I've found some pretty old pieces of rail still on the job after decades of use. I know most railfans shoot trains for the most part, but sometimes I point the camera at other stuff. I'd be interested in seeing anyone's photos of old track pieces. Here's a couple of mine: This rail is from 1920 and is on a Class I siding today: Here's a rail joiner dated 1918, return address is Illinois, and is also on duty today: Anyone else? :tb-biggrin:
Here's a piece of rail that dates to 1912, same age as the Titanic sinking: Does anyone else have any shots? There have to be some other nut-case photographers out there!
i think i can find an old piece of rail on the old D&H that is now the rarely used track of the L&S that rail above needs some grinding
Rails had (Still do I guess not sure?) forging markings that identified the manufacturer/date/etc. These old timers we pictured above are found in dry arid climates, so it could be they don't survive in wetter or more extreme climates in the East? I'm sure no expert obviously. You need to be up close and personal with the tracks if you know what I mean, so stay safe and discreet out there.
I have seen 1917 here on the MS Coast, which is not noted for being either dry or arid.......:tb-wink:
