train order signals

[nw-mailing-list at nwhs.org]

To: "N&amp;W Mailing List" <nw-mailing-list at nwhs.org> 
Date: Fri, 24 Dec 2004 16:28:10 -0500 
From: nw-mailing-list at nwhs.org
Subject:  Re: 2005 Classic calendar - Glasgow, VA -
Frank Scheer's Qsn

Abram,
 
I haven't seen any answers to your question, 
"Now, let's whet your appetite on the top arm (train
order signal).  Why would it be capable of displaying
three aspects?  Any guesses...?"
 
My reply is strictly a guess, but would the three
aspects be for something like 1. clear - no orders to
be delivered. 2. "19" orders to be picked up on the
fly. 3. stop to sign for "31" orders?
 
Gordon Hamilton


December 26, 2004

Good morning, Gordon:

Your answer is correct.  An interesting note about
train order signals is that the train and engine crews
weren't required by the signal to necessarily get a
train order.  Instead, the signal indicated they had
to pick up a clearance card.  The clearance card for a
specific train would specify which train order(s) and
message(s) were to be attached to the clearance card,
which might be none in either or both cases.  Two
different clearance forms were in use: a form A card
which did not require a train to stop for receipt; and
a form B that did.  The form B was discontinued when
the form 31 train order was likewise obsoleted.

The dispatcher specified to the operator which
indication was to be shown when issuing a train order,
with the normal indication being green for no orders. 
However, before train arrival, the operator confirmed
with the dispatcher which order(s) and/or message(s)
were to be attached to a clearance card.

I haven't looked at an N&W operating rule book in
jotting down this from-defective-memory answer.  This
was the general procedure on the C&O during the 1950s
and followed by most railroads that generally
conformed to the standard operating rules.

Best wishes to all for a great approaching new year!


=====
Dr. Frank R. Scheer, Curator
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