No Longer Available in VHS (See below for link to DVD version) In 1955, the noted TV series OMNIBUS sent host Alistair Cooke and camera crews to do a live broadcast from New York Central's Grand Central Terminal. Pentrex uncovered an extremely rare copy of this classic episode and we're happy to share it with you now! Grand Central was a landmark symbol of New York City, and the most famous train to be boarded there was the glamorous 20th Century Limited. Omnibus cameras take you to track 34, where co-host David P. Morgan, Editor of TRAINS Magazine, waits next to train #25, the Century. Morgan describes the terminal's layout, explains the electric-powered train's consist, introduces the 46-member crew, and interviews the engineer and fireman as we wait for the Century to depart. Once the train is underway, we move to Tower A where the Director demonstrates his control board. Back at the concourse ticket window and Pullman reservation office, we see how tickets were booked before computerization. Inside the dispatcher's office, telegraph keys sing in the background while the Trainmaster gives us further information. Then we're inside the cab of the moving train for a brief chat with the engineer. These scenes and others make The 20th Century Limited on TV a priceless piece of railroading history you'll delight in watching over and over again! 30 Minutes |
| Available in DVD: The New York Central Collection Combo P.O. Box 94911 Pasadena, CA 91109-4911 |