The Golden Years Of The Great Northern Railway

Containing over 25,000 entries, this unique volume will be absolutely indispensable for all those with an interest in Britain in the twentieth century. Accessibly arranged by theme, with helpful introductions to each chapter, a huge range of topics is covered. There is a comprehensiveindex.

The romance with the age of steam and the steam locomotives that revolutionised industry, travel and even holidays in the latter part of the 19th century are featured in this book, from the development of Richard Trevithick’s first working locomotive and Stephenson’s Rocket to the iconic engines of the 20th century. The Great Western Railway (GWR) was a crucial part in the growth of steam, along with the LNER, LMS, Southern and Settle & Carlisle lines. The trains themselves are of course the vital ingredient and some of the classics are highlighted including: Evening Star, Duchess of Hamilton, City of Truro, Flying Scotsman and Mallard. Despite the demise of steam in the 1950s and 1960s, many locomotives have survived thanks to the dedicated volunteers on preservation railways both in the UK and across the globe. Scenic journeys available via steam today are also discovered while captivating pictures provide a backdrop for this interesting story.

For the century after 1865 all the largest railroad companies had flagship luxury trains, spectacularly appointed steamliners offering unrivaled standards of service and thoughtful amenities including ladies' perfume and carnations for gentlemen. These luxury trains transported well-heeled passengers in grand style across spectacular American landscapes in an atmosphere of privilege and elegance. Including the iconic Super Chief of the Sante Fe Railway and New York Central System's fabled 20th Century Limited, they became legends in their day and for decades after their last runs. This beautifully illustrated book allows readers to experience the exhilarating journeys, the exquisitely designed train cars and the vintage advertisements and posters that together made up the passenger's experience during this golden age of train travel – an age still remembered and celebrated today.