Making of a Historic Landmark

This is a re-posting of a Facebook entry from April 1, 2016
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Chama Yard

Today I commenced reading anew the Nathional Historic Landmark Registration for the Cumbres and Toltec. The final words in the introductory history are these:

“…the Denver & Rio Grande San Juan Extension (Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad) is an exceptional railroad cultural resource withan unparalleled combination of original fabric, original form and footprint, number of contributing features, intensity of operations, range of historic equipment and structures, continuity, and authenticity of operating practices and workplace culture.

Through a series of bold initiatives and unintended consequences, the Denver & Rio Grande San Juan Extension (Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad) survives as an outstanding example of early twentieth century railroad practice and an accurate and comprehensive presentation of travel by train one hundred years ago.”