David’s Comments (group member since Jun 02, 2020)

David’s comments from the rails group.

“CONRAIL and It’s Predecessors”
From Storied Bankruptcies to Unexpected Profits

By: Brian Solomon

I grew up seeing the Pennsylvania Railroad’s passenger and freight trains roaring by my home. Not far away from my home, I could always count cars on a fast New York Central passing train! Some of my earliest and fondest memories are of my parents taking me trackside to watch trains zoom by!

Living in Central Indiana, I was treated to the Pennsylvania Railroad, New York Central Railroad, Illinois Central Railroad, The Cleveland, Cincinnati, Chicago and St. Louis Railway, also known as the Big Four Railroad and of course - our very own “Hoosier Line” - the Chicago, Indianapolis, and Louisville Railway or “MONON”.

Then in 1968, the unthinkable occurred. Two giant rival rail lines - The Pennsylvania & the New York Central, agreed to become one (PennCentral).

What happened following this shocking event, is thoroughly detailed in words and photographs within this fine book!

Brian Solomon has delved into the rich history of how Consolidated Rail Corporation - immediately named CONRAIL - came into this life. How for over 20 years, it fought hard for life. It’s struggles, its triumphs - its friends and its enemies.

Then, ultimately, a few years prior to its 25th birthday, how it was dismantled and sold off. Mr. Solomon and the photographers that form the soul of this book have captured the CONRAIL that I came to know, love and still to this very day, mourn the loss of.

Five-Stars...I recommend this book to anyone who yearns to relive, discover, research or just plain enjoy reading about the day-to-day activities of a Class 1 giant Railroad.

Rails Around Indiana
The Hoosier State in Days Past
By: Michael C Kelly & David Crisler, Jr.

Once again, I chose a very specific subject book to enjoy. Railroading is a long-time interest and passion for me. I also thoroughly love history, and especially Indiana History.

When a book becomes available that combines my two great passionate loves, it immediately is on my “to-be-read” list. Rails Around Indiana 100% fills that specification.

Within the 296 beautifully designed pages are hundreds of fascinating and historic railroad photographs. Tracing the steel rail history of the Hoosier State from the 19th Century through the 20th Century.

Photos and stories from the major rail lines serving Indiana; including the Pennsylvania, New York Central, B&O, C&O and of course the State’s “home” road MONON.

Steam, diesel, passenger, freight trains - this book is overflowing with both colorful and black & white photos.

For anyone who love railroads, this book should be on your library shelf!