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.
Thank you guys! What great help this site is!
Edit: and now, I’ve found info for them. That was all I needed. Might model these… I love details like this.
I have found other old Right of way signs in some old railroad photos and I’m hoping the group can help me out again.
First, this crossing sign. Does anyone know if it had a specific name or time period it was used? I’m trying to date an old photo (not this one).
Second, there is also this sign. I’ve found it in a few different photos from Hadley, Mass along the Central Mass Branch of the BM. One is situated before the bridge over the Connecticut River and there also seems to be one on each side of the former Hadley Station.
John, no dates but early for sure. the one with the two dots may have lasted longer. B&M std plans circa 1951 here.
https://digitalmaine.com/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?params=/context/larrabee_railroad_ephemera/article/1015/&path_info=Boston_and_Maine_Standard_Plans_c1951___Office_of_Chief_Engineer___lo_rez.pdf
Al P.
I didn’t see it in the plans but have reached out to someone who does, will let you know.
Al P.
Thank you, Al!
I was doing some research on the Amherst & Belchertown a little while ago, and found this video that you presented. That was helpful!
John,
From My friend Scott:
The sign is most definitely a wing/flanger sign. They are very odd as you just don’t see anything official on their usage, anywhere! The sign itself is flanger, and the dots are wings.
Al P.
Thank you, Al, and friend Scott. I appreciate the help
