Railroad bridges and train trestles can trace their roots back to the industry’s beginnings. Initially built using stone or wood and later using iron or steel, engineers have designed some quite stunning, sometimes harrowing bridges that not only hold a person but heavy trains as well. 
The 1800s were a booming time in the history of the United States railroad industry. The nation was expanding west, and the frontier began to close. Following the Civil War and the Transcontinental Railroad completion, a major driving factor in the country’s economic growth was the railroad industry. Privately owned and unregulated, railroads controlled the…
The Big Boy is by far Union Pacific Railroad’s most notorious steam locomotive. From its sheer size to the strength the engine boasts, it is a favorite engine for many railroad fans. However, the Union Pacific Challenger would pave the way as the ‘little’ brother for the famed steam engine. Looking for new locomotives that…
Snow removal on the railroad is a job that has been around since the earliest railroads themselves. Railroads were expensive investments; it was a given that they should operate all year long. However, once Old Man Winter starts spreading the snow around, it is exceedingly difficult for trains to run on the rails. Some trains…
Many of us have seen the familiar sight of the toy train around the Christmas tree, most often making its way about its infinite oval, sometimes passing a few buildings and observers along the way. A few of the outstanding ones had real smoke coming from the stack and the familiar “whoo-whoo” that would ward…
With the holidays approaching like a speeding locomotive, many of us wonder what might be on the table this year for us to feast our eyes and tummy’s on. Most of us dream of that home-cooked meal for Thanksgiving or Christmas, as the snow falls outside and the fireplace crackles. Perhaps, this year, we may…
Two members of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters carry luggage from a sleeping car in this 1946 photo. The life of a Pullman Porter was far from perfect. In…
November 6th, 1855: On this date in railroad history, 68 engineers from 13 states representing 45 railroads met in Baltimore, Maryland to organize the National Protective Association of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers of the United States, say that three times fast, forming the nation’s first railroad union. In 1863 it became known as the Brotherhood…
There is nothing like boarding the train to take you to a far off destination. The elegant brightwork of the coaches, the steam coming off of the cylinders of the locomotive, and of course, the smartly dressed conductor who was ready to punch your ticket. A finely dressed conductor was one of the first things…
The Harvey Girls came first, followed by the Zephyrette’s. These female pioneers in customer service on the railroads. They were the epitome of grace. When the United States focused on westward expansion, the Transcontinental Railroad completion would connect the coasts, and one businessman focused on travelers’ comforts. Fred Harvey opened a series of diners he…