The Carolwood Pacific Historical Society and Fort Wilderness

[ynottony99]

I am home recovering from minor surgery, so I have the time now to share this, but may not have my focus 100%. So I apologize if I ramble or I'm hard to follow. ( I know, who can tell the difference). I'll add small installments for any who care to follow along. At any rate.................

Our last trip to FW was timed to coincide with the annual UN-Meeting of The Carolwood Pacific Historical Society Sept. 30-Oct.3. Rather than explain who they are to those of you who don't already know, I think it best if I just share this link, rather than try to explain it myself. http://www.carolwood.com/

Membership has it's privileges. Not the least of which for me was early entry into the Magic Kingdom with 2 special tour guides who took us back, back into history when the Steam Train was King, and back behind the scenes with a special "The Magic Behind Our Steam Trains" tour.

 

[Tri-circle-D]

Hello Tony!

Sorry to hear about your minor surgery. I hope all is now well, and that you make a full recovery.

In the meantime, I am looking forward to more of your report.

Your first photo is fantastic. There is so much feeling conveyed by just that one photo. Great job!

Bring it on!

TCD

 

[FWRR3]

Great photo, Tony! I missed the Steam Train Tour this year. Were you at the Carolwood Pacific room on Saturday (Oct 2)? Looking forward to your additions. I hope you are in one of your photos so I match the face with the name. And speedy recovery!!!

 

[ynottony99]

A storm system had moved through Florida a day before. As we watched the forecast we expected to have rain on our trip, but instead it moved through quickly and brought us dry, cool air. So getting up before the sun, and stepping out of our tent into “Fall” at FW that Friday morning, started things off right as I left to attend my 1st CPHS event.

I only attended a few of the events that CPHS had that weekend. They shared meals together all around the World, and met for a number of events. However, I also had things I wanted to do with my family and friends, and so I had to pick and choose. I'm glad I didn't miss this.

Much like Fort Fiends, this group is made up of all kinds of folks. But no matter their walk of life, they share a mutual interest, for some perhaps a passion: Steam trains. In particular Walt’s steam trains. As our group milled about outside the gates of MK, we were joined by 2 very special CM’s. Jim, an Engineer and Jack a conductor for the WDWRR. These gentlemen have many of years experience working at jobs they love, and many have probably dreamed of having one day. We were privileged to have them there to guide us.

As we chatted together, the sound of an approaching train drew our attention to Main Street Station. This is what we came for, and as Engine #1, the Walter E. Disney pulled to a stop, we were told that this was a rare photo opportunity. Cameras began clicking away, but it took me a minute to realize why this was any different than any of the dozens of times the train stopped at the station all day long. Do you see the difference?

During operating hours the locomotive pulls past the station , placing the passenger cars at the platform. This stop was just for a photo op, with the engine stopped squarely in front of Main Street Station.

Although the park was not opened, the WDWRR has a schedule to keep. The "Walter" pulled out of the station. This would not be our train this morning. Ours would be arriving next. We would be among the very first to stand on Main Street that morning, but rather than focus on that, Jack and Jim wanted us to think about why Walt wanted a Main Street and the reason why Main Street Station is front and center. Most of us know that Walt grew up in Marceline, MO and this small town inspired the Main Street we know today. As was true for every American city of the early 20th century, the Railroad was IT. Rail was a vital means of moving people and goods in and out of your small town, out to neighboring communities, and beyond. Even if you weren’t at the station, you would have heard all of the trains coming and going. For young Walt, and the rest living back then, the railroad played a prominent part in daily life.

So we entered MK, and paused briefly before boarding our awaiting train.

 

[ynottony99]

We moved quickly through the station and up to board. We all boarded the rear car. I'm thinking why the rear car???? I want to sit up front behind the engine!!!! A young man from our group was chosen to be the conductor this morning. Jack and Jim explained some of the many jobs that the conductor has. Our conductor was a quick study, and we were soon heading out.

At this point, let me just say, if you have any interest in this subject, do this tour!!!!! Jim and Jack shared so many tidbits about FWRR and the backstage, that I wouldn't know where to begin. Let me just say that this was the best trip I've ever made from Main Street Station around to Mickey's Toon Town Fair!

We didn't make the full circle back to Main Street on this trip. Our destination was the roundhouse, and it is not on the main line. To get there we put our new conductor to work.

We had pulled up to Mickey's Toon Town Station, and doing so cleared the switch to the spur leading back to the roundhouse/barn. The switch must be thrown by hand, and this is done by the conductor. (NOW I see why we are riding in the rear coach!). Nothing is taken for granted, and the track is inspected to ensure that the switch is fully engaged. A piece of gravel from the roadbed could jam it enough to cause a derailment. But, could such a thing happen at WDW???? Yup. It has, more than once.

From here we are going to go backwards through the switch, and down the spur. At this point the conductor, not the engineer is driving the train. He signals the engineer with a switch at the back of the car. Each click of the switch buzzes in the engine. This is the main link between the 2 men. If both are alert and ready, this system works well.

So if there were a piece of gravel that prevented the switch from locking, as the cars moved back the vibration could cause the switch to slip and the next set of axles to be sent down the other line instead. DE-RAILED! The readiness of the conductor and engineer may make the difference between a relatively minor event (get some strong backs and some timbers to heave the cars back on the track) and a major catastrophe (bring in a crane to lift them).

We made our way safely through the switch and started heading back stage.

