The Valley Railroad Company #40 steams through the early morning sunrise with a rare mixed freight move out of Essex, Connecticut on October 8th, 2024, as part of a two-day photo charter conducted by Dak Dillion Photography. According to Wikipedia: The Valley Railroad, operating under the name Essex Steam Train and Riverboat, is a heritage railroad based in Connecticut on tracks of the Connecticut Valley Railroad, which was founded in 1868. The company began operations in 1971 between Deep River and Essex and has since reopened additional parts of the former Connecticut Valley Railroad line. It operates the Essex Steam Train and the Essex Clipper Dinner Train. Valley Railroad #40 is a ALCO 2-8-0 that was built in 1923. It was built as Portland, Astoria and Pacific No. 101, but never used there; transferred to Minarets and Western Railroad in 1921, later to Southern Pacific, then to the Aberdeen and Rockfish Railroad. Purchased by the Valley Railroad in 1977. Tech Info: Nikon D810, RAW, Nikon 70-300 @ 185mm, 5.3, 1/200, ISO 160. #photographyoftrains #bestsoldpicture #JimPearsonPhotography #thevalleyrailroad #steamtrains

he Valley Railroad Company #40 steams through the early morning sunrise

The Valley Railroad Company #40 steams through the early morning sunrise with a rare mixed freight move out of Essex, Connecticut on October 8th, 2024, as part of a two-day photo charter conducted by Dak Dillion Photography.

According to Wikipedia: The Valley Railroad, operating under the name Essex Steam Train and Riverboat, is a heritage railroad based in Connecticut on tracks of the Connecticut Valley Railroad, which was founded in 1868. The company began operations in 1971 between Deep River and Essex and has since reopened additional parts of the former Connecticut Valley Railroad line. It operates the Essex Steam Train and the Essex Clipper Dinner Train.

Valley Railroad #40 is a ALCO 2-8-0 that was built in 1923. It was built as Portland, Astoria and Pacific No. 101, but never used there; transferred to Minarets and Western Railroad in 1921, later to Southern Pacific, then to the Aberdeen and Rockfish Railroad. Purchased by the Valley Railroad in 1977.

Tech Info: Nikon D810, RAW, Nikon 70-300 @ 185mm, 5.3, 1/200, ISO 160.

A flock of pigeons that were feeding on spilled corn from a passing train, take flight on the approach of CSX 3092, leading CSX hot intermodal I025, as they head south on the Henderson Subdivision at Mortons Junction after an overnight snowfall, on February 19th, 2025. This intermodal often runs with a string of autoracks, hauling Tesla’s bound for Florida. Tech Info: Nikon Z30, RAW, Nikon 70-300 @ 210mm, f/5.3, 1/1000, ISO 100. #railroad #railroads #train, #trains #railway #railway #traininsnow #railtransport #railroadengines #picturesoftrains #picturesofrailways #besttrainphotograph #bestphoto #photographyoftrains #bestsoldpicture #JimPearsonPhotography

CSX hot intermodal I025 southbound at Mortons Junction, Mortons Gap, Kentucky

A flock of pigeons that were feeding on spilled corn from a passing train, take flight on the approach of CSX 3092, leading CSX hot intermodal I025, as they head south on the Henderson Subdivision at Mortons Junction after an overnight snowfall, on February 19th, 2025. This intermodal often runs with a string of autoracks, hauling Tesla’s bound for Florida.

Tech Info: Nikon Z30, RAW, Nikon 70-300 @ 210mm, f/5.3, 1/1000, ISO 100.

CSXT 1981 PanAm Railway Heritage Unit leads G342, under stormy skies, as it waits in the siding at the north end of Rankin, Kentucky for CSX I025 to pass, on February 15th, 2025, on the CSX Henderson Subdivision. According to a CSXT Press Release: November 25, 2024 - CSX has unveiled locomotive No. 1981, the final installment in its series of heritage locomotives, honoring Pan Am Railways. The unit is the 21st and final creation by the Waycross Paint Shop to celebrate the predecessor railroads that form today’s CSX network. Pan Am Railways, formerly known as Guilford Transportation, was established in 1981 and operated across northern New England, spanning from Maine to New York. It joined the CSX family in 2022 following a purchase agreement. The heritage series required extra care and precision, according to CSX carman painter Albert Bussey. “It's always special working on the heritage units,” Bussey said. “Like always, we try to take a little bit of extra care and time in order to do these perfectly.” All 21 heritage units are not just displays of craftsmanship but active locomotives performing daily duties throughout CSX’s 26-state rail network. The dedication behind their creation reflects the artistry of the team at the Waycross Paint Shop. “I've been involved in all of the 21 units,” said CSX carman painter Clyde Marshall. “The work itself has really been enjoyable. The transformation of the units, from when they first arrive in the shop to the finished product, is very rewarding. Marshall also noted the significance of connecting with railroad history through these projects. “It is an honor to learn about the history of these units, and the importance the railroad played in American history,” he added. The completion of locomotive No. 1981 stands as a tribute to the history of Pan Am Railways and the pride shared by CSX employees. As CSX approaches its 200th anniversary in 2027, these heritage locomotives symbolize the company’s enduring legacy and its dedication to innovation and service. Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 24mm, f/2.8, 1/240, ISO 140 #railroad #railroads #train, #trains #railway #railway #railtransport #railroadengines #picturesoftrains #picturesofrailways #besttrainphotograph #bestphoto #onecsx #photographyoftrains #bestsoldpicture #JimPearsonPhotography #trainsfromadrone #csxheritageunit

CSXT 1981 PanAm Railway Heritage Unit leads G342 at Rankin, Ky

CSXT 1981 PanAm Railway Heritage Unit leads G342, under stormy skies, as it waits in the siding at the north end of Rankin, Kentucky for CSX I025 to pass, on February 15th, 2025, on the CSX Henderson Subdivision.

According to a CSXT Press Release: November 25, 2024 – CSX has unveiled locomotive No. 1981, the final installment in its series of heritage locomotives, honoring Pan Am Railways. The unit is the 21st and final creation by the Waycross Paint Shop to celebrate the predecessor railroads that form today’s CSX network.

Pan Am Railways, formerly known as Guilford Transportation, was established in 1981 and operated across northern New England, spanning from Maine to New York. It joined the CSX family in 2022 following a purchase agreement.

The heritage series required extra care and precision, according to CSX carman painter Albert Bussey. “It’s always special working on the heritage units,” Bussey said. “Like always, we try to take a little bit of extra care and time in order to do these perfectly.”

All 21 heritage units are not just displays of craftsmanship but active locomotives performing daily duties throughout CSX’s 26-state rail network. The dedication behind their creation reflects the artistry of the team at the Waycross Paint Shop.

“I’ve been involved in all of the 21 units,” said CSX carman painter Clyde Marshall. “The work itself has really been enjoyable. The transformation of the units, from when they first arrive in the shop to the finished product, is very rewarding.

Marshall also noted the significance of connecting with railroad history through these projects. “It is an honor to learn about the history of these units, and the importance the railroad played in American history,” he added.

The completion of locomotive No. 1981 stands as a tribute to the history of Pan Am Railways and the pride shared by CSX employees. As CSX approaches its 200th anniversary in 2027, these heritage locomotives symbolize the company’s enduring legacy and its dedication to innovation and service.

Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 24mm, f/2.8, 1/240, ISO 140

Our area has got a lot of rain this winter and February 17th, 2022, was one of those days when one of the winter storms dropped a lot of rain on the region over a 24-hour period. Here I caught an empty grain train, CSX G438, as it made its way past a flooded area around the house track at Earlington, Kentucky as it heads north on the Henderson Subdivision. Tech Info: Nikon D800, RAW, Sigma 150-600 @ 290mm, f/5.6, 1/160, ISO 450. #trainphotography #railroadphotography #trains #railways #jimpearsonphotography

Our area has got a lot of rain this winter and February 17th, 2022, was one of those days

Our area has got a lot of rain this winter and February 17th, 2022, was one of those days when one of the winter storms dropped a lot of rain on the region over a 24-hour period. Here I caught an empty grain train, CSX G438, as it made its way past a flooded area around the house track at Earlington, Kentucky as it heads north on the Henderson Subdivision.

Tech Info: Nikon D800, RAW, Sigma 150-600 @ 290mm, f/5.6, 1/160, ISO 450.

 

In this week’s Saturday Infrared Photo, we find The Valley Railroad Company #97 headed toward Chester, Connecticut with a passenger train on October 9th, 2024 with an old car stopped at the crossing, as part of a two-day photo charter conducted by Dak Dillion Photography. According to Wikipedia: The Valley Railroad, operating under the name Essex Steam Train and Riverboat, is a heritage railroad based in Connecticut on tracks of the Connecticut Valley Railroad, which was founded in 1868. The company began operations in 1971 between Deep River and Essex and has since reopened additional parts of the former Connecticut Valley Railroad line. It operates the Essex Steam Train and the Essex Clipper Dinner Train. Tech Info: Fuji XT-1, RAW, Converted to 720nm B&W IR, Nikon 10-24 @ 10mm, f/5, 1/250, ISO 400. #jimpearsonphotography #infraredtrainphotography #infraredphotography #infraredphotography #trending #thevalleyrailroad

In this week’s Saturday Infrared Photo, we find The Valley Railroad Company 97 headed toward Chester, Connecticut

In this week’s Saturday Infrared Photo, we find The Valley Railroad Company 97 headed toward Chester, Connecticut with a passenger train on October 9th, 2024 with an old car stopped at the crossing, as part of a two-day photo charter conducted by Dak Dillion Photography.

According to Wikipedia: The Valley Railroad, operating under the name Essex Steam Train and Riverboat, is a heritage railroad based in Connecticut on tracks of the Connecticut Valley Railroad, which was founded in 1868. The company began operations in 1971 between Deep River and Essex and has since reopened additional parts of the former Connecticut Valley Railroad line. It operates the Essex Steam Train and the Essex Clipper Dinner Train.

Tech Info: Fuji XT-1, RAW, Converted to 720nm B&W IR, Nikon 10-24 @ 10mm, f/5, 1/250, ISO 400.

February 22nd, 2025 – Episode 112 – Railfanning between Henderson and Rankin, Ky

Saturday Edited Video from Jim Pearson Photography

In this week’s video I’m taking you on a tour of some of my favorite spots to railfan between Rankin and Henderson, Ky on the CSX Henderson Subdivision. Sit back, turn up the sound, expand to full screen and enjoy the trains!! Please like, share, subscribe and thanks for watching!

Rerouted Canadian National 2256 and 2225 lead southbound CSX X770-20 as it passes the south end of the siding at Kelly, Kentucky, on the CSX Henderson Subdivision, on February 20th, 2025. I’m told this is the first of many CN Reroutes off the CN due to flood damage around Cairo Sub at Bardwell, Ky. These are running from CN to Paducah, where they get on the Paducah and Louisville Railway to the CSX Henderson Subdivision at Madisonville, Ky. From there they run to Nashville and then over to Memphis, TN Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 22mm, f/2.8, 1/3200, ISO 120. #railroad #railroads #train, #trains #railway #railway #railtransport #railroadengines #picturesoftrains #picturesofrailways #besttrainphotograph #bestphoto #photographyoftrains #bestsoldpicture #JimPearsonPhotography #trainsfromadrone #canadiannational #cnrailway

Rerouted Canadian National 2256 and 2225 lead southbound CSX X770-20 south at Kelly, Ky

Rerouted Canadian National 2256 and 2225 lead southbound CSX X770-20 as it passes the south end of the siding at Kelly, Kentucky, on the CSX Henderson Subdivision, on February 20th, 2025.

