WORKDAY RECAPS & INFO
Workday
Schedule
Workdays happen periodically throughout the year. Some work days are small and others are part of a larger project.
If you are interested in learning more contact us.
🚂 BIG NEWS, NGLS CREW! 🚂
The final push to finish our clubhouse and workshop is officially underway — and this is where you come in!
We’re launching a series of every‑other‑weekend workdays, giving everyone plenty of chances to jump in, lend a hand, learn something new, and be part of the team that brings this project across the finish line. This is one of the biggest upgrades in our club’s history, and we want as many members as possible to be part of it.
Whether you swing a hammer, paint a wall, move materials, or simply bring good energy — your help matters. Every workday gets us one step closer to celebrating a fully finished clubhouse and workshop at our October Fall Meet… and yes, we’re aiming to have it done this year 😉
Come out, get involved, make memories, and help build something the whole club will enjoy for years to come.
Let’s do this — together.
🚂 BIG NEWS, NGLS CREW! 🚂
The final push to finish our clubhouse and workshop is officially underway — and this is where you come in!
We’re launching a series of every‑other‑weekend workdays, giving everyone plenty of chances to jump in, lend a hand, learn something new, and be part of the team that brings this project across the finish line. This is one of the biggest upgrades in our club’s history, and we want as many members as possible to be part of it.
Whether you swing a hammer, paint a wall, move materials, or simply bring good energy — your help matters. Every workday gets us one step closer to celebrating a fully finished clubhouse and workshop at our October Fall Meet… and yes, we’re aiming to have it done this year 😉
Come out, get involved, make memories, and help build something the whole club will enjoy for years to come.
Let’s do this — together.
Scroll down to view past workday activities
Most Recent Workday Recaps
30 Most Recent Workday Recaps
At this point, the outer loop and Grandma Line are operational, but we encourage steam engines to go through the area slowly the first couple of times to make sure everything is smooth. The yard still needs additional cleanup and repair work before all repairs are completed and the railroad is back to full operation.
Another productive workday is in the books! On Saturday, July 11th, an outstanding crew consisting of John, Wes, Daryl, Grady, David E., and Robby continued the ongoing storm cleanup and railroad restoration efforts. Thanks to their hard work and dedication, the railroad is now approximately 90% operational.
The crew split the day between outdoor railroad repairs and indoor construction projects. The morning was spent outside tackling storm-related damage and focusing on track repairs throughout the property. We are excited to report that repairs to the Outer Loop in the woods have been completed, allowing trains to once again travel through this scenic section of the railroad. Additional work is still needed to rebuild one of the switches in the area, but tremendous progress has been made.
What a difference another workday makes! Friday marked a major milestone in our storm recovery efforts as the final large tree was removed from the railroad. While seeing the last of the major tree damage cleared is a tremendous accomplishment, it also revealed the extent of the remaining repairs that will be needed before trains can safely return to operation. With the debris gone, we now have a much clearer picture of the work ahead, including track repairs, grading, and other infrastructure that was hidden beneath the fallen trees.
On Wednesday, July 1st, more progress was made clearing storm damage throughout the railroad. By getting an early start each morning before the summer heat sets in, our volunteers have been able to accomplish a tremendous amount in just a few hours. Those cooler morning temperatures have made it much easier to tackle the physically demanding work, and the difference is becoming more noticeable every day.
The cleanup has continued with additional trees, limbs, and storm debris being removed, and the property is beginning to recover from the damage left behind by the recent storms. We still have a few large trees that will require professional removal, and we're continuing to work through those plans with a tree service. We expect to have more information after the July 4th holiday weekend.
The cleanup efforts at the railroad continue to make outstanding progress! Today, Wes and Dave E. spent the day on the property tackling the storm damage, and they made a huge dent in the cleanup efforts. Thanks to their hard work, even more fallen trees, branches, and debris have been cleared, and the railroad is looking noticeably better.
🚂 North Georgia Live Steamers Workday Update 🌳
A small but hardworking crew came out this morning to assess the downed tree situation on the railroad. While we're still reviewing quotes from professional tree removal services, the crew wanted to get a head start on cleanup and make some visible progress.
Today's volunteers cut up a significant amount of branches and created a large pile of debris that will need to be removed. They also cleared and disposed of numerous branches, logs, and other storm debris, making a noticeable improvement around the property.
We've also identified a couple of trees that will require professional removal, and we'll keep everyone updated as those plans move forward.
Wes will be coordinating additional cleanup efforts throughout the week. If you're available to help, please reach out to him directly to coordinate a time. Every helping hand makes a difference!
A huge thank you to everyone who came out today. Your time and effort are helping get the railroad back in shape, one workday at a time! 🚂💪
The weather cooperated perfectly on Saturday, allowing another productive work session at the railroad. Crew members Wes, John, Norm, Darryl, and Robby continued making steady progress on Container #2, focusing on finishing work that included fishing, floor repairs, framing, and installation of the back wall.
The momentum behind the clubhouse and workshop project is really starting to build — and this past Saturday proved it.
In an impromptu work session, Wes and Norm came out and made tremendous progress preparing the next section of the container for repairs. Thanks to their hard work, we are now in a position for the repair work to take place sometime this week or during our next official workday on Saturday, May 30th.
What a day at the railroad! Saturday, March 21st turned into one of those unforgettable “you‑had‑to‑be‑there” kind of days as a great crew of members rolled in to help get everything ready for our first public run day of the 2026 season.
From the moment the sun came up, the place was buzzing. Laughter, tools clinking, locomotives being checked over, and that unmistakable feeling that the season is finally waking up again. Our volunteers jumped right in—tuning equipment, inspecting track, cleaning, tightening, adjusting—doing all the behind‑the‑scenes magic that makes our railroad shine when the public arrives.
And that wasn’t all.
Despite the cold weather over the past few weeks, progress continues across the railroad thanks to our dedicated Routen Tuten Workday leader. While most of us have been bundled up, work on the ramp track leading to the future shop has been moving full steam ahead.
