Whistle post signs

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F

Fred Gossage

New Member
I know that whistle post sign designs (for grade crossings) have always varied over time, but it seems like a lot of the modern ones have switched to the "W" design on a white diamond or square. However, at least back in the day, another design used to be popular in at least some areas.

http://img32.imageshack.us/img32/3117/whistlepost.jpg

Does anyone know if these are still being actively used, and IF so, what regions of the country?

Thanks in advance for any information. I'm very picky about small details and want my layout to be as close to realistic as possible, even with tiny details like this.
 
I believe the FRA mandated whistle post designs at least 20 years ago. The ones that are diamond shaped are the most common and the square shape less so. The one in your picture is quite unusual and was used by the Southern. It's a variation of the horn sound the rain should make before reaching the crossing, two longs a short,and one long. There used to be many different kinds of whistle posts, even some made of concrete. With the amount of run through trains we have today, the FRA tried to standardize things although you can still fine some oddballs around.
 
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