Re: Authenticity = Real

Randy,

The folks in Chicago might not take me up on my "generous" offer.

However, if the work was documented properly, with drawings and photos, etc., the work performed would be an addition to the "historical fabric" of the machine rather than detracting from it.

Look at the reality. What we do today is the present. What we did yesterday is all ready history. Where do we make the cut-off?

Do we sit around on our thumbs watching something rust or deteriorate so that future historians can sift through the remnants? This is a totally irresponsible attitude and cannot be in any way construed as preserving any historical fabric except Iron Oxide and cellulose degeneration.

Your group has worked hard to preserve Carter Resources. You have rebuilt equipment as closely as possible to the original designs. Did you ruin this remaining equipment by your actions? No, you actually preserved it by not allowing it to disappear. The same with locomotives.

But Randy, the 999 is a very bad example. The NYC took a 4-6-0 out of their roster and renumbered it for the Chicago Railroad Fair. It is not the original locomotive, so for all of the historic fabric flap, the underlying premise is flawed.

Rick