None Provided

None Provided

The East Tennessee & Western North Carolina, affectionately known as "The Tweetsie", was a most unusual line having both standard and narrow gauge lines on its system, which ran from Johnson City, Tennessee to Boone, North Carolina, a total of 65.3 miles, not including a 2.6 mile branch from Montezuma to Pineola. Although the standard gauge portion of the line survives to this day, the 3-foot gauge trackage was abandoned in 1950. As the train winds its way along 3-foot gauge line, we are guests in the caboose, and later on, in the cab of the little Baldwin engine. Winding through the Doe River Gorge, we're reminded of other narrow gauge lines much farther West - how lucky we are to have this record of this wonderful line. Although the narrow gauge portion of Tweetsie closed down in 1950, Engine number 12, Combine/Chair 15, and Excursion Car 11 are still in service as tourist hauler at Blowing Rock, North Carolina, also known as "The Tweetsie". As the Crew goes about their daily business, of setting out, picking up freight cars, and caring for the little Baldwin, we are treated to sights long forgotten in modern railroading. It is interesting to note from the company time table, dated October 15th 1883, that, quoting; "Through the gorge, and at all points where the rock or land slides are possible and in descending heavy grades trains must be kept under perfect control, and speeds must not exceed 6 miles per hour" end quote. And also the time table cautioned, "Trains must not under any circumstances run at a higher rate of speed than 15 miles per hour.". Have you ever seen a brakeman working his way over the tops of the cars with a brake club?

None Provided

None Provided

None Provided

None Provided

None Provided

None Provided

None Provided