Black Hills Central Railroad

 The Black Hills of South Dakota is famous for scenic view of rock sculpture, but not so much for it's 1880's line - the Black Hills Central Railroad.  The train is authentic, but many of the cars are remodeled.  It runs round trip between Hill City and Keystone; however you can take it only one way if you want.

There is a water tank in each town, and the engine has to fill up every trip.  As we slowly rolled along through the countryside, we were subject to the smell of smoky burnt oil.  The conductors told us that instead of coal, they used spent motor oil, the kind that is drained from cars, for fuel.

We bought our round-trip tickets in Hill City, in the above building, which is also a gift shop.  Grandma Zucc waits patiently for the train to arrive.  To the right Debbie, our friend, waits to board the train car.

The next couple pics show what the inside of the cars look like.  As we rolled along, I thought of Grandfather traveling in something like this as he made his way from Louisiana to California.  

I got a 'kick' out of these two kids.  The little girl is trying to kiss the boy on the cheek, but he won't have anything to do with it.  Ha ha.

The train crossed the paved road many times.  This country is known for it's motorcyclists.  An 'ol hippie' rode his fancy bike to each crossing, and waited for the train to pass by.  He would enthusiastically wave at the passengers each time.  I guess we all 'get our kicks' in different ways!

In Keystone, the engine gets a drink from the water tank.

I quickly ran to the Keystone ticket office/gift store, to see a man about a horse (you know what I mean, right?) while Bev and the others waited on the train for the return trip.

I stepped onto the main street and got a pic of the town sheriff.  He shot off his pistol a couple of times to get everybody's attention, then announced that there would be a gunfight in the building behind.  I didn't have time to stay.

Back on the train the girls talked a lot.  I think they really enjoyed it.  The trip back to Hill City was blessed by not having so many people aboard.  we each got our own seat.

The return ride seemed shorter, even though I knew it wasn't.  We didn't see much wildlife except for a few scrawny deer.  

But we did see a lot of old houses.  This canyon was home to many gold mines in the old days.  I don't think there are any active ones now.

A lot of homes are located alongside the tracks.  It has to be a little annoying for the residents to hear the whistle blow as the noisy train slowly passes many times daily.  However some of them waived at us, and we happily returned the friendly gesture.

Once again in Hill City, we roll to a stop.  Outside is Engine #7.  It is on display in front of the yard.

Next to #7 is an upgraded car placed next to the road for the purpose of advertising.  

Engine #7

She sits proudly now, displaying her wares to all who pass by.  She is fully operational and is ready to once again roll down the canyon if called upon.