Burlington Northern No. 2083 North represents a typical memory from my time on 675⁄676. In this image captured in October 1983, the former coach yard stands between the train and Union Station (NP) at 21st Street in downtown Tacoma. Today, this location is occupied by Interstate I-705, linking I-5 with Tacoma’s Waterfront. The transformation of this area reflects the evolving landscape of Tacoma over the years. Michael Sawyer’s connection to this historical moment adds a personal touch to the narrative.
Achieving the role of conductor at the young age of 21, in May 1981, marked a significant milestone in my career. This promotion was notably uncommon given the usual prerequisite of two years as a brakeman on the road before being eligible. The rigorous examination process, encompassing 519 questions, with the initial 250 focusing on essay questions related to train orders, culminated in an impressive overall score of 96%.
During the autumn of 1981, I assumed the responsibilities of head brakeman on the local 675⁄676 route, operating from Seattle (Balmer Yard) to Centralia Yard, engaging in tasks at specific stations along the way. Stepping into the role of conductor temporarily, when the regular conductor took leave, provided me with valuable experience and insights into the operational dynamics of the journey.
Collaborating with an engineer from the Seattle (Interbay) extra board, nicknamed “Mr. Helpful,” our journey proceeded smoothly until our arrival at Auburn Yard. Coordinating work activities within the yard limits involved effective communication with the yardmaster and the dispatcher via the Auburn telegraph, highlighting the reliance on traditional communication methods before modern installations.
Navigating the tasks of making cuts, waiting for passing trains, and coordinating pick-ups and set-outs, the routine operational procedures were momentarily interrupted by the need for a lunch break. Despite minor tensions with Mr. Helpful over the lunch arrangements, the camaraderie within the crew and adherence to established practices prevailed.
The journey continued southwards, encompassing stops at various stations, culminating in Centralia. However, a miscalculation in the car count due to oversight added a humorous twist to the day’s events, showcasing the intricacies of manual waybill management and the conductor’s multifaceted responsibilities.
The unforeseen power outage and subsequent search for misplaced paperwork added a touch of adventure to the day’s proceedings, culminating in a comical yet resourceful escape from a potentially embarrassing situation with the switch crew. These anecdotes from my early days as a conductor encapsulate the blend of challenges, camaraderie, and quick thinking that defined my experiences on the railroad.