Description
This talk explores the history of the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, which operates on 64 miles of former Denver & Rio Grande track, crossing a 10,000-foot mountain pass and traveling through some of the most spectacular scenery in the Southwest. It also highlights the work of the Friends of the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, a volunteer organization dedicated to restoring and preserving the railroad’s historic rolling stock, buildings, and equipment.
Jim Hickman holds a BS in Physics and MS and PhD degrees in Theoretical Mechanics. Hickman worked for 12 years at Caterpillar Tractor Co. and then 25 years at Sandia National Labs. Following retirement, he has spent 17 years restoring historic train cars and structures for the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, helping preserve Southwestern history.