✅ SOLVED What is this old photo all about?

[creskol]

Could it be the Lincoln Funeral Train? I have no idea where it was taken.

 

[Blackfoot58]

With the overhead equipment, I wonder if it’s the opening of a new bridge. The tracks look well used, so maybe a replacement upgrade?

 

[Blak bart]

Huh....the guy right up front looks like Lincoln !! Top hat and all !!

 

[Blackfoot58]

Railroads were so important in those days. They could literally make or break a town, just by what route they chose when laying tracks. I can imagine a lot of celebrations for railroad-related dedications. I’m sure they drew big crowds. It would be entertainment and a chance to socialize as well.

 

[ticndig]

for the most part they seem to be couples , a few embraced . a few single guys and no children that I can see .

 

[creskol]

for the most part they seem to be couples , a few embraced . a few single guys and no children that I can see .

Good observation. In looking at it closely, I only see one child with the couple standing sort of to the right of the train.

 

[hollARDog]

The 2 guys behind "Lincoln" are the clue🤔 Their stance and distance between others🤔

 

[Blackfoot58]

I am going to guess that “Lincoln” is the mayor. The guy behind him to our left is a railroad employee dressed like a conductor. The other behind to our right has no bill on his cap. He appears to have on a traditional railroad coat. Possibly the fireman to keep the train running. I’d rule Lincoln out as the engineer. He has a hat of someone with more authority and means. Also, he appears to be quite older than I’d expect from a working engineer, but not fancy enough to make me think railroad owner. Of course I could be full of baloney!

 

[Tinhorn2]

looks on a hoist too?

 

[p07]

Here's what I think it might be: https://www.canoncitydailyrecord.com/2012/03/13/hanging-bridge-an-engineering-marvel-of-1878/
It might be a construction of the hanging bridge (a railroad in Colorado) around the late 1870s? The photograph was probably taken in Colorado near Cañon City. Apparently, the railroad was planned for convenient path to mining camps through the narrow canyon.
I found a photo that might of been taken around the same spot probably about 30 years later.
Cool picture, but I don't think it's Lincoln Funeral Train.
Thanks for sharing

 

[pistol-pete]

I believe this is the Denver & Rio Grande Bridge bridge in The Royal Gorge, Canon City. CO
As to hat is happening

Interesting Royal Gorge History | Royal Gorge Route Railroad

The Royal Gorge is one of the most beautiful landscapes in Colorado, but just as interesting as what you can see is the Royal Gorge history that surrounds you.

www.royalgorgeroute.com

 

[tamrock]

I believe this is the Denver & Rio Grande Bridge bridge in The Royal Gorge, Canon City. CO
As to hat is happening

Interesting Royal Gorge History | Royal Gorge Route Railroad

The Royal Gorge is one of the most beautiful landscapes in Colorado, but just as interesting as what you can see is the Royal Gorge history that surrounds you.

www.royalgorgeroute.com

I think you're right. Maybe a celebration over the completion of line through the canyon? Things like that were celebrated throughout the expansion of the early railroads finally arriving to your town. It meant quite a lot to townspeople in those days to witness the day your town is now connected to the rest of the country. I once lived on that line that back then freight trains went up and over Tennessee pass through the upper Arkansas valley. Now the train only runs tourists through the Royal Gorge. Though within the last couple years a rock quarry at Parkdale has again filled a need for freight to again run that far up the valley, but that's as far as it goes.

 

[Blackfoot58]

looks on a hoist too?

That’s what I referred to as overhead equipment.

 

[creskol]

Thanks everybody! .. That is awesome information I will mark this one solved!

 

[tamrock]

Love how everyone went all out and dressed in their best. Probably got out photos were going to be taken. That must of been like being on TV back then.

 

[Red-Coat]

Looks like a staged old-time souvenir photo, probably taken at a fair or tourist spot. The outfits and props were often provided there to create a fun, vintage-style picture.

As already said, it’s the ‘Hanging Bridge’ in the Royal Gorge on the Santa Fe Railroad. Completed in 1879. Better picture (undated):

 

[ticndig]

The last time creskol posted was in August of 24 at which time he said he wasn't doing so well , so he may or may not still be with us.

 

[pistol-pete]

Yep the Famous Royal Gorge hanging bridge I was over it last year. The Royal Gorge passenger train runs daily