Description

The Prospector — Volume 01 Set (2002 Inaugural Year)

The Volume 01 Set brings together all four issues from the inaugural year of The Prospector, the flagship publication of the Rio Grande Modeling & Historical Society. These first four issues established the magazine’s long‑standing reputation for authoritative research, high‑quality photography, detailed modeling guidance, and carefully curated historical material. Together, they form a foundational archive for anyone interested in the Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad.

Across this complete set, readers will find in‑depth equipment studies, regional and operational histories, modeling articles across multiple scales, rare images from private collections, and the debut of the Society’s long‑term reference project—the D&RGW Encyclopedia. Purchasing the full set offers a convenient way to secure the entire inaugural year at once, ensuring a cohesive and comprehensive addition to any Rio Grande library.

The Prospector — Volume 1, Number 1 (First Quarter 2002)
The premiere issue introduces the Society’s mission and editorial vision, supported by articles on Helper, Montrose in 1940, Utah line history, N‑scale mill gondolas, Sn3 modeling, and a robust Reference Data section featuring material from the 1977 Equipment Catalog and 1966 MOW Standards. A cornerstone issue that launched the publication’s archival quality.

The Prospector — Volume 1, Number 2 (Second Quarter 2002)
Anchored by Jim Eager’s definitive study of the Rio Grande’s GS gondola fleet, this issue also debuts the D&RGW Encyclopedia, providing official folio sheets and technical data. Additional features include the South Local, narrow‑gauge ore loading, GP35 No. 3048, Judge Sanborn’s pivotal role in saving the Rio Grande, and the 1908 D&RG/RGW steam renumbering.

The Prospector — Volume 1, Number 3 (Third Quarter 2002)
A diverse issue featuring Robert Harmen’s “Smurfs & Pumpkins” history of the ex‑Conrail GP40s, a detailed study of depots and facilities in the Pike’s Peak region, A. B. Kent Sr.’s Grand Junction hump yard history, and Matt Hutson’s large‑scale SD45 modeling article. The Artifacts section includes historic Grand Junction photographs, Telluride switching scenes, and supplemental GP40 images.

The Prospector — Volume 1, Number 4 (Fourth Quarter 2002)
The final issue of the inaugural year includes a tribute to Jackson C. Thode, his Aspen Branch history, Jim Eager’s PS‑1 boxcar study, Frank Keller’s survey of surviving freight equipment, and early HO signal previews. A strong conclusion to the year, blending narrative history, technical research, and rare photography.

Why Collect the Full Volume 01 Set

• The complete beginning of The Prospector, capturing the year that established the magazine’s voice, depth, and archival mission.
• Foundational research on equipment, operations, depots, and Rio Grande history—material not available anywhere else in a single source.
• Modeling resources across N, Sn3, and large scale, supported by prototype drawings, folios, and technical data from original D&RGW records.
• Rare photography spanning the steam era through the early 2000s, including Helper, Telluride, Grand Junction, and the “Smurfs.”
• Essential for collectors building a complete run of the magazine or preserving the Society’s early work.
• A simple way to secure the entire inaugural year at once—far easier than adding each individual issue to the cart.