two question: Operation and turnout?

[Squidbait]

The pictures with the artical show the use of steam engine. Assuming that the engine pulled the train in frontwards, then the return trip would be with the tender going first? Is this prototypical?

Thanks for the info, Kent

Kent,

Looking at the plan, that's the only way I can see to do it... there isn't any obvious reverse loop or anything, so you'd pretty much have to do a runaround and back it home.

I'm pretty sure it was done in prototype practice, especially on small branchlines without wyes or turntables at the end of the line. I don't know a lot about operating rules for steam locos, so it may be that they would have had to proceed at a reduced speed running tender first. It wouldn't be the most comfortable way to run for the crew, either.