Synopses & Reviews
More than just a railroad, the Southern Pacific was an empire, anchored in San Francisco but stretching from Portland, Oregon, to several ports on the Gulf of Mexico. From austere western roots, the "Espee" grew into a far-flung railroad of some 17,000 route miles. In fact, for many years, it was the nations only true transcontinental railroad.
This illustrated history tells the tale of SP's development from 1861 through its 1996 acquisition by Union Pacific. Through some 150 archival photographs, route maps, period ads, and timetables, readers are treated to the history of steam and diesel power, as well as freight and passenger operations.
In addition to images of the Southern Pacific's flashy red and orange Daylight streamliners, the book features photography from the railroads fabled Coast Line, Shasta Route, Golden State Route, and the granddaddy of 'em all, the Overland Route.
Synopsis
One of the most famous railways in American history, the Southern Pacific first gained prominence in the 19th century for helping to build the transcontinental railroad, and later for its cab-forward steam locomotives, streamliner passenger service, and freight operations. Archival color and black-and-white photography showcase the locomotives, rolling stock, passenger cars, and events of the Southern Pacific -- the railroad which, in its heyday, enjoyed revenues second only to the New York Central and the Pennsylvania. Railroad enthusiasts will cherish the combination of rare images and authoritative history documenting the railroad that continues to play a vital role in American transportation.
Synopsis
A colorful look at the great American railroad - the Southern Pacific. The Southern Pacific Railroad is one of the most important railroads in the US. In its heyday, Southern Pacific operating revenues were overshadowed only by the New York Central and Pennsylvania Railroad. Southern Pacific is famous for participating in the building of the transcontinental railroad, its fleet of Daylight streamlined passenger trains, and its 200 "Cab-Forward" steam locomotives. Information-packed!
About the Author
Brian Solomon is one of today’s most accomplished railway historians. He has authored more than 30 books about railroads and motive power, and his writing and photography have been featured in Trains, Railway Age, Passenger Train Journal, and RailNews. Solomon divides his time between Monson, Massachusetts, and Dublin, Ireland.