Description

The Prospector — Volume 03 Set (2004 Publication Year)

The Volume 03 Set brings together all four issues published in 2004, a year marked by deep historical research, early‑era locomotive studies, diesel‑era operations, equipment documentation, and expanded modeling resources. These issues highlight the Society’s growing archival capabilities, including station maps, rare photography, and multi‑part equipment series such as the D&RGW tank car studies. Together, they form a cohesive and richly illustrated addition to any Rio Grande library.

Across this complete set, readers will find early Rio Grande locomotive paint schemes, pioneering piggyback operations, tank car history from steam through the 1970s, branch line histories, modeling reviews, and contemporary photography. Purchasing the full set provides a convenient way to secure the entire 2004 run of The Prospector, ensuring a unified and comprehensive addition to your collection.

The Prospector — Volume 3, Number 1 (First Quarter 2004)
This issue opens the year with standout Don Ball Jr. photography, the first installment of the D&RGW tank car series, an in‑depth analysis of the Waco accident, and focused studies on the Durango turntable, RGS “Galloping Goose,” and Pile Driver OB. A strong blend of historical research and modeling value.

The Prospector — Volume 3, Number 2 (Second Quarter 2004)
Featuring the introduction of new staff member Glenn Leasure, this issue expands the Society’s station map archive and includes a detailed review of Rio Grande Narrow Gauge Varnish. Additional articles explore Missouri Pacific’s coal connections, Tennessee Pass tunnel portals, and the remnants of the Cañon Local.

The Prospector — Volume 3, Number 3 (Third Quarter 2004)
A richly illustrated issue anchored by Jim Eager’s history of the Rio Grande’s pioneering piggyback operations. Also included are early D&RG locomotive paint schemes (1871–81), an Atlas N‑scale Mogul review, a Rio Grande Gallery of member‑submitted photography, and Part II of the D&RGW tank car series focusing on diesel fuel distribution cars.

The Prospector — Volume 3, Number 4 (Fourth Quarter 2004)
The final issue of 2004 presents a detailed history of the Rio Grande Western’s Provo Cañon Branch, supported by maps, photographs, and archival research. Additional features include a Rio Grande Gallery showcasing David Fletcher’s exquisite 1:20.3‑scale model of D&RG No. 3 Shou‑wa‑no, a set of product reviews, and a comprehensive study of the D&RGW F‑81 2‑10‑2 locomotives. A strong conclusion to the year, blending narrative history, technical research, and rare imagery.

Why Collect the Full Volume 03 Set

• A complete snapshot of the Society’s 2004 editorial direction—balancing deep historical research, equipment studies, modeling content, and rare photography across all four issues.
• Multi‑part coverage of D&RGW tank cars, spanning auxiliary tenders to diesel‑era fuel distribution, presented cohesively across the year.
• Rich early‑era locomotive history, including detailed paint schemes of the 1870s and the F‑81 2‑10‑2s, paired with modern modeling reviews and prototype insights.
• Significant operational studies such as the Provo Cañon Branch and the Rio Grande’s pioneering piggyback service, supported by maps, diagrams, and archival images.
• Consistent editorial quality from Keith Williams and the RGM&HS team, with expanded station maps, member photography, and historical commentary.
• A convenient way to secure the entire 2004 run at once—far easier than adding each issue individually to the cart, and ideal for collectors building a complete Prospector archive.