Turntables in the early 20th Century.

[NW Mailing List]

On Jan 14, 2008 8:16 AM, Harry wrote:


>  *Can't speak to support facilities, but from*

> *Radford  Div. Time Table No. 37 eff. 09/07/1930-*

> **

> *                   LOCAL INSTRUCTIONS*

> **

> *115 - Location and Length of Turn Tables.*

> **

> *East Radford . . . . .60 feet*

> *Ripplemead  . . . .  60 feet*

> *Norcross . . . . . . .   60 feet*

> *Pulaski   . . . . . . .   75 feet*

> *Saltville  . . . . . . .   60 feet*

> *Bristol     . . . . . . .  115 feet *

>


OK, Radford, Pulaski, Saltville, and Bristol are easy to understand as
locations for turntables. I can understand the need for one at Norcross, the
"start" of the Potts Valley Branch (official "start" of the branch was
across the river at Potts Valley Junction) or at Ripplemead, but why at both
locations?  What was "special" about these locations that two turntables
were needed in such close proximity? Also, where might the turntables have
been located? Real estate in both locations is pretty tight, although there
is an open area between railroad and river at Ripplemead but below current
track level. Was Ripplemead a terminal location for the Potts Valley Branch
(although the line was abandoned by that time)?

Bruce in Blacksburg
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