Every Role a Starring Role - Disneyland Steam Train Engineers

Summary

This video features Craig and Curtis showcasing Walt Disney's original steam trains, including locomotives like the Ep Ripley and Fred Gurley. The passion for trains is evident as they share their experiences, with Craig detailing the history of the locomotives and the joy of working with steam engines. The video highlights the hands-on training program, the interaction with guests, and the challenges of maintaining the trains. The personal connection to these historic machines and the rewarding aspects of the job are clearly conveyed, emphasizing the love for steam trains and the magic of Disney's railway legacy.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Walt Disney original steam trains were built in the mid-1950s, with locomotives like the Ep Ripley and CK Holiday dating back to 1954-55.
• 😀 The oldest locomotive on display is the Fred Gurley, which was built in 1894 and previously ran on a sugar plantation in Louisiana.
• 😀 Walt Disney had a personal train that ran around his yard at his house in Holmby Hills, fueling his passion for trains.
• 😀 Craig, one of the engineers, shares his lifelong love for trains, which began in his childhood and continues today.
• 😀 Craig enjoys interacting with guests, especially children, who are excited about the steam trains and ask questions.
• 😀 As the head engineer, Craig oversees the entire train operation, ensuring safety and timely service while keeping the experience enjoyable for guests.
• 😀 The fireman assists the head engineer by maintaining the boiler's water and pressure levels, helping the train run smoothly.
• 😀 There is a structured training program for new recruits, where they start with an experienced trainer and gradually take on more responsibility, including engine operations.
• 😀 Mechanical aptitude and a love for steam trains are essential traits for anyone aspiring to become a Disney train engineer.
• 😀 One of the biggest challenges for Disney train engineers is going home at the end of the day because they enjoy their work so much.
• 😀 Craig expresses that working on steam trains for eight hours a day makes him happy, and he looks forward to returning each day.

Q & A

What is the name of the oldest locomotive at the park?

The oldest locomotive at the park is the Fred Gurley, which was built in 1894.

Where did the Fred Gurley locomotive originally run before being brought to the park?

The Fred Gurley originally ran on a sugar plantation in Louisiana before being brought to the park.

When were the locomotives EP Ripley and CK Holiday built?

The EP Ripley and CK Holiday locomotives were built for the park in 1954-1955.

What unique aspect of trains does the script mention about Walt Disney’s personal interest?

Walt Disney had a train running around his yard at his house in Holby Hills, which reflected his passion for trains.

What is the favorite part of the job for the train operators mentioned in the script?

The favorite part of the job is interacting with guests, particularly the kids who love to come up and ask questions about the steam train.

What responsibilities does the narrator have in managing the steam trains?

The narrator is in charge of the whole train, ensuring safety, maintaining timely operations, and providing an enjoyable trip for guests.

What role does the fireman play in the operation of the train?

The fireman assists by keeping the water in the boiler and maintaining the pressure, acting as the narrator's right-hand man.

How does the training program for new employees at Disneyland’s steam train department work?

The training program involves working with a trainer, starting with firing the train and eventually learning to operate the train. Those with mechanical aptitude may also work on the steam trains themselves.

What advice does the narrator give to anyone wanting to become a steam train engineer at Disneyland?

The narrator advises aspiring engineers to be mechanically inclined and have a love for steam trains.

What is described as the biggest challenge of working with the steam trains at Disneyland?

The biggest challenge is going home at the end of the day because the narrator enjoys working with the steam trains so much.