Series 2: Work Cars, 1885 - 1958

Series 2 shows work cars of various makes and models used as auxiliary vehicles by the operators described in Series 1. The structure of the inventory is similar to that described above, with some noteworthy differences:

Like revenue cars, work cars underwent multiple iterations, resulting in mechanical and functional changes to their physical appearance, mechanical features, and numbering schemes. While in Series 1, matching fleets are grouped sequentially, and do not explicitly list former and latter numbers, work cars are treated differently, owing to the functional nature and relatively limited scope of the changes imposed by each transition. To clarify the extents of these changes and to provide continuity and enhanced insight into the cars’ observable alterations, reconfigured cars of various iterations have been grouped together, essentially prioritizing their core sameness over the (often idiosyncratic) numbering schemes to which they were formerly or subsequently subject. In other words, cars are presented in numerical order based on the last number they were assigned, followed by numbers designated for their earlier iterations.

Where work cars were subsequently reconfigured, their latter number is supplied (in parentheses), even where images of their latter configuration are not represented in the collection. In these instances, inventory lists “0” in the quantity column and “x” in the date column to note the existence of this prior version but explicitly state that the collection does not include items depicting it.

Where work cars were reconfigured, and images do exist of their past versions, those former models are listed together, in reverse chronological order. For example, a crane car pictured in 1910 as car 9003 is followed by its prior embodiment as a gondola numbered 54, made in 1899.

At the end of the series is a set of mixed and unidentified work cars, as well as disembodied or generic equipment, trucks, and locomotives, arranged chronologically.