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Notice:  All Previous Chapter News Articles and Photos have been moved to the "Memorable Moments from the Past" pages.

This page was last updated on:  January 02, 2009

January 2008 -  Annul Report for 2007

2007 marked the Horseshoe Curve Chapter’s 39th year of service and participation to the greater Altoona Area as well as the National Railway Historical Society.

Social events for the season included a February evening at the home of Dick & Toni Charlesworth in February [with a slide show by David Seidel]; the Chapter’s annual picnic hosted by Will and Diane Teeter at their Camp; a June social hosted by George and Joyce Thompson at Spring Lake Park, Bellwood; and the annual Christmas party at Deer Hollow Bed & Breakfast hosted by Joe DeFrancesco and his grandparents “Dink” and Rachel Gensimore.

2007 began with the display of the Chapter’s newly restored Railway Express Refrigerator car REX 7375 at Railroader’s Memorial Museum, but work also continued throughout the year on the restoration of the 1940 Chevrolet Railway Express Agency truck for Railroader’s Memorial Museum, much at the Chapter’s expense. The Chapter also had an “O” gage model of REX 7375 made by Weaver which was sold at Railroader’s Memorial Museum, and a car was also given each volunteer worker at Millenium Railcar Shop [Hollidaysburg PA] who restored the express car. Work also continued on plow repairs (Austeel Stamping Co.) for the 1946 Walter truck from the Altoona & Logan Valley Electric Railway, and the subsequent repainting of this original appliance as well as the mid-chassis scraper blade. The fully completed Walter Truck was exhibited at the Antique Truck and Machinery Show at Lakemont Park in July

Work projects at Railroader’s Memorial Museum included roof-coating of PRR Office Car “Duquesne” as well as PRR Railway Post Office Car “Robert E. Hannegan”. In anticipation of future work on PRR section car “Union League Club”, several chapter members traveled to Brookville PA to view sister car “Anthracite Club”, which was hosted by Kevin Moore, DMD. “Union League Club”, was displayed during 2007 on the turntable bridge at Railroader’s Memorial Museum until a permanent track location is assigned. Many Chapter members volunteer at the museum on rolling stock maintenance, as group-tour guides, library oversight (Bill Temple), or other supportive services as needed.

Chapter Director Dick Charlesworth developed a bus trip to the Strasburg Railroad and the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania in June, which included a trip on Amtrak from Harrisburg to Lancaster, PA. Chapter members were car hosts for excursions operated on the Everett Railroad in July for Spring Dam Days at Roaring Spring; a charter for the Hollidaysburg YMCA in October for their “Old Tyme Faire & Great Adventure” [3 trips with a train robbery/bandits on horseback]; and the very popular Santa Trains the weekends prior to and after Thanksgiving with all children greeted by Santa personally, and treat bags provided.

Horseshoe Curve Chapter members, as is traditional, worked to staff the annual Railfest Limited Train (Juniata Terminal Co. restored E-8 locomotives and first class cars) for Railroader’s Memorial Museum’s annual Railfest in July, which included staffing and coordinating the Amtrak Station boarding for 3 trips each on Saturday and Sunday.

The Chapter also assisted with planning and guiding area tours for the Toy Train Operating Society convention, Altoona, in August to assist host Alto Model Train Museum/Altoona Area Train Collectors Club.

Horseshoe Curve Chapter made contributions to Blair County Children & Youth Services and Toys for Tots for the Christmas season, including sponsoring a tree at the local Ramada Inn. Donation was made also to the Roaring Spring Historical Society for maintenance on the Roaring Spring Station, Blair County’s only surviving PRR Station.

Horseshoe Curve Chapter and Railroader’s Memorial Museum sponsored Joe DeFrancesco to attend RailCamp at Steamtown, Scranton, PA. Joe provided a comprehensive report of his experience to the Chapter membership in August.

 

January 22,  2008 - Regular Business Meeting

The minutes from the November meeting were read, a correction was made as to the meeting with Larry Sloane and Dick, Frank and Karin. A motion was made to approve by Larry McKee and seconded by Dick Charlesworth.  The Treasurer's report was given.  A motion was made to accept by Dick Charlesworth and seconded by Dan.

Frank called Jeff Yon; he explained the Rick Webber is waiting to hear from the Pres. Dave Turner of the new company WATKO, Inc.

Frank contacted Randy of TRS Roofing, and spoke with him about putting a rubber roof on the coaches; Randy will need to check the cars, but feels sure it can be done. He will give us an estimate once he looks them over.

Dick, Denny and Frank made a work list for Larry; some things will need Larry's approval. Neil also gave a brief report on plans for this year.

Trolley tapes and DVD's will be needed for the Museum gift shop. Frank will contact George Thompson to get this moving along.

Work progressing on the REX truck, body is stripped and being cleaned. It has been discussed to spray the truck with Rustj*Fender to protect it from rust. Jeff is working on the back doors. Frank's dad built the seat frame and reupholstered it. Denny rebuilt the speedometer.