Some refinements to the original design have been made, and John is once again doing what he does best. The updated plan narrows the ramp and adds a 20-foot level section near the top, creating a stable platform to improve safety and reduce loose rock and debris. Over the past several weekends, this new design has steadily taken shape as existing blocks were carefully removed and repositioned into their new layout.
To keep this momentum going, the next phase of work will involve relocating a switch and constructing a new switch off the passenger line to support the shop ramp. Be on the lookout for an upcoming workday announcement as we prepare for this important step. As always, thank you to everyone who continues to contribute their time, effort, and expertise.
A small crew was out at the railroad on Saturday, December 27, completing repair work on the Grandma Line switch, along with additional maintenance and planning activities.
We’re happy to report that the Grandma Line switch has been repaired and is fully operational. For anyone attending the annual New Year’s Day Club Fun Run, please be sure to go through the Grandma Line switch slowly the first time to confirm everything is tracking correctly.
A big shout-out to Wes for tackling a long-standing project: pruning that pesky pine tree near the Breezeway! The area already looks cleaner and safer — no more constant shower of pine needles and falling branches. Thanks, Wes, for stepping up and getting it done!
Speaking of big jobs, Wes and the crew are asking for a little extra help this Thursday, November 13th at 12:45 p.m. We’ll be rotating Shop Container #2 and pouring a small footer between Containers #1 and #2.
We have access to some heavy equipment for a short window, so timing is critical — the more hands we have, the smoother (and faster) everything will go.
If you can lend a hand, come on out! Every bit of help makes a difference and keeps the momentum going strong.
Progress continues on the East Loop Drain project, even with a few delays and adjustments along the way. The day started with forms in place, but—no surprise—concrete was running late. While waiting, Ken and Wes used the time to excavate the conduit from the high tower to the red container.
Progress continues on the East Loop Drain repair as Ken, Wes, and “Bob’s” distant cousin keep things moving forward. In addition to tackling the drain, the crew has been busy with other improvements around the railroad—including building a new ramp for the siding that will service the shop.
The drain project remains the top priority, with Tuesday, August 19th marked as the big concrete day. If all goes according to plan, track panels will also be installed.
Wes is coordinating the work onsite and reports that extra hands are needed this week to help keep everything on schedule. If you’re available, please reach out to him directly. The goal is to have the railroad ready to roll in time for this Saturday’s Hot Summer Nights Club Fun Run.
Work has begun to repair the East Loop drain. This past Saturday, Wes, Ken, and the team brought in the big guns to repair the east loop drain once and for all. The goal is to have the drain repaired before the Club Fun Hot Summer Nights event on Saturday, August 23rd.
This past Saturday, the crew dug out the path for the culverts to be installed, with forms going in on Sunday and concrete being poured on Tuesday, August 19th. The goal is to have the track panels back in place by Friday. For that to happen, Wes, Ken, and the crew are asking for help from anyone available. Please reach out to Wes to let him know when you are available so he can align it with planned work.
After years of dedication by John Tuten and others, the infamous “Grandma Line” is now complete. The 250-foot project involves shifting the mainline traffic from running alongside the yard to moving through the woods. Today’s crew consisted of John, Wes, Calvin, Gene, Brandon, Kenneth, Brooke, Norm, Robby, and Scott.
This project could not have happened without the help of so many other club members through the years. Thank you to everyone involved.
The dog days of summer are certainly in full swing but working in the shade made the day productive for the crew this past Saturday. The morning started early with getting the club riding lawnmower up and running with a new battery with Robby getting things started on the west end of the railroad plowing through grass that was about two feet tall or taller in some places. Darryl took over and spent the rest of the day tackling the east end of the railroad having to cut some areas twice because things were so tall.
The rest of the day consisted of John T., Rick, “Bob Jr.”, Dave E., Robby, and Norm working on the Grandma Line. The crew got a lot done but fell 4 panels shorts of completing the project. The crew will be back out on Saturday, July 26th to finish the project and perform test runs on the new line. We invite everyone to come out for the big photo opportunity for this project as many of you know it has been a project of passion for John for several years and we want to celebrate the moment.
A small crew went to the site this past Saturday and worked on a variety of projects. The crew consisted of John T, Calvin, Kenneth, and the Howards. John T reports that he thought that Kenneth worked the hardest picking up limbs and debris along the track most of the day, while John H and Calvin braved the direct sun to work on locomotives. Meanwhile in the shade, John T lifted track panels and set the crush and run forms on the remainder of the Grandma line (except for the grade crossing).
We are almost done with the Grandma Line. Be on the lookout for a big workday push to finish the Grandma Line in the coming weeks. If all goes well and we have enough volunteers, we could finish the project in a single workday.
We had a great turnout for our workday on Saturday. The crew took a divide and conquered approach by working on multiple projects at the same time. We had a track crew working on the Grandma Line installing a new switch off the mainline on the west end of the project. We had another group work on electrical throughout the property and so much more going on throughout the day.
What an incredible day. The air warmed up, and the sun was bright throughout the day. We had an energetic crew at the site helping to repair both of the outer loop tracks on the east side of the railroad.
The last official workday of 2024 is now in the books ending with more progress on the “Grandma Line” and repair of a leak with the gray container extension. The crew working on the “Grandma Line” consisted of John T., Wes, Norm, and Robby. Together they finished nearly 70 feet of track leaving a switch and nearly 100 feet of track until the long awaited “Grandma Line” is finished. The next step for the project includes installing a retaining wall and a curved switch on the mainline with the hope of finishing the project by the end of March.
The final workday of the year is this Saturday, December 14th starting at 8:30 a.m. The day will be focus on the “Grandma Line” with plans to install and set more track panels and continue working on building the final switch needed for the project.
