We’re starting a new project out on the trail!
Our signal team, with the approval of State Parks, removed the US&S searchlight signal from Hillcrest, a remote location approximately three miles east of Ralston on May 14.
The lonely signal at Hillcrest before relocation
We will refurbish the signal and install it at the east switch in Ralston, replacing a signal that has been removed. This location, adjacent to a trailhead and visible from a public highway (SR 261), will provide the opportunity for more people to see and enjoy it.
The signal will replace the one on the left in the historical photo
It was interesting to note that this signal we’re relocating to Ralston was made by Union Switch & Signal (US&S) and the Milwaukee Road searchlight signals on display at The Old Hotel in Othello were made by General Railway Signal (GRS).
GRS searchlight signal on display at The Old Hotel in Othello, WA
Big thanks to boom truck operator Jamie Morse, and laborers Dana Davis and Mike Turcott!
See below for some photos from Mike Turcott documenting the process of dismantling the signal at Hillcrest.
Preparing to remove the signal head.
Jamie Morse working to detach the signal head from the mast.
The signal head is detached and being lowered with the boom.
With the signal head on the truck, removal of the mast is next.
With the signal mast resting on the ground, the relay cabinet is the last part of the signal to be removed.
Dana Davis watches Jamie Morse lift the relay cabinet off the concrete base with the boom truck.
All the signal parts loaded in the truck for transportation to the restoration shop.
