IBLS Journal 1955

The BLS held a meet at Irene Lewis' backyard SCLS track in 1955. This photo was featured in Popular Science, January 1956.



Winnipeg Meet
Charles A. Purinton

The North American Live Steamer, Volume 1, Number 2, 1956

One of the very good safety steps taken by the Red River Valley Railway at the 23rd meeting of the B.L.S. at Winnipeg last Labor Day (5 September 1955) was the boiler test. Before any loco was allowed to raise steam, the boiler was hydro tested to working pressure. After which a "Certificate of Boiler Inspection" was issued by the Chief Boiler Inspector. I must add, too, that this standard procedure by the Southern California Live Steamers and the Golden Gate Live Steamers.

One of the most welcome features at Winnipeg was provided by the ladies and it meant a lot of preparation and hard work. They had a snack bar which was in operation from early till late serving coffee, tea, pop, sandwiches, etc. It was patronized and very much appreciated by everyone.

By holding the B.L.S. meetings, the last few years, in different parts of the States and Canada, a quite different group is enabled to get together. It is apparent to a good many of us that the holding of one big so-called B.L.S. meeting is no longer needed. With the number of Live Steam groups that are in existence, it seems as if the various men could better attend the group meeting most convenient for them. For them to be able to do so, it would be fine if the different groups would send to The North American Live Steamer the dates of their annual field days so that the Live Steamers, wanting to come, can make their plans.