The weather was beautiful but a little cold for most to come out and enjoy the railroad today but that didn’t stop John T. and a few others from bundling up and spending time at the railroad. John sent the following note and pictures showing the work he did on the container mural as well as installing some great looking signs at a few switches.
As we countdown to the last public run day of the year a small crew went to the railroad on Saturday to make sure things are in good shape for our November 9th big event. The work crew consisted of Wes, Kenneth, Scott, and John and took split up and worked on east loop repair and the “Grandma Line”. Wes and Kenneth worked on the east end outer loop inner track which need some attention in several areas. Scott and John worked on the “Grandma Line” by setting forms, bringing buckets of crush and run over, and laying out several panels. John also worked Friday on the container mural by lettering several mural containers. He added Hapag Lloyd and “K” Line, Sea Land, and Maersk. John is taking recommendations for other painted containers on the mural. If you have any real or fake container companies, you would like to see let him know.
A small crew made big progress at the site today on the clubhouse and workshop project by finishing painting the walls and ceilings. It is amazing how big the space looks even though it is just the first section.
After months of debate on how to move the blue container to a new location on the property it is finally done with the help of Wes and his team.
Over the course of the month, we plan on working on a project or two around the railroad. In order to give everyone a chance to find a project they are interested in helping with we are sending out monthly emails listing projects and other activities going on around the railroad. Don’t forget to invite family, friends, neighbors, and anyone you know who likes trains. For more details about some of the projects we are working on click on the “Railroad Project List” button below for a complete list. Don’t forget to bring tools, lunch, plenty to drink, and a good sense of humor. Don’t forget we have other fun days planned throughout the month and year as well so don’t forget to visit our calendar page for a complete list of everything going on around the railroad.
We had a small crew working around the railroad on Saturday with a failed attempt to cut the grass. Let’s just say that grass won over the two riding lawn mowers as the deck belts broke on both of them. After the failed attempt to cut grass, the crew shifted gears and made about a dozen straight panels that will be used for the grandma line.
Over the course of the month, we plan on working on a project or two around the railroad. In order to give everyone a chance to find a project they are interested in helping with we are sending out monthly emails listing projects and other activities going on around the railroad. Don’t forget to invite family, friends, neighbors, and anyone you know who likes trains. For more details about some of the projects we are working on click on the “Railroad Project List” button below for a complete list. Don’t forget to bring tools, lunch, plenty to drink, and a good sense of humor. Don’t forget we have other fun days planned throughout the month and year as well so don’t forget to visit our calendar page for a complete list of everything going on around the railroad.
What an incredibly hot day unless you were working on the “Grandma” line in the shade. A small crew consisting of John, Brandon, and Robby spent the day working on adding 50 feet to the “Grandma” line as work continues from east to west. The crew took a divide and conquered strategy with each focusing on a certain task of the day’s work. John prepared the forms and delt with the crusher run and gravel that Brandon was bringing over from the gravel pit while Robby worked on installing the track panels. We also had two visitors stop by and joined the club. We look forward to getting to know Bryan and Brooke. Norm also stopped by for lunch and was excited about all of the progress.
2022 & 2023 RECAPS
Some of the 2022 and 2023 Workday Recaps
Over the course of the month, we plan on working on a project or two around the railroad. In order to give everyone a chance to find a project they are interested in helping with we are sending out monthly emails listing projects and other activities going on around the railroad. Don’t forget to invite family, friends, neighbors, and anyone you know who likes trains. For more details about some of the projects we are working on click on the “Railroad Project List” button below for a complete list. Don’t forget to bring tools, lunch, plenty to drink, and a good sense of humor. Don’t forget we have other fun days planned throughout the month and year as well so don’t forget to visit our calendar page for a complete list of everything going on around the railroad.
Over the course of the month, we plan on working on a project or two around the railroad. In order to give everyone a chance to find a project they are interested in helping with we are sending out monthly emails listing projects and other activities going on around the railroad. Don’t forget to invite family, friends, neighbors, and anyone you know who likes trains. For more details about some of the projects we are working on click on the “Railroad Project List” button below for a complete list. Don’t forget to bring tools, lunch, plenty to drink, and a good sense of humor. Don’t forget we have other fun days planned throughout the month and year as well so don’t forget to visit our calendar page for a complete list of everything going on around the railroad.
Over the course of the month, we plan on working on a project or two around the railroad. In order to give everyone a chance to find a project they are interested in helping with we are sending out monthly emails listing projects and other activities going on around the railroad. Don’t forget to invite family, friends, neighbors, and anyone you know who likes trains. For more details about some of the projects we are working on click on the “Railroad Project List” button below for a complete list. Don’t forget to bring tools, lunch, plenty to drink, and a good sense of humor. Don’t forget we have other fun days planned throughout the month and year as well so don’t forget to visit our calendar page for a complete list of everything going on around the railroad.
Over the course of the month, we plan on working on a project or two around the railroad. In order to give everyone a chance to find a project they are interested in helping with we are sending out monthly emails listing projects and other activities going on around the railroad. Don’t forget to invite family, friends, neighbors, and anyone you know who likes trains. For more details about some of the projects we are working on click on the “Railroad Project List” button below for a complete list. Don’t forget to bring tools, lunch, plenty to drink, and a good sense of humor. Don’t forget we have other fun days planned throughout the month and year as well so don’t forget to visit our calendar page for a complete list of everything going on around the railroad.
Over the course of the month, we plan on working on a project or two around the railroad. In order to give everyone a chance to find a project they are interested in helping with we are sending out monthly emails listing projects and other activities going on around the railroad. Don’t forget to invite family, friends, neighbors, and anyone you know who likes trains. For more details about some of the projects we are working on click on the “Railroad Project List” button below for a complete list. Don’t forget to bring tools, lunch, plenty to drink, and a good sense of humor. Don’t forget we have other fun days planned throughout the month and year as well so don’t forget to visit our calendar page for a complete list of everything going on around the railroad.
