A Windalco work train powered by re-engined MLW RS8 No. 1137 crosses a small creek at a location known as Marley’s Mount between Old Harbour and Spanish Town in February 2015. This train was held at a siding near Spanish Town until the revenue freights tied up for the day.
Jamalco (also former Kaiser) has a five-mile line from Clarendon to Rocky Point. It operates GP38-3s, some rebuilt from Chicago & North Western GP50s, painted yellow, green, black, and white.
Remnants of JRC
There are remnants of the Jamaica Railway Corp. across the island. Tracks still exist in many locations, but are slowly returning to nature. The main station, trainshed, and workshops in Kingston, designated a National Heri- tage Site, are intact, and although isolat- ed, movements still occur to reposition equipment. The somewhat preserved 4-8-0 steam locomotive No. 54 and some retired diesels are stored at Kingston,
and there is a campaign to turn the site into a museum to celebrate the island’s rich rail history. Numerous wood and concrete stations
exist, many dating to the 1880s in distinct and classic Jamaican Georgian architecture. But as the lines shut down, the structures were taken over by squatters or used for other purposes. Steam-era facilities that include coaling towers and turntables also exist, and two passenger cars are stranded derelict in Montego Bay.
Alcos in Paradise While the ports and mines are off
limits (with fences and security), the “mainlines” run through scenic small
A rail photography trip to Jamaica is an exciting experience. But it must be done cautiously and with personal safety in mind. Some points to consider while you plan your journey:
• Most travelers to Jamaica arrive at Montego Bay’s Sangster International Airport. From there, it’s about a 75 minute drive to Discovery Bay and about 3½ hours to Port Esquivel on the south coast. There are also flights from the United States to Kingston’s Norman Manley International. A passport is required for entry.
• It is not advised to rent a vehicle and venture out on your own. Traffic runs on the left side of the road, making patterns confusing to those unfamiliar with the custom. Rules of the road are only loosely adhered to
villages, larger towns, sugar cane fields, and beautiful tropical countryside. Photographing the remaining railways
in Jamaica requires some planning, but it pays dividends in an area where few photographers have ventured, at least since steam disappeared a half century ago. There are still many areas to be explored. A railfanning trip can easily be combined with a vacation at any number of all-inclusive resorts on the north coast that will please other family members. And those old MLW locomotives in the bright Jamaican colors burbling along the bauxite lines sure look good against the palm trees and lush cane fields of this tropical island. This must be paradise... What are you waiting for?
and accidents are all too common. Large crowds tend to gather around crash scenes, and they can turn ugly and contentious quickly. Unlike in the United States, you may be detained until fault is determined.
• Hiring a local driver familiar with the area is the best way to go. There are many tour companies that offer drivers for customized day trips. Prices are typically in the $40/hour range, and a decent sized tip should also be budgeted if service is especially good. It is money well spent.
• Do not let your guard down and don’t be careless with expensive camera gear. Like any other country, tourists are often targeted. A local guide will know where it is safe for photography and locations best to be avoided. —MICHAEL T. BURKHART
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