What does those numbers on signs next to rail ways mean ???

Question

They are small signs on a post with number.

Answer 1

Black numbers on white background is a mile marker.

Black numbers on yellow background is a speed post. F XX means freight train speed; P XX means passenger train speed. If there are no letters, it refers to all trains. If the sign is at an angle, it means the posted speed zone is 2 miles ahead. If it is straight, it is the beginning of the speed zone.

A white sign with a black W on it is a whistle board. That is where we start blowing the whistle for a public or private crossing.

Answer 2

They are indeed mile posts. Most times hung on the nearest phone pole to the mile, so not always really accurate.

When you see a mile post standing alone, on its own post, where the post is white painted with black stripes around it, this indicates it and the one similarly painted in one mile in either direction is a "measured mile," good for checking the accuracy of the speedometer on the locomotive.

Speed boards are almost always standing on their own post as well. Where there are two numbers displayed separated by a hyphen (-) the first number indicates the speed that applies to trains consisting entirely of passenger equipment, while the second applies to all other trains.

In advance of some crossings the "whistle board" may display a "W" or an "X" to denote 1/4 mile to the next grade crossing. When the W or X is followed by a number, it indicates multiple crossings less that 1/4 mile apart, and the number tells how many crossings there are.

"Control Point" numbers are displayed as well, but these are usually on the side of the "signal house" that contains the electrical equipment for controlled sidings and controlled signals, usually very near the switch involved. But, not all control points involve switches, and these will be displayed on their own post, but they are few in number.

Signal numbers appear on the signal mast and apply only to automatic block signals.

Answer 3

They are indeed almost always mile markers although occasionally others refer to speed limit restrictions. Also, if you notice signs with a simple "W" posted on them these are whistle posts instructing the engineer to begin blowing his horn at an upcoming crossing or other protected location.

Answer 4

Well, you have to be a bit more specific.

There are:

Mile Markers
Control Point Signs
Signal numbers
Catenary post numbers (on electrified lines)
Speed posts (forgot that one)

Answer 5

Mile markers

Answer 6

Used to work for the railroad. I do not understand your questions. If you clarify, I can answer for you.
M

Answer 7

miles unless they changed it to hours relax you will get their.