taken from a similar discussion on the prr yahoo board...
more fodder....feel free to read and reply
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From: bbandbrr@bbandbrr.com
Reply-to: PRR@yahoogroups.com
To: PRR@yahoogroups.com
Sent: 2/24/2009 10:01:47 A.M. Eastern Standard Time
Subj: Re: [PRR-FAX] Re steam power on the Bedford branch
Robert,
I believe Otto Perry's photograph shows the manifestation of an old
PRR ETT rule that prohibited PRR locomotives heavier than a B class
from passing over the WM Bridge in the Cumberland Narrows. This rule
came into effect early in the 20th century apparently, because
earlier photographs show 4-4-0s crossing the bridge with PRR
varnish. It was recinded by the 50s.
Though I haven't seen trainsheets or other paperwork to prove it, the
best I can determine is that normal PRR power brought trains to State
Line, where the PRR met the WM. At State Line, an 0-6-0 was placed
on the train and the other power was serviced and turned at the
roundhouse.
If the above holds true (and I'd love to hear of anyone who has
conductor's reports, dispatcher's sheets, or other paperwork from the
Bedford Branch that could help prove or disprove it), then the rule
would've stayed in effect until State Line closed in the 50s and the
steam was replaced with the BS7ms. Even after State Line closed,
there was a large wye to the north of State Line on which heavy road
power could've turned.
All this to say, Otto Perry probably was photographing a normal
everyday occurance on the Bedford Branch.
Thanks,
Keith Burkey
PRRT&HS 7559
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