Hello, Branchliners, this is Spencer Wilson—Ian’s elder son and one-third of the Canadian Branchline shipping department.
Dad is hard at work on Speed Graphics and Steam 1957! right now, but he asked me to give you an update on the progress of the book. The initial layout—including 300 John Rehor / Don Wood / Herb Harwood photos over 192 pages—is finished. He’s now polishing the narrative and tweaking the book design to make those pictures jump off the page.
Speed Graphics and Steam 1957! will go to the printer on April 13th. From there, it will be shipped to the bindery. We expect to take delivery of the book on April 30th. The following week will be a busy one for us—especially the shipping department.
That reminds me of something I wanted to say: Thank you to the Branchliner who was kind enough to notice my signature on the customs form of his latest order! My brother and I are responsible for packaging every book you order. We inherited the job from Mary-Jo, our mom, who still handles all the administrative work—formatting and sending this email, for instance. Dad is in charge of “production,” of course. He’ll also sign and, if you wish, personalize your books—just as he’s doing in this picture, taken a few days ago.
See that stack of books on the desk? A portion of the sales for each of those went to the fundraising campaign for Louisiana & Arkansas Ten Wheeler 503. Dad asked me to thank you for your contributions. Our donation amounted to $510 US—roughly $663 in Canadian currency. The engine is no longer in danger of being scrapped and will soon be on its way to a new, more appreciative home—thanks in part to your generosity!
The success of the campaign to rescue 503 got Dad thinking about Canadian engines that could use repairs, restoration, relocation, or even rebuilding—à la Great Britain’s Tornado. (Who wouldn’t love to see a brand new CPR 3000-class Jubilee?) Down the road, we’ll likely have promotions to support such projects.
There’s one last thing I should mention: Dad is preparing a special bonus package for anyone who buys Speed Graphics and Steam 1957! directly from us. He hasn’t told me exactly what it is yet.
Speaking of Speed Graphics and Steam 1957!, you can place your order—just in case you haven’t already or you’d like to reserve another copy.
Until next time!
Spencer
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