American Steam Locomotives: Design and Development, 1880–1960 (Railroads Past and Present)

I just got my copy, and it is great so far. As a train nerd and former electrical engineer by trade, I have enjoyed every detail of the engineering trade-offs, such as air brakes versus vacuum brakes, iron versus steel fireboxes, and passenger engine versus freight engine wheel size. For me, the only glaring omission is a photo of the author, William L. Withuhn, who died in 2017 after completing the manuscript. I found it touching that his wife, Gail, and his editor, Peter Hansen pushed this great volume through to publication. Fortunately, photos of Mr. Withuhn are available online, owing to his lifetime of accomplishments beyond this book.

this book has a lot of detail and is generally interesting. the author is very knowledgeable and there are a ton of details. However for me, reading about ten details of a coal grate, or how this grate is different from that one without an occasional illustration is not really what I wanted in this book. Perhaps I was looking for a bit less detail and a bit more illustrative explanation.

This book has a wealth of information - sometimes a little too detailed. There are a few areas where it would be easier to understand if photos or diagrams were used, but getting past that minor difficulty, I learned a great deal about steam locomotives and their limitations. I knew maintenance was a problem, but I had no idea how big of a problem it was. And I was not aware that counterbalancing was so difficult. I only wish they had today's computers in 1930-1940. The book takes the reader from early steam through the 1940's. This is a very intense book and I think it is a must for those seriously interested in how steam locomotives were designed and how they performed in service.

I had read a review on this book and thought it might be a nice addition to my railroad library, so I jumped onto Amazon and was immediately put off by its price. Based on the review, the number of pages and the reputation of the author, I was expecting something in the $120 - 150 range, so when I saw the actual price, it made me wonder if the book would be as good as I had thought. Well, it is - and more. They say the best things come in small packages. Physically, with 464 pages, it is fairly thick, but it's a smaller book - certainly not coffee table size. Just a bit smaller than a magazine. And it is packed with information. A long-time curator at the Smithonian and a licensed locomotive engineer on steam locomotives, Mr. Withuhn not only brings a wealth of information that has been thoroughly researched, but presents it in an unusual way that is very informative and at the same time very easy to read and understand. He balances very well, meeting the needs and interests of the dedicated steam locomotive enthusiast and the novice who wants to learn more about them. There's something in this book for everybody. I mentioned that he presents it in an unusual way. Many books like this tend to be a rather dry recitation of facts. Or, they are often shallow surveys of the general world of steam locomotives. But Mr. Withuhn's approach is refreshingly different. In his telling the story of the development of these amazing machines, he considers the importance of understanding the people who specified and designed them and the factors that played into their decisions. This adds a dimension to the story that brings it alive. It puts you in touch with them and lets you relate to the fact that these machines were the high tech of their day and these men were breaking new ground, just as our computer and communications engineers do today. It also heightens your understanding of the machines and why they developed the way they did. This book would have been worth it at the price I thought it would go for. At its actual price, it is a phenomenal bargain. This is a must-have book for any railroad enthusiasts library.

Sometimes it doesn't hurt to throw yourself into the deep end. I've had an interest in trains for some time and was looking for something a little more substantial than the usual fare. To say that I got more than I expected would be an understatement; this is, by far, the most detailed book on the subject I've ever read. Rather than another fuzzy, nostalgic look at the "Romance of Steam," this is book delivers exactly what its title promises. It's not terribly surprising that Mr. Withun, the former transportation curator at the Smithsonian Museum of American History, spent more than three decades writing this book, or that he died before it was completely finished. In a word, it's a beast. At once ruthlessly efficient and meticulously detailed, I'd compare it with Norman Friedman's "Illustrated Design Histories" of American warships in terms of detail and scope. He takes us step-by-step through the breathtakingly rapid technical advancement (and occasional embarrassing failure) of American steam locomotive design. Individual chapters cover subjects such as valve gear, wheel design, counterbalancing, compounding, superheating, streamlining, the introduction of diesel locomotives, and poppet valves. Others focus on iconic or groundbreaking locomotives, railroad safety, famous designers, and some of the failed attempts at resisting the diesel revolution. Rather than simply being a dense collection fo statistics, this is a surprisingly readable and flowing text that doesn't read like a technical manual. It does a fine job explaining how each new technology was developed and how it affected locomotive design as a whole, without drifting off on unrelated tangents. I've never seen the many tradeoffs required to design a successful locomotive described with such clarity or detail. The overarching story is one of continuous progress, each locomotive faster, safer, more fuel-efficient, more technically advanced, and more powerful than the last, all in the name of continually driving down the cost of moving freight by rail. It says a lot that, as soon as I finished reading this, I immediately wanted to read the first few chapters again to see if I'd missed anything. That's in spite of the fact it took me nearly five months, on and off, to actually read it from cover to cover. That's not to say that it's boring, it's just that it's extremely lengthy, never really picks up beyond a walking pace, and is best read in ten or fifteen-page segments. The illustrations are functional black and white photographs and the occasional diagram, all with useful captions and all (thankfully!) placed on the same page as the subject being discussed. This is obviously a bit of a niche book, but if you're of a technical bent, and enjoy reading about fireboxes, equalizers, counterweights, steam domes, and starting tractive efforts, and scowl at folks who call pilots "cowcatchers" or locomotives "trains," it belongs on your shelf.

