A classic Baldwin working for the Amador Foothills Railroad passes the run-down depot in Martell, Calif. The railroad closed in 2004 because of a lack of traffic and was purchased by the Amador Co... (more)

The last loads of lumber head down grade through a classic California gold country scene on the Amador Foothills Railroad.

The conductor hangs the FRED on the rear of the last train to leave Martell on the Amador Foothills. Another great California shortline fades into history.

The end of the line.

A couple of seconds after this shot, the loco "wobbled" hard to the left, about 15 degrees on account of poor track conditions.

Note the fresh ballast. Someone planned on running this line longer than it lasted.

Arriving at the UP yard in Ione for the last time. Check out the "ripples" in the rail. That's more the norm than the exception on this railroad.

I love the smell of brakeshoe smoke in the morning....it's smells like foam.

Last westward run...going over 1895-vintage rail.

After backing the loads in to the yard, the engine runs around the train, pausing for the conductor to hang the EOT.

Pulling the last four loads out of the Sierra Pine sawmill....check the grade! It's not only steep down the spur from the mill, the main line (track to the left of the switch) is no picnic either... (more)

Roster shot of the 10 en route to the sawmill for the last pickup.