May 25th 2024.
SCM Railfan Productions ventured out once again to coal country to witness yet another fine excursion by the Reading Blue Mountain and Northern Railroad. Ex Reading Co class T-1 4-8-4 #2102 was in command of an Iron Horse Ramble excursion from Reading Outer Station to Jim Thorpe, Pa, and return. Traveling over former Reading Co and Central RR of New Jersey trackage, the locomotive and crew put on a fantastic show of steam for the railfans and the public alike. The original Iron Horse Rambles were started by the Reading Co in 1959, and they ran a total of 51 trips until discontinued in 1964. A total of 4 class T1s survive to this day: 2100, 2101, 2102, and 2124.
Some highlights in the video include topping the hill at Haucks, Pa, wying the train at Jim Thorpe Jct, other R&N trains such as LGSRY and Pittston excursions, and the final assault of Hometown Hill on ex CNJ trackage. The two whistles, of course, are former Reading Co passenger (6 chime) and freight (single note hooter) whistles. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the sights and sounds of Reading steam on home rails!