Though the book did cover the history of steam locomotives in America, it spent WAY too much time focusing on the technical aspects of the operation of the engines - and I don't mean the simple basics - this book dove really deep into so much detail that it was useless and unreadable unless I'd be operating a steam locomotive or rebuilding one soon. Worst part is that it didn't really give accompanying drawings that really showed what the author was talking about - there were some tech drawings included but they were basically unreadable - a bit disappointed in this book

Impressive book with lots of info, but it could use more diagrams to illustrate and explain things like the suspension systems of locomotives. And many of the diagrams in the book could be larger and should have parts labelled to help understand what the text is explaining. I have numerous other books about steam locomotives so I can figure out some of these details by referring to other texts, but not everyone has this option. I had hoped that this book would be the longed-for complete reference on steam locomotives, but I don't feel it is quite complete enough. Still, I'm glad I got the book, just a little disappointed.

Anyone who is serious about railroads and their history appreciates a good source of information that is factual and understandable. There have been many bench mark books written over the years on all manner of subjects that pertain to railroading. This volume should be included with them. American Steam Locomotives: Design and Development, 1880–1960 by Bill Withuhn is a tutorial on the reasoning and science as it pertains to how Steam locomotive designs were changed, grew to massive proportions and what worked and what did not. The history starts at the turn of the 1900s and explores the high points of that era and subsequently details the process of improvement that occurred following this to the end of mainline steam operations. Detailed explanations of what worked and why or how it compared to older designs are offered and while the author did not get caught up in the minute details and mathematics of the physics and engineering involved sufficient technical information is included for the essential understanding of this to be made understandable by the reader. If you are serious about the steam era of railroading and want to the genesis of the designs of locomotives that came into prominence this volume would be exactly what you are looking for. It is an easy read and contains enough information that I have started reading it again just so I can glean a little more. I cannot recommend this book more highly.

Excellent and very detailed book about the later development of the American Steam Locomotive. Besides having a very thorough knowledge of the engineering work, thermodynamics, and economics involved in creating these machines, the author obviously did an enormous amount of research, and further is a very good wordsmith. Characteristics that are all too often missing among contemporary authors. An interesting and highly recommended book. Well worth the money.

We bought this book for my father-in-law’s birthday. He used to be a train conductor years ago. He is totally obsessed with trains! This book has everything in it. Lots of pictures, lots of information. You will not be disappointed. It’s definitely worth it. (My boyfriend actually read it first, before he gave it to him. 😂) If you are a big train nerd like them, this book is for you. Also, it’s a really nice book. Perfect gift for someone who loves trains 🚂

I just got my copy, and it is great so far. As a train nerd and former electrical engineer by trade, I have enjoyed every detail of the engineering trade-offs, such as air brakes versus vacuum brakes, iron versus steel fireboxes, and passenger engine versus freight engine wheel size. For me, the only glaring omission is a photo of the author, William L. Withuhn, who died in 2017 after completing the manuscript. I found it touching that his wife, Gail, and his editor, Peter Hansen pushed this great volume through to publication. Fortunately, photos of Mr. Withuhn are available online, owing to his lifetime of accomplishments beyond this book.

this book has a lot of detail and is generally interesting. the author is very knowledgeable and there are a ton of details. However for me, reading about ten details of a coal grate, or how this grate is different from that one without an occasional illustration is not really what I wanted in this book. Perhaps I was looking for a bit less detail and a bit more illustrative explanation.

This book has a wealth of information - sometimes a little too detailed. There are a few areas where it would be easier to understand if photos or diagrams were used, but getting past that minor difficulty, I learned a great deal about steam locomotives and their limitations. I knew maintenance was a problem, but I had no idea how big of a problem it was. And I was not aware that counterbalancing was so difficult. I only wish they had today's computers in 1930-1940. The book takes the reader from early steam through the 1940's. This is a very intense book and I think it is a must for those seriously interested in how steam locomotives were designed and how they performed in service.

I had read a review on this book and thought it might be a nice addition to my railroad library, so I jumped onto Amazon and was immediately put off by its price. Based on the review, the number of pages and the reputation of the author, I was expecting something in the $120 - 150 range, so when I saw the actual price, it made me wonder if the book would be as good as I had thought. Well, it is - and more. They say the best things come in small packages. Physically, with 464 pages, it is fairly thick, but it's a smaller book - certainly not coffee table size. Just a bit smaller than a magazine. And it is packed with information. A long-time curator at the Smithonian and a licensed locomotive engineer on steam locomotives, Mr. Withuhn not only brings a wealth of information that has been thoroughly researched, but presents it in an unusual way that is very informative and at the same time very easy to read and understand. He balances very well, meeting the needs and interests