Dick discussed the bus trip on February 23rd to a show with the Altoona Train Collectors; price will be $31.00 for members.  He is also planning a trip on May 3rd, riding the bus to D.C., touring the new Air and Space museum, Mt. Vernon and going to Union Station to return on the Capital Limited.  Meals will be on your own, price will be in the $80/$85 range. An email and cards will be sent as soon as plans are finalized. The proceeds from this trip will go toward the Duquesne.

Dave and Frank have been discussing the 40th anniversary of the Chapter coming in May. Plans are being worked on for a dinner at the Geeystown Fire Hall a slide presentation by Dave Seidel and a guest speaker. A date has been set for Saturday May 17th starting at 5:00 p.m.

Dave Seidel reported that Russ Swillnerton of the Conrail Historical Society contacted him, that they are planning a convention in October and would like to do a train ride on the Everett R.R. Dick and Dave will meet with their people to discuss plans. Dates will need to be discussed with Alan Maples to add an excursion on the schedule.

Chapter is paying airfare for Dick to attend the Directors meeting in Dallas; Frank made the decision to approve the money.

Frank presented Wayne Burket with his 25-year pin. Wayne was the first National Director for the Chapter and one of the last two Charter members.

Motion to adjourn was made by Wil Teeter and seconded by Cindy. Meeting Adjourned

ATTENDANCE
Denny Walls Karin Givler Larry McKee Cindy Morngenello Joe Harella Mike Walls Dave Seidel Wil Teeter Wayne Burket George Merritts Neil Myers Bill Temple Dan Morngenello Dick Charlesworth Frank Givler

February 26, 2008 - Regular Business Meeting

Minutes from the January meeting were read and a motion to approve was made by Dick Charlesworth and seconded by Joe Harella.  The Treasurer's report was given.  A motion was made to accept was made by Larry McKee and seconded by Dan. 

Frank spoke with Jeff Yohn on Monday and a meeting will be set within a couple of weeks.

Frank sent an email for approval to order 100 more cars and sending Joey to Rail Camp. The Rail Camp is in Nevada and all plans are set, we are waiting for an invoice for tuition from Barry Smith. The Chapter is paying round trip flight.

The Conrail Historical Society is coming here to meet with Dave and Dick.

If the $390.00 needs paid for an extra trip, this money can be added into the rental of the cars.  Dick gave a report on the Directors meeting in Dallas. The National is closing the office in Philadelphia. Fernley & Fernley will be taking over; Christine will be the sole contact.  Fernley & Fernley will be taking over the entire membership. Your Chapter dues slips will go directly to the member and sent back to Fernley & Fernley, they in turn will send the Chapter their potion of the dues money. Dick said this was tabled until the first of the year with more discussion to follow.

Our chapter has 15 non-renewals as of this meeting. 

The bus trip on May 3rd is sold out. Phone calls continued to come in plans were started for 2nd trip, however tickets for Amtrak cannot be purchased so trip was cancelled but Dick is looking into options to try and schedule a second trip.

Denny reported that menu is set for anniversary party, cost per person will $10.00. Final count will need to be turned in 10 days before date. Cards and email will go out and an RSVP date will be by May 7th.

With no further discussions a motion was made to adjourn by Don and seconded by Dan.

Meeting adjourned

ATTENDANCE
Frank Givler Karin Givler Dave Seidel Dwayne Miller Neil Myers Wil Teeter Leon Wagner Larry McKee Bill Temple Joe Harella Dick Charlesworth Don Goebal Bill Burket Dave Behe Denny Walls Mike Walls Dan Mornengello Cindy Mornengello

March 2008 - Regular Business Meeting

The March meeting was cancelled at the last minute because of the death/viewing date, of Catherine Venance (Maricq) Seidel, the Chapter Historian’s mother, Webmaster Chris Behe’s grandmother and member David Behe’s mother-in-law. 

 

March 25, 2008

Catherine Venance (Maricq) Seidel
 (Sept. 3, 1914 - March 23, 2008)

Catherine Venance (Maricq) Seidel, 93, Altoona, died Easter Sunday.

She was born in Etna, daughter of Louis J. and Christine (Gaiser) Maricq. She married William J. Seidel Feb. 25, 1936, in Altoona. He died Dec. 3, 1993.

She was predeceased by her parents; sister and brother-in-law: Bernice M. “Babe” Wahl and Joseph F. Wahl and a niece, Mary Jo Wahl.

