The DuPont Company operated a 36" narrow gauge train on seventeen miles of track within its property from 1910 until 1977 when Weyerhaeuser purchased the company's powder works and land. The train was donated to the DuPont Historical Society and Museum.
The DuPont Company chose a narrow gauge train system to operate between the various buildings in the powder production areas and down to the wharf. This system was selected because they could operate effectively on the sharp curves and steep grades throughout the property. and provide the quality of ride required for the transort of explosives.
The drop from from production areas to wharf was 300' along the north bank of Sequalitchew Creek.
To learn more about the history and current status of the train, go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cTTRq9rPTbQ
The train you see at this site has 2 engines and 4 cars as described below.
1. Locomotive - a 12 ton Plymouth diesel, currently in running condition.
2. Flat car (14P) - this type of car is reported to be a "spacer." These spacers were used to separate the engine from cars carrying explosives in order to reduce the risk of explosions caused by sparks from the engine.
3. Box car - this was commonly called a "wharf car" and was equipped with air brakes. It was used to transport the finished product down the steep slope to the wharf.
4. Flat car (6A) - called a "Dope supply flat" - was used to haul mitrates and sulphur in metal drums to the Dope Houses where they were mixed into explosives.
5. Speeder car - or powder line truck - was pushed by hand loaded with shell casing.
6. Locomotive - a 5-8 ton Brookeville diesel, inoperable, but hopefully able to be restored.
For more information, stop in the museum. While there are posted hours, if you see a car outside, it means someone is working and I have been told that all you have to do is knock and you will be welcomed to visit. There is no entrance fee.
The cache is placed with permission.