Are you looking for a winter project around the railroad you can get involved in? The “Grandma Line” project team is looking for volunteers to come out and help make some major progress on the long talked about “Grandma Line.” If you are interested in help please contact John T. for more information regarding the workday schedule. The crew will need help with everything from building track panels, switches, moving dirt, and building a retaining wall. Opportunities for everyone to get involved.
This is just one of several projects going on around the railroad this winter so don’t hesitate to get involved.
Over the course of the month, we plan on working on a project or two around the railroad. In order to give everyone a chance to find a project they are interested in helping with we are sending out monthly emails listing projects and other activities going on around the railroad. Don’t forget to invite family, friends, neighbors, and anyone you know who likes trains. For more details about some of the projects we are working on click on the “Railroad Project List” button below for a complete list. Don’t forget to bring tools, lunch, plenty to drink, and a good sense of humor. Don’t forget we have other fun days planned throughout the month and year as well so don’t forget to visit our calendar page for a complete list of everything going on around the railroad.
Over the past couple of months, we acquired three new individual riding cars. This is a great addition to the fleet which will allow the club and the members the opportunity to use club owned riding cars around the railroad. Back in August we acquired two riding cars from Godshall Customer Machining and used them during our fall run days. A few updates to the riding cars are being performed including adding new couplers and preparing to add brakes to each of the trucks. On Saturday, December 30th the new couplers were installed, and the temporary pass-through airline was adjusted to accommodate the new couplers which will allow the two cars to operate independently. Over the next few month brakes will get installed and final adjustments to the airlines will take place at that time. We are also looking at repainting the cars and are looking for individuals to help with this portion of the project. If you are interested, click on the “I want to help” button below and let us know you are interested in helping.
With Christmas just around the corner some of the elf’s took a day and went to the railroad to plan out a few things that will take place starting in January. As many of you know we’ve been waiting to start on the clubhouse and workshop project and one of the key items that we need to get done for the project to pick up steam is get electricity into the containers. Over the past couple of weeks, we’ve been measuring and determining what supplies we will need to run power from the grey container to clubhouse container 1. Earlier this week Wes went and picked up more than 200 feet of electrical conduit and laid them out today so we could make the path for the trenching to take place and to also prepare for the property to be marked before digging.
The plan at this point is to trench and install the electrical conduit on Saturday, January 13th.
On Saturday, December 17th work began to prepare the recently purchased riding car for paint, brakes, and more. The first thing that took place was to begin to take the riding car apart and clean the steel of any surface rust and start preparing aluminum pieces for paint. The trucks will also undergo some cleaning and removal of some surface rust before getting painted in the next couple of weeks.
A small, devoted crew came out to the site on Saturday to work on the “Grandma Line” project. John T. and Wes worked on replacing a drainpipe and replaced with a French drain system with a conventional open end upstream and flex pipe over the cliff. They also placed boards in preparation for crush and run and east end waterline extension. Today’s event marks the last official workday of the year with plans to continue to make progress on this project and others in 2024. Thank you to the “Grandma Line” crew for all of the work and progress you’ve made in 2023.
Are you looking for a winter project around the railroad you can get involved in? The “Grandma Line” project team is looking for volunteers to come out and help make some major progress on the long talked about “Grandma Line.” If you are interested in help please contact John T. for more information regarding the workday schedule. The crew will need help with everything from building track panels, switches, moving dirt, and building a retaining wall. Opportunities for everyone to get involved.
This is just one of several projects going on around the railroad this winter so don’t hesitate to get involved.
A small crew of two went out to the site on Saturday and took advantage of the cooler weather by working on moving a retaining wall which is part of the “Grandma Line” project. John and Wes started Friday evening by picking up sixteen railroad ties and spent Saturday installing eight of them while doing groundwork along the way. More of the old rotten ties have been removed and relocated in places that still makes them useful. John reports that approximately 10 feet of backfill leveled the sub roadbed in preparation for crush & run and a preliminary track plan was laced out. They had a drain that they couldn’t figure out how to extend so they made a 3 square foot holding tank filled with gravel to hold the water until it could be absorbed into the soil. If you are interested in getting involved in this project a schedule is being put together and will be shared soon.
Work has begun again on what we call the Grandma Line. For those that are not familiar with this project the Grandma Line will eventually allows us to shift part of the mainline through the woods and away from the yard as trains travel West to East on the inner loop near the yard. When complete it will also allow trains traveling East to West to stay out of the yard as well.
This project started as a conversation a few years ago and John T. has taken the conversation and made it a personal project to work on during his many weekend trips to the railroad when we don’t normally have an official workday scheduled. This past Saturday was no different as he and Wes worked on moving the old retaining wall so the Grandma Line can be installed where the current retaining wall is today in the future. John and Wes spent the day pulling some of the rotten ties out, salvaging what they could and adding five new ties that John donated. Here are a few pictures from today’s work. If you would like to help John with this project or help by donating replacement railroad ties for the retaining wall let us know. At this time John is estimating another 25 - 30 ties needed.
What an incredibly productive and hot day. We had a large turnout including three new volunteers who showed up to help us rebuild one of our bridges. We started off strong but ran into a small bump along with way. The team went into action to identify a solution, and everyone sprang into action. By the time we broke for lunch the bridge was about 90% complete and shortly after lunch was complete. Efforts will be made to identify if any of our other bridges need work and will address those overtime.
The past couple of days have been busy around the railroad in preparation of our season opener next weekend. On Friday, Sam and Wes got a jump start on cutting the grass which made Saturday very productive. The Saturday crew consisted of Ben, Rick, Scott, John Tuten, Peter, Robby, Norm, Gene, Sam, and Tyler. Tyler spent the day cleaning the club steamer and when you see it next weekend you will notice just how clean he made it. Rick, Peter, and Robby took out the club diesel and went around the railroad and performed track maintenance. Norm, Sam, Gene, and Robby cleaned up the passenger station fence including putting new hooks on the fence posts and painting the posts. John and Wes worked on track items for member container #4. Norm brought back the remaining passenger trucks with repaired brakes, new springs, and other maintenance items now complete on the trucks. Now all passenger trucks have been rebuilt and ready for operation. Work was also done behind the red container cleaning out and organizing our storage space in preparation of our next order of railroad tie material arriving in the next week. This also meant rehoming a few tenants to new homes with the cleanup. Overall, extremely product day and looking forward to our season opener next Saturday, April 29th. Setup next Saturday will start at 8:30 a.m.
