Bill Unglaube at Bitter Creek Western Railroad
   
For my long Fourth of July weekend I visited Karl Hovanitz' Bitter Creek Western Railroad.  This Track is beautifully landscaped and maintained, a pleasure and privilege to run on. It can support a large number of trains operating at the same time.  My six-day weekend proved to be everything I'd hoped for, and way more.  There was an awesome (and unexpected ) fireworks show, lots of new ( and old ) friends to visit, and a fine variety of equipment to drool over.   I even found a new engine to bring home with me.  If you ever have the opportunity to visit Bitter Creek, don't pass it by.  Below are a few photos I would like to share with you.
 
1. One of Karl's two diesels crewed by a couple of younger railroaders
   
This Atlantic was the first locomotive to run on the Bitter Creek in 1985 2.
   
3. This nicely done Pennsy K-4 (Pacific) cruised effortlessly
   
This speeder also cruised, but not without effort!  It has a 15 speed bicycle drive. 4.
   
5. I like the looks of this outside-braced gondola a lot.  I think I'll have to build a couple.
   
Here is a Jim Kreider (Real Trains) Berkshire getting started.  The red-primered boiler is yet to be lagged, and only a few detail items have been laid for appearance sake. 6.
   
7. Butterfly doors on the same engine
   
Pictures 8 thru 13.

Here is a finished Berkshire, built up by master model maker Jack Bodenmann.  Operating sanders (12), generators (2 Moseleys), air pumps and power reverse are but a few of its many features.

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My Milwaukee SW-1 with new engineer, Angelica. 14.
   
15. Karl watches as Angelica and friends ride by.
   
This Rail Systems SD-45 was painted  and detailed by Jack Bodenmann back in 2001, hence its number.
   
The SD-45's owner made me an offer I couldn't refuse !
   

Until we meet again - - Happy Rails to You !

Bill Unglaube.