She is survived by sons: David W. (Virginia) Seidel and Timothy R. (Sonya) Seidel, both of Altoona; daughters: Kay Alyce Lint and Christine (David G.) Behe, all of Altoona; grandchildren: Robert T. Seidel of Murrysville, Debra K. (Philip) Schreyer of Fallentimber, Karen A. (Lint) Claar of Roaring Spring, Christopher J. (Kelly) Behe of Severn, Md., Dennis P. (Nancy) Behe of Ebensburg, Brian J. (Nichole) Behe of Altoona, Timothy A. (Julie) Behe of Altoona; 12 great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews: Ann G. (Wahl) Dixon (James) of Hackettstown, N.J., Susan R. (Wahl) D’Ambrosio (Philip) of San Antonio, Michele Schmitz (Bernie) of St. Paul, Minn., Scott A. Warner (Linda) of Modesto, Calif., Diane McClarty (Barry) of San Diego, Loretta Orr of Pittsburgh and Rita Csonka (Dale) of Pittsburgh.

She was a graduate of Altoona High School, Class of 1932, and Slippery Rock State Teachers’ College, 1934. After raising her four children, she taught at St. Leo’s Parochial School and then second grade at Fairview Elementary School until her retirement in June 1977, with 25 years of service.

Mrs. Seidel, upon her retirement, enjoyed oil painting and crocheting afghans and baby blankets for family and friends. She also was an avid reader and enjoyed crossword puzzles, board games and making greeting cards.

She was a member of the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament Parish and the National Education Association.

A vigil for was held March 25, 2008, at The Stevens Mortuary Inc., 1421 Eighth Ave., Altoona. A funeral Mass was held at 10 a.m. Wednesday at the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament, Altoona. Committal was at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Altoona.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to Altoona Area School District Foundation, 1415 Sixth Ave., Altoona, PA 16602.

April 10. 2008 - The e-Coal Bucket newsletter (by David Seidel)

IMPORTANT DATES TO REMEMBER
 
April 12:  21st Anniversary of the inaugural run of K-4 # 1361 under Steam following  the 1986-87 restoration.
 
May 3:  Chapter bus trip to Washington DC (filled)
 
May 11:  40th Anniversary of Horseshoe Curve Chapter NRHS Charter.
 
May 17:  Chapter 40th Anniversary Dinner, Geeseytown Fire Hall, US 22, Geeseytown (2 miles east of Hollidaysburg, PA).  PLEASE PLAN TO ATTEND.
 
June 8:  40th anniversary of Robert Kennedy’s funeral train, utilizing Pennsylvania 120, from New York City to Washington DC
 
July 12-13:  Annual RAILFEST in Altoona with three excursion trains daily over Horseshoe Curve. 

 HORSESHOE CURVE CHAPTER 40th ANNIVERSARY
 
It is hard for ‘some of us’ to believe that 40 years have gone by.  Your historian/editor now has white hair, and Harley Burket hardly has any, so that must be the measure of the passage of time.
 
We recommend you visit the Chapter’s webpage and read the Chapter History segment to understand what has transpired in these 40 years.  In summary, a group of individuals formed to find a way to have some sort of a railroad museum for the Altoona area after the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania awarded such a facility to Lancaster County.  The nucleus of this initial group, formed under the umbrella of the Tourist and Convention Bureau under the Chamber of Commerce, was known as the Altoona Railway Museum Club.  The group began by collecting railroad memorabilia and exhibiting these collections in storefronts or at other community events.  In the first two years, the group became aware of an organization known as the National Railway Historical Society and subsequently applied for a charter.  This was granted May 11, 1968.
 
Almost concurrent with the granting of this charter, new arrivals in Altoona Ray and Elizabeth Garvin, took an interest in the Chapter.  Ray, a native of Bradford, PA, came to head up the Tourist and Convention Bureau under which the Altoona Railway Museum Club formed.  During the next four years, Ray, with his community contacts, assumed leadership responsibilities to form Railroader’s Memorial Museum, which was chartered in document form in 1972.  As the momentum for the development of the museum grew and fund raising began, the museum, of necessity, became an entity unto itself for non-profit status and development, ultimately opening its doors on September 21, 1980.
 
The Horseshoe Curve Chapter, National Railway Historical Society has always been involved with Railroaders Memorial Museum from the beginning.  In its formative and early years, approximately one-quarter of the museum board was comprised by Chapter members/officers. One could say, that Horseshoe Curve Chapter was instrumental in the seed-planting phase.  Forty years later, the Chapter maintains an affiliation with Railroader’s Memorial Museum as a support organization, assisting in the maintenance and further development of this remarkable facility. The Chapter’s most recent contribution has been a two-year project restoring the museum’s 1940 Chevrolet Railway Express Agency truck which is now painted in primer and almost ready for finish work.  What had started as a rusty hulk from an Iowa junkyard (excurse me…”junque”yard) is now the diamond emerging from the rough and will be a genuine asset to Railroader’s Memorial Museum. 
 
The National Railway Historical Society has been an excellent affiliation for the Horseshoe Curve Chapter.  Over the years, we have partnered with several sister-chapters in projects or joint-activities which we’ve all enjoyed, especially South Penn Chapter [at the ‘old’ Everett Railroad] (now disbanded), Lancaster Chapter, Harrisburg Chapter, Western Maryland Chapter and Cumberland Valley.  Horseshoe Curve Chapter has hosted two National Directors meetings for the society [which amount to mini-conventions] and played an instrumental role in the 150th Anniversary celebration of Horseshoe Curve and the placement of a bronze tablet at Horseshoe Curve National Historical Site for that occasion. 
  
