Alphabetically organized, fully cross-referenced, and packed with photographs, this enticing encyclopedia makes the perfect gift for anyone who ever felt drawn to the sight of an onrushing train. It features the most significant innovations in locomotive technology, as well as the most important and colorful characters from the history of the iron horse. Thrill to the true story of Casey Jones and his ill fated final journey; was he simply trying to stay on schedule that day--or was he determined to die? Read about the difficulties encountered during the construction of the Cape-to-Cairo Railroad, Cecil Rhodes’ ambitious and still unrealized dream of a trans-African railway. Marvel at the magnetic levitation trains that have the capability of traveling at speeds in excess of 200 miles per hour. With its facts and details, fabulous lore and photographs old and new, this reference brings history to life as never before. Read Less