018: The Last Logging Railroad

Did you know about the Simpson Railroad?  This logging railroad in the wilderness of Washington state is the last in the United States.  Now, the Simpson Railroad faces an uncertain future due to the company which owns it shutting down its mill operations in June of 2015.  We talk with local historians and residents to answer the question:  What has made the Simpson Railroad so unique? News Fire Up 611 reached a new milestone this past week.  Norfolk & Western #611 operated under its own power of the Norfolk Southern mainline between Spencer and Greensboro for testing.  The locomotive will be starting its excursion season very soon! Simpson Railroad Engineer & Historian - Pete Replinger (2:15) Pete began his career with the Simpson Railroad as a brakeman and worked as an engineer from 1967 to 2000.  Since retirement, he has also conducted research on the railroad's past.  He shares his wealth of knowledge and experience about how their operations have changed over the years. Photojournalist - Joel Hawthorn (14:23) Having lived in the logging town of Shelton WA for over 25 years, Joel has also seen the railroad through a number of years.  He has dedicated a substantial amount of time to documenting the Simpson Railroad and its employees, even having published a book which you can preview about the railroad.  He talks with us about why it has been so important for him to capture the spirit of the railroad throughout the years. Question of the Day (42:48) What shortline railroad operations interest you the most?  Let me know and I will respond to your comments in our next episode. Subscribe on iTunes, Join our Newsletter, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!