Over the years, Horseshoe Curve Chapter has acquired rolling stock independent of Railroader’s Memorial Museum and continues to work on historical restorations, as well as operating three coaches in excursion service on the Everett Railroad nearby. With the completion of the new turntable at Railroader’s Memorial Museum in 2006, all of the Chapter’s rolling stock is now housed at the museum facility by invitation…and our projects continueon these as well as museum owned pieces. Three of the Chapter’s best pieces, as you may know, are the restored 1946 Walter Snow Fighter from the Altoona & Logan Valley Electric Railway; a PRR Class B-60 Baggage car; and the newest completion the Railway Express Agency Boxcar # 7375 (used in passenger service). Restoration was completed by Millenium Rail Car Shop in Hollidaysburg and the Chapter currently has an O-gauge model of this car for sale at Railroader’s Memorial Museum or through President Givler for $59.95 + tax + sh. 
 
Rather than insert many photographs in this newsletter, please visit your Chapter website developed by Chris Behe, which has photo-essays on all our Chapter activities and equipment.  We feel certain that Horseshoe Curve Chapter’s webpage is superior in form and content thanks to Chris Behe’s talents.
 
As noted in the dates above, we will celebrate the occasion with a dinner at the Geeseytown Fire Hall two miles east of Hollidaysburg on US 22.  We encourage all members and your families to join us for this special occasion.  Guest speakers will be Larry Salon, the new Executive Director of Railroader’s Memorial Museum and John Sweigart, NRHS Regional Vice-President. In addition, there will be a display of railroad memorabilia (no, you haven’t seen it all before) and a great evening of good conversation with your friends. We are still deciding about a slide show that might be of interest.  If you have some item(s) of special railroad memorabilia you would like to exhibit, please bring it along and arrive early.  Our dinner is on Armed Forces Day weekend, but most of those activities are earlier in the day.   We especially invite our out-of-town members and their families whom we rarely get to see or meet.  We guarantee NO SNOW in May, not that we had much this winter anyway.
 
PLEASE RSVP no later than May 9th. Indicate name and number of guests. Menu: Turkey & Ham and all the trimmings. Telephone President Givler at Frank’s Auto Service (814) 943-4942 or at ottodocfacs@aol.com. Reservations can also be telephoned to (814) 944-2667 evenings;  OR Treasurer Denny Walls at d63w@aol.com.  Cost is $10.00 pp + gratuity. Please post your calendars now.
 
RAILCAMP 2008
 
As most of you know, Horseshoe Curve Chapter sponsored Joe DeFrancesco at Railcamp 2007, at Steamtown National Historic Site.  Because of Joe’s demonstrated interest, ability and participation in the many ongoing Chapter projects, we have decided to sponsor him at Railcamp 2008 in Nevada during July.  This is somewhat of a precedent for the Chapter, but we feel this investment in  Horseshoe Curve Chapter’s future leadership is validated.  With the results of the affirmative vote by the membership, Joe will head west in July for a week of study (and fun too).  Sunscreen required, Joe!
 
 CHAPTER WORK PROJECTS
 
Finish work will continue on the Railway Express Agency truck as needed. Now that it is in primer paint, there will be some finish sanding, but the heavy work is almost completed.
 
With improved weather, work projects are returning to Railroader’s Memorial Museum on Monday nights and/or Saturdays.  Work has begun to scrape, sand, and re-finish the PRR N-5 caboose along the entrance walkway which is in need of attention.  As projects are completed we will move onto other pieces in the museum yard.  Check with any chapter officer for info if you have a question or just show up. 
We anticipate many interesting projects for 2008 in conjunction with Railroader’s Memorial Museum, and we DO have a good time, and we DO get dirty.  Gloves are recommended.
 
MARCH MEETING
 
As you no doubt know by now, the March meeting was cancelled at the last minute because of the death/viewing date, of the Chapter Historian’s mother, Webmaster Chris Behe’s grandmother and member David Behe’s mother-in-law. 
 
A sincere thank you to all chapter members for your condolences at this time, especially the contribution made to the Altoona Area School District Foundation on behalf of our mother, grandmother and mother-in-law Catherine Seidel.  Mother and dad were both active in supportive ways to the chapters early years.  In those days when efforts were underway to start Railroader’s Memorial Museum, a popular culture of the 1970’s was the ‘pet rock’.  I can just hear some of you groaning and wondering just what that was.  But, to get seed money for the start-up of Railroaders Memorial Museum, a plan was devised to compete with the pet rock and JAR steam locomotive cinders and sell these for $1.00 per jar.
 Cinders were “recycled” from a location near MG Tower where they are still in abundance, and a campaign was launched to obtain baby food jars for the purpose.
 Lids were painted, labels applied and cinders scooped into the jars…and mother, dad and other family pitched in for this project.  It may seem insignificant, but the image of that “jarring experience”, and others, still lingers and is part of our history as well.
 
