RUBBERNECK CAR Observation
RULE G That rule in the book of rules which forbid the use of alcohol or narcotics while on duty or subject for duty
RUNNING AGAINST A TRAIN When two trains are to meet at a certain point, they are said to be running against each other
RUN REGARDLESS The right of a train to run regardless of other trains
SCOOP Fireman's shovel, also news or gossip
SECTION A part of one or more trains running on the same schedule, displaying signals or for which signals are displayed
SEMAPHORE An apparatus or signal for conveying information to trains
SENIORITY The track rights of one train over another. Also the right of an employe to advance over another due to time in service
SHACK Brakeman
SHORT Cars to be set out between terminals
SHUFFLE THE DECK To stop at each station and switch cars
SIDE DOOR PULLMAN Hobo's name for a box car
SMOKE ORDERS or SMOKING OVER In the early days, trains were often moved from one station to another without written orders. Train crews watched for the other fellows smoke to avoid collisions. Thus the term Smoke Orders
SNAKEHEAD In the days of strap rail, the iron would often come loose from the wooden rails and pierce the floors of cars. Due to their shape they became known as Snakeheads
SNOOZER Sleeping car
SOFT BELLIES Cars with wood floors
STATION A place designated in the timetable by name
SPECIAL TRAIN A train provided for special purposes
SPEEDY The callboy
SOAK A non superheated steam locomotive
SPOT To place a locomotive or car in a designated position. Also to rest or eat
SPOTTER Company inspector
STAR GAZER A day dreaming brakeman who fails to observe signals
STEEL A name for rail

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