I’m told this is the first of many CN Reroutes off the CN due to flood damage around Cairo Sub at Bardwell, Ky. These are running from CN to Paducah, where they get on the Paducah and Louisville Railway to the CSX Henderson Subdivision at Madisonville, Ky. From there they run to Nashville and then over to Memphis, TN

Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 22mm, f/2.8, 1/3200, ISO 120.

Rerouted Canadian National 2256 and 2225 lead southbound CSX X770-20 as it crosses over Gum Lick Trestle, between Crofton and Kelly, Kentucky, on the CSX Henderson Subdivision, on February 20th, 2025. I’m told this is the first of many CN Reroutes off the CN due to flood damage around Cairo Sub at Bardwell, Ky. These are running from CN to Paducah, where they get on the Paducah and Louisville Railway to the CSX Henderson Subdivision at Madisonville, Ky. From there they run to Nashville and then over to Memphis, TN Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 22mm, f/2.8, 1/2000, ISO 120. #railroad #railroads #train, #trains #railway #railway #railtransport #railroadengines #picturesoftrains #picturesofrailways #besttrainphotograph #bestphoto #photographyoftrains #bestsoldpicture #JimPearsonPhotography #trainsfromadrone #canadiannational #cnrailway

Rerouted Canadian National 2256 and 2225 lead southbound CSX X770-20 as it crosses over Gum Lick Trestle

Rerouted Canadian National 2256 and 2225 lead southbound CSX X770-20 as it crosses over Gum Lick Trestle, between Crofton and Kelly, Kentucky, on the CSX Henderson Subdivision, on February 20th, 2025.

I’m told this is the first of many CN Reroutes off the CN due to flood damage around Cairo Sub at Bardwell, Ky. These are running from CN to Paducah, where they get on the Paducah and Louisville Railway to the CSX Henderson Subdivision at Madisonville, Ky. From there they run to Nashville and then over to Memphis, TN

Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 22mm, f/2.8, 1/2000, ISO 120.

CSXT 1981 PanAm Railway Heritage Unit leads G342 northbound, under stormy skies, as it passes the old Louisville and Nashville Railway Depot at Henderson, on February 15th, 2025, on the CSX Henderson Subdivision. According to a CSXT Press Release: November 25, 2024 - CSX has unveiled locomotive No. 1981, the final installment in its series of heritage locomotives, honoring Pan Am Railways. The unit is the 21st and final creation by the Waycross Paint Shop to celebrate the predecessor railroads that form today’s CSX network. Pan Am Railways, formerly known as Guilford Transportation, was established in 1981 and operated across northern New England, spanning from Maine to New York. It joined the CSX family in 2022 following a purchase agreement. All 21 heritage units are not just displays of craftsmanship but active locomotives performing daily duties throughout CSX’s 26-state rail network. The dedication behind their creation reflects the artistry of the team at the Waycross Paint Shop. “I've been involved in all of the 21 units,” said CSX carman painter Clyde Marshall. “The work itself has really been enjoyable. The transformation of the units, from when they first arrive in the shop to the finished product, is very rewarding. Marshall also noted the significance of connecting with railroad history through these projects. “It is an honor to learn about the history of these units, and the importance the railroad played in American history,” he added. The completion of locomotive No. 1981 stands as a tribute to the history of Pan Am Railways and the pride shared by CSX employees. As CSX approaches its 200th anniversary in 2027, these heritage locomotives symbolize the company’s enduring legacy and its dedication to innovation and service. Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 24mm, f/2.8, 1/500, ISO 170 #railroad #railroads #train, #trains #railway #railway #railtransport #railroadengines #picturesoftrains #picturesofrailways #besttrainphotograph #bestphoto #onecsx #photographyoftrains #bestsoldpicture #JimPearsonPhotography #trainsfromadrone #csxheritageunit

CSXT 1981 PanAm Railway Heritage Unit leads G342 northbound at Henderson, Kentucky

CSXT 1981 PanAm Railway Heritage Unit leads G342 northbound, under stormy skies, as it passes the old Louisville and Nashville Railway Depot at Henderson, on February 15th, 2025, on the CSX Henderson Subdivision.

According to a CSXT Press Release: November 25, 2024 – CSX has unveiled locomotive No. 1981, the final installment in its series of heritage locomotives, honoring Pan Am Railways. The unit is the 21st and final creation by the Waycross Paint Shop to celebrate the predecessor railroads that form today’s CSX network.

Pan Am Railways, formerly known as Guilford Transportation, was established in 1981 and operated across northern New England, spanning from Maine to New York. It joined the CSX family in 2022 following a purchase agreement.

All 21 heritage units are not just displays of craftsmanship but active locomotives performing daily duties throughout CSX’s 26-state rail network. The dedication behind their creation reflects the artistry of the team at the Waycross Paint Shop.

“I’ve been involved in all of the 21 units,” said CSX carman painter Clyde Marshall. “The work itself has really been enjoyable. The transformation of the units, from when they first arrive in the shop to the finished product, is very rewarding.

Marshall also noted the significance of connecting with railroad history through these projects. “It is an honor to learn about the history of these units, and the importance the railroad played in American history,” he added.

The completion of locomotive No. 1981 stands as a tribute to the history of Pan Am Railways and the pride shared by CSX employees. As CSX approaches its 200th anniversary in 2027, these heritage locomotives symbolize the company’s enduring legacy and its dedication to innovation and service.

Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 24mm, f/2.8, 1/500, ISO 170

CSXT 1981 PanAm Railway Heritage Unit leads G342, under stormy skies, as it waits in the siding at the north end of Rankin, Kentucky for CSX I025 to pass, on February 15th, 2025, on the CSX Henderson Subdivision. According to a CSXT Press Release: November 25, 2024 - CSX has unveiled locomotive No. 1981, the final installment in its series of heritage locomotives, honoring Pan Am Railways. The unit is the 21st and final creation by the Waycross Paint Shop to celebrate the predecessor railroads that form today’s CSX network. Pan Am Railways, formerly known as Guilford Transportation, was established in 1981 and operated across northern New England, spanning from Maine to New York. It joined the CSX family in 2022 following a purchase agreement. The heritage series required extra care and precision, according to CSX carman painter Albert Bussey. “It's always special working on the heritage units,” Bussey said. “Like always, we try to take a little bit of extra care and time in order to do these perfectly.” All 21 heritage units are not just displays of craftsmanship but active locomotives performing daily duties throughout CSX’s 26-state rail network. The dedication behind their creation reflects the artistry of the team at the Waycross Paint Shop. “I've been involved in all of the 21 units,” said CSX carman painter Clyde Marshall. “The work itself has really been enjoyable. The transformation of the units, from when they first arrive in the shop to the finished product, is very rewarding. Marshall also noted the significance of connecting with railroad history through these projects. “It is an honor to learn about the history of these units, and the importance the railroad played in American history,” he added. The completion of locomotive No. 1981 stands as a tribute to the history of Pan Am Railways and the pride shared by CSX employees. As CSX approaches its 200th anniversary in 2027, these heritage locomotives symbolize the company’s enduring legacy and its dedication to innovation and service. Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 24mm, f/2.8, 1/320, ISO 130 #railroad #railroads #train, #trains #railway #railway #railtransport #railroadengines #picturesoftrains #picturesofrailways #besttrainphotograph #bestphoto #onecsx #photographyoftrains #bestsoldpicture #JimPearsonPhotography #trainsfromadrone #csxheritageunit

CSXT 1981 PanAm Railway Heritage Unit leads G342at the north end of Rankin, Kentucky

CSXT 1981 PanAm Railway Heritage Unit leads G342, under stormy skies, as it waits in the siding at the north end of Rankin, Kentucky for CSX I025 to pass, on February 15th, 2025, on the CSX Henderson Subdivision.

According to a CSXT Press Release: November 25, 2024 – CSX has unveiled locomotive No. 1981, the final installment in its series of heritage locomotives, honoring Pan Am Railways. The unit is the 21st and final creation by the Waycross Paint Shop to celebrate the predecessor railroads that form today’s CSX network.

Pan Am Railways, formerly known as Guilford Transportation, was established in 1981 and operated across northern New England, spanning from Maine to New York. It joined the CSX family in 2022 following a purchase agreement.

The heritage series required extra care and precision, according to CSX carman painter Albert Bussey. “It’s always special working on the heritage units,” Bussey said. “Like always, we try to take a little bit of extra care and time in order to do these perfectly.”

All 21 heritage units are not just displays of craftsmanship but active locomotives performing daily duties throughout CSX’s 26-state rail network. The dedication behind their creation reflects the artistry of the team at the Waycross Paint Shop.

“I’ve been involved in all of the 21 units,” said CSX carman painter Clyde Marshall. “The work itself has really been enjoyable. The transformation of the units, from when they first arrive in the shop to the finished product, is very rewarding.

Marshall also noted the significance of connecting with railroad history through these projects. “It is an honor to learn about the history of these units, and the importance the railroad played in American history,” he added.

The completion of locomotive No. 1981 stands as a tribute to the history of Pan Am Railways and the pride shared by CSX employees. As CSX approaches its 200th anniversary in 2027, these heritage locomotives symbolize the company’s enduring legacy and its dedication to innovation and service.

Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 24mm, f/2.8, 1/320, ISO 130

Film Wednesday – 1993 – Today’s scanned slides were all taken at various places during the time I was deployed during (from Wikipedia) “Operation Deny Flight which was a North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) operation that began on 12 April 1993 as the enforcement of a United Nations (UN) no-fly zone over Bosnia and Herzegovina.” This shot shows switcher V46 022 sitting short of the Budapest-Nyugati Station with unit M61 008 siting next to it at Budapest, Hungry. I don't really have much more information on this engine, if you do, please share in the comments! “The United Nations and NATO later expanded the mission of the operation to include providing close air support for UN troops in Bosnia and carrying out coercive air strikes against targets in Bosnia. Twelve NATO members contributed forces to the operation and, by its end on 20 December 1995, NATO pilots had flown 100,420 sorties.” Also from Wikipedia: We were also part of “Operation Provide Hope which was a humanitarian operation conducted by the U.S. Air Force starting in 1992 to provide medical equipment to former Soviet republics during their transition to freedom from the USSR until 1994. The operation was announced by Secretary of State James A. Baker, III on January 22–23, 1992 and the initial shipment of supplies was sent on February 10, 1992. Twelve US Air Force C-5 and C-141 was carrying an estimated 500 tons of bulk-food rations and medicines into Moscow, Saint Petersburg, Kyiv, Minsk, and Chișinău from Germany and Yerevan, Almaty, Dushanbe, Ashkhabad, Baku, Tashkent, and Bishkek from Turkey. In total, for nearly two weeks sixty-five missions flew 2,363 short tons (2,144 t) of food and medical supplies to 24 locations in the Commonwealth of Independent States during the initial phase of operation. Much of these supplies were left over from the buildup to the Persian Gulf War.” For 6-months of this operation I was the photo editor for a Combat Camera team that worked out of Aviano, Italy covering both operations. On the weekends, our schedules allowed us some time to travel and on my days off I traveled and today’s photos, along with many others. Tech Info: Camera, Nikon F3, Ektachrome Slide Film, no other data recorded, Scanned with an PlusTek 8200I Film Scanner. #slidescan #filmphotography #trains #railroads #jimpearsonphotography #FilmPhotography

Switcher V46 022 sitting short of the Budapest-Nyugati Station at Budapest, Hungry

Film Wednesday – 1993 – Today’s scanned slides were all taken at various places during the time I was deployed during (from Wikipedia) “Operation Deny Flight which was a North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) operation that began on 12 April 1993 as the enforcement of a United Nations (UN) no-fly zone over Bosnia and Herzegovina.”

