Not your average train

Almost every year, the Union Pacific Railroad runs an inspection special so that managers and such can get out on the railroad and can see the property for themselves. For a number of years in the 1990s and early 2000s they used a special locomotive, the 6936, to pull the train.

The 6936 and three dozen others in this series are called Centennials, because they were built in the late 1960s corresponding with the centennial celebration of the driving of the Golden Spike to complete the line in 1869. These were "double diesels", where two standard locomotives were built on the same chassis. They were and are the most powerful locomotives built, providing 6600 horsepower, compared to a standard unit (at the time) 3300 to 3600. The 6936 is the only one still active, the rest having long ago been scrapped or given to museums. It has been restored and upgraded by the railroad, and is part of their heritage locomotive collection which includes a variety of classic diesels and the two immense steam locomotives, the 3985 and 844.

About 2002, we learned the train was coming through Eugene. Plans included an overnight layover in Oakridge. So, on that hot summer afternoon a bunch of us were on hand for the train's arrival. We wandered around taking pictures and such, trying to stay out of everybody's way and not get kicked off the property. After awhile, someone from the train came out and a conversation was started. Good fortune was with us that day, as the train person (who happened to be one of the big cheeses in charge of things) was very friendly. One thing led to another, and he soon invited us aboard for a guided tour. Very nice! Definitely a cut above your standard passenger train! Since most of the passengers were railroad officials and many overnighted onboard, the train was equipped with deluxe eating facilities, sleeping facilities, offices, and even a gym.

A very good day for us all. Got some good photos - day and night - and a special tour of something few others have seen. Days like this make up for the ones where we come home empty camera-ed, having found nothing to shoot.