What an incredible day around the railroad during our March 18th workday. The day start out a little cold, ok just above freezing cold, as John, Robby, and Scott positioning track panels for container number four while Rick, Gene, and Norm did a little planning on the shop container project. Wes joined in on the fun with the container crew as they removed a switch from the mainline, which was the old red container switch near the main grade crossing. Norm and Gene removed the rest of the cross over switch from the mainline that was used to get to the middle of the steaming siding near the water tower. The crew then took the switches and rebuilt them before reinstalling them for the container number for track. The crew also ballasted the panels as the day ended.
The day started out a little cold but quickly warmed up as the Saturday work crew began arriving. The crew consisted of Norm, Gene, Robby, Rick, Thomas, David E., and Dave L. Most of the crew spent the first few hours collecting already built track panels from around the railroad that will be used for the container project along with doing some track repairs in the east loop. Dave L. hung another bracket for the second signal head which puts us another step closer to our first permanent set of signal heads. The track crew pulled out a switch from the steaming siding and reinstalled it for the container track.
This past Wednesday a small crew go together to install the signal mast that Dave Levy is working on restoring along with moving the mill that Ethel Nicol’s donated to the club. The group consisted of Ben, Rick, Norm, Wes, Gene, “Bob 2”, Dave L. and Robby. While Ben, Rick, and Norm loaded up the mill at Norm’s shop the crew waiting at the site, Wes, Dave L, Gene, and Robby, worked on the signal mast, and spreading some dirt and gravel for the member container project.
Over the past month or so we’ve had a lot of activity around the railroad. From working on our next member container, driveway drain, run day preparation and even preparing for the installation of a restored railroad signal head. Here are a few pictures to highlight some of the activities.
A special thanks to all of the club members who have volunteered to make these project happen.
With all the heat and some rain over the past few of week’s progress on the next member container had slowed but things got back on track over the past week. Last week Bill Cross from Shepphard Trucking delivered gravel but could not be dumped in the location of the container because of ground conditions. Fast forward to yesterday Wes went out and compacted and smoothed out the area the gravel needs to be spread so today Bill Cross could come out and spread gravel. The next step for the container is to schedule the delivery and then the real fun begins. On Tuesday, Wes also dug out around the driveway drain so we can get the drain cover installed.
Over the past two weekends a couple of different work crews went to the site to continue work on the next member container. On Saturday, July 9th the crew with help from Gene and his trusty bobcat did grading work in the for the new container, even with a little early rain, in preparation of gravel in the next week or so. Wes topped off the work during the week by marking off the general placement of the container. Then on Saturday, July 16th the plan had been to cut grass but since Wes came out on Thursday and took care of that, so the work crew ended up building much needed switch templates to make it a little easier to visualize future track placement. Coming up over the next couple of weeks the gravel will be delivered, and the container will be set.
A small crew went to the site this past weekend to take out some trees in preparation of the next member container. The crew consisted of Wes, Brandon, Norm, Ben, and “Bob”. Some more work is still needed to finish preparing the site, but the guys are getting close. The crew will be looking for some help building track panels in the coming weeks along with figuring out exactly how the track will be laid out. More details to come.
The first workday of the 2022 season is in the books. The crew spent the day installing about 200 feet of track and two switches for the next member container. The crew consisted of Calvin, John T., Norm, Ben, “Bob”, David E., Thomas K., Gene, Robby, Rick, Wes, and Andrew. The day went well even with the normal heckling and second guess what we were doing. By the end of the day things came together well and this project is now about 90% complete.
This past weekend, Saturday, January 29th and Sunday, January 30th, North Georgia Live Steamers displayed at the Trains, Trains, Trains! event at the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History in Kennesaw. What an incredible event giving us the opportunity to meet so many people interested in history and learn about our hobby. The museum was so generous to give us a space that was in the main walkway providing us to meet many of the more than 2,000 visitors. A big thanks to the museum staff, organizers, and NGLS club members for displaying and working the booth.
2021 RECAPS
30 Most Recent Workday Recaps
Friday, November 19th marked another exciting day around the railroad as we took delivery of two more containers and placement of two existing containers. We now have placed three of the four containers in the spot of our new club workshop and the remaining container has been placed in the member container area. The work crew today consisted of Gene, “Bob2”, Rick, “Bob Jr.”, Norm, Wes, Calvin, and Scott. Next step is to begin working on the shop and member container which will most likely be our winter project.
The day has finally come to take delivery and place containers that will become part of our shop and a member container. We will be placing three 40’ containers side by side and then place a 40’ high cube next to the member container area on the railroad. Bring tools, lunch, water, and a good sense of humor we are probably going to need all we can get as thing come together.
Another busy workday around the railroad as we get another weekend closer to re-opening the railroad after nearly two years. Today’s work consisted of installing the fencing at the station, installing a drainpipe in the drive way, installing new insulators for signal system, gauge 1 guys worked on the track, and preparing the replacement truck for the sulky to round out just a few things done today.
What an incredible day. After 42 workdays over 14 months of work the passenger line is now complete. Today’s crew consisted of Wes, Gene, “Bob2”, Scott, Norm, David E., and Robby installed the last 55’ of track.
We had a rare workday during the week today as a small crew went out and finished ballasting, leveling, fixing drainage, and setting forms so the final 6 panels will go in easy during our next workday. The crew consisted of Ben, “Bob”, Peter, Dave E., Norm, Wes, and Robby. The crew focused on a few different areas throughout the day starting with finishing ballasting from the end of the passenger station area and worked towards the pedestrian crossing.