And, yes, I still have a jar of those cinders (steam locomotive exhaust cinders, NOT ash). Granulated black sand is a comparison.
 
THANK YOU ONE AND ALL.

RAILFEST 2008
 
Once again another year and another season is upon us.  As has been custom, the Railfest Limited Excursion train will provide three daily trips around Horseshoe Curve on Saturday and Sunday, July 12-13 2008, but activities will begin July 11 after 6 PM with food, drink and the Smick Brothers band on the museum grounds.  Chapter members will once again be needed to act as coach attendants and station attendants.  We hope everyone can plan for this time of years and be available for this great annual experience. 
 
The Railfest Limited will be powered by Juniata Terminal Company’s restored Pennsylvania Railroad E-8 locomotives # 5711 and 5809 in addition to parlor Warrior Ridge and the Pennsylvania 120.  It is anticipated that section car Kitchi Gammi Club will make a return appearance as well as SEPTA coaches.
 
There are many activities planned for this weekend and we recommend visiting www.railroadcity.com to stay abreast of all events on their calendar and/or for ticket ordering information. You may also e-mail: admin@railroadcity.com.
 
NOTE:  Horseshoe Curve National Historic Site has re-opened for the season and the Master Mechanics Building/main museum complex will open on or about May 1st.  The delay is due to pending repairs to the museum elevator which was damaged by a burst sprinkler near the elevator shaft during the winter months, and slow response by the insurance company.

CONRAIL HISTORICAL SOCIETY CONVENTION
 
The Conrail Historical Society will hold their annual convention in Altoona October 24-25-25, 2008.  Horseshoe Curve Chapter has already been active to assist the group with their arrangements.  The Conrail Historical Society is also interested in new member inquiries.
 
 
Your interest in railroad history may be influenced by your work history, general interest, or the generation in which you may have experienced Conrail’s operational years.  For more information, please contact:  Russ Swinnerton at russ.swinnerton@gmail.com, of Kristopher M. Klemick at conrail6055@comcast.net, or visit www.TheCRHS.org . The Conrail Historical Society is registered as a 501 © 3 non-profit organization and publishes a high quality quarterly magazine.  We welcome CRHS to Altoona (in advance) and recommend CRHS for your review.

BOOK RECOMMENDATION
 
Your editor has just finished reading “The Men Who Loved Trains” by Rush Loving.  It is perhaps the most definitive work which clearly outlines the progression into and through the PRR-NYC merger and its disastrous results. It also chronicles the subsequent years through Conrail and outlines how and why Conrail became divided between NS and CSX.  While it is a work of non-fiction, it does hold the reader’s attention.  It is a “must-read” for anyone who is interested in railroad history.  You can find this text at reasonable pricing on amazon.com.  New texts with jacket covers are also available at www.TheCRHS.com.

HORSESHOE CURVE
 
Your chapter historian has written a book entitled “Horseshoe Curve” which will be released one week prior to Railfest – anticipated for July 7, 2008.  This will be identical in format to the book “Altoona and Logan Valley Electric Railway” published in 2006 by Leonard E. Alwine and David Seidel, which continues to sell nicely, benefiting Horseshoe Curve Chapter. While publication is currently in progress, you will be able to find information at a later date by visiting www.arcadiapublishing.com and searching for HORSESHOE CURVE.  As most of you know, there have been many previous books and magazines printed about Horseshoe Curve, all very well done, especially Dan Cupper’s Horseshoe Heritage, and Dr. Dennis McIlnay’s The Horseshoe Curve-Sabotage and Subversion in the Railroad City.
 The Arcadia Publishing format is what differs in that all photographs (about 200) are black-and-white images.  It is affordably priced at $19.99 each + tax. It will be readily available at Horseshoe Curve, Railroader’s Memorial Museum and other outlets, as well as online via the publisher. The royalties have been assigned to Railroader’s Memorial Museum to fund their many projects, hopefully to get the Loretto restoration back in focus. Many people provided photographic material or information and are identified in the Acknowledgement section. Many thanks to these individuals or organizations.
 

April 22, 2008 - Regular Business Meeting

The minutes from the February meeting were read and a motion to approve was made by Dick Charlesworth and seconded by Joe Harella. The monthly meeting for March was cancelled due to the death of Dave Seidel's mother. The Chapter made a contribution to the AASH Foundation in his mother's memory. The Foundation received the check and a thank you was received from the Seidel's.

The Treasurer's report was read. 

