Alabama Railroads

In the first comprehensive history of Alabama's railroad system, Alabama Railroads explores how the railroads shaped the state's politics, economy, and culture from the 1830s to the 1970s. With over 100 rare and vintage illustrations, the book highlights the importance of the railroads in developing Alabama's natural resources and bringing settlers to the American frontier.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 328 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2024
Publisher: The University of Alabama Press

Alabama's railroad system played a crucial role in shaping the nation's transportation infrastructure, and this comprehensive history, Alabama Railroads, provides a detailed account of its development from the early 19th century to the late 20th century. The book explores the state's significant contributions to the growth of the railroad industry, highlighting how the construction of railroads facilitated the exploration and exploitation of Alabama's vast natural resources.

The Tuscumbia Railway Company's charter in January 1830 marked the beginning of Alabama's railroad history, and the system continued to evolve over the next several decades. The construction of railroads in Alabama facilitated the growth of numerous towns and cities, including Birmingham, which owes its existence to the railroads. The railroads also played a pivotal role in securing land grants that brought settlers and the railroad to every corner of the American frontier.

During the Civil War, the states rail system became a primary target for Union raiders, and an Alabama rail connection into Chattanooga proved to be a vital asset in the Union's victory. After the war, the railroad continued to shape politics and economic development in the state. Most of the significant events of Alabama's first 100 years of history were influenced in a significant manner by the railroad.

Alabama Railroads chronicles these events, from the land grant legislation that opened up the state to the strategic importance of Alabama's railroads in the Civil War to the founding of Birmingham and the development of the state's agricultural, mineral, and timber regions. The book also provides a detailed account of the development of all the major lines and short lines, from the early horse-drawn cars to the iconic streamliners of the 20th century.

Wayne Cline, the author of Alabama Railroads, has done an extensive research to trace the development of all the major lines and short lines in Alabama. The book includes detailed maps and illustrations that help visualize the growth and expansion of the railroad system throughout the state. Cline also provides a wealth of information about the people and companies that played a significant role in the railroad's development, including the engineers, conductors, and workers who built and operated the railroads.

Alabama Railroads is a valuable resource for anyone interested in Alabama's history, transportation, and economic development. The book provides a comprehensive and detailed account of the state's railroad system, and it sheds light on the significant contributions that Alabama has made to the growth and development of the nation's transportation infrastructure.

Weight: 853g
Dimension: 279 x 216 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780817361679