First Timber Train

Shortly after I arrived at the OVR, we were approached by a group who were interested in running a passenger excursion train between Mattawa and Temiscaming.  While these sorts of projects are typically met with much skepticism, we were in the short line business and open to any sort of new revenue.  The group had also involved a knowledgeable, experienced and highly respected railroader which certainly gave the project some legitimacy.  After several meetings, we agreed to operate a proof-of-concept train, to be run on October 5, 1997.  This was essentially the first "Timber Train", using an OVR crew, a couple of RaiLink GP-9's, and six Ontario Northland coaches.  October 5th turned out to be a beautiful fall day and the run was certainly a success.  Although I don't claim to be a photographer, I am quite proud of a few of the pictures that I captured that day.

First Timber Train at Eau Claire on the North Bay Subdivision.

Ex Southern Pacific RaiLink GP-9's on the head end.

Member of Parliament Bob Wood on the first Timber Train

The view of Mattawa from the Timber Train

First Timber Train heading up the Temiscaming Sub. into Quebec

The view from the Timber Train at MP 23

The Ottawa River and beautiful fall colors.

The original Timber Train Crew

The crew on that original train from left to right were Danny Moore, Don Cousineau, Dennis Higgins, and Angie Cerisano.