In October of 1992, I had the extreme pleasure of getting to ride the cab of one of three diesel helpers assisting 611 from Spartanburg, SC to Melrose, NC. From Melrose 611 would tackle the famous Saluda Grade, 4+ percent, for the first time. The line between Tryon, NC to Melrose was a bit of a climb with many sharp curves as evident in the photo. After arriving at Melrose, 611 was cut off and the diesels took the train, less five cars, on to Saluda. 611 and the five coaches followed putting on a spectacular show for the hundreds of people trackside.
