Many years ago, I corresponded with Ron Nixon. When asking a question of him, he often would use some of his photos to help illustrate a response. This flimsy was copied very early in his career as a telegrapher. (If not actually the first job for him. I'd need to dig out his letters.) The previous day, after heavy rains had soaked the area, softened ground gave way under a new Class A that was passing across a low fill. Sending the loco into a pond. The railroad set Ron up on top of a rock, with a portable telegraph key, and sounder. Yes. A rock! He gave me pictures showing this was real! The job lasted several days. I was blessed in that Ron also gave me this beautiful example he'd copied while sitting on that rock. A rare and wonderful souvenir! Enjoy! Boxcab E50
That is a nice piece of memoribillia you have. I have many many NP books, and almost all of them are blessed with some of Ron's photos. I think he took more NP photo's than anyone else ever, and because of his work, I am able to model far more NP prototypes than would be possible otherwise! -Robert
A friend of mine, and his son, used to visit with Ron when he lived in Polson. Ron was always open door. Would give them things that were not asked for. One of the friendliest "old-pro" railroaders I've ever known. Whenever he'd send me photos, or papers, I would always ask him to please let me know how much I owed him. So I could send him something to help pay the postage and developing costs. He'd never take a penny. Only one time did he ever ask if I had some paperwork. I happened to. Was delighted that I could finally send him something! And offered him more if he wished. But he was quite content with what I'd already mailed. A genuinely nice man that I am grateful to have briefly known. Boxcab E50
