June 6th, 1960

  Mr. Hutton shook the hand of a well-suited individual, watching the man leave, that man is the president of the All Small Steam Locomotive Society, Isa Wakatsuki, and the Society has sponsored a mainline steam excursion on the Simon Hill Railway on November 19th and 20th with Roger and Betty, the reason for this chartered run is a funding campaign to bring their only steam locomotive to America to participate in the 1964 World’s Fair, that’s going to be held in New York. Ben knew about the World’s Fair that was happening in 4 years; the American Rail Society had made a deal that steam locomotive operations would be permitted for the event, and the ARS and the Roger Railway Preservation Society were working together to bring other steamers to the World’s Fair.

  Roger will be part of the American Representation of this operation, while Canada will bring its own two-foot-gauge steam locomotive to represent the country. Mexico is bringing its two-foot-gauge steam locomotive, an Arnold Jung steamer named Alexandria, built in 1896, from the Tacubaya Railway to represent Mexico. France will bring their French narrow gauge steamer, built in 1912 by Weidknecht, and Britain is also bringing their two-foot gauge steamer; the limit is two participants from each participating country. Though not every country can participate, it’s a big deal, which is why a “small” railway is being built at the Fair site.

  The All Small Steam Locomotive Society will be representing Japan, and so it’s safe to say that it’s going to be a busy year for all preservation societies that are participating. The mainline excursion will be on familiar rails, and the Simon Hill Railway is happy to host the charter. Mr. Hutton knew that this would be great publicity for the railway, and help bring in volunteers, and a future working relationship with the All Small Steam Locomotive Society could be beneficial, since they would be visiting the World’s Fair. Though Roger doesn’t know about this, since the originizer, Robert Moses, wants this to stay quiet until the perfect timing, well, it’s the middle of 1960, and Mr. Hutton feels like he’s ready.

  He walked towards the yard, where Roger was in the yard, on display after a weekend of passenger trains, in the yard were Clair and Robert; it was a lively yard.

  “Oh Hello, Ben, how was the meeting?” Roger asks.

  “It went well,” Ben smiled, “November 19th and 20th will be the date, and you’ll have enough time for general maintenance, 19th will be a doubleheader, and 20th will be just you.”

  Roger looked excited.

  “Well, Betty is going to be excited,” the old Porter beamed happily.

  Though Ben Hutton wasn’t finished yet.

  “I also have some good news, which I should’ve apologized for,” Ben told Roger.

  The old Porter looked confused.

  “Apologized, what for?” Roger asks.

  “It’s something I should’ve told you last year,” Ben told the old Porter, “But you’re going to the World’s Fair in four years.”

  Roger’s eyes were wide; he had heard of this event, he had heard how big this event is, and now participating is something that he always wanted to do.

  “Whoa, really?” Roger asks.

  To which Ben nodded.

  “I was invited to a meeting at the 21 Club with the president of the American Rail Society,” Mr. Hutton told Roger, “The NRHS wasn’t interested, but the ARS was, and convinced Robert Moses to operate a steam passenger train experience of the fair, for the fair, and utilized an abandoned trail, after explaining the benefits of having a passenger excursion, and utilizing the trail for something useful, they said yes, and the ARS is in charge of the project, and you, Roger are going to represent America.”

  Roger’s eyes were even wider.

  “Holy shit,” Roger said out loud, “I’m blown away.”

  Robert and Clair were surprised, too.

  “This is amazing,” She told Robert.

  “Yep, and it seems like it’s a deal,” Robert said quietly.

  “I could see why you have to keep it quiet,” Roger calmed down a bit, “I mean, in 4 years, I’ll be operating a passenger train for many people in New York.”

  “Though,” Robert asks Ben, “Why keep it quiet?”

  “Because they wanted to make this World’s Fair fun and special,” Mr. Hutton told Robert, “And so, they told the ARS and me not to tell anyone…until 1962.”

  “Two years,” Clair said quietly, “But it’s 1960.”

  “Yep,” Mr Hutton nodded, “I just said fuck it, and decided to tell you right now, so when the time comes, we’ll get you ready, and you’ll be having other engines participating.”

  “How many countries?” Roger asks.

  “Japan, Canada, Mexico, France, and Britain so far,” Mr. Hutton told the old Porter, “Germany, Poland, Italy, Australia, South Africa, and China are still in the process; they have to decide by January 1st, 1962.”

  “I’m guessing other countries don’t have 2-foot gauge,” Robert guessed, “How long is this trail?”

  “Some actually do, but some have 2 foot 6 inch gauge, or 750mm gauge, depending on the country,” Mr. Hutton told Robert, “The train was once a branch line of the New York Central, around 80 miles long, it was converted to a hiking trail in the mid 50s, and the ARS wanted to use parts of the former branch line to operate at least 10 miles.”

  “That sounds like a big project,” Roger said as he looked at the others, “How long does this project take?”

  “The ASR wanted to start in late 1962 and complete in late 1963,” He told the old Porter, “Which I feel like is an agreeable time, enough to build the station, lay the tracks, to form a little railway. The budget is at least 1 million dollars, though I’ll also be donating our own time and funding to act like a band-aid if things need to be urgent.”

  Roger was quiet for a second, to take time on the news, and both Robert and Clair were excited.

  “Wow, Roger, this is exciting,” Robert commented, “I mean, you’ll be with many different steam locomotives from different countries, and you’re representing America!”

  “That’s a lot to take in,” Roger told the young engine, “But I’m excited, but…with this long wait, will I be able to get an overhaul before the big day?”

  Mr. Hutton nodded.

  “Probably after the 1962 summer season,” Mr. Hutton told the old Porter, “You haven’t felt it was time yet?”

