SW1200’s East of Hearst

In the mid 70’s Hearst still operated one of the last big sawdust burners in Ontario - right at trackside – and across from the station platform. (Photo 1) On any nighttime visit to the yard, the clear starry sky would be augmented by a fountain of sparks from the top of the beehive. And the sound in the air – 24/7 – would be the vibes from a small fleet of 12 cylinder 567 C engines. Each generating 1200 road-switcher horse power.

Beginning as far back as 1956, the SW1200rs became CN’s lightweight workhorse right across the country. Number 1384, still wearing its original green and yellow suit is seen working a burned out heavy weight combine through the yard. Old coal and wood stoves often tipped over, or simply spilled hot ash, during switching operations. Fires on board were not uncommon. Note that the logo on the side of the cab has been weathered to a simple yellow spot.

Who would model such a scene? It wouldn’t be difficult to do if a person had an older, poorly running passenger car they just couldn’t part with or, heaven forbid, a great new car that showed the effects of a kit bash gone astray. That never happens does it?