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Hugh Lyndon Stephenson's avatar

John-thank you as always for all of your insights. Today, most especially today, I thank you for a short story about steam locomotives. They are a part of my blood.

I am named for my great grandfather- Hugh Ector Lyndon. He served as a conductor on the Atlanta & West Point RR for about 50 years, (now part of NSC). My dad said that H.E.L. Was the finest man he ever knew. High praise from my dad. My dad also said he modeled his own life after his grandad. And, in rhythm, I have modeled my own after my dad.

Many years ago I was introduced to the photographer O. Winston Link. He grew up in/near Richmond, riding the train with his grandad. He became a photographer of the steam trains of his youth; pics here https://www.bing.com/search?q=o+winston+link+photos&form=APIPA1&PC=APPD.

Soon after I met Winston I bought two of his best known photos. Hotshot Eastbound and Hawksbill Creek. I’m told they are worth many multiples of my price. I’d sooner sell my soul than sell them.

What is it about grandfathers and trains?

Somehow they speak to us out loud.

Thanks again.

Alyosha's avatar

Thank you Hugh for this intimate note. here is the full obit. I'm sure it will resonate with your memories and family's history.

https://www.cummingsfuneral.com/obituary/Ross-RowlandJr

Hugh Lyndon Stephenson's avatar

Thank you John. I’ll read it immediately. I’m sure you’re correct. Already in tears.

Dave Groom's avatar

Thanks for the O. Winston Link, HLS. Several of those photos are classics. I was pleasantly surprised to find that I'd seen his work before, just didn't know the name of the photographer.

Leslie Philipp's avatar

Nice tribute to Mr. Rowland.

We all have our touchstones and indelible moments, even if we don’t know at the time.

Alyosha's avatar

So true Leslie

AmarilloRed's avatar

LOL, i’m thinking Shinola never made watches.

Dave Groom's avatar

I've been confused as to why both shoe polish and watch bore the same name. Now I know.

The watch reference diminishes a perfectly good epithet.

Victor Adair's avatar

JJ: I'm probably too mischievous for my own good, but you had me laughing at the thought of giving my wife a box of Snickers for Christmas.