As the photos on this website show, the C&S Northern Division is essentially complete. While there will always be more details, vehicles, and other small projects, this layout and its operation have surpassed my goal of recreating the 1958 prototype. So what's next?
The answer for me is video: capturing look and operation together in a creative way. Perhaps even tell a story or two. This YouTube Channel will carry future videos of the Northern Division. Of course, all videos will be on this page as well.
The C&S Northern Division YouTube Channel
1. Ready... Camera... Action
Here is my first attempt, Main Line Cab Ride
, released in late December, 2022. Reaction has been positive.
2. Steam Engine Servicing
Released in May 2023, Turning a Steam Locomotive
, is my first operations-oriented video. It shows why Rice Yard Engine Foreman is a popular job on the layout.
3. Running with Train Orders
Released in July 2023, Sugar Beet Run
introduces time table and train order operation. The Beet Run dodges superior trains to reach Niwot Colorado, where work awaits.
4. Main Line Meets by Time Table
Released in October 2023, Thru Freight Ballet
shows the power of the Time Table schedule. Eight trains — Five meets — No train orders. Day and night action as passenger and freight trains meet on the single track main line.
5. Simple Orders For a Non-Clearing Train
Released in December 2023, Long Train Running
follows through freight Number 46, a train too long to fit in any siding. No. 46 has nowhere to hide from priority trains headed its way. Ride along with train crewmen as they execute the Dispatcher's train orders that keep the Northern Division running smoothly.
6. Passenger Train Action at Boulder Depot
Released in July 2024, Train Time in Boulder
showcases the downtown Boulder Depot, the final project that completes my C&S Ry Northern Division layout. The arrival of the southbound Shoshone, the premier passenger train on the Division, brings the town to life. Enjoy the action in and around the Depot as passengers prepare to depart, or scramble to catch the train.
7. Union Pacific Local Freight on the C&S RY
Released in August 2024, Foreign Road
follows the daily UP Local as it serves customers between Ara and Boulder. The Union Pacific rolls those last two miles into Boulder on the tracks of the C&S Ry. UP crews run by the C&S operating rules and time table as they deliver household appliances, steel hardware, and more on a sunny June afternoon.
8. Diesel Engine Servicing
Released in October 2024, Turning a Diesel Locomotive
follows the Rice Yard Engine Foreman as he quickly readies Engine 9941B for its next assignment -- the Texas Fast Mail. Don't blink or you might miss this locomotive pit stop!
See "Turning a Steam Locomotive" (episode 2) for the other half of the Engine Foreman job. You'll see why it's a very popular position with our regular operating crews.
9. Easy Ride on a Local Passenger Train
Released in December 2024, Easy Ride
is the story of Train No. 31, the Exhibition Flyer. It's a Colorado & Southern passenger local that stops at every station, so it's not as fast as it sounds. But it's a northbound First Class train -- so all other trains must clear the way. The Flyer is an "Easy Ride" for its crew.
Photo Op With Steam Engine 914
My friend Mike Trent dropped in to take photos on the layout. He brought along his model of C&S locomotive No. 914. This is the result.
Released in January, 2025, Photo Op With Steam Engine 914
takes a break from operations-oriented videos -- thus no episode number.