On Saturday, August 14th we began the last 170’ of preparation work needed to complete the passenger line project. Gene, “Bob2”, Norm, and Robby came out to do grading work ahead of our next official workday which is on Saturday, August 21st. Dave E. was out, and he continued to work on making sure the new drain that was installed has a place to drain into the “dry pond” area under the bridges on the west end of the railroad. Dave and Dale also spent a little time looking at Dave’s locomotive in preparation of our annual club fun night event on August 28th.
Back in July 2020 construction began on the passenger line with the installation of a switch leaving the yard on the west end of the railroad. Soon after a switch in the inner east loop and our first diamond was also installed. Fast forward to July 2021 with more than 30 weekends worked we have installed more than 1,400’ of rail, 1,590 railroad ties (give or take), 5,320 screws (give or take), more than 70 track panels, 6 switches, 60’ concrete grade crossing, 30’ pedestrian crossing, a diamond, and countless loads of gravel.
Our “Bring A Friend” workday on Saturday, July 24th was very productive. The crew which consisted of Ben, “Bob”, Gene, Norm, Calvin, Wes, Scott, David E, and special guests Eric and Bradley. The crew worked on connecting the east end to the gate crossing extending the passenger line nearly 200-feet plus added an additional 40-feet on the west side of the new man crossing allowing the crew to set the switch for the station bypass track. This leaves only 75-feet of track to finish the passenger line station bypass track and an additional 125-feet to complete the passenger line.
Another productive day was had this past Saturday, at least before it started raining around 2 p.m. The crew consisted of Norm, Ben, a healthier “Bob”, Calvin, Wes, David E., Scott, and Bob C. They split up and took care of a few things including the 50-foot section of track that needs to be finished to connect the east loop with the gate crossing. Wes took care of cutting most of the grass while Bob C. spent time with the club steamer making sure she was feeling good. Scott also took time to clean the rust of the gate crossing rail and treated it with a product that should keep it looking good for a while.
What a great turn out we had today including the rain. The morning started earlier than normal as the crew started arriving before 8 a.m. and went right to work to connect the last fifty feet of track at the man crossing. Scott and David E. spent time on address future drainage needs closer to the station area by digging a trench for a drainage pipe.
What a difference just a couple of weeks make. We now have a new 60-foot gate grade crossing at the main entrance to the property which is part of the new passenger line. The crew, which consisted of Wes, Norm, Gene, “Bob"2”, Scott, Robby, and Calvin, spent the day working on finishing the grade crossing grading and packed in about 120-feet of crusher run in the forms between the gate crossing and the man crossing. The crew also installed about 70-feet of track between the crossings.
The “Big Dig” continued on the passenger line project as a small group went to the site to pull the form boards on the grade crossing and set forms for track laying to begin between the new main gate crossing and the man crossing. I’m being told that Scott performed miracles with the wire wheel and grinder to clean the concrete off the rails. Be on the look out for a workday to lay track in the coming days and weeks.
Big shout out to Scott for going out and checking on the concrete the past couple of days. Wednesday’s visit included checking the drying of the gate crossing and the drain near the end of the yard that received some of our extra concrete. While fixing tarps and watering a special visitor also appeared to take in a little of that water Scott had.
Wow what a hot day but we did get the new grade crossing poured. The crew consisted of Wes, Gene, Norm, Scott, Robby, Ben, “Bob”, and Joe. In typically fashion for us the concrete truck was delayed several hours which pushed us into the hottest part of the day. Progress was slow but the team pushed through it. As you might imagine the concrete will not be ready to drive on for a week or so. We had a little extra concrete which gave Joe and Norm the opportunity to use it near the west end of the yard that has a drain that keeps clogging with dirt. Now the concreate should help reduce the clogging.
Another big day working on the passenger line project. The day consisted of grading nearly 200’, setting the man crossing, and adding more conduit under the new 60’ gate crossing. The crew, which consisted of Gene, “Bob2”, Norm, Calvin, Elijah, David E., Wes, Robby, Tyler, James, and Jaxon also spent time saying goodbye to James and Jaxon as the family moves out of the area onto a new adventure. We wish them the best and hope to see the family around a railroad in the future. The crew also visited with James and Jaxon as they prepare to move out of the area onto a new adventure and hope to see them around the hobby one day in the near future.
Check out these pictures from the day’s activities. Don’t forget if you are available on Monday, May 24th the 60’ gate crossing will get nearly 7 yards of concrete and could use all of the extra hands as possible. The plan is to arrive around 8:30 a.m. with the concrete truck arriving in the 9 o’clock hour. If all goes well, we should be done around lunch time.
We had a small crew on hand today to take care of a few preparation items for next weekend’s work and concrete pour on Monday, May 24th. The crew, which consisted of Elijah, Norm, Scott, Ben, and “Bob”, took a divide an concur approach to the day working on the unofficial driveway entrance from the street, spread and leveled gravel for the next member container, and dug out 160’ west of the new grade crossing towards to man crossing.
One thing that is constant is change when you are planning things. This past weekend we had planned on working on getting the next member container area ready, which we did, however delivery of the container was delayed because of the quality of the container available was not as good as we had hoped. While continue to search for the next container we pivoted on Friday and put together a crew for Saturday impromptu workday and started the “Big Dig” portion of the passenger line project. The crew consisted of Ben, “Bob”, Gene, “Bob2”, Norm, Robby, Wes, and John. Scott was also at the site working on installing some additional electrical in the grey container. About 90% of everything was completed but we are looking for any individuals who are available this week to install the rebar so we can schedule a concrete truck to pour on Saturday, May 15th. Contact Norm if you have time this week as he will be coordinating the installation of the rebar.
