Steamers in Grand Rapids, MI

[grrrfan]

Can anyone tell me when they stopped using steam engines in the Yards in SW Grand Rapids, MI? I have fond memories of those engines trying to pull their heavy freight loads, loosing traction, all while I was falling asleep at night. I am writing my memoirs, and would like to include some data about that era. THANKS.

[AARR]

I have an engine assignment list for GTW from 1953 that shows they were assigning diesel switchers in Grand Rapids at that time even though they still had steam engine switchers on the roster.

[Ben Higdon]

Grand Trunk was too far north to be in SW Grand Rapids. Were the sounds coming from the Chicago Drive area (in which case they would be coming from C&O Wyoming Yd), or from the yards along 131 (NYC or Pennsylvani)?

[grrrfan]

Those wonderful sounds were coming from the Chicago Dr. area, I believe they would be C&O or PM. thanks

[SD80MAC]

Those wonderful sounds were coming from the Chicago Dr. area, I believe they would be C&O or PM. thanks

I can tell you that all Pere Marquette steam was retired, scrapped or sent south to the Chessie Division by the end of 1951. So PM/C&O steam in Michigan was done by then. Might've been PRR or NYC?

[grrrfan]

Thank you Conrail Jon, my time frame would have been in the mid to late 40's.