17 October 2005
Crews Finish Work on Poor Vic‘s Curve
Next Project to Extend the the Line to Micaela
By Richard “Scoop” Carails- Two Trees Times
Poor Vic‘s, Texas- N&MRR crews finished their up grade of the section of the line known as Poor Vic‘s Curve late Saturday Morning. Prior to that time the speed limit of that section had been reduced to 5 mph by Texas Railway Commission inspectors. The old line had been in place since the early 1900s had had only had its rails replaced once, back in the 1940s. Full maintenance of that area came to an end in 1968.
A late inspection of the recent work at Poor Vic’s
“Most of those crossties,” said Lester Howard track crewman, “were so rotten, it’s a wonder we didn‘t kill ourselves even going so slow as we did.”
The line to Micaela, Texas has been temporary closed by order of N&MRR President Capt J.E. Carrales citing that the condition of existing track is too unsafe even for slow speeds.
Temporary End-of-the-Line, Lester Howard and New Conductor Ben E. Ficial inspect the bumper.
“Once the rest of the line is upgraded,” said Carrales, “we will have regular service to Micaela, Texas.”
Garden Flyer runs 25th train!
By Richard “Scoop” Carails- Two Trees Times
Two Trees, Texas- The Garden Flyer, lead train of the Norma & Micaela Railroad, celebrated its 25 non-regular run this past Saturday. The booming rail-fan tourist trade and plantation cargo have been cited as the reason for the success of the train.