Building the Potomac Line

[Puddlejumper]

Dave, a very good looking coal deck!
However, does that correspond to the reality to have all around a railing? If it must be then, nevertheless, I would realize a very strong destruction, or?

I only plan on putting a railing around the end platform where some tools, etc. will be stashed, and up the steps. The dock itself will have no safety appliances, caution and judgement are the words of the day.

Looking at this photo of L.E. White Coal Co. the end platform of a trestle is to the upper right and has wooden railings.
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And this photo of Hessick & Son Coal Co. shows handrails along the length of this single track trestle and around the end platform.
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I will not need a handrail the length of this trestle since the platform is between 2 tracks, but I will need one for my single track trestle when I build it.

So, I guess that answers my question, wooden railings it is! I find it interesting in that photo of Hessick & Son Coal, you can see chutes and other apparatus built under the track to collect and distribute the aggregate. The piers are poured concrete, you can see the lines from the wooden forms used to pour the concrete. At least 2 of the intermediate piers have had wooden extensions added. There is some sort of wooden bin built on several of the piers... Wish I had more photos.

Dave