I have been suggesting for years that they letter the locomotives(Steam)Rio Grande in honor of the former railroad which they use EVERYDAY(D&RGW). I am sure the UP would have no problem with that, if someone from the railroad would just ask them!
I hate to even bring this up since I tend to beat a dead horse on this issue(Whenever I can). For some reason the other camp is in love with the C&TS name. Maybe its like the basement model train "It's own railroad, and I can name it the way I want to". The C&TS line is one of the most complete, and historic railroads in the U.S. It would sure be nice if they could make it look that way too. Kudos to the Huckleberry, who as Michael Allen stated earlier doesn't have to do it, cause its a local outfit and not historical in nature. Its just a train ride to enjoy, yet the shop folks choose to make the engine look as authentic as possible. Thats what I call true preservation. Its always baffled me why its such a big deal to paint D&RGW or Rio Grande on the C&TS engines, when other folks do it all the time, and they aren't even near where these engines once ran. The C&TS and D&S are unique animals in that these engines once worked in regular service on these exact routes they use today. It only makes sense to letter them for the home railroad. Heck Heber Valley Railroad couls letter their engines Heber Valley Railroad, yet their 2-8-0 is lettered for the predecessor railroad(Union Pacific).
I guess my Christmas wish would be that the C&TS commission decides to use proper historical markings on the equipment and buildings that are remaining from the 60's era. Note I did not say change the name of the railroad, just the engines, water tanks, and buildings. How cool would it be to see D&RGW heralds on the Water Tanks, and stations again!
Happy Holidays.
Greg
