Local: Kellar Branch Revival

January 18, 2008
By David P. Jordan

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Pioneer Industrial Railway engine gives a friendly toot as it passes in back of the Journal Star today. Photo by David P. Jordan

The Pioneer Industrial Railway operated its locomotive the length of the Kellar Branch this afternoon, the first known to do so since August 2005. No revenue carloads for Carver Lumber have arrived, but PIRY had its locomotive (still wearing the 1970’s blue and yellow scheme of former owner Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe) delivered Thursday evening so they could make the run.

As expected, no problems were encountered during the run, which lasted approximately one hour. On most of the trip, the crew ran the engine at about 10mph, the maximum allowed on “excepted track.” At major crossings, such as NE Adams, NE Jefferson, Prospect, Glen, Knoxville and Pioneer Parkway, officials flagged motorists to stop and allow the engine to safely cross. The locomotive is now safely stored at Carver Lumber, to which the first revenue carload will arrive next week.

Check David P. Jordan’s Transportation Blog soon for a photo essay featuring today’s run.

I’m dedicating this blog entry to Prego Man, who is counted among the nonbelievers.

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3 Responses to “ Local: Kellar Branch Revival ”

  1. Ed Sanders on January 18, 2008 at 9:45 pm

    I was with David Jordan today as we followed the PREX 2032 up the Kellar Branch starting a few minutes after 2PM and ending about one hour later. Here is a link to my photo site and the 56 pictures posted there: http://www.flickr.com/photos/11470486@N04/sets/72157603748731887/

  2. Floyd on January 18, 2008 at 10:57 pm

    That’s cool. I can remember when the train used to run that rail all the time. I grew up with the track right on the other side of our back fence up in the Heights, between Knoxville and Glen. Brings back memories.

    When Pabst was open, that seemed to be the busiest time for the train. Used to have rodent problems, which sucked. I can recall a big rat taking up residence on our back porch, and my Dad chasing it out and whacking it. The good ole days!

  3. David P. Jordan on January 19, 2008 at 8:39 am

    Great shots, Ed…looks like I’m in several of your shots!