I was taking another look at this photo today and I notoced these signs (circled). Does anyone know what their purpose was or if they had a name? This photo is from BMRRHS’s “The Central Mass” of a freight train traveling through a level crossing in Hadley, Massachusetts dated June 6, 1974. So, Boston & Maine territory.
Also, I recall one of these standing against the Damon Road crossing in Northampton when I was young. (Which was also BM territory at one time.)
Just guessing, but maybe a “W” (for whistle) or other symbol meant for the engineer, just angled up so he could see it better?
Thanks for the thought, Cliff.
Perhaps a bit more detail: The one in Northampton was yellow and looked like a semaphore blade on a post. The ROW pictured had/still has concrete whistle posts along the tracks.
Not sayijg youre wrong, 'cause I have no idea.
Those are signs for a flanger to lift their blades. Could be at a crossing, switch, or other between-the-rail obstruction that the blade would hit if they didnt raise it.
Bob got it right. I am sure std plans for the B&M must be available? i remember salvaging a concrete whistle post some where on the Cheshire branch, but long ago given away.
AL P.
