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.

Preface
Acknowledgments
Overview Essays
Development of North American Railroads
Keith L. Bryant, Jr.
A Social History of American Railroads
H. Roger Grant
Technology and Operating Practice in the 19th Century
John H. White, Jr.
Technology and Operating Practice in the 20th Century
William D. Middleton
Rebuilding a New Rail System
Don Phillips
General Entries
Appendix A: A Statistical Abstract of the Railroads of North America
Appendix B: Maps
Appendix C: Glossary of Railroad Terms
Appendix D: 130 Most Notable Railroad Books
Index