I came across the posting below on the Members Only discussion group of the Railway Locomotive and Historical Society (RL&HS)
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1. American Railways Switch Keys Directory
Posted by: "Quimby Russell"
Date: Sat May 11, 2013 9:13 am ((PDT))
Dear Esteemed Group,
Today I came across what appears to be an interesting booklet
titled *American
Railways Switch Keys Directory*. It has a heavy paper light green cover
(and back) with a 3/4 image of an oncoming British steam train on the
cover. There are 45 one-sided 8-1/2x11 pages with black plastic comb
binding. Each page has 3 columns with 5 rows forming 15 squares. Within
each square is the initials and name of the railroad or railroad related
company, i.e. "Adams Express Co." with a head-on view of the tubular blade
tip and bit, and a side view of the tube and bit. These views are simple
drawings sufficient to identify the shape and pattern of the bit.
This "book" or booklet appears to have been home made as there is no
identifying information as to origin, author, date, etc. I suspect it is of
British or Canadian origin. It also looks to me like this may be one of a
number made with a copy machine. I bought it for $5 even though I don't
collect switch keys.
Has anyone else seen such a "publication?" If so, can you tell me
anything about it.
Sincerely,
Russ Quimby
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