This latest book in the popular Historical Atlas series outlines the development of the railroad system from its very beginnings around 1830 through to today's freight railroads and government passenger services. It features an unprecedented 400-plus contemporary and historical railroad maps, photographs and many other railroadiana illustrations.

Map on lining papers. .

The railroad map -- Origins -- Local lines -- Extending outward -- Toward a network -- Pacific dreams -- A railroad war -- A network west -- The first transcontinental railroad -- The race west -- Years of glory -- More transcontinentals -- The end of monopoly -- Defending the nation -- A thousand glorious tomorrows.