 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
| Yes, they do exist! My SR&RL Switch Lock and Key. |
| I've made this page with the thought in mind that SR&RL fans might enjoy seeing a real Sandy River & Rangeley Lakes Railroad Switch Lock and Key. |
| On a visit to Maine, in the late 90's, my wife and I stopped at an Antique/Flea Market Store in Searsport, Maine. This store is almost directly across the Highway from The BlueJacket Shipcrafters Shop & Factory. I always search the dsiplay cases for the "Small" items, a habit I've had for years as a result of my intensive search for the elusive Rio Grande Southern Silver Filigree Passes. I almost fainted when I saw "the next best thing", that being this Switch Lock & Key. I couldn't believe my eyes and purchased it with lightning speed, not even giving contemplative regard to price. It is one of my prized possessions! |
| I have been told by an authority on railroad antiquity, that the SR&RL Locks, while rare, are not nearly as rare as the above, SR&RL "Stamped" Key. |
| The Lock and Key work perfectly, almost as if brand new. The keyhole cover's spring still has its "original' tension. Amazingly, this lock is in excellent condition considering its age! |
| Shown below is a close up of the SR&RL RR stamping on the hasp. There is no question as to where this wonderful lock spent its day in service. |
| This wonderful artifact, that must have witnessed so much of what we would give anything to see today, is usually locked away in a safe deposit drawer. I take it out when time allows and I must say, I enjoy looking at it. I wonder if Dana Aldrich, Sonny Fairbanks, Rob McMullen, Ed West, or any of the other SR&RL "Celebrities" often handled it. |