On Saturday, a crew went out to the site to take care of some preparation work for next weekends “big dig” and finish preparation for the next member container to be delivered. With the help from Ben and “Bob” much dirt was moved and dug. The rest of the crew consisted of Wes, Gene, Robby, Norm, and David E. who at times seemed to be supervising and contemplating life. Not really a great deal was done by all including determining elevation, confirming placement of grade crossing, location of future man crossing and a whole lot more. The crew surprised themselves on the amount of progress that was made on throughout the day including digging about 30 of the 60 feet needed for the grade crossing.
Our last workday of the month is in the books. The work crew built more track panels, cut more than 500 ties, repaired the railroad, dreamed a lot, and had fun. The crew consisted of Scott, Calvin, Robby, Norm, Elijah, Tyler, Dave E., John, a lizard, and a snake. Joe also stopped by to check on the new riding car frames and from what many of us could tell he loaded his van with some additional supplies to make additional progress on the cars.
The railroad is about 99% operational for our club fun day next Saturday, April 3rd. We need some help with getting the grass cut and getting the club lawnmower running. If you are available to go out and cut grass or work on the club lawnmower let us know. Please note that the motorized switches are still in need of repair and Robby hopes to have them running by Saturday.
As a reminder Saturday, April 3rd is also our next club meeting which is scheduled for 1 p.m. We are expecting a visitor or two from within the hobby along with family and friends. Let us make sure we welcome them. As a reminder this is not a public run day.
What an incredible day we had this past Saturday, March 12th. The crew arrived early, like before 8:30 a.m., ready to go and take advantage of a beautiful day. The crew included the dynamic duo of Ben and “Bob”, Wes, Scott, Peter, Norm, Gene, Robby, Calvin, Bob C, David E., Rick, John T., John H., and others. The team split up into several crews and took care of repairing track sections in the yard, modifying our diamond to ensure a smoother ride, cut more than 500 railroad ties, constructed 27 track panels totaling 270 feet of track for the passenger line, moved dirt, and dreamed about current and future projects.
If you are wondering what is next. We are working on arranging equipment to dig the grade crossing and grade the passenger line area heading towards the station in the coming weeks. We also have some additional track repair that is needed before we can have our club fun day the first weekend in April. If you have a free weekday that you are interested in doing some work at the railroad let Norm or Robby know.
Our 2nd club workday of the year was this past Saturday, February 27th. We had a good size crew with Calvin, Wes, Elijah, Tyler, Norm, Robby, Scott, and Bob helping out throughout the day. The crew built 200 feet of track panels, work on the club steamers and caught up since the last time we got together. The crew also sorted most of the old rail and talked about plans for the passenger line, member container and workshop project.
As we move into March our next official workday is planned for Saturday, March 27th but based on conversations yesterday we are going to try and have another workday sooner than that. Be on the lookout for communications around our next workday.
Another start to another great year. This past Saturday, January 23rd a small group came out to build a couple of switches and layout the track for the next storage container. The crew consisted of Calvin, Dave E., Scott, Norm, and Robby. Together they worked through remembering how to build switches and an occasional geometry lesson but by the end of the day progress was made. The crew identified the need to build an additional dozen or so curve panels, some ground work, and the never ending need to cut more railroad ties.
2020 WORKDAY RECAPS
30 Most Recent Workday Recaps
Today the last 20 feet of the eastside new passenger line up to the new grade crossing is now complete. Norm, Robby, John, and Gator went to the site at the last minute to attach and ballast the last section of track for the passenger line siding along with a few other things.
The track crew, which included Tyler, Norm, John, Ben, “Bob”, Robby, Calvin and guest, laid more than 100 feet of track on Saturday and built a few track panels. The passenger line is complete up to the switch which is about 40 feet short of the grade crossing. The passenger line siding only has about 20 feet and it will be complete.
Busy week and weekend around the club. A new powered slug was picked up along with more member owned riding cars, and the installation of another 120 feet of track for the passenger line.
Even though the workday was cancelled because of the storm that blew through overnight a few members still took some time to take care of a few things around the railroad.
This past Saturday, September 26, 2020, marked the 27th workday for the club this year. As we mark this incredible milestone it is a reminder that our club is made of a great group of individuals who volunteer in so many ways around the railroad and the club. This weekend our members did electrical work, steam engine repairs, cut grass, laid track, spread gravel, operated a Bobcat, taught new members about the hobby, and so much more.
We have a workday scheduled on Saturday, September 26th at 8:30 a.m. We will be putting the finishing touches on the new diamond and laying more track for the new passenger line. The grass also is in desperate need of cutting but before that can be done the club lawnmower needs to be repaired. If you are able to go over to the site and work on the lawnmower that would be great. The front left tire is loosing air and needs to be repair and an issue has come up with starting the lawnmower as well.
The summer heat continues as we do more work around the railroad. We had a small but productive crew on hard. The focus on the day was split between two areas with the first “Bob” and Ben took care of spreading the loads of dirt we recently received which some of it being used for our next shipping container project.
Today marked an incredible 24th workday at the railroad this year. The container project took another big step towards completion with the installation of the final pieces of flat bar for the track. The container now has about 160 feet of track on the ground giving us the ability to store all the riding cars, gondola, steam engine, and soon the club diesel all in one place. A couple of concrete blocks were also placed at the end of the container for the bridge to rest on. Next on the list of things to do in the container includes extending electrical into the new 20’ extension and install a couple of lights.
All week the forecast called for rain, but a determined crew still showed up today to take care of several items around the railroad and finished the day without any rain. Many members and a couple of visitors started showing up around 8:30 a.m. and started working on several projects. The projects included container extension, passenger line expansion, and more.
This year has been full of workdays and this past Saturday, August 8th was no different. The day consisted of work on the club steamer, retaining wall, and container clean-out.
Today marks the 21st workday of the year. It is amazing all that has taken place during these crazy times. This past Saturday was another busy day with grass cutting, cutting the center out of the gray container, construction of a 70-foot retaining wall, club meeting, and a whole lot more. We also had a couple of our new members stop by to do work and get introduced to other club members.