  “Nope,” Roger smiled, “No uncomfortable feeling, I’m fit as fresh. Though, will Betty come with me to the World’s Fair?”

  Mr. Hutton put his hand on his chin.

  “Probably,” Ben told Roger, “Since two participants can join, there’s a high chance that Betty will participate.”

  Roger was smiling; he was very happy.

  “Anyway,” Mr. Hutton cleared his throat, “We’ll leave on the 7th, which I know sounds quite early, but before the excursion, Eustis Franklin wants you and Betty to operate an Employee Special on the 11th. Wilbert was quite impressed with Betty’s mainline performance on her last visit. We might do another next year if this one goes well.”

  “Will Betty and I have enough time for maintenance before we leave?” Roger asks.

  “Yep,” Mr. Hutton smiled, “Same with your coaches as well as Betty’s.”

  The old Porter beamed happily.

  “I’m happy to operate another mainline excursion,” Roger smiled, “Been wanting to stretch my wheels after operating on the Southern.”

  November 7th, 1960

  The whole year went quite well for Roger, with the many events he participated in, which made more people come to the railway, with the Roger Heritage Special being successful as well. This year was quite a successful one for the old Porter. After the reenactment event, the old saddletank didn’t operate and was getting some general maintenance before leaving Pennsylvania with Betty in tow, receiving the same maintenance as well. The two tank engines arrived at the railway at night. Starlight Yard still looked the same as it had 7 years ago, the last time the old saddletank visited, but Roger was happy to be back at the Simon Hill Railway.

  After he and Betty were lifted onto the tracks and pushed into the engine shop, Roger was happy to see his old friend Simon, who still looked the same. Well, steam locomotives never really cosmetically change depending on the railroad and or owner. Roger glanced at the clock; it was half past 11, quite late, but since they wouldn’t be operating a passenger train until the 11th, it wouldn’t hurt to have a conversation.

  “How are you doing, Simon?” Roger happily asks his friend.

  “Very well, excursions are doing well,” Simon smiled, “How have you been, Roger? It’s been 7 years.”

  “I’ve been well, the railway’s been well, got more steam locomotives to help with passenger service,” Roger smiled, “Nothing much really.”

  “Nothing much!?” Simon said with a surprised tone, “You operated on the Southern’s Narrow Gauge Division, that’s something!”

  “It wasn’t a bad run,” Roger told the Forney type, “The railroad really tests my endurance.”

  Simon's face fell.

  “At least that railroad is still going strong,” Simon sighed.

  Roger looked at his friend.

  “Is something wrong with your railway?” Roger asks his friend.

  “Our freight revenue is drastically lower this year,” Simon told his friend, “Our contracts with other industrial companies are going to end next year. The steel industrial plant, which is also our bread and butter, told us they have at least 2-3 years left until they’re done; only a few could last beyond 1961 or 62. The only positive part of this whole thing is that the excursions are doing so well.”

  “Damn, that sucks,” Betty said quietly, “My railroad was suffering the same as well. Did trucks play a huge part?”

  “A little,” Simon admitted, “But being a Class 1 narrow gauge railroad doesn’t really last long in this modern world. Wilbert told me we still have 5-10 years of life in us until we’re over for good, or even earlier.”

  “I know that feeling,” Betty agreed with Simon.

  Then, Mr. Hutton, Lizzy, and Wilbert came into the engine shop.

  “I hope you two enjoyed your trip to New Hampshire,” Wilbert said calmly to the two engines.

  “We did,” Betty smiled, “It’s nice to be back.”

  “It is,” Roger agreed, “It’s nice to be back on this railway.”

  “I’m sure Ben already told you,” Wilbert looked at the two, “But you’re going to be operating an Employee Special, through the same trackage you operate on your first mainline run, Roger.”

  The two tank engines looked at each other and smiled.

  “What’s the map for the excursion?” Roger asks.

  “The first will be a doublehead excursion to the yard, or Simon Yard, I forgot to tell you of the name the last time you were here,” Wilbert told the old Porter, “Then you’ll operate on the Hillside mainline to the yard, Tuscan Yard, which is 15 miles as well and doubletrack, unlike the excursion to Simon Yard, there are gradients of the line, 1.5 percent gradient, some curves, but nothing to crazy unlike the Narrow Gauge Division.”

  “What a simple run,” Betty smiled gracefully, “But with it being November, the weather last year was horrible.”

  “But yet, people still come,” Simon reminded her, “There’s a high chance of a snowstorm this month, don’t know when, but probably before Thanksgiving.”

  “There’s a chance,” Wilbert said as he took a sip from his hot chocolate, “Snowstorms here are quite thick; it’s best to be careful.”

  “The snowplow train will have its work cut out for it,” Simon told Roger, “The other diesels told me that doing this job is dangerous, and mostly cold.”

  “With some experience that I have from operating trains in the snow back at home,” Roger looked at his friend, “I think I'll pull this off.”

  Simon gave him a worried look.

  “Be careful,” Simon told the old Porter, “I’m sure you know that icy rails can be hazardous.”

  Roger looked at his friend with a hopeful look.

  “Thank you for looking out for me,” Roger smiled, “But I have a great crew who knows how to tackle the weather, Mr. Hutton knows his stuff.”

  “Indeed, I do,” Mr. Hutton chuckled.

  Simon smiled.

  “Well, I put the trust in you and your crew,” Simon chuckled as well, but realized something, “Isn’t the wye at Tuscan Yard very sharp?”

  Wilbert put his hand on his chin.

  “Yes, it is,” Wilbert remembered. Roger looked at the man.

  “How sharp is the wye?” the old Porter asks.