This shot shows switcher V46 022 sitting short of the Budapest-Nyugati Station with unit M61 008 siting next to it at Budapest, Hungry. I don’t really have much more information on this engine, if you do, please share in the comments!

“The United Nations and NATO later expanded the mission of the operation to include providing close air support for UN troops in Bosnia and carrying out coercive air strikes against targets in Bosnia. Twelve NATO members contributed forces to the operation and, by its end on 20 December 1995, NATO pilots had flown 100,420 sorties.”

Also from Wikipedia: We were also part of “Operation Provide Hope which was a humanitarian operation conducted by the U.S. Air Force starting in 1992 to provide medical equipment to former Soviet republics during their transition to freedom from the USSR until 1994.

The operation was announced by Secretary of State James A. Baker, III on January 22–23, 1992 and the initial shipment of supplies was sent on February 10, 1992. Twelve US Air Force C-5 and C-141 was carrying an estimated 500 tons of bulk-food rations and medicines into Moscow, Saint Petersburg, Kyiv, Minsk, and Chișinău from Germany and Yerevan, Almaty, Dushanbe, Ashkhabad, Baku, Tashkent, and Bishkek from Turkey. In total, for nearly two weeks sixty-five missions flew 2,363 short tons (2,144 t) of food and medical supplies to 24 locations in the Commonwealth of Independent States during the initial phase of operation. Much of these supplies were left over from the buildup to the Persian Gulf War.”

For 6-months of this operation I was the photo editor for a Combat Camera team that worked out of Aviano, Italy covering both operations. On the weekends, our schedules allowed us some time to travel and on my days off I traveled and today’s photos, along with many others.

Tech Info: Camera, Nikon F3, Ektachrome Slide Film, no other data recorded, Scanned with an PlusTek 8200I Film Scanner.

Film Wednesday – 1993 – Today’s scanned slides were all taken at various places during the time I was deployed during (from Wikipedia) “Operation Deny Flight which was a North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) operation that began on 12 April 1993 as the enforcement of a United Nations (UN) no-fly zone over Bosnia and Herzegovina.” This shot shows diesel unit M61 008 siting next to the platform at the Budapest-Nyugati Station waiting to depart with their passenger train at Budapest, Hungry. I don't really have much more information on this engine, if you do, please share in the comments! “The United Nations and NATO later expanded the mission of the operation to include providing close air support for UN troops in Bosnia and carrying out coercive air strikes against targets in Bosnia. Twelve NATO members contributed forces to the operation and, by its end on 20 December 1995, NATO pilots had flown 100,420 sorties.” Also from Wikipedia: We were also part of “Operation Provide Hope which was a humanitarian operation conducted by the U.S. Air Force starting in 1992 to provide medical equipment to former Soviet republics during their transition to freedom from the USSR until 1994. The operation was announced by Secretary of State James A. Baker, III on January 22–23, 1992 and the initial shipment of supplies was sent on February 10, 1992. Twelve US Air Force C-5 and C-141 was carrying an estimated 500 tons of bulk-food rations and medicines into Moscow, Saint Petersburg, Kyiv, Minsk, and Chișinău from Germany and Yerevan, Almaty, Dushanbe, Ashkhabad, Baku, Tashkent, and Bishkek from Turkey. In total, for nearly two weeks sixty-five missions flew 2,363 short tons (2,144 t) of food and medical supplies to 24 locations in the Commonwealth of Independent States during the initial phase of operation. Much of these supplies were left over from the buildup to the Persian Gulf War.” For 6-months of this operation I was the photo editor for a Combat Camera team that worked out of Aviano, Italy covering both operations. On the weekends, our schedules allowed us some time to travel and on my days off I traveled and today’s photos, along with many others. Tech Info: Camera, Nikon F3, Ektachrome Slide Film, no other data recorded, Scanned with an PlusTek 8200I Film Scanner. #slidescan #filmphotography #trains #railroads #jimpearsonphotography #FilmPhotography

diesel unit M61 008 siting next to the platform at the Budapest-Nyugati Station

Film Wednesday – 1993 – Today’s scanned slides were all taken at various places during the time I was deployed during (from Wikipedia) “Operation Deny Flight which was a North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) operation that began on 12 April 1993 as the enforcement of a United Nations (UN) no-fly zone over Bosnia and Herzegovina.”

This shot shows diesel unit M61 008 siting next to the platform at the Budapest-Nyugati Station waiting to depart with their passenger train at Budapest, Hungry. I don’t really have much more information on this engine, if you do, please share in the comments!

“The United Nations and NATO later expanded the mission of the operation to include providing close air support for UN troops in Bosnia and carrying out coercive air strikes against targets in Bosnia. Twelve NATO members contributed forces to the operation and, by its end on 20 December 1995, NATO pilots had flown 100,420 sorties.”

Also from Wikipedia: We were also part of “Operation Provide Hope which was a humanitarian operation conducted by the U.S. Air Force starting in 1992 to provide medical equipment to former Soviet republics during their transition to freedom from the USSR until 1994.

The operation was announced by Secretary of State James A. Baker, III on January 22–23, 1992 and the initial shipment of supplies was sent on February 10, 1992. Twelve US Air Force C-5 and C-141 was carrying an estimated 500 tons of bulk-food rations and medicines into Moscow, Saint Petersburg, Kyiv, Minsk, and Chișinău from Germany and Yerevan, Almaty, Dushanbe, Ashkhabad, Baku, Tashkent, and Bishkek from Turkey. In total, for nearly two weeks sixty-five missions flew 2,363 short tons (2,144 t) of food and medical supplies to 24 locations in the Commonwealth of Independent States during the initial phase of operation. Much of these supplies were left over from the buildup to the Persian Gulf War.”

For 6-months of this operation I was the photo editor for a Combat Camera team that worked out of Aviano, Italy covering both operations. On the weekends, our schedules allowed us some time to travel and on my days off I traveled and today’s photos, along with many others.

