Did you know that the RDG Co. built containers at the RDG Car Shops? Starting
in 1967-68, the RDG invested $65,000 into two subsidiaries, the Ambler Container Corp. and Rydal Equipment Co.
Among their customers was the Weyerhauser Corp. However, by the early 1970's, the RDG decided the
venture was too expensive and sold both subsidiaries outright. (courtesy RCT&HS member, John Caples)
Philadelphia’s Port Richmond was opened in 1842 and for over 100 years
was the world’s largest privatley-owned tidewater facility. The 12 piers were at one time connected
to a rail yard with over 85 miles of track and a capacity of 5,600 cars. In 1956 (its busiest year),
Port Richmond handled 4,000,000 tons of cargo on 1,287 ships. (courtesy RCT&HS member, John Caples)
The RDG had three panel (snap) track gondolas. Class GHrx cars nos. 96330, 96331
and 96332 were converted in August 1973 for this service at random from GHr cars #36202-36298. Resting
at a 45° angle, the track panels were shipped to wreck sites and fitted in place by cranes to
expedite the work gangs job of repairing/returning damaged trackage back to operating condition. (courtesy
RCT&HS member, John Caples)
Wreck crane #90901 was acquired in 1997, and completed the Society's
goal to preserve an entire Reading wreck train, or "relief train" as they preferred
to call them. This huge piece of equipment was purchased new by the Reading Railroad
in 1956 for $211,792.61. It was built by Industrial Brownhoist, is powered by twin diesel engines,
and its 500,000 pound capacity means... Click here for more info.