  “We used to have 2-6-2s and 2-6-0s, they were the powerhouse of our railway,” Simon told Roger, “But they can’t get through the wye, in fact, most of the wyes on this railway is very sharp, it’ll take extra time, greasing the rails to make sure they go through, though, the railway ended buying four of these 0-4-4-0ts to compensate for the problem, the six wheel drive engines either operate backwards to go on the industrial railway line which has a wye to turn the engine around. The diesel locomotives didn’t have any issues.”

  Roger remembered something.

  “I remember going on the wye on the industrial railway on the Loon Branch, and the wye in the Simon Yard during my first test run here,” the old Porter told Simon, “I went through those wyes easily, maybe tank engines with 6 wheels like me can go through the sharpness of the curve.”

  “We’ll test it to make sure,” Wilbert said to the old Porter, “Tuscan Yard has a very sharp wye, though Betty can go through the wye with ease.”

  “Benefits of having four wheels,” Betty smiled, “But I’m sure Roger can go through this little predicament, because he’s been through many predicaments in his past, and I know he can do it.”

  Roger smiled.

  “Thank you, Betty,” He thanked the 2-4-2t.

  “Well, it seems we got everything that needs to be said,” Mr. Hutton clapped his hands together, “We’ll give the two of you general maintenance before the Employee special, and to make the train even, another coach would be added to the train.”

  Roger and Betty looked at each other and smiled, they’re excited for the coming weekend.

  November 11th, 1960

  The four days went by quickly, and the general maintenance from the shop staff and the Preservation Society volunteers did extremely well. The rest of the day was relaxing for the Employee Special, but it was mostly cloudy, despite the weather before the 11th being a mixture of blue and gray; there wasn’t any snow…until the 10th of November, it poured a lot, like sifted flour. Wilbert said that four diesel locomotives were clearing the track just for the regular freight trains, and the Employee Special wasn’t cancelled.

  Roger and Betty were in the yard, like yesterday, it was still snowing, though, not as much, it was very cold, and despite the warm fire, the two engines were freezing, the coaches were out and already formed the passenger train. The last coach behind Strawberry was the passenger coach No.1900, which was the year that the passenger car was built. It was an impressive train, 8 coaches, the employees and their families will enjoy a winter wonderland excursion, the coaches consist of Taylor, Anabel, Mary, Charlotte, Peaches, PawPaw, Strawberry, and No.1900.

  “Despite me living in Pennsylvania for all my life, I still don’t like the snow,” Roger shivered, “Thank god that our fire is burning.”

  “Weather in Tennessee can be fucked up as well,” Betty told Roger, “It makes me happy that Eastern United States weather isn’t crazy.”

  Though that made him worried about that comment.

  “Do you think the snow will bother us on this special?” Roger asks his significant other.

  “Probably,” Betty told Roger truthfully, “But at the same time, it’s not snowing too much, maybe it’ll stop during the later mornings.”

  Mr. Hutton, Lizzy, and Wilbert came to the yard. They were wearing heavy coats and winter clothing, and despite freezing to death, they were pretty excited for the trip.

  “I’m glad the cab is going to be warm,” Mr. Hutton said as he took a sip from his thermos, “This is probably the worst snowstorm I’ve ever experienced.”

  “Just make sure the tracks are well sanded,” Lizzy told her husband, “The last thing we want is the engines to slip on the rail.”

  “You’re right,” Mr. Hutton nodded, shivering, “But first, let’s get into the cabs and move the engines first, they’re probably colder than us, waiting in the snow.”

  Mr. Hutton went into Roger, while Lizzy went into Betty, the two engines moved slowly through the yard before coupling each other, with Betty in front of the old Porter, the two then back onto the passenger train, with 8 coaches, operating a special Employee Special in the snowy weather is something that Roger didn’t put on his Christmas list, but it happen, the train was ready, and now Mr. Hutton and Lizzy waited for the other crew members to arrive.

  “We have to be careful,” Roger reminded Betty, “With icy rails, it’s going to be a slippery slide. I think our speed should be around 10-12mph.”

  “Yep,” Betty agreed, “Even if the snowfall is nothing more than a sprinkle, these rails are slick like butter.”

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  Roger chuckled.

  “That’s the best way to describe it,” He smiled.

  An hour later, the crew came, and passengers started arriving. The snow wasn’t stopping, but this didn’t stop the passengers from being excited to operate a special train for the employees of the Simon Hill Railway, and knowing the circumstances that Simon told Roger, it’s no surprise that this special was made. Wilbert was keeping close tabs on the other crews, making sure that the snow wouldn’t delay the special. Luckily, the snowplow train went through the mainline to Simon Yard a few times now, and the line is clear for operating.

  “It’s like a date, isn’t it?” Betty teasingly asks Roger.

  “It is,” the old Porter blushed a bit, despite being cold, he could feel the warmth of Betty’s presence, “It is a date.”

  “Unlike most human dates, we could enjoy the nice scenery, even in the snow,” Betty jokingly smiled at Roger.

  “Yeah, you’re right,” the old Porter agreed.

  The rest of the passengers arrived, wearing winter clothing. They all went inside the coaches, despite the snowfall. It was a good day, and no accidents so far on the line before the special. Wilbert is the pilot for the special excursion, and knowing his expertise on the line could help Roger with the upcoming excursion. Last-minute checkup was made, with sanding the tracks being one of them, it would be apparent since starting an 8-coach special would be a heavy task, even with the doubleheader.

  “Are you ready?” Betty asks.

  Roger smiled.

  “Yes, I am,” He told Betty.

  The two blew their whistles and slowly left the yard. The train was heavy, of course, with many passengers on board; it’s bound to be heavy. Roger could feel his coupler in front being pulled by Betty; he could also feel the train from his back coupler. He made sure not to slip, and she made sure to keep the movement nice, calm, steady, and made sure that the icy rails wouldn’t cause them any problems.

