Ringneck & Western Railroad Team Celebrates Safety

Several members of the Ringneck & Western Railroad (RWRR) gathered to celebrate the end of Summer Spike with a family picnic in Mitchell, South Dakota. The team incorporated a potluck-style theme, and everyone brought a different dish.

Conductor/Engineer Lynn Eckmann introduced the team to a meal known in the area as cream can cooking, the prairie version of a clam bake. The cook fills a 10-gallon vintage cream can with fresh vegetables such as sweet corn and potatoes, as well as a meat such as smoked sausage. Water is then added and the food is cooked on an open flame.

RWRR General Manager Kley Cameron said the meal was very interesting and delicious. “We also had a great talk about safety and our appreciation for team members completing the Summer Spike safety program without an injury. With winter coming, we brought up the things we need to look for going into the cold season.”

Pictured above: Bottom row (l-r): Emma Eckmann (Lynn's daughter), Patsy Dortch, Myron Dortch, Rachael Cameron, Kley Cameron, and Tony Solie. Top row (l-r): Jill Eckmann, Lynn Eckmann, Joleen Butcher, Bobby Butcher, Wendall Hoffman, and Lindsay Hoffman.