While looking through some train books in my library , I came across an interesting picture.
I believe it was a passenger car from the Burlington-Norther Railroad. Atop the car were 5 or 6 giant spotlights. I presumed these were used to illuminate the scenery at night sometime during the trip. The first thought that came to mind was through Glacier Park , Westbound , after dark , illuminating the mountains.
Am I correct ? Does anyone know "officially" what the purpose of those spotlights were ?
I thought the idea was fascinating. Of course, the spotlights would have to be used only in wilderness areas where no "residents" might be disturbed.
Posted by Geoff M (Member # 153) on :
Oh dear, that reminds me of certain European cities where the boats along the rivers would shine their huge spotlights on the passing buildings - and right into the eyes of the diners or anybody else unlucky enough to be on the banks of the river.
Of course, mountains and cities are vastly different scenarios. I only mention it because of the horrible memories!
However, I do think it is a bad idea. Light pollution, nocturnal animals being disturbed, and I prefer to see things by moonlight rather than spotlight anyway.
Geoff M.
Posted by Gilbert B Norman (Member # 1541) on :
Now about the Baltimore & Ohio?
The B&O had five Dome cars that were equipped with spotlights. From having ridden such trains the cars were assigned to, circa '60's, I really don't recall them proving much of anything, save maybe blinding a motorist or two at a grade x-ing.