Galloping Goose (railcar)

There was not enough passenger or cargo income to justify continuing the expensive steam train service at then-current levels, but it was believed that a downsized railway would return to profitability.

This cost saving meant that the first Goose was paid off and making a profit within three weeks of going into service.

Part of the rear of the car was replaced by a truck stake-bed for carrying freight and mail; this was later enclosed and partially fitted with seating.

In 1935 they were all painted in a silver scheme which they retain to this day, though the style of lettering and heralds changed over the years.

It is mostly commonly suggested that it referred to the way the carbody and the freight compartment tended to rock back and forth on the line's sometimes precarious track.

It is also suggested, though, that the name arose because the "geese" were equipped with air horns rather than the whistles of the steam locomotives.

The name was used informally for years before the tourist operations, though the railroad officially referred to the units as "motors".

When the San Christobal folded in 1939, this unit was returned to the RGS railroad and dismantled, with some parts going to rebuild and maintain Goose No.