Tech Info: Camera, Nikon F3, Ektachrome Slide Film, no other data recorded, Scanned with an PlusTek 8200I Film Scanner.

CSX I025 with CSX NC&SL Heritage Unit 1851 leading, heads south past the north end of the siding at Kelly, Kentucky on the CSX Henderson Subdivision, on January 27th, 2025. This train typically runs with autoracks behind the power which contain Tesla's bound for Florida. According to a CSX Press Release: September 20, 2024 - Railroads have long played a crucial role in shaping the economic and cultural landscapes of the United States. Among these storied lines is the Nashville, Chattanooga, and St. Louis (NC&StL) Railway, a key player in the growth of the Southeast. CSX has unveiled its 19th heritage locomotive, a tribute to the NC&StL Railway, celebrating the rich legacy of a system integral to regional development. Operating from 1851 to 1957, the NC&StL Railway was a vital freight and passenger route, connecting communities across Tennessee and other Southern states. It facilitated the movement of goods and people, boosting commerce and fostering community development along its routes. The railway's strategic links between Nashville, Chattanooga, and St. Louis significantly contributed to the urban and industrial growth of these cities, supporting industries such as agriculture, coal, and manufacturing. To honor the historical significance of the NC&StL Railway, CSX introduced the Nashville, Chattanooga, and St. Louis heritage locomotive. This initiative is part of CSX’s broader program to preserve the legacy of railroads that are now part of its extensive network. Each heritage unit is carefully crafted to pay homage to the unique identity and history of its predecessor, featuring colors and designs reminiscent of the original rail lines. Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 22mm, f/2.8, 1/2000, ISO 100. #besttrainphotograph #bestphoto #photographyoftrains #bestsoldpicture #JimPearsonPhotography #csxheritagelocomotive #onecsx

CSX I025 with CSX NC&SL Heritage Unit 1851 leading at Robards, Kentucky

CSX I025 with CSX NC&SL Heritage Unit 1851 leading, heads south past the north end of the siding at Kelly, Kentucky on the CSX Henderson Subdivision, on January 27th, 2025. This train typically runs with autoracks behind the power which contain Tesla’s bound for Florida.

According to a CSX Press Release: September 20, 2024 – Railroads have long played a crucial role in shaping the economic and cultural landscapes of the United States. Among these storied lines is the Nashville, Chattanooga, and St. Louis (NC&StL) Railway, a key player in the growth of the Southeast. CSX has unveiled its 19th heritage locomotive, a tribute to the NC&StL Railway, celebrating the rich legacy of a system integral to regional development.

Operating from 1851 to 1957, the NC&StL Railway was a vital freight and passenger route, connecting communities across Tennessee and other Southern states. It facilitated the movement of goods and people, boosting commerce and fostering community development along its routes. The railway’s strategic links between Nashville, Chattanooga, and St. Louis significantly contributed to the urban and industrial growth of these cities, supporting industries such as agriculture, coal, and manufacturing.

To honor the historical significance of the NC&StL Railway, CSX introduced the Nashville, Chattanooga, and St. Louis heritage locomotive. This initiative is part of CSX’s broader program to preserve the legacy of railroads that are now part of its extensive network. Each heritage unit is carefully crafted to pay homage to the unique identity and history of its predecessor, featuring colors and designs reminiscent of the original rail lines.

Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 22mm, f/2.8, 1/2000, ISO 100.

East Broad Top (EBT) steam locomotive #16 pulls through the yard in the early morning fog as the fireman keeps an eye on the track ahead, at Rockhill Furnace, Pennsylvania on October 6th, 2024, during the museum’s Friends of the East Broad top event. According to the East Broad Top Website: Locomotive #16 was built in 1916 by the Baldwin Locomotive Works. Entering the age of modern steam in 1916, the EBT received its first of three large Mikados. Unlike the previous three smaller locomotives, #16 came with superheaters, piston valves, and Southern valve gear. One story mentions #16 pulled 60 empty hoppers from Mt. Union to Rockhill in one train, literally clearing out the yard. #16 underwent an overhaul in 1955 and made only a handful of trips in early 1956 before the railroad shut down. On February 1, 2023, the locomotive returned to service. Tech Info: Nikon D810, RAW, Nikon 24-70 @24mm, f/2.8, 1/50, ISO 110. steam locomotive, train, railways, vintage, smoke, green hillside, sunlight, iron bridge, transportation, travel, photography of trains, train photography, Jim Pearson Photography, trending photo, East Broad Top Railroad, steam train

East Broad Top steam locomotive 16 pulls through the yard in the early morning fog at Rockhill Furnace, Pennsylvania

East Broad Top (EBT) steam locomotive #16 pulls through the yard in the early morning fog as the fireman keeps an eye on the track ahead, at Rockhill Furnace, Pennsylvania on October 6th, 2024, during the museum’s Friends of the East Broad top event.

According to the East Broad Top Website: Locomotive #16 was built in 1916 by the Baldwin Locomotive Works.

Entering the age of modern steam in 1916, the EBT received its first of three large Mikados. Unlike the previous three smaller locomotives, #16 came with superheaters, piston valves, and Southern valve gear. One story mentions #16 pulled 60 empty hoppers from Mt. Union to Rockhill in one train, literally clearing out the yard. #16 underwent an overhaul in 1955 and made only a handful of trips in early 1956 before the railroad shut down. On February 1, 2023, the locomotive returned to service.

Tech Info: Nikon D810, RAW, Nikon 24-70 @24mm, f/2.8, 1/50, ISO 110.

