Books

[Robkeb]

Can anyone on this forum tell something about the following books:

http://www.amazon.com/Merging-Lines-American-Railroads-1900-1970/dp/0875802656/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1216491710&sr=8-1

http://www.amazon.com/Main-Lines-American-Railroads-1970-2002/dp/0875803164/ref=pd_bbs_2?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1216491710&sr=8-2

I'm looking for an overview of the history in USA railroading. It doesn't have to be very specific, but an overall view of the past and modern past of American railroad companies would do.

Thanks in advance,
Rob

[arrow201]

I would reccomend Stephen Ambrose's book "Nothing Like it in the World." This book is about the building of the transcontinental railroad 1863-1869. It was published in 2000.

John

[Robkeb]

Thanks John, for replying. I just had a look at Amazon, but I'm afraid this is not what I'm looking for. It doesn't have to be that specific for me.

Thanks again,
Rob

[obo]

Hi Rob.

I have both books. I've read Main Lines but so far only skimmed Merging Lines. Together they give a good overview of the railroad industry from 1900 up to 2002 with the dividing line being the Penn Central debacle.

If you're looking for a general overview I don't think you can do much better than these, especially Main Lines for the more recent story. Well written, lots of route maps, good index and good bibliography.

Let me know if you have any more specific questions.

Regards,

Rob.

[Robkeb]

Thanks Rob, for you advice. I ordered them last weekend. I'll wait and see how long it takes to ship them to the Netherlands. I'll let you know if I can share your opinion.;)

Regards,

Rob (the other one).