It was just another day for pushing a turn to the top of
Cumbres Pass for 494 and its crew, but for me it was one
of excitement and anticipation, since a visit the night
before to view the engines had resulted in a conversation
with a friendly crew member and an invitation for a cab
ride to the top of the pass in the morning. However, the
arrival of an unexpected visitor that morning brought a
decisive end to my dream. The district superintendent
was aware of the invitation and was surprisingly cordial
as he explained that my presence in the cab could not be
permitted. I'm not sure I fully understood, but his
explanation had something to do with crossing a state
line. Maybe it was a blessing in disguise, since now I
have photos of the trip 494 made to remind me of that
special day.