Today marked the 20th time this year many of our club members have gotten together to work on something for the railroad. This past Saturday, July 25, 2020 we had Wes and Wayne taking care of the grass cutting duties while Gene, Norm, Robby, Elijah, Ben, “Bob”, David E., Scott, and Bill worked on various projects around the railroad. Part of the crew installed a new switch coming out of the yard and removed a switch coming out of the woods in preparations of the “Grandma” line project. Bob C. and his wife stopped by to delivery the club steamer after some much needed repairs.
As preparations continue to get the railroad ready for the new passenger line installation Gene and Norm spent time today, July 21, 2020, and built another switch and delivering it to the site. Next step is to get the new switch installed and align the track. We also have another switch to pull out from the woods and realign the track to make room for the “Grandma” line installation.
Another productive day in the summer heat this past Saturday as a crew worked on the container project, mounds of dirt, and started work on the “Grandma” line.
Clean up in the old tiny town area continues. Wayne, Wes, and Bill picked up mulch and took it to the site this week. Be on the lookout for additional landscaping work being done around the railroad.
We had an unplanned workday come up a that the last minute on Saturday, July 11th. Bill reports that while the crew was few in numbers they apparently where “incredibly good looking.”
Another step closer to completing the container extension project with the installation of the form for the bridge to rest on. Now just need to wait for it to dry and install bracket for bridge and track to attach to.
One final spacing check of the new track going into the container extension. With spacing confirmed the track was installed into the 20-foot container.
What a great turnout by club members and a few guests. We had groups working on finishing the track for the container project, club steamer was out for training, members running trains, and a whole lot more. Here are a few pictures from the day. If you have pictures or you’d like to share please send them to Robby so he can add them to the gallery.
We had a good group at the site today even though it was a little hot. The crew worked on a variety of things including cutting grass, Gauge 1 layout, and new track head up to the container and ash pit.
The day brought a lot of activity around the railroad. We had crews working on the 20-foot container project, track installation, club steamer testing, along with a few taking trains out for a couple of test runs on the railroad after a winter fully of repairs and modifications. After taking a lunch break, we also had our regularly scheduled June meeting.
After weeks of work and hours of probably over thinking how to set the container in place Norm met the delivery truck today at the site and set the container within inches of its final spot. Next step is, in no particular order, prep the ends of the container, squeeze them together, and a few other hundred things and then it will be done. Sounds simple enough but in all seriousness, we have a lot to do still but in the home stretch for sure.
Another great workday at the railroad as we get another day closer to getting the long awaited 20-foot container installed. Today we completed a retaining wall nearly 80-feet in length and prepared the area for a 20-foot container to be installed in the coming days.
We had a last minute workday come up this past Saturday. The workday crew focused on repairing a yard switch, east loop siding, mowed the grass, got the club riding mower running, and mapped out how the 20-foot container is going to be placed. Be on the lookout for a workday to be scheduled soon which will be focused on building a retaining wall and preparing the ground for the container.
It was a big day for the railroad. We completed the ash pit track providing an easy access for our coal fired steam engines to clean out and a second way off the turn table.
This past Saturday six club members (Wes, Gene, Norm, Calvin, Ben, and Robby) went to the site and worked on installing two switches and nearly 70 feet of track. The new track is for the ash pit line and storage container project.
This past Saturday, April 25th, while practicing social distancing, a few members went out to the site and started the cleanup process of cutting grass, weed eating, and tripping over huge ant hills. The grass was nearly 2 feet tall in a few places especially since it was early March since we have been out to the site to do any work. Upon arrival an issue was found with the pump station (lift station) which led to the fire department being called. All is well and it appears everything is pumping again.
A group of ambitious members went out on Saturday to do some work around the railroad. Work included track repair, tree cutting, and passenger line debate. A great day and appreciate all who was able to come out and take care of a few items around the railroad.
March is turning out to be a busy month around the club. On Saturday, March 7th we had “Bob” and “Bob 2” on hand along with Ben, Gene, Calvin, Elijah, Bill, Joe, and Scott taking care of some necessary maintenance around the railroad as we get ready for the 2020 season.
A great group came out today and performed hundreds of feet of track maintenance as we prepare of our 2020 season. A few debates where had, lunch at our normal place, and dreams of building and operating trains this year where had by all.
2019 WORKDAY RECAPS
The day was full of activity with two bobcats, multiple chainsaws, and a work crew. The work crew first cut down trees near the container and steaming bay area while the bobcats started digging and preparing the area around the steaming bay area for new track and container.
This is day one of a project that will allow us to extend what we call the Ash Pit line down to the main part of the railroad and add an additional 20-foot container that will attach to an existing 40-foot container. This will provided a central place of storage for club locomotives and rolling stock.
Now that the weather is cooler and we have access to some heavy machinery we are planning on a major work day on Saturday, November 16th.
In March of 2019 work began on a new siding on the west side of the railroad. The siding is just down from the passenger station area as you travel down towards the grade crossing. Here is a time lapse video of one of our workdays.
2018 WORKDAY RECAPS
2017 WORKDAY RECAPS
A group of club members have gotten together to purchase a new 45-foot high cube storage container.
Now that we have electricity into our primary container we are now going to extend the power to the remaining containers and other areas of the railroad on the east side of the property.
2016 WORKDAY RECAPS
Construction began on the ash pit line which will be used by the coal fired steam engines to dump ash after a long day of operating. Here are some photos from the April 2nd and April 16th work days.
2015 WORKDAY RECAPS
2014 WORKDAY RECAPS
2013 WORKDAY RECAPS
Work continues on the lift and construction of the retaining wall around the steaming bay area.
Concrete is being mixed to hold the track for the lift. The lift will support 60-feet of equipment which will help unload and load trailers quickly.
2012 WORKDAY RECAPS
2011 WORKDAY RECAPS
On July 30, 2015, the club gondola was cleaned and repainted ahead of being re-lettered again.