Blackstone Models is exited to announce our HOn3 versions of the D&RGW 800 Series Drop Bottom Gondolas. These unique cars will reflect the appearance of the fleet after their 1926 rebuilding. This production run will be the direct result of our loyal customers’ requests for this sought after piece of narrow gauge rolling stock! Click on the link of the left of this page to view each available road number.

A Little History

In the early 1900s, the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad placed a large rolling stock order between two major railroad car manufacturers. In the midst of all these new arrivals, one particular style of car had a unique look and served a special purpose. In March of 1904, the National Car Company delivered 200 drop bottom style gondolas to the railroad numbering from 700-899. The cars in the 800 series were especially unique as they were equipped with tall side racks to accommodate the loading of coke (specially processed coal) and they also included a complicated set of levers to operate the dump loading feature of the cars. By 1918, the coke racks were removed and the door operating system was upgraded to a much simpler lever system. From this time period on, the 800 series cars were very similar to the 700 series lot, and both classes were rebuilt and reinforced in 1926. The majority of these cars were continually used to handle coal transportation across the D&RGW narrow gauge system right up to the end of operations.

Today, the surviving cars reside in various locations, with most of them being found in Durango, Colorado on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, and in Chama, New Mexico on the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad.

Six Road Numbers

Our first release will consist of six road numbers to get your drop bottom fleet underway. While we will offer additional road numbers in the future, please note that each production run is produced in limited numbers based on demand. Therefore, your advance reservations will ensure your receipt of each road number and keep your collection complete!