Samuel took the lead in introductions.  “Laura, I would like you to meet Ida Bingham and her husband Harold”  “Ida, Harold, this is Charles’ wife Laura.” A gaggle of pleasantries and smiles ensued.  “Hello.”  “How’d you do”?  “Pleased to meet you.”  “Welcome.”  Ida was the first to offer conversation.  “Charles has told us so much […]

At 4 years old Michael had already shown a keen interest in anything mechanical.  To him riding in the cab of the locomotive was as natural as could be.  He watched in fascination as fireman Roy Calhoun shoveled coal into the boiler.  He studied the moves of the engineer as the temperature and pressure gauges […]

Edward had always been a major disappointment.  Despite all his efforts Samuel was never able to connect with his eldest son.  He had given him every opportunity to grow into the family businesses.  But Edward was content to be a professional student and live off of his father’s generosity.  Edward ended up attending USC Berkeley […]

Charles walked briskly toward the station platform and the waiting family.  As he came into view the Binghams and Samuel boarded the lead passenger car.  Moments later he joined them as the conductor signaled the engineer.  “ALL ABOARD.”  The conductor’s words rang out with authority and clarity.  With a loud hiss of steam and a […]