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This is one of a series of pages showing my pictures of Cuban
narrow gauge steam at work in the closing years.
Rafael Freyre (Mill 635, 2'6" gauge) was the jewel in the
crown of the Cuban narrow gauge with trains running though spectacular scenery
in areas whose few roads were of very dubious quality. In other words, it
offered unique photographic possibilities. That said, I do not think my offering
does the place justice, I was either unlucky or incompetent or more likely both.
The line locomotives shown here are all Baldwin 2-8-0s.
Click on a thumbnail to see a larger 750x500 (or
similar) image then use the back button or links to return here.
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On 22nd February 1996, we headed west to Potrerillo.
Beyond the village, 1385 was waiting to take some empties down to the
loading point at El Purial.
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Such was the climb 1385 brought its train up in two
parts.
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There was siding space at the top. 1385 pauses before
parking the first half.
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Some time later it returned with the second part.
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Having combined both parts, 1385 trundled off down the
road. It being my first visit I tried to outpace the train to get some
extra shots. The rest of my party had seen it all before and relaxed next
to the car in the background.
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Road and rail run separately to the loading point at Los Mango. Before the
steam locomotive could come through diesel (2456?) set off for the mill
with a short trip working.
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Finally 1385 drifted through completing what for me was more than a
satisfactory first morning.
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Click here
for the 'Those were the days' index page.
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