Frank met with Randy about the roofing on the coaches; he recommends a spray roof coating that his company has used. He will get back to Frank with an estimate.  He thinks the cost could be approximately $2000.00 per car and this could possibly be done in September.  Frank ask the opinion of the members present if they would consider fronting the money to have the REX truck painted and then be reimbursed by the Museum. The cost would possibly be $3,000.00 to $3,500.00. This would keep the project moving forward and be ready for Railfest.  Dick made a motion that the Chapter forward the Museum the money up to $3,500.00 for the painting. Motion seconded by Don Goebel. All voted in favor.

Dick, Dave, Denny, Frank and Karin met with members  from The Conrail Historical Society to discuss their plans and offer help where we can. Their convention will be the last weekend in October.

Dick briefed us on the bus trip to Washington D.C..  Tthe bus will leave the museum at 5:45 a.m, stopping for breakfast in Bedford and then going on to D.C. Lunch and dinner are on your own.  Dining car seating for dinner will be once we board the train.

Dick reported on the Director's meeting in Syracuse N.Y.

Frank mentioned that Wil and Diane Teeter would like to host the Chapter picnic again this year at their lodge. A date was picked for August 3rd. More details and information will follow.

The Hollidaysburg YMCA will hold their excursion trips from Canal Basin on October 11th with 4 trips that day. It is assumed they will do another train robbery.

Motion to adjourn Denny Walls and seconded Dan.

ATTENDANCE:
Joe Harella,  Dick Charlesworth,  Frank Givler,  Karin Givler,  Mike Walls,  Denny Walls,  George Thompson,  George Merritts,  Dan Morningello,  Don Goebel,  Len Alwine.

^{(Secretary, Karin Givler)}

May 3, 2008 Washington, DC tour

• Bus from Altoona to the New Air and Space Museum near Dulles Airport.

• Bus to tour Mount Vernon.

• Bus to Union Station - Ride Amtrak to Cumberland ,MD

To view photographs from the trip, visit the following link.  Photographs by Joe DeFrancesco, jadnrhs@aim.com

http://picasaweb.google.com/jadwebAlbums/NRHSHSCTRIPTOWASHDC

Additional photographs by David Seidel can be found at:

http://picasaweb.google.com/prrdave/AIRSPACEDULLESDCMAY32008MTVERNON

May 11, 2008 - Horseshoe Curve Chapter 40th Anniversary

The Horseshoe Curve Chapter, received its charter from the National Railway Historical Society on May 11, 1968. 

May 17, 2008 -  Horseshoe Curve Chapter 40th Anniversary Dinner 

An anniversary DINNER was held at the GEESEYTOWN FIREHALL, Saturday May, 17, 2008. 

 

Speakers included Mr. Larry Salone, the new Director of the Altoona Railroaders Memorial Museum, and Mr John Sweigart , Regional Vice President, NRHS.

 

The following link  is a vignette of Horseshoe Curve Chapter NRHS activities in the 40 year period dating from 1966 to 1968; then May 11, 1968 to May 11, 2008 and includes activities in the last ten years. The slide show presented May 17, 2008 at the 40th anniversary dinner, did not include all the material in this digitized version. The Horseshoe Curve Chapter's history is represented by these avocational activities and pursuits, documents the lives of many of our deceased members, and is a record of service to the community of Altoona and to Railroader's Memorial Museum.  

 

  http://picasaweb.google.com/prrdave/40THANNIVERSARYHORSESHOECURVECHAPTERNRHS?authkey=foSvlGn0x5M#  (David Seidel)

Photos by Chris Behe are as follows:

 

L - R: XX, Virginia Seidel; XX; Trudy Dixon		L-R: Joe Dixon, Paul McGrane, David Seidel; Jim Dixon	L-R: Trudy Dixon, Virginia Seidel; Susan & Phil D'Ambrosio
L-R: Joe Dixon, Paul McGrane, David Seidel; Jim Dixon		XX, XX, Bill Temple
	L-R: Karen Givler, Denny Walls	Morgan	Christine Behe, Morgan
L-R: Harley  Burkett; Kevin Burkett	L-R: Harley Burkett, Bill Burkett; George Merritts; Dick Charlesworth	L-R:  David Seidel; Jim Dixon, Trudy Dixon	L-R: David Behe, Christine Behe
L-R: Cathy Harella; Karin Givler, Frank Givler; Larry Salone	Denny Walls directing guest to the Buffet	Buffet Line	Buffet Line
The Cake	View of the Head Table L-R: Joe Harella, Cathy Harella, Karin Givler, Frank Giver, Mr. & Mrs Larry Salone; Denny Walls		L-R; Dan Moringiello & Joe DeFrancesco,
		Duane Miller, Greg & Ruth Miller	L-R: Bill Burkett, Harley Burkett
L-R: Bill Burkett, Harley Burkett	L-R: Karin Givler; XX	Larry Salone	David Seidel Preparing for Slide Presentation
			Phil D'Ambrosio; David Behe
David Behe	Phil D'Ambrosio; David Behe

 

June, 2, 2008 - Donation of Tim Reese's "Mickey Car"

