Rayonier No. 2 A Willamette Lives Again

When a long time employee of Rayonier purchases a steam locomotive, Rayonier #2, you just have to realize your watching a "labour of love". That's exactly how I felt when I first watched the DVD, Rayonier #2 A Willamette Lives Again. Jim Gertz buys the geared locomotive just as steam was being replaced by diesel power.

The engine was trasnported to Jim's home and a shed was built to house it, and there it stood until 2008. When the crew at Mt Rainier Scenic Railroad took to the task of restoring this beautifull piece of machinery. As the tale is told we learn of the history and story of Jim's career and #2 as well. 

Under the watchfull eye of the scenic railroads General Manager Brian Wise, we witness the restoration of #2 at verious stages of the operation. I must admit the size and obvious weight of each component is completely appearant in shop scenes as well as under the boom of the crane. You really get the feel of what make a steam locomtive tick and sputter as you what the crew work and explain, with obvious pride, what they are up to.

The commentary by Jim solidifies the historical component of this DVD as you feel you are being told a story by an oldtimer with a lot of care in his voice. I really enjoyed this video as I am sure any rail enthusiast will as  well, how many chances do we have left to hear the story of a Man who was there.

Runtime: 60 minutes

http://www.trainvideodepot.com/Pictures-and-Words-Productions

A portion of the proceeds of this DVD support the steam preservation efforts of the Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad in Mineral Washington USA.