Train DEC25, the Christmas train is here once again!
Green 25 is the other engine. Her cab number needs some TLC so it can be seen!
Behind the engines are the hopper cars; one with coal, the other with "snow". Both are still equipped with friction bearing trucks, so they require close inspection at every stop to make sure the journals are still lubricated and sound. Even though the cars aren't in interchange service, and thus are allowed to still have friction bearing journals, the fact that the trucks still haven't been replaced in over a half a century (they were banned from interchange service in the late 60's) is incredible -especially given the extra maintenance they require!
A worker walks past the baggage door of the crew car.
The crew car this year is an ex-Appalachian baggage-lounge car. Formerly used on long-distance passenger trains, it is perfect for the Christmas train; the crew can relax while travelling between stops (they overnight in hotels, so no need for a sleeper).
No Christmas train is complete without Santa! As he greets the local children, his "sleigh" has gifts at the ready beside him.
Stop completed, the train leaves Hillsdale for the next stop; Dale City.
The two GE 44 Tonners lead the train out of town. It is doubtful that the roof top a/c units will be needed anytime soon!
Santa and his assistant waive from the rear of the caboose. Until next year!
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