  This was familiar territory, despite not operating on this railway for 7 years; this feels familiar for Roger, of course, Betty has operated this line before, so she’s familiar it as well, this would be a short trip, since it is an Employee Special, it’s for the folks who work themselves very hard on this railway, which might be closed some day, month, or year. He was impressed by how the diesel locomotives cleared the line, which made it easier for them and the excursions to happen; they were going quite well, with no issues so far.

  “Then, the child nearly got herself run over if it wasn’t her older brother who had intervened,” Betty was telling a story from the Hutton Steam Company excursions she operated, “My engineer scolded them; mostly their parents, it was a scary moment.”

  “Serve them right,” Roger said as they passed the same shed that he and his crew rescued Anabel, “Luckily, it seems it only happens once in the Preservation Society. Mr. Hutton used his dad voice; it shut them up quickly.”

  “We won’t see any railfans in this weather,” Betty grinned, “But despite that, it’s a beautiful day, the snowy mountains made it feel like we’re in a different world.”

  Roger looked around; the trees were covered in snow, and the hills were white with snow. Back at home, he would always say that he’s in a different world in terms of the weather in one place, whether it’s rain or snow.

  “You’re right,” Roger smiled, “Sometimes back at home, I forget I’m in America whenever it rains or snows.”

  Betty giggled, but then had a question she wanted to ask.

  “Hey, Roger,” She said as they passed a group of brave railfans, “Why is everyone mean?”

  Roger was surprised to hear that.

  “After what you’ve told me about what happened last year on the Southern, and the engine at Edaville,” She quietly explained to Roger, “And at the home, there are these German engines, and they were all glaring at me, like I just committed murder, why is everyone so shitty?”

  Roger didn’t say much; he could understand what Betty had been feeling, while time had been changing throughout a decade, it’s the folks has been changing, Mr. Hutton told the old Porter before the Preservation society was formed that people don’t want to work in industry like the railroad industry, they wanted good jobs, high up, or even be in Hollywood, everyone is in a sour mood these days, even when happy passengers are riding the Roger Railway, time has really changed.

  “The German engines have their own reason,” Roger told Betty, “They’re from Clair’s old line, Mr. Hutton acquired them not too long ago for the museum, Clair told me that they, and she, have been getting verbal abuse by the other engines since they’re German-made and built, the other two were mostly how their engine crew influenced them.”

  “That’s terrible,” Betty said sadly.

  “I agree, but,” Roger said as they passed another group of railfans who braved the snow, “People and engines can change, not just people or engines that are horrible, but the ones who lived a good life as well. I know we have changed a lot.”

  Betty smiled.

  “I know we have,” She giggled, and noticed something, “Hey, look, we’re getting close to the yard now!”

  Despite the snowy winds, they’ve made it to the yard on time without any issues. The two were glad that they operated the special without any issues. As they arrived at the yard, there was a diesel locomotive with a plow, meaning that he or she were clearing the yard and some of the mainline, after arriving at the yard, the train back into a station siding, where the passengers were departed from the coaches to stretch their legs, walked around, and played into the snow, to which the two were uncoupled from the train and each other to be turned on the wye.

  From what Simon has said, the wyes on this railway are quite sharp, but from his experience, the Simon Yard wye isn’t that sharp, to him at least, but he watched as Betty went through the wye, and he could see how the curves play with her chassis, he wasn’t surprised that Betty got through the wye with ease, now it’s Roger’s turn. He slowly moved up to the curve of the wye. Wilbert was watching to see how this goes, but he’s probably also watching to see if the curves are sharp, to which the old Porter did hear the track creak a bit, he doesn’t know if it’s old age or if that Roger was too heavy, but after a couple of minutes, which was a total of 10-12 minutes, he got through the wye with ease.

  “There we go!” Roger smiled.

  “I guess we tank engines can handle these wyes with ease,” Betty grinned.

  “I knew that I could get through these sharp wyes with ease,” Roger smiled happily, “I guess tank engines can go through everything.”

  There was a yard switcher on the line, another diesel locomotive. Since the train is quite long, the diesel locomotive has to wye the train in two trips. Luckily, this was done quickly, in a span of 20 minutes, but since the layover of the special train was around 1 hour, they were done early, and now the two waited for the passengers to return to the train for the return trip back to the yard, it was a successful excursion so far, and the two were excited for the railfan excursion next week.

  After the passengers got lunch, they returned to the passenger train for the return trip. The return trip was mostly the same, but going back to the yard was a happy feeling for both of them. Luckily, it did stop snowing, but from what Wilbert had said, it would snow again for the coming weeks; it was something that would be expected for November. It was going to be a great month either way.

  After returning to the yard, the passengers got off, thanked the two, and went back to their cars to go home, the train was wye again to be facing the other direction, to get ready for next week’s excursion, it would be a special one since it would be the first for Roger and Betty would doublehead on an excursion train, nevertheless, a mainline excursion train. After turning on the wye, the two uncoupled the coaches and each other and backed to the engine shop where Simon is.

  “We did quite well, didn’t we?” Betty asks Roger.

  “We sure did,” Roger smiled, “Wilbert was impressed we tackled such a long train without any issues.”

  The two chuckled happily.

  “Nice work, you two,” Simon smiled, “Eustis will be quite pleased with you two. I was worried that you two would be snow sculptures in this weather.”

  “I’m excited for the excursion next week,” Roger smiled, “Nice way to end the season.”

  “Same as well,” Betty agreed.

  Then, Simon remembered something.

  “I forgot to tell you this, but Tuscan Yard is in Hillside City,” Simon told Roger, “The final miles of the railway go through the streets, and have a small bridge, quite an experience. They also have a branch line that connects to the city, which is another branch line, which is an industrial railway that connects to that branch line, which is one of the factories that is keeping this railway running, and knowing the group sponsoring your excursion, they’ll like this city.”