September 18th, 2024, BNSF 7115, 9128 and Ferromex 4050 lead an northbound train through Tehachapi Loop on the Union Pacific Mojave Subdivision at Keene, California. According to Wikipedia: The Tehachapi Loop is a 3,779-foot-long (0.72 mi; 1.15 km) spiral, or helix, on the Union Pacific Railroad Mojave Subdivision through Tehachapi Pass, of the Tehachapi Mountains in Kern County, south-central California. The line connects Bakersfield and the San Joaquin Valley to Mojave in the Mojave Desert. Rising at a steady two-percent grade, the track gains 77 feet (23 m) in elevation and makes a 1,210-foot-diameter (370 m) circle. Any train that is more than 3,800 feet (1,200 m) long—about 56 boxcars—passes over itself going around the loop. At the bottom of the loop, the track passes through Tunnel 9, the ninth tunnel built as the railroad was extended from Bakersfield. The line averages about 36 freight trains each day. Passenger trains such as Amtrak's San Joaquin are banned from the loop, although the Coast Starlight can use it as a detour. Its frequent trains and scenic setting make the Tehachapi Loop popular with railfans. In 1998, it was named a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark. It is also designated as California Historical Landmark #508. One of the engineering feats of its day, the Loop was built by Southern Pacific Railroad to ease the grade over Tehachapi Pass. Construction began in 1874, and the line opened in 1876. Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 24mm, f/2.8, 1/2500, ISO 100. #railroad #railroads #train, #trains #railway #railway #steamtrains #railtransport #railroadengines #picturesoftrains #picturesofrailways #besttrainphotograph #bestphoto #photographyoftrains #bestsoldpicture #JimPearsonPhotography #trainsfromtheair #trainsfromadrone #TehachapiLoop

BNSF 7115, 9128 and Ferromex 4050 lead an northbound train through Tehachapi Loop

September 18th, 2024, BNSF 7115, 9128 and Ferromex 4050 lead an northbound train through Tehachapi Loop on the Union Pacific Mojave Subdivision at Keene, California.

According to Wikipedia: The Tehachapi Loop is a 3,779-foot-long (0.72 mi; 1.15 km) spiral, or helix, on the Union Pacific Railroad Mojave Subdivision through Tehachapi Pass, of the Tehachapi Mountains in Kern County, south-central California. The line connects Bakersfield and the San Joaquin Valley to Mojave in the Mojave Desert.

Rising at a steady two-percent grade, the track gains 77 feet (23 m) in elevation and makes a 1,210-foot-diameter (370 m) circle. Any train that is more than 3,800 feet (1,200 m) long—about 56 boxcars—passes over itself going around the loop. At the bottom of the loop, the track passes through Tunnel 9, the ninth tunnel built as the railroad was extended from Bakersfield.

The line averages about 36 freight trains each day. Passenger trains such as Amtrak’s San Joaquin are banned from the loop, although the Coast Starlight can use it as a detour. Its frequent trains and scenic setting make the Tehachapi Loop popular with railfans. In 1998, it was named a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark. It is also designated as California Historical Landmark #508.

One of the engineering feats of its day, the Loop was built by Southern Pacific Railroad to ease the grade over Tehachapi Pass. Construction began in 1874, and the line opened in 1876.

Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 24mm, f/2.8, 1/2500, ISO 100.

Reading Blue Mountain & Northern Railroad steam locomotive 2102 departs the station at Port Clinton, Pennsylvania on October 5th, 2024,during its first day of the year of pulling Fall Foliage Excursions. According to their website: The Reading Company T-1 class #2102 was built in the Reading’s own locomotive shops in 1945. With drivers of 70” diameter, it weighs 404 tons, and its tender holds up to 26 tons of coal, and up to 19,000 gallons of water. After the Reading Steam era was over, the Reading Company used 2102 for the Reading Rambles on several different excursions. The 2102 has had many different owners since it was retired by the Reading Railroad. It is one of only four to survive. The other remaining locomotives are the 2100, 2101, and 2124. The Blue Mountain and Reading Railroad purchased the 2102 in 1987, and it ran on the Temple to South Hamburg line into the early 1990’s. Once the Blue Mountain and Reading Railroad became the Reading Blue Mountain & Northern, the 2102 ran over Reading & Northern’s rails for a short time before it was removed from service in the early 1990’s. In 2022, steam locomotive 2102 reentered service on the Reading & Northern. The locomotive has been used actively to pull both passenger excursions and revenue freight trains. Tech Info: Nikon D810, RAW, Nikon 70-300 @ 300mm, f/5.6, 1/640, ISO 200. #steamtrains #besttrainphotograph #JimPearsonPhotography #RBNRR

Reading Blue Mountain & Northern Railroad steam locomotive 2102 departs the station at Port Clinton, PA

Reading Blue Mountain & Northern Railroad steam locomotive 2102 departs the station at Port Clinton, Pennsylvania on October 5th, 2024,during its first day of the year of pulling Fall Foliage Excursions.

According to their website: The Reading Company T-1 class #2102 was built in the Reading’s own locomotive shops in 1945. With drivers of 70” diameter, it weighs 404 tons, and its tender holds up to 26 tons of coal, and up to 19,000 gallons of water. After the Reading Steam era was over, the Reading Company used 2102 for the Reading Rambles on several different excursions. The 2102 has had many different owners since it was retired by the Reading Railroad. It is one of only four to survive. The other remaining locomotives are the 2100, 2101, and 2124.

The Blue Mountain and Reading Railroad purchased the 2102 in 1987, and it ran on the Temple to South Hamburg line into the early 1990’s. Once the Blue Mountain and Reading Railroad became the Reading Blue Mountain & Northern, the 2102 ran over Reading & Northern’s rails for a short time before it was removed from service in the early 1990’s.

In 2022, steam locomotive 2102 reentered service on the Reading & Northern. The locomotive has been used actively to pull both passenger excursions and revenue freight trains.

Tech Info: Nikon D810, RAW, Nikon 70-300 @ 300mm, f/5.6, 1/640, ISO 200.

