-SVRy News-
Passengers gather around number 19 for a quick picture in Sumpter as the train is readied for departure.
Even with extra cars, the charter train was fully loaded.
Dennis Jones guards the Austin Street crossing as number 19 departs with the first bike charter for McEwen.
The Oregon Bicycle Tour chartered the train, and over 200 passengers brought their bikes aboard for a trip down the Sumpter Valley.
An EFD train is has just passed through Rock Cut on its way to Sumpter.
Another view of number 19 awaiting departure in Sumpter.
Variety is the spice of life, and small changes make things interesting. Number 19 was turned for a few weekends, and departed Sumpter nose first instead of the traditional tender first arrangement.
Another view of the improved depot grounds at McEwen.
The lawn at McEwen is coming along nicely, having just been mowed for the first time.
Number 19 is being prepped for another weekend of service.
The side frames have been needle-scaled.
The rear truck from 720 outside the backshop being cleaned and disassembled.
Number 19 rolls a full train into Sumpter during the 4th of July Weekend.
Number 19 backs past the water tower with an afternoon train from Sumpter.
Another view of the rebuilt deck, and yes, we do use the wheelbarrow in the background.
The depot deck has also seen quite a bit of attention, several stringers, and a large portion of the decking have been replaced by the YCC from Baker City.
Improvements are underway at McEwen depot. A lawn has been planted, as well as numerous ornamental trees and shrubs.
Ryan Dela cuts loose a sand hose bracket during the truck removal.
The truck is up on skids and rollers and is almost ready to be removed.
The rear of the locomotive has been jacked up to clear the wheels, which will be removed by sliding them to the side.
Number 720 is prepped for the removal of its rear wheel set for rebuilding.
The hopper cars are loaded with ballast for track work around Sumpter.
The work train departs McEwen and heads out on the main line.
Number 19 picks up the hopper fleet in McEwen and is readied for the trip up line to load up with ballast.
The track bike on display in McEwen. This artifact is not original to the Sumpter Valley Railway, but is original to the area, having been used in the mines above Sumpter.
The McEwen depot was redone for 2009, with the merchandise moved to Sumpter, and museum displays installed in its place.
Business car number 100 is getting its observation end truck rebuilt. The wheels are being turned, and the pins and spring planks replaced.
A new book on the Sumpter Valley Railway was released by Arcadia Publishing on May 18th 2009.
Authors Alfred Mullett and Leonard Merritt plan to be at the railroad July 4th weekend to sign and sell the books. The book will also be available at the railroad and other local and regional book sellers.
Alfred has also provided a 120 year anniversary advertisement for the Sumpter Valley Railway.
Memorial Day weekend is the start of the 2009 season! Passengers are boarding the first train to leave Sumpter on May 23rd.
The train is crossing Austin Street. Head Brakeman Lon Wall heads for the cab.
The train drifts South from Sumpter Depot.
The second train of the day on May 24th is approaching Sawmill Gulch Road.
Mikado #19 and cars at the end of the track at Sumpter Depot.