A Surprising Find
For those of us passionate about the history of cabooses, searching for old photographs of these once-essential railcars has become more than just a pastime—it’s a hobby in its own right. The thrill of discovering a rare image or learning more about the unique histories of these often-overlooked trains is an ongoing joy. Recently, we were fortunate enough to stumble upon a real gem: an image of our very own transfer caboose, PLE 565, featured in Cabins, Crummies, and Hacks Vol. 5 by Henry Maywald.
This book is part of a remarkable series that documents the rich history of cabooses from across North America, capturing them in stunning, full-color photography. On page 88, we were excited to see our caboose showcased as an example of the Pittsburgh & Lake Erie’s N9-class transfer caboose, which was originally built in the distinctive New York Central style.
The N9 Transfer Caboose: A Workhorse of the Rails
The New York Central N9 class caboose was a practical and utilitarian design, originally built by repurposing old 40-foot boxcar underframes. These cabooses were primarily used in transfer service, moving freight cars short distances between yards and terminals—typically within the confines of busy railroad switching operations. Their purpose was clear: to ensure safe transport the freight crew during the often high-paced, short-haul movements of freight cars through railroad yards.
The N9 caboose was sturdy and functional, with a simple boxcar-style body that offered plenty of room for the crew and equipment, but without the frills of mainline cabooses. While some cabooses were equipped with more elaborate features, such as bay windows for better visibility, the N9 was designed for efficiency and durability.