My grandfather, Logan Napier Muir, emigrated from Scotland in 1901 and went to work for the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy. He retired from the railroad in 1948. Owing to his seniority, he was able to be the engineer of the Zephyrs and undoubtedly had the Silver Star in his consist on many occasions. His railroad watch was passed down to me and I treasure it. As an 8 year old, I had the experience of riding in the cab of the Denver Zephyr from Chicago to Aurora, Illinois, hitting speeds up to 80 mph, an amazing speed at the time. There was a 3 track main from Chicago to Aurora and I remember the occasions when my friends and I would ride our bikes to an overpass to watch the Zephyrs go by at speed. Being on the overpass when steam engines went by was a completely different, but exhilarating, experience.

You indeed have a treasure in the Silver Star. I learned about it listening to 6PR this morning. I hope to travel to Australia in the next year or two and will definitely spend some time in WA

Douglas Muir
Tallahassee, Florida USA