If you will check the chapter webpage under ‘Memorable Moments From The Past’, you will find many photographs of past member Wayne T. (Tim) Reese who was a very active and dedicated member of Horseshoe Curve Chapter in it’s earliest years.  This summer, his family, particularly Tim’s widow Ellen and son Lewis, donated to Horseshoe Curve Chapter Tim’s ‘mickey car’ or, ‘speeder’ as some call them today.  It needs some modest restoration.  In this view, the ‘gang’ is moving the car from Tim’s home to a storage site at Wendy Traxler’s nearby (east of Geeseytown). It will be a future restoration project once the Railway Express Agency Truck is completed this year. Moved on June 2, 2008. (David Seidel)

Assisting are: Frank Givler, Denny Walls, Mark Yingling, Dick Charlesworth, Scott Houseman, Dan Moringiello, Dave Seidel.

July 2, 2008 - Work Party at Roaring Spring

Chapter members are re-painting the Chapter coaches.

July 7, 2008 Book Signing

David Seidel, Founding Officer and current Historian with the Horseshoe Curve Chapter of the NRHS and Author of the new book published by Arcadia Publishing, titled,  "Horseshoe Curve", offered a book signing.  The book, carried not only locally by the Altoona Railroader's Memorial Museum and Horseshoe Curve gift shops but as well as Barnes & Noble is a great book. Dave has assigned all royalties from the book to benefit the Railroader's Memorial Museum.

 

July 11-13, 2008 - RAILFEST 2008

Dave Seidel, and the 'Warrior Ridge' parlor car, Harrisburg PA, July 11, 2008	Dave Seidel	Steel City Limited approaches Horseshoe Curve. Photo by Joe DeFrancesco	Service truck # 18 from the Altoona & Logan Valley Electric Railway. 1946 Walter SnowFighter. On display at Railroader's Memorial Museum, July 10, 2008
			Steel City Limited approaches Horseshoe Curve. Photo by Joe DeFrancesco
Steel City Limited approaches Horseshoe Curve. Photo by Joe DeFrancesco	Chef John Seely prepares the 7-course dinner for Warrior Ridge passengers traveling Altoona to Pittsburgh PA July 12, 2008	David Seidel and Barry Kaufman, Horseshoe Curve Chapter NRHS	Front: Leonard Alwine, Dick Charlesworth, Joe DeFrancesco and Amtrak trainman Rob Hammer; Back: Barry Kaufman, Gary Clare & John Seely.  Many others were elsewhere on the train or in the station.

June 24, 2008 - Regular Business Meeting

The meeting was called to order and the May minutes were read and a motion was made to approve by Dave Seidel seconded by Joe Harella.  The Treasurer's report was read.  A motion to accept was made by Larry and seconded by Wil.

Frank is uncertain when the work detail on the cars will take place.  Allen Maples is putting in a new siding at the Duncansville office and there will be no room.  Al will try and turn the car at Martinsburg but that will not be known for sure until Friday 6/27.  Frank will let everyone know when he hears from Al.

The REX truck will not be ready for Railfest.  Painting has been put on hold until Randy is free.  Dick mentioned that the Potomac Eagle and DC trips are sold out.  Frank had the poster that Joey drew reproduced in a smaller size, the cost is $1.00 each anyone interested see Frank tonight.  The Duquesne is all in primer and all the windows are in the cabin car. 

Dick will contact all those working Railfest for shirt size as the attire is being required for this year and a meeting will be held for all those working.  Dave Seidel brought the first appearance of the new book "Horseshoe Curve". There will be a book signing at the Curve on July 7th.  All royalties go to the Museum, and Dave asked that this money be used for the Loretto.

Neil reported that on July 2nd-7th the Norfolk Southern exhibit car will be on display at the Museum.  Railfest weekend there will be "special equipment on display.  He also showed a downsized print of the Bob Hunt painting that is on order now at the Museum.

Denny mentioned to the members present that the fire hall was having a carnival this weekend 6/28 & 6/29 and he was asking for show and tell items from anyone interested that had items on display for the anniversary dinner. 

With nothing further to discuss for the good of the Chapter a motion from Dave was made to adjourn and seconded by Bill.  Meeting adjourned

ATTENDANCE
Frank Givler,  Karin Givler,  Neil Myers,  Dave Seidel,  George Merritts, Denny Walls,  Mike Walls,  Larry McKee,  Wil Teeter,  George Thompson, Joe Harella,  Bill Burket

(Secretary, Karin Givler)

August 2,  2008 - Potomac Eagle.

Members enjoyed a daylong trip along the scenic Potomac River aboard the Potomac Eagle. (David Seidel)

Karin Givler, XX, Frank Givler,  Dwayne	Virginia Seidel, Dick Charlesworth, XX, XX, Karin Givler	Virginia Seidel, Karin Givler	Dave Seidel, Frank Givler
	Joe and Cathy Harella
	Joe and Cathy Harella	Dick Charlesworth
	Karin and Frank Givler	--	--

August 3, 2008 - Summer Picnic

The Summer 2008 Chapter Picnic was held at Wil Teeters Lodge in Frankstown Township.

