howdy today @goldendawne! yes I've read that theory also but I wasn't sure about it or at least the details. I don't know why they would be bringing their railroad lights with them instead of leaving them on the train. And I wouldn't think they'd want to attract so much attention to themselves as the regular citizenry weren't carrying big lanterns around.

I've read that the Parlors used red lanterns at night outside the house to let people know where they were but the story of the railroad workers being that dumb doesn't make sense to me but who knows? lol.
when you got one thing on your mind you can be pretty dumb!
not you but men. lol
thanks so much for stopping by and commenting!