The Railroading Handbook

Railroads have evolved significantly from their beginnings in the early 1800s. Today's locomotives are high-tech marvels, and computers have led to significant advances in signaling, communications, and train control. The Railroading Handbook explains how and why railroads have evolved to where they are today. You'll find facts and figures about railroads, locomotives, freight cars, and train operations, including history, mergers, government agencies, and railroad trade associations. Why did diesels replace steam locomotives? How are trains dispatched? How do cushion underframes work? How heavy is rail? Why did small-town stations disappear? How much freight do railroads haul today compared to the steam era? You'll find answers to all of these questions and more! Book jacket.