This signal in a way is a celebrity for signalfans. This first generation Griswold signal is one of the earliest types of warning devices invented after the wigwag. There are very few (probably less than 10) surviving in the U.S. There was another one like this across the street, but it was totalled in an accident (not an accident with a train). It was replaced by a 12"x20" signal with a WCH electronic bell, as seen in picture 2 as well as pictures 18-22 below.

 

The crossbuck and stop sign are not the same signs that existed when these signals were invented. Old age, and probably vandalism, and graffiti have taken out the old signs.

The mechanical bell seen on picture 4 is a WRRS mechanical bell.

Picture 5 gives a good look at the signal cabinet.

 

These pictures were taken on June 19, 2005 around 9:30 AM PST.

Exactly 14 months later on August 19, 2006 we find the signal is still intact, and still has the WRRS mechanical bell on it as seen in picture 9.

Going on 80 years old, this signal still looks like it's in very great condition. The STOP sign isn't too bad either.

The STOP sign looks like it was made for this signal. I doubt one of today's signs could work for this signal.

The base of the signal, which looks pretty sturdy.

The stop sign swiveled into place when activated within 1/3 of a second upon activation!

 

CLICK THE ICON TO THE LEFT TO HEAR THE WHOLE ACTIVATION SEQUENCE! (CLIP TAKEN AUGUST 19, 2006)

 

Note: Only 2 locomotives crossed. The signals stayed active for 1 minute 50 seconds before the train crossed (reminds me a lot of Argentina's signals). A lot of drivers didn't care to stop for the signals when activated.

There used to be a second Griswold over on this side of the crossing, but a vehicle took it out and rendered it unrepairable during the early 2000s. This signal replaced the Griswold. The lights are 12"x20" WCH incandescent lights with an WRRS "spider" as a few railfans call...

 

There's a WCH type 2 electronic bell on top of the signal as well as a "2 Tracks" sign below the lights. For a new signal, I like the signal a lot, mostly because it's ungated.

 

Also, the base for this mast signal is from Safetran, although unpictured.

More detailed shots of the Griswold as well as a far away shot in picture 29.

 

Notice next to the Griswold a box? While not looked at, we're over 90% sure that it's a "2 Tracks" sign to go along with the other 2 tracks sign on the 12"x20" signal.

On December 26, 2007, we find that caltrain927@yahoo.com came out here to check on the Griswold. Everything appears to be the same including the stop sign, lights, and the signal case seen in picture 32.

The WRRS mechanical bell.

A side view of the Griswold.

There's no light bulb! This is for the stop sign, not the crossbuck.