Since the post above, the ESRM has formally decided to give away the diner. The ESRM would prefer to give it to a museum or railroad group that will restore it, or use it for some kind of railroad use. As part of this the ESRM is researching the history of the car, and preparing a detailed report on the car for prospective "buyers". "Red Baron" and "H. F. Malone"'s reports above has been an excellent start. I plan to help by taking some more photos as soon as I get to the car on a sunny day.
As mentioned above, the ESRM would prefer to have this car sent to a new home rather than scrap it, and though there is no hard deadline, there is a feeling that there needs to be some resolution soon. Though it is blocking the CMRR's main line, it can also be taken up the line to West Hurley when the other cars are moved and stored on the siding there to get it out of the way.
What is really needed is an independent assessment of the condition of the car, so prospective restorers could have some idea of what they would be getting into. Perhaps someone knowledgeable in this area could go to Kingston, see the car in person and make such an evaluation as part of the process of finding the car a new home.
Anyone who wishes to communicate directly to the ESRM should contact Dakin Morehouse who is in charge of resolving this issue. Dakin is the Station Master at Phoenicia and an ESRM board member. Please contact me privately for Dakin's email and phone number.
Ernie Hunt
Member, Empire State Railway Museum
Volunteer Coordinator, Catskill Mountain RR