LILLY FORK
On my layout, the Lilly Fork is represented by a winding section of track that climbs around a central peninsula to a logging camp that is on the highest point on the layout. While the real ERC&L logging activity avoided building bridges, in order to climb to the 'top of the layout", my Lilly Fork branch crosses a couple of substantial bridges. The log train assignements are always sought after during operating sessions because once out on the logging branch, the crews are "on their own" with no interference from other rail traffic.
Here's the scratchbuilt American log loader at work. Notice that the 'bridge track' that the loader used to cross from car to car is visible behind the crane in the recreation of a 1950s scene.
"Before good color film, the best a railfan could do is capture a scene in black and white. Here's Climax #3 crossing the combination bridge near the main logging camp."
"At the log camp at the end of the Lilly Fork the crew debates how best to unload the dozer that has just been delivered while the American loader continues to work in the background."
The MAGIC OF MODEL RAILROADING
On the layout, Starcher is modeled as a somewhat more developed place than on the prototype. This was done to provide increased operating interest. Starcher consists of a couple of buildings and a water tank.
"Out on the Lilly Fork there wasn't much but wooded hills and meandering streams. The exception was the little spot known as Starcher. One day while hiking in the area I caught this shot of a hobo is walking down the road as a truck chugged by. Just then ERC&L #20 rolling past enroute to the logging camp at the end of the line."
"On another day I climbed up a hillside near Starcher. From my vantage point I could see the entire settlement...all three buildings and the small water tank. ERC&L #20 came into view and stopped at the water tank to top off to her perpetually leaky radiator. The crewman standing next to the tank filled the diesel using the hose visible on the ground near the read barrel."
"I always enjoyed the times I could get out and hike around the beautful hills along the Lilly Fork. One favorite spot provided a good view of the main logging camp. On the right #20 is preparing to head for Swandale with the days work complete. Below, #25 is shuffling cars to keep the American loader busy. As I recall, Climax #3 was sitting at the end of the line awaitng some repairs."