 

[ynottony99]

The trip to the roundhouse takes us over the creek that runs along the North side of MK, and across a service road before we get to our destination. They respectfully request that photos are not taken in certain areas and I honored that request, that's work best left for TCD anyway

As we back into the yard, we move past the Roger E. Broggie. You may notice that the gentleman next to me is photographing this engine.

That is because his last name is Broggie, and Roger was his dad. Roger was Walt's 1st Imagineer. Yes one of the privileges of being with the CPHS this day was having Michael Broggie, one of Roger's sons along with us. At one point I pretended not to know just who Michael was, and asked if he had worked on the railroad. His humble answer, directed everything to his father. I was impressed by that. Michael grew up going over to Walt's. He has written a wonderful book about Walt's railroads, and more recently a Walt inspired book that shares insights and Wisdom from Micheal's life experiences. He gave a beautiful 2 Hour presentation later that day. He warmly shares his experiences and insights, whether in person or in print.



We couldn't leave the coach while in the roundhouse, but could take photos.

Some may not know that the Monorails share the same barn with the Steam Trains.

We spent quite some time standing along side the Roy O. Disney. Our guides explained the mechanics of steam engine locomotives. We learned that many expressions we use commonly today have their origin in the old railroad, i.e. 'make the grade' and likely even 'red light district'. I am just going to lump in a whole pile of photos here. I will add more later since there is a limit of 25.

We got to climb up in cab. Not a lot of creature comforts. The temperatures in the cab may climb up to 140-150 degree range. Whew!

 

[ynottony99]

Once again, I say take the tour! If you want to take it with this exclusive group, join the CPHS and plan to be there next fall for the annual UNMEETING.


You may even end up with a job.

The conductor here was new to the job. He was actually a guest on this tour just a few months ago, applied for the job and got it!!!

On our way back into MK we stopped to let the engine "clear her throat". This is part of the morning routine. Steam dumps into the water way below where fish and wildlife are abundant. Some expressed concern over the impact to nature. Apparently some of the herons, and a gator or 2 will rush to meet them to soak up some of the steam, especially on chilly mornings.

We rode back to Main Street Station where cold drinks were waiting. Following that an extensive tour of the station itself took place. I left as soon as we got back though. I had a reservation with my other peeps, (see how I through in the lingo, yo) for breakfast buffet at AKL. I had to prioritize. Anyone who has had breakfast there, understands what I'm saying.

I know the Thread title mentions FW, and that is yet to come.
In fact Michael Broggie was not the only author with us that day. Another gentleman I've been privileged to meet, David Leaphart was also in attendance. He recently released 2 beautiful books on the WDWRR, focusing in on our beloved FWRR!!!!

That's all for now.

 

[stampin_fool]

What awesome photos!!! It brought back memories from our tour last January. I totally agree, if you haven't taken this tour you really need to. They shared lots of great info and fun stories.

Can't wait to hear the rest!!!

Ronda

 

[MadFF]

Wow, that looked like a great time. Thanks for the photos!

 

[ynottony99]

Great photo, Tony! I missed the Steam Train Tour this year. Were you at the Carolwood Pacific room on Saturday (Oct 2)? Looking forward to your additions. I hope you are in one of your photos so I match the face with the name. And speedy recovery!!!

I was there Saturday, but early and only stayed long enough to help David a little bit with his setup. Next year I'm going to make plans so I can attend more.

 

[Born 2 Fish]

Really good stuff Tony,
Absolutely wonderful !

 

[loveDmouse]

What a wonderful experience. Thanks for taking the time to post your pictures and tell us about your tour. I will look into that club.

We love trains. We have done the tour twice now. Each time you go you learn new stuff. I highly recommend this tour for anyone who loves trains!

Steam is King!

Hope you are feeling better after your surgery.

 

[caveat lector]

These pictures are keepers. You did a heckuva job capturing some really cool stuff. I bet they weren't worried abou those engines working after New Years Eve 2000.

Thanks for sharing.

 

[MadFF]

Is this a regular tour that anyone can do, or by special arrangement?

 

[ynottony99]

Is this a regular tour that anyone can do, or by special arrangement?

This tour is regularly offered. Official Disney Info. is here:
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/tours-and-experiences/steam-trains-tour/


Before I went I called to get the price, and I believe they said $35 + admission into MK. I see now on the link it is $49.00!!!! HOWEVER, (I hope I'm not revealing a club secret) if you are part of the CPHS, no extra fee! Admission into MK is all that it cost us. I have my seasonal pass, so it cost me $0 extra to get in. CPHS has a very modest membership fee, but this more than made up for that!!!

 

[stampin_fool]

Is this a regular tour that anyone can do, or by special arrangement?

http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/tours-and-experiences/steam-trains-tour/

Anyone can sign up. I believe that you get a discount if you use your Disney Visa, at least you did when we did the tour.

 

[Tri-circle-D]

Tony-

This report is wonderful!

Your photos are fantastic, as usual.

I have never seen photos of the roundhouse, so thanks for posting those.

I am looking forward to what you have to report about the FWRR!!!

TCD

 

[DaveInTN]

Incredible photos, Tony! (as always.) Thank you for a great report. I never knew the trains and monorails shared the same barn!

 

[RocklandRVers]

Makin me think the new resort in River Country might have a railway theme. ALL ABOARD!

 

[Born 2 Fish]

Incredible photos, Tony! (as always.) Thank you for a great report. I never knew the trains and monorails shared the same barn!

Isn't that something Dave! The best of traveling of days past together with the best of travel of present days,,,outta the same building