Dear Friends,

Happy Summer, and welcome to my 125th auction, featuring over 500 lots of quality railroad memorabilia and collectibles looking for a new home.

This auction is especially meaningful to me as it features many wonderful pieces from the collection of our dear friend, Robert Pounds, who passed away in August of 2008. Many of you knew Robert as one of the foremost historians of the Kansas City, Mexico & Orient Railway. he also served as a Senior Special Agent with the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway. Although Robert has been gone for many years, I recently had the pleasure of meeting with his sons, who entrusted me with a remarkable portion of his collection. It has truly been an honor to help preserve and share the history that Robert spent a lifetime collecting. I know many of you will recognize pieces throughout this auction that reflect his incredible knowledge and passion for the railroad hobby.

More recently, I was also entrusted with the estate of another wonderful friend, Paul Schacht of Lockney, Texas. Auction 126 will be dedicated to him and showcase some amazing, rare items from his collection.

Sadly, we have also recently lost several other valued members of our railroad family. Doug McIntyre, whose book The Official Guide to Railroad Dining Car China became the trusted reference for so many collectors over the years. Peter Mazzeo, a longtime client who loved railroad china.

I know there may be other friends we have lost. Thinking about these wonderful friends, I am reminded how fortunate we are to be part of such a special community. These collections are much more than antiques or collectibles. They represent friendships, stories, history, and a shared passion that has connected so many of us over the years. Thank you for continuing to be part of that family.

On a business note, I continue to look for ways to improve your auction experience. Shipping costs have continued to rise, and I am working toward implementing a better shipping system that I hope many of you will appreciate. Thank you, as always, for your patience and support as we make these improvements together.

One recent change that has worked very well is the addition of direct payment links on your invoices. You can now conveniently pay online by credit card or through PayPal with just a click.

I sincerely appreciate every one of you for your friendship, your loyalty, and your continued support over all these years. I hope you find something in this auction that brings back a special memory, adds to your collection, or simply makes you smile.

Have a wonderful summer, enjoy the hunt, and remember, life is short, follow your passion, treasure the friendships you make along the way, and enjoy your time here.

Good Luck Bidding,

Sue

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