HK’s Last Ride

Last Ride of a Legend

Saying Farewell To a Long-time Friend…

The Big Creek & Southern has no greater friend than Harold K. Vollrath. As a founding member of the railroad his influence and numerous contributions of equipment, funds, and sage wisdom is without compare. K has relocated to Texas to be near his daughter and grandchildren.

On Tuesday, May 6, 2014 the BC&S crew gathered for an afternoon of fellowship and for K’s Last Ride on the railroad. Many well-wishers either dropped by or sent their regards and regrets. Mr. Vollrath was one of the four original founding members of the Big Creek & Southern railroad which include Pat McCarthy, Harold Vollrath, Doyle Herley and Dave Huff. Of these four, only Mr. Vollrath and Pat are still active with the railroad.

From BC&S president, Pat McCarthy: “K and I have traveled many miles together. We used to go on our ‘flings’ to lots of railroads. I’ve always enjoyed his railroad stories. He is a true railroader through and through. We went to California and the west coast many times, running on all the railroads out there. In 2000 we did a flying trip to Riverside, California, to pick up his passenger car in Tehachapi and to run on the railroad out there – 5000 miles in 7 days! We’ve also been to Texas many times together. Mr. Vollrath has always been an interested and loyal member and has made many contributions to the success of the railroad.”

Harold Vollrath now resides in Texas near his daughter and grandchildren. We hope that we will still see him from time to time at our operating events here on the BC&S. As a parting gift, Mr. Vollrath has donated his ten-wheeler (pictured above) and his passenger car to the Big Creek & Southern where it will become a treasured part of our history. From everyone at the Big Creek & Southern, here’s to our dear friend, mentor, and colleague! Thanks for the memories!!!

Harold K Vollrath seated with friends — Pictured: (L to R) Pat McCarthy, Harold Vollrath, Jerry Salsbury, Bob Miller (standing), Dale Perry, Barbara Walz, and Jacques. Photo by Jim Duncan (not pictured).

HK Vollrath and Pat McCarthy — Pat and Harold – a last handshake before saying goodbye.

Mr. Vollrath shares stories and recollections of the BC&S and his work with the Kansas City Southern Railroad with the gang.

Pat and HK taking a ride past the interlocking tower

Mr. Vollrath riding past the interlocking tower that has been named in his honor. HK is the telegraph call for our interlocking tower which houses our dispatcher and CTC machine.

Pat and HK riding across a truss bridge — It was a beautiful day for a last ride on the BC&S for Harold Vollrath. Pat McCarthy mans the throttle.

Pat, K, Bob Miller taking a ride. — Riding along with Pat and K is Bob Miller.

Train backing into yard — Backing into the car barn yard to tie it up at the end of the afternoon Pat, Barbara and Jacques are riding along for the final time with Mr. Vollrath.

THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES AND THE MANY CONTRIBUTIONS OF TIME, RESOURCES, AND WISDOM FROM OUR DEAR FRIEND, HAROLD K. VOLLRATH. YOU ARE MISSED!