Gon loads of coal

[NW Mailing List]

strong backs and D-handled shovels....in the early 20th century a laborer was expected to move the proverbial 16 tons in a 12 hour shift.  

Jim McDaniel, Delmarva

Brings up a railroad occupation rarely discussed -- the engine watchman.  Usually they were
stationed at outlying points to keep steam locomotives ready for assignment.  Not every
point had a coaling facility.  The engine watchman replenished the coal supply from an
adjacent gondola and looked after the water levels.  The watchman didn't have to shovel
16 tons, but did have to heave it from the gondola into the tender bunker.   Harry Bundy


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