Trains Will Run Despite Handcar Thriller – 1913
Trains Will Run Despite Handcar Thriller
Article from The Missoulian – July 4, 1913
Railroads Will Keep To Their Schedule During Great Contest On Avenue Today
Trains ran as usual on both railroads yesterday, the average number of travelers came and went and everything was regular enough. But train operation and routine duties were the least interesting of the employes’ consideration. All hands from the smoke house up were doping the outcome of the handcar race between the section men of the rival systems. After sifting all the information that can be gleaned on the event it appears that both have a certain advantage. The Italians of the Northern Pacific, who are big fellows, will have a distinct advantage on the downstroke of the propelling handles, but the Bulgarians, who are noted for their stamina and strength, will have the edge on the upstroke.
H. H. Tavenner, city ticket agent of the Milwaukee, pleads not guilty to the charge made by a Sentinel reporter who wrote up the genial cardboard vendor coaching the Milwaukee’s Macedonians at the ambitious hour of 4 in the morning. He could easily be indicted on the charge of promoting the contest, however, on other evidence. And not a bit behind him is “Mac” Johnson, who is the incumbent of a similar position at the Northern Pacific station. These two gentlemen are the men behind and incidentally have been chosen as judges of the race. Of course, a third man will also judge.
During the race the street must be kept absolutely clear of spectators. While there is little danger of either car leaving the rails, there is a possibility for serious accidents should the crowd gather to the edge of the track. Mounted cowboys and Indians who ride in the parade will also patrol the speedway.
Handcar Movies
The race is to be preserved in celluloid and reproduced throughout the country by the less arduous labor of turning a small crank. Photographer Crowhurst of the Howe’s Travelogue and also official moving picture man of the Milwaukee line, is in the city to make films of the celebration. He will photograph the race by “shooting” a fake start at the depot and then hurrying to the finish, where he will catch the complete race.
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