  Roger was curious.

  “Why?” He asks.

  “Because most of the population is of Japanese descent, or at least Japanese Americans,” Simon told Roger, “The city has 80k, but it’s been growing a lot in the last decade or two, due to after World War Two, compared to California, but it’s one of the few cities or town with a huge Japanese population, some of the workers here are Japanese, though, only 10 percent. I’m guessing the Society that sponsored the excursion did this because it’s close to home.”

  Both engines were in awe.

  “Sounds like a nice city!” Roger smiled.

  “It is,” Simon agreed, “They have a festival every certain part of the season, which sometimes the city sponsors the railway for excursions, it’s a wonderful time, especially when the excursion is part of the festival, full of happy passengers.”

  This made Betty wonder.

  “Is there a festival next week?” Betty asks.

  “In fact, there is,” Simon replied, “There’s usually a winter festival in November and December, and I usually haul an excursion train in one of them. My crew told me there’s one on the 19th and 20th, which is a diesel power excursion.”

  Roger and Betty looked at each other.

  “You think it’s a coincidence?” the old Porter asks Betty.

  “I don’t know, maybe?” Betty guessed, “Ben would’ve told you if he knew.”

  “Yeah…he would,” Roger quietly said.

  It went quiet for a second, just before Simon said something to the two engines.

  “The Cherry Blossom Festival is next year around the springtime,” Simon told the two, “It’s a nice festival, there are many of these cherry blossoms, I remember seeing my crew planting them 40-50 years ago.”

  Roger smiled.

  “That sounds nice,” He smiled at the Forney Type locomotive.

  “It is,” Betty agreed as well.

  Though Roger had a question for Simon.

  “Is there a shed at Simon Yard?” the old Porter asks, “Since I’m going to be operating that excursion next week.”

  “Oh yeah, there is,” He told Roger, “It’s usually for engines that need servicing, and as a resting stop for long travels, most of our railway has one, don’t worry, it’s been modernized since the railway went with diesel locomotives, very safe structure for old steamers like you and me.”

  This made the old Porter beam happily.

  “Thank you for that,” Roger smiled, “I can’t wait to run a mainline excursion again.”

  November 19th, 1960

  That long rest period did give a chance to give the two engines some much-needed general maintenance work. Roger did ask Mr. Hutton about the upcoming winter festival, but to his surprise, he didn’t know about the festival or the history of the city. The All Small Steam Locomotive Society knew about the city and their history, but not the festival. They chose the date since the other members wanted to railfan in Wyoming for a Union Pacific Steam Program excursion that’s being held that same weekend, so it was a coincidence.

  The City officials and the festival committees came to the All Small Steam Locomotive Society and the Roger Railway Preservation Society, to which they asked Mr. Hutton if Roger could be displayed during the festival, not at the branch line, but in the yard. In return, after hearing about the history of the city and the festivals, Mr. Hutton spoke with the City officials and the festival committees about future excursions with the old saddletank and Betty, which lasted a few days.

  Being last-minute, Betty wasn’t invited to be displayed, sadly, but she didn’t mind since there’s always next time, and since Mr. Hutton was in that short meeting, there would be a next time. The coaches were also getting cleaned and polished, getting ready for the special excursion. The excursion cost 10 dollars for each seat, and the passengers could visit the festival during the long layover. It was an exciting time, and the two were very excited.

  Roger and Betty were outside the engine shop. The ground was still covered in a fresh blanket of snow; the last two days were mostly snowfall, which caused the diesel locomotives to work extra hard clearing the snow, and they did a wonderful job as always. The position was the same as the Employee Special, with Betty in front and Roger in back, 7 coaches ready to be filled with happy railfans. Although it didn't snow today, it was still very cold.

  “How are you feeling, Betty?” Roger asks.

  “Cold, but excited,” She smiled at her significant other, “It’s a nice day for an excursion.”

  “Yeah, I’ve also heard that the All Small Steam Locomotive Society is going to be the conductors for the excursions,” Roger told Betty, “Something different for the excursion.”

  Just then, the members arrived, wearing conductor uniforms, although not American, but looking sharp and professional-looking. Knowing the Society's history, Roger wasn’t surprised if one of them worked for a big railway. The old Porter could see that the volunteer conductors were having a meeting, which was in their native language, which ended with all of them bowing all together. It was an interesting sight; for some reason, it made Roger happy and hopeful for the excursion.

  The other crew came as Mr. Hutton and Lizzy were getting ready for the excursion; their son, Samuel, decided to join his parents in operating Roger for this excursion. Everyone was ready for the excursion, as time moved slowly, every second was spent making sure the engine and the coaches were in good working order. The passengers came, like the employees, who were wearing heavy winter clothing, since it isn’t snowing. Thankfully, the passengers stayed outside for a couple of minutes, taking photos of the doubleheader train before getting inside the coaches.

  After another last-minute look around, everyone was ready, both the crew, Roger, and Betty were ready to run. A crew member from Betty sanded the rails, making sure to have a good grip for the heavy passenger train. After that was all said and done, the two engines blew their whistle and slowly left the yard, like the Employee Special. It was heavy, but without the added eighth coach, this was much easier to work with; the excursion train moved a little faster as it left the yard, starting the mainline excursion.

  Making their way through the same rails that they operated with the Employee Special last week, this is more like their style, simple and relaxing. The All Small Steam Locomotive Society did a wonderful job with this sponsored trip. They have different kinds of snacks and drinks, with a lunch box that came with the excursion ticket pack, which is called an ekiben, which was all catered from a few grocery stores and restaurants from Hillside City, which is nice of them. Many passengers, who are mostly American, have never had the hospitality of Japanese railroading, but this is the closest experience that they’ll get on this excursion.

