A recent Jim Parker photo ( actually 2 photos) on Fallen Flags of a
wooden truss passenger car w/ cupola in work service - car number
411513 has me curious. Does anyone have a history on this combine ?
Whay was the length of this car; when was it built and religated to
MOW; when was to cupola added and for what purpose; any information
would be appreicated.
The car was built 1911-01 by CP Angus Shops as 1st class coach #395. The car
was 65’ over frame and 72’ inside coupler knuckles. It had a capacity of 72
seats. It was renumbered to #695, 1912-11. It was assigned to MoW
communications services 1947-09 and renumbered #411513. At the time of
reassignment it was refitted with cupola and side loading doors. The car was
scrapped 1968-12.
When a car was assigned to MoW service it is normally stripped of all
serviceable parts so electrical equipment, A/C, generators, pintsch gas
lighting and stuff is removed. At one time cupolas were added to allow in more
light into the loading area of a MoW car. Or is should qualify that I don’t
think cupolas served any other purpose than that. I’ve never seen a floor plan
or folio drawing to suggest there was a platform or anything in the floor space
in order to go up and view the outside.
Jeff Pinchbeck
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