One quick question. Does the FTRA exist or are they an urban legend.
try running a search for “Freight Train Riders of America” on this forum’s search function, and you’ll see there has been some discussion on this in the past.
Personally, I think there is such a group, but the legend has grown larger than life… as people try to sell magazine articles, books, etc.
I also think that UPRR’s cop shop has played a role in growing this legend larger than life, in hopes of scaring off railfans and weekend hobo hopping freights for kicks.
they are more loosley affiliated like a gang than an actual organization
Always carry a mag light. Those things are beasts and can knock people out.