Summer 2008 - Work party at ARMM

June 7,  2008 // June 9,  2008 // August 16, 2008 // August 23, 2008

Dick Charlesworth, Dan Mornengello , Joe Harella	Mark Yingling Horseshoe Curve Chapter - PRR 7511- The Duquesne	Dan M, Joe DeFrancesco, Frank Givler, Dick Charlesworth Horseshoe Curve Chapter - PRR 7511- The Duquesne	Dick C, Mark Yingling, Joe D. Horseshoe Curve Chapter - PRR 7511- The Duquesne
Mark Yingling, Dan Moringiello, Dave Seidel, Dick C Horseshoe Curve Chapter - PRR 7511- The Duquesne	Frank Givler Horseshoe Curve Chapter - PRR 7511- The Duquesne	Mark Yingling. , Frank G Horseshoe Curve Chapter - PRR 7511- The Duquesne	Horseshoe Curve Chapter - PRR 7511- The Duquesne
Horseshoe Curve Chapter - PRR 7511- The Duquesne	Frank Givler Horseshoe Curve Chapter - PRR 7511- The Duquesne	Mark Yingling, Joe D, Frank G, Dick C. Horseshoe Curve Chapter - PRR 7511- The Duquesne	Joe H. Horseshoe Curve Chapter - PRR 7511- The Duquesne
Dan Mornengello Horseshoe Curve Chapter - PRR 7511- The Duquesne		Horseshoe Curve Chapter - PRR 7511- The Duquesne	Denny Walls Horseshoe Curve Chapter - PRR 7511- The Duquesne
RPO	Horseshoe Curve Chapter - PRR 7511- The Duquesne	Horseshoe Curve Chapter - PRR 7511- The Duquesne Windows made by Joe Harella. Fank and Joe looking at paint shades to make sure they pass.	RPO
Scraping and Priming the Loretto	Scraping and Priming the Loretto		Frank G, Ron Givler
	--	--	--

August 26, 2008 - Regular Business Meeting

Minutes from the July meeting were read a motion to accept was made by Lany McKee and seconded by Dick Charlesworth. The Treasurer's report was given. A motion to accept was made by Dick Charlesworth and seconded by Joey DeFrancisco.

Dick reported that the bus trip on September 13th is sold out and will be leaving Station Medical Center at 3:45 a.m.

Frank reported on several items, first the Duquesne has been painted in Tuscan, the RPO is painted and the Loretto is scraped and primered. The metal brake and shear machine has not been purchased, Johnny is not satisfied with it and is looking at another at the same cost. Vestibule glass has been ordered, 9 windows except the motorman's window.  Three sides have been painted on the Erie cars, waiting for the Everett to move them to finish the other sides. TRS Roofing can do the Erie car roofs, the cost will be $2,050.00 per car.   They can possibly be done in October. It is a multi coat with little overspray. The coating does not come in black, the least expensive is white. Custom colors are more costly. The question was ask if gray or silver are available, Frank not sure. Dick Charlesworth made a motion to have TRS do the roofs in white but have Frank check on gray or silver within a 15% cost increase.  Denny seconded the motion.  All voted in favor. An email will follow with information.

Received a check from the Museum for the oldest invoice of post cards, trolley tapes and DVDs.  Karin thanked the Wil and Diana for a great time and their hospitality in hosting the Chapter picnic. Frank also ask Don Goebal if he had any thoughts on a memorial for Marge. Don suggested having a picnic table put at the Curve with a memorial plaque. The Chapter will work this out with Neil. The meeting was then turned over to Joey DeFrancisco..he gave a presentation on his Rail Camp experience. Motion to adjourn was made by Denny Walls and seconded by Karin Givler Meeting.  Adjourned

ATTENDANCE:   Joey DeFrancisco; Leon Wagner; Dave Behe; Dan Mornengello; Frank Givler; Denny Walls; Larry McKee; Duane Miller; Dick Charlesworth; Neil Myers; Karin Givler; Mike Walls; Wil Teeter; Dave Seidel; Joe Harella; Don Goebel; George Merritts; Len Alwine

Secretary Karin Givler

09-13-08 Washington DC Tour

• Bus from Altoona to Mount Vernon

• Bus to New Air and Space Museum near Dulles Airport..

• Bus to Union Station - Ride Amtrak Capitol Limited to Cumberland ,MD.

September 2008 - Regular Business Meeting

Awaiting Information

October 2008 - Regular Business Meeting

Awaiting Information

November 2008 - Regular Business Meeting

Awaiting Information

December 2008 - Regular Business Meeting

Awaiting Information

December 2008 - Chapter Christmas Party

Awaiting Information

 

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Photos and comments are by David Seidel unless otherwise noted.

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