Power move on the Paducah and Louisville Railway at Princeton, Ky Paducah and Louisville Railway (PAL) 2100 leads the daily local south, as it arrives at their yard in Princeton, Ky after making its pickup from CSX at Atkinson Yard in Madisonville, Kentucky. Part of it's pickup on January 18th, 2021, was six engines, dead in tow, bound for the National Railway Equipment shops in Paducah, Kentucky. The power on this train was, PAL, 2100, 2121, 2101, 2104, dead in tow were, CIT/CBFX 1579, 1589 switchers, NERX 2710, 8580 (both ex SP), Northside Mining 2001 and NREX 2724, also ex-SP. Tech Info: Nikon D800, RAW, Sigma 24-70 @ 46mm, f/4, 1/800, ISO 220. #trainphotography #railroadphotography #trains #railways #jimpearsonphotography

Power move on the Paducah and Louisville Railway at Princeton, Ky

Paducah and Louisville Railway (PAL) 2100 leads the daily local south, as it arrives at their yard in Princeton, Ky after making its pickup from CSX at Atkinson Yard in Madisonville, Kentucky. Part of it’s pickup on January 18th, 2021, was six engines, dead in tow, bound for the National Railway Equipment shops in Paducah, Kentucky.

The power on this train was, PAL, 2100, 2121, 2101, 2104, dead in tow were, CIT/CBFX 1579, 1589 switchers, NERX 2710, 8580 (both ex SP), Northside Mining 2001 and NREX 2724, also ex-SP.

Tech Info: Nikon D800, RAW, Sigma 24-70 @ 46mm, f/4, 1/800, ISO 220.

In this week’s Saturday Infrared photo, we catch a loaded BNSF freight as works the grade in the Cajon Pass from Cajon, California on September 24th, 2024. According to Wikipedia: Cajon Pass is a mountain pass between the San Bernardino Mountains to the east and the San Gabriel Mountains to the west in Southern California. Created by the movements of the San Andreas Fault, it has an elevation of 3,777 ft (1,151 m). Located in the Mojave Desert, the pass is an important link from the Greater San Bernardino Area to the Victor Valley, and northeast to Las Vegas. The Cajon Pass area is on the Pacific Crest Trail. Cajon Pass is at the head of Horsethief Canyon, traversed by California State Route 138 (SR 138) and railroad tracks owned by BNSF Railway and Union Pacific Railroad. Improvements in 1972 reduced the railroad's maximum elevation from about 3,829 to 3,777 feet while reducing curvature. Interstate 15 does not traverse Cajon Pass, but rather the nearby Cajon Summit. The entire area, Cajon Pass and Cajon Summit, is often referred to as Cajon Pass, but a distinction is made between Cajon Pass and Cajon Summit. The California Southern Railroad, a subsidiary of the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway, was the first railroad through Cajon Pass. The line through the pass was built in the early 1880s to connect the present-day cities of Barstow and San Diego. Today the Union Pacific Railroad and BNSF Railway (the successor to the Santa Fe) use the pass to reach Los Angeles and San Bernardino as part of the Southern Transcon. Due to the many trains, scenery and easy access, it is a popular location for railfans, and many photographs of trains on Cajon Pass appear in books and magazines. The Union Pacific Railroad owns one track through the pass, on the previous Southern Pacific Railroad Palmdale cutoff, opened in 1967. The BNSF Railway owns two tracks and began to operate a third main track in the summer of 2008. The railroads share track rights through the pass ever since the Union Pacific gained track rights on the Santa Fe portion negotiated under the original Los Angeles and Salt Lake Railroad. Tech Info: Fuji XT-1, RAW, Converted to 720nm B&W IR, Nikon 24-70 @39mm, f/4.5, 1/500, ISO 200. #trainphotography #railroadphotography #trains #railways #jimpearsonphotography #infraredtrainphotography #infraredphotography #trainphotographer #railroadphotographer #infaredtrainphotography #trending

In this week’s Saturday Infrared photo, we catch a loaded BNSF freight in the Cajon Pass from Cajon, California

In this week’s Saturday Infrared photo, we catch a loaded BNSF freight as works the grade in the Cajon Pass from Cajon, California on September 24th, 2024.

According to Wikipedia: Cajon Pass is a mountain pass between the San Bernardino Mountains to the east and the San Gabriel Mountains to the west in Southern California. Created by the movements of the San Andreas Fault, it has an elevation of 3,777 ft (1,151 m). Located in the Mojave Desert, the pass is an important link from the Greater San Bernardino Area to the Victor Valley, and northeast to Las Vegas. The Cajon Pass area is on the Pacific Crest Trail.

Cajon Pass is at the head of Horsethief Canyon, traversed by California State Route 138 (SR 138) and railroad tracks owned by BNSF Railway and Union Pacific Railroad. Improvements in 1972 reduced the railroad’s maximum elevation from about 3,829 to 3,777 feet while reducing curvature. Interstate 15 does not traverse Cajon Pass, but rather the nearby Cajon Summit. The entire area, Cajon Pass and Cajon Summit, is often referred to as Cajon Pass, but a distinction is made between Cajon Pass and Cajon Summit.

The California Southern Railroad, a subsidiary of the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway, was the first railroad through Cajon Pass. The line through the pass was built in the early 1880s to connect the present-day cities of Barstow and San Diego. Today the Union Pacific Railroad and BNSF Railway (the successor to the Santa Fe) use the pass to reach Los Angeles and San Bernardino as part of the Southern Transcon. Due to the many trains, scenery and easy access, it is a popular location for railfans, and many photographs of trains on Cajon Pass appear in books and magazines.

The Union Pacific Railroad owns one track through the pass, on the previous Southern Pacific Railroad Palmdale cutoff, opened in 1967. The BNSF Railway owns two tracks and began to operate a third main track in the summer of 2008. The railroads share track rights through the pass ever since the Union Pacific gained track rights on the Santa Fe portion negotiated under the original Los Angeles and Salt Lake Railroad.

Tech Info: Fuji XT-1, RAW, Converted to 720nm B&W IR, Nikon 24-70 @39mm, f/4.5, 1/500, ISO 200.