As we (as a nation) get further away from experiance in the "blue collar industries", the more difficult it is for people to understand just how somethings function.
So patience, can make more friends for the railroad. But sometimes, it so doggone hard not to laugh!!!! At least until later!
Chris
