Atop Tennessee
Dave Straight photo
Having crested the top of Tennessee Pass, a Rio Grande freight exits the tunnel at the top, starting the long run downhill to Pueblo. A Perlman Mallet is in charge of this train, consisting of four F-Units spliced by a Geep. Leading is F7A 5621, a 1949 EMD product. 5621 had been with the road for ten years when this 1959 scene was taken. It would remain on the Rio Grande roster until 1966 when it was traded in to EMD on an order for GP40s. Off to the right of the train is the older summit tunnel, which was closed when portions of the line were realigned.
Tennessee Pass, CO
September 13, 1959
Train of the Day
7/17/25
Atop Tennessee
Dave Straight photo
Having crested the top of Tennessee Pass, a Rio Grande freight exits the tunnel at the top, starting the long run downhill to Pueblo. A Perlman Mallet is in charge of this train, consisting of four F-Units spliced by a Geep. Leading is F7A 5621, a 1949 EMD product. 5621 had been with the road for ten years when this 1959 scene was taken. It would remain on the Rio Grande roster until 1966 when it was traded in to EMD on an order for GP40s. Off to the right of the train is the older summit tunnel, which was closed when portions of the line were realigned.
Tennessee Pass, CO
September 13, 1959
Train of the Day
7/17/25