Story: Physical Condition - Boyne City, Gaylord & Alpena Railroad - 1909

This road ,was inspected October 21st [1909]. The main line extends from Gaylord, a junction point on the Michigan Central Railroad, to Boyne City, with a branch line to Boyne Falls, a junction on the Grand Rapids & Indiana Railway. There are no stations on this line at which agents are maintained, with the exception of the one at Boyne City. The station at Boyne City has two small waiting rooms, which it would seem are hardly sufficient for the traveling public. The rail in the main line is 60 and 70 pound steel and in good condition. The ties are in good condition. That branch of the main line from Frederic to Project is new, having been constructed four or five years ago. The track is ballasted with a light grade of ballast, but the surface and alignment of track is good for the traffic presented. Mixed train service only for handling of passengers. Cars are not provided with tools as required by law. A few of the crossings are not provided with crossing signs.  Some of the bridge guards at overhead highway crossings should be renewed.  Bridge structures receive all necessary attention. The line is not generally fenced, but where fenced, it is in first class condition. The order issued by this department since the last annual inspection, with reference to installing of written train order system, has been complied with.  Switch stands are provided with various types of switch targets. Several of the frogs and switches were not properly blocked.  Although there are several matters requiring attention, the road other than as above stated is in first class condition and shows every indication of safe operation.

[From the 1909 Annual Report of the Michigan Railroad Commission, State Library of Michigan.]