CvilleRail Board member Bill Middleton has recently published a master reference work on North American Railroads. Bill is one of the world's most authoritative writers on railroads and travel by rail. He has written more than 20 books and hundreds of articles about rail and rail travel. Here is information about his most recent work, which can be purchased from Indiana University Press at http://www.iupress.indiana.edu/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=41110 .
Encyclopedia of North American Railroads
Edited by William D. Middleton, George M. Smerk, and Roberta L. Diehl
"Lavishly illustrated and a joy to read, this authoritative reference work on the North American continent's railroads covers the U.S., Canadian, Mexican, Central American, and Cuban systems. The encyclopedia's over-arching theme is the evolution of the railroad industry and the historical impact of its progress on the North American continent. This thoroughly researched work examines the various aspects of the industry's development: technology, operations, cultural impact, the evolution of public policy regarding the industry, and the structural functioning of modern railroads. More than 500 alphabetical entries cover a myriad of subjects, including numerous entries profiling the principal companies, suppliers, manufacturers, and individuals influencing the history of the rails. Extensive appendices provide data regarding weight, fuel, statistical trends, and more, as well as a list of 130 vital railroad books. Railfans will treasure this indispensable work."