  Roger and Betty were making good time and whistling to the railfans who braved the weather. Even if it’s not snowing today, it’s still crazy or reckless to shoot some trains in the dead of winter. The passengers were enjoying the train ride and even enjoying the new ekiban, which gave a new taste to the American passengers. The train was going at a much faster pace since they had a time schedule, and since the regular freight train also operates on this same exact line, it would be an issue if they were going at a slow pace.

  The passengers hung out of the window and could see the two steam locomotives. They were also taking photos and enjoying the cold air blowing on their faces. Despite the cold winter, this was going very well for both of them.

  “This is going very great,” Roger smiled as they passed another group of railfans.

  “It is, and we’re almost at the yard!” Betty told the old Porter, “We’re getting closer to our destination.”

  She was right, they could see the yard getting closer and closer in view, which the two whistled happily, as a grand entrance for this excursion. Though it was a bit foggy, not a lot to cover the whole railway, but enough to make the tracks disappear, but also appear. It was a weird feeling for the two, but they arrived at the station on time without incident, and Roger could see that there was someone grilling meat in the cold, which, looking at the griller’s uniform, he was also part of the All Small Steam Locomotive Society.

  One of the conductors leaned out of the window and shouted;

  “Let’s eat!” He cried out in the open, but it was obviously in Japanese.

  Roger was quite surprised. Mr. Hutton did tell the old Porter that the All Small Steam Locomotive Society is in charge of the lunch catering, and now looking at this, Ben wasn’t kidding. The passengers got out of the coaches, smelling the grilled meat, and despite having that boxed lunch, most of the passengers went straight to the gentleman grilling the meat; even Samuel went to join. Grilled meat is irresistible for anyone, regardless of the weather.

  “No wonder I smell someone cooking meat,” Roger commented as the crew uncoupled the old Porter from Betty, “The Society is sure something.”

  Mr. Hutton got out of his cab.

  “Isa also told me that sometimes, they used one of their tipper wagons as something called an onsen, it’s like a hot spring to us Americans,” Mr. Hutton told Roger, “I’m impressed so far, I’ve visited the All Small Steam Locomotive Society during their 1956 season during my family vacation to Japan, always loved their little 0-4-0t, and I’ve been close with them ever since. They’re like family, other than mother and father.”

  Roger remembered something.

  “Don’t you still have your older sisters?” Roger asks.

  Mr. Hutton sighed.

  “It’s been 15 years since my older brother passed away,” Ben looked at the happy passengers, “It’s been over 25 years since I’ve last seen them.”

  Roger didn’t say anything, but realized a distraction was needed.

  “Maybe grabbing some lunch would probably ease your worries,” the old Porter suggested.

  Mr. Hutton smiled.

  “I think it’s a good idea,” Ben smiled, and he went over to the many passengers along with Lizzy.

  “I didn’t know Mr. Hutton had any siblings,” Betty said as her crew was giving her a polish.

  “He doesn’t like to talk about it,” Roger told his significant other, “Despite his happy childhood, he doesn’t seem to have a good relationship with his siblings, except his older brother.”

  “I see,” Betty said quietly.

  Roger was looking at the crowd, who were laughing, talking, and eating. It was a good time, being only day 1, today felt like a success for the old Porter.

  “Lovely crowd,” Roger smiled, “That’s what makes me enjoy these excursions.”

  “Same as well,” Betty agreed, though she asked, “Are you sure you can be here by yourself?”

  The old Porter looked at the engine shed.

  “I’m sure,” Roger assured Betty, “The shed looks safe enough, and besides, I’ve already experienced this on the Southern.”

  Betty didn’t say much, but looked at the shed as well.

  “I trust you, Roger,” She smiled, “Just be safe.”

  The old Porter blinked a couple of times.

  “I will,” Roger smiled as well, “I promise.”

  Lunch was a success, with grilled meats, vegetables, and soft drinks, but no alcohol, as this is an excursion and everyone needs to be focused for the return trip home. Betty was uncoupled from Roger and moved onto a different train, where the old Porter moved his train to a siding, uncoupled from his train, and moved slowly to the shed. Betty was turned onto the wye with her coaches, waiting for passengers to board. However, a separate bus chartered arrived, which was realized when the train became full, and there were still people outside. This misjudgment by Mr. Hutton and the All Small Steam Locomotive Society led to an unexpected small delay.

  Luckily, the passengers weren’t cross, though they were extremely tired, and the bus took them home. Betty left with her train while Roger was in the shed. It was nice and modern, and even had a drop pit; it was quite a modern locomotive shed.

  “Today was very great, right dad?” Samuel excitedly asks his father, who was working on Roger.

  “It is,” He nodded, “I believed that the barbecue lunch that the Society gave us is called Yakiniku, the sauce is delicious though.”

  “Probably the best thing that I’ve ever eaten,” Lizzy agreed.

  “It’s like cooking on your shovel dad,” Samuel noted, “Probably much quicker too.”

  Mr. Hutton had a bright idea.

  “Since they cut their meat much thinner, they cook faster,” Mr. Hutton was tapping his chin, “I need to ask the members or Isa for the recipe.”

  “It’s a nice excursion overall,” Roger smiled.

  Mr. Hutton nodded.

  “I agree,” He smiled, “A nice doubleheader, which will be an addition to the Railway World and Trains Magazine next year.”

  Roger was surprised.

  “I didn’t expect them to do a piece on us,” the old Porter said as he could see a diesel locomotive coming up on the track next to him.

  “I didn’t either, until I saw one of them trackside during the Employee Special, and today’s run,” Mr. Hutton told Roger, “It’s going to be great to have them doing a piece on us despite not being a British railway.”

  Roger yawned a bit.

  “I’m exhausted,” the old Porter told Ben.

  “Me too,” Mr. Hutton, yawning a bit, “The lunch that the passengers had made them sleepy as well, so I’m going to rest a bit before coming back to do some general maintenance before tomorrow's excursion.”

  “Sounds like a plan,” Roger smiled.

  November 20th, 1960

  The long rest was needed since the next excursion is the last one for this charter excursion, this time to Tuscan Yard, in Hillside City. From what Simon has told Roger, the line goes through a street and has a branch line with an industrial railway connecting to that branch line. It was 6:30, and he was excited and ready for this excursion. He slowly backed into the cold weather, it was snowing, but not a lot, and backed into his coaches. The sisters were given a thorough clean before today’s excursion, and they look very smart. Mr. Hutton and Lizzy were in the yard, eating something that looked like bread with crosshatches.

  “Morning, Ben, Lizzy,” Roger smiled at the two.

  Mr. Hutton nodded and took a bite out of the bread.

  “You know, these Japanese pastries are damn good,” Mr. Hutton commented, “This here is what they call a Melon Bread, it’s tasty, I’m excited for this run because our engine crews could participate at the festival.”

  Roger chuckled a bit.

  “I can’t wait as well. I was expecting the weather not to snow today, but I was wrong,” the old Porter noted.

  “It’s mostly a sprinkle, sweetie,” Lizzy told Roger, cupping his cheek, “But it’s not going to dampen our spirits too much.”

  The passengers came to the yard with excited looks on their faces. The Society members came again with another batch of the box lunch for the passengers, and depending on how things go, they would also enjoy the festival before the return trip. The passengers got into the coaches, some got in their seats right away as the crew gave one last look and inspection to the old saddletank before leaving. It was still snowing, Roger blew his whistle, and slowly started moving. Mr. Hutton sanded the rails before the excursion, helping to give traction to the engine.

  The run so far was going smoothly, not just the cold smooth rails, but the excursion as well. This was Roger’s first time going through the railway this deep, and seeing the scenery, despite being covered in the snow, was very nice. The old Porter trundles along the track with ease. The passengers are enjoying the sights of the snow-covered scenery, as much as Roger likes to admire the nature, this line also has a 1.5 percent gradient, which can make the excursion a challenge, but sometimes, railfans love to see a steam locomotive trundling along on very tough grades.

  “This excursion has been well despite the weather,” Mary told Roger happily.

  “Agreed, sis,” Charlotte agreed with Mary, “A nice way to end our time here.”

  “Our seats were filled up to the brim,” Anabel beamed happily, “It’s a good weekend.”

  “You know, I like these mainline excursions,” Taylor told Roger, “I do like my wheels going at a fast pace, though, not all the time, I do love our home.”

  “It’s nice to do this from time to time,” Roger told Taylor, “But let’s not get that in our minds, it’s a treat most of the time.”

  The coaches agreed with that, with the Preservation Society doing a great job on the railway, the summer 1960 season was a great success, and with passenger records going up very high, it made events and charters like this happen; it also allowed the locals to ride on the Roger Heritage Special on the mainline, a rare and special opportunity. Roger could see the double track, which wasn’t the first he saw one, but looking at the small wall of snow that the snow plow train came through here, it was an interesting sight since the snow wall was almost as tall as him.

  Roger could see a diesel locomotive with a set of passenger cars. He whistled to the train, and the diesel locomotive honked his horn as a salute. It was an interesting sight for the passengers on both trains, but it seems like the festival is going on quite early, and one of the major attractions is the passenger excursion, after passing the train, Roger increased his speed just a bit, he wasn’t late, but he wants to put on a show for any railfans who are braved enough to walk in the snow.

  Then he could feel his coupling being tighter, and his wheels gripping the rails tightly; he was on the gradient, a tough 1.5 percent gradient. Roger slowed down the train, but not much; he was hoping that the hot sand from his sander could help him grip the rails. The cold weather made the plume of smoke and steam thick as the engine charged his way to the gradient.

  “Take your time, Roger,” Mr. Hutton told the old Porter, “We still have time to arrive at the city.”

  “I’m going to beat this grade,” He told Ben, panting, “Downgrade would be better; sometimes I wonder if I’m too old for this.”

  “Nonsense,” Ben smiled, “But after this, you’ll get a long rest right before Christmas for some general maintenance.”

  It seems like the passenger excursion went through the gradient without any issues. Downgrade felt nice for Roger, not having to work hard as before; he glided through the tracks as the doubletrack converged into a single track. It was apparent now he was getting closer and closer to Hillside City. With clouds in the sky, Roger couldn’t guess what time it was, but he hoped the time was before noon. The setting of nature was slowly turning into a setting of a city, the old Porter could see buildings, some were small at first, then it became more suburban, modern, he was arriving in the city, and close to Tuscan Yard.

  Roger started to slow down; the train was going over a small bridge. He was in the city now, and the ground of snow-covered dirt had become a snow-covered sidewalk, buildings had become visible to him, and he could see people walking down the street, stopping to take a look at the engine. Roger whistled loudly as a greeting and a sign to move out of the way. He could see that most of the folks were Japanese and of Japanese descent. Simon wasn’t kidding; every sign of every building would be in Japanese, but some in English, it’s like being in a different country for the old Porter.

  He could see that some of the locals and children were holding toys and masks, some were holding food as well, and the festival was close by. The city folks saw the old Porter and waved at the crew. From what Simon has told Roger, they’re happy to see a passenger train that wasn’t the usual freight train; many of the locals lined up to see the train, like a parade waving at Roger and the excursion train, it was something spectacular. The old Porter whistles at the crowds. It’s always nice to see people excited about an excursion train, especially if the train is hauled by a steam locomotive. Many people were walking along the train, trying to pace Roger to keep up with him. It was actually interesting for the old Porter to see that the tracks in the city were the last few miles before the old Porter could see the yard.

  Roger arrived at the yard, where there were a lot of people in the yard, some of whom were wearing interesting robes like clothes that the old Porter hadn’t seen before. It seems like the passengers were waiting for the excursion from the diesel locomotive and didn’t expect a steam locomotive operation. Despite the high population of Japanese Americans and immigrants, there were still white American folks in the crowd, though, like every few people.

  The passengers crowd around Roger, a bit too much, though, to be fair, most of them haven’t seen a steam locomotive in months, mostly it’s usually the one-off excursion with Simon, though, he never told the old Porter that the locals here would swarm Roger like sardines, the yard workers help keep the crowd away from the old Porter, but knowing it’s almost useless, kids to adults were taking in the sight of a steam locomotive once again, some were taking photos, and some mostly admiring Roger.

  The old Porter looked around at the now crowded yard. He could see a group of children with some older children as well, though one of them had an interesting comment for Roger.

  “Turtle!” a little boy told the old Porter.

  Roger was confused.

  “What?” He asks, trying to make sense of what the boy said.

  “Turtle!” a little girl replied as well.

  “Turtle! Turtle! Turtle! Turtle!” the children were chanting, some were chanting in Japanese, and the words were ‘Kame’ repeatedly. It was bizarre for Roger, respectfully.

  “Why are they calling me turtle?” the old Porter asks Ben as he gets out of the cab.

  “I think it’s because of your saddletank,” Mr. Hutton pointed out, “Your saddletank reminds the children of a turtle.”

  “Oh,” Roger said, now feeling a bit stupid, “That’s good to know.”

  Wilbert walked to the old Porter.

  “I’ve been told by the locals throughout the city that turtles bring good luck, wisdom, and longevity,” Wilbert told Roger, “Loon got the same treatment.”

  Roger chuckled.

  “Well, look at that,” He smiled, “I guess I have a symbol of good luck for all these years.”

  The train backed to a siding, where the passengers got off, and moved around to get the blood flowing, the crowd didn’t died down, but with the festival happening, the locals decided to go back to the festival, with the passengers wanting to go to the festival, following the locals, this was a chance for a rest and some servicing before returning the excursion home, and knowing the big crowd at the yard, he could imagine bigger crowd on the return trip.

  After giving Roger some servicing, the crew followed the locals to the festival, leaving some crew members to work on the engine and train since they’re not interested in the festival, respectfully. The crowds keep coming in and out of the yard to see Roger, like he was a celebrity, though, to be fair, steam locomotives are like celebrities in general. It’s interesting to see many of the locals in awe of the excursion train. Roger could see another separate track, which he was guessing led to the Hillside Branch; he didn’t know if the tracks supported the weight of a 2-foot gauge excursion train.

  It was a fun day, and the sounds of the festivals were playing in the distance. It was an experience that Roger could never forget, despite having to leave Betty on this excursion; this one was a huge success, and with a city that is willing to host their own excursions, the old Porter feels like he’s going to make more frequent trips to the Simon Hill Railway soon.

  The afternoon cold air strangely relaxes Roger as he watches his crew come back from the festival, looking happy as they arrive back at the old Porter. He can see their happy faces as they have a great time at the festival.

  “This Japanese festival is quite fun,” Mr. Hutton told Roger happily as he came up to the cab, “Lots of great food, drinks, and fun games. There’s this one quite interesting food, it’s called Takoyaki, it has octopus in a wheat ball, quite tasty in this cold weather.”

  “Some of the crew enjoyed themselves as well,” Lizzy added, “They really were surprised to see a steam locomotive excursion that wasn’t sponsored by them.”

  Roger was curious.

  “Do you think the city or the festival committee would want to sponsor us for an excursion?” the old Porter asks Ben.

  Mr. Hutton thinks for a second.

  “Maybe,” Mr. Hutton replied, “I know that the huge crowds were a major factor in this festival's success, but I think they’re up for it. After this run, I’ll contact them about hosting one in the spring. From what I know, they hold many different festivals, and their cherry blossom festivals are quite popular.”

  “Cherry blossoms are quite beautiful,” Lizzy noted, “We should plant some at the railway.”

  Mr. Hutton smiled.

  “It sounds like a great idea,” Ben nodded, agreeing with his wife, “I need to speak to some folks about where to get the saplings.”

  “I feel like this excursion has influenced us a bit,” Roger told Ben and Lizzy, “Today was a great success!”

  To which the two nodded.

  “Yes, it is,” they both said simultaneously, agreeing with the old Porter.

  The passengers came back from the festival, where all of them had a great time. Roger moved his train through the sharp wye, carefully, but made it through without any issues, facing the other way, home, back to Simon Yard, for the return trip of the excursion. After the passenger boarded the train, Roger could see the locals, who were standing along the tracks in the yard, waving goodbye to the excursion train.

  “Come back soon!” a little boy cried out.

  “Please come back soon!” a little girl cried out as well.

  “See you later, thanks for visiting!” a man waved at the excursion train.

  Roger smiled at the crowd.

  “We’ll meet again!” the old Porter smiled, “Don’t forget to visit my railway!”

  Roger blew his whistle and slowly left the yard. He could see the folks running after the excursion train, keeping up with the pacing of the train. The old Porter blew his whistle a couple of times, knowing that the loud sound would echo through the yard and city. He knew that the railfans would chase this train, and that’s a good thing since there’s always a thrill with these mainline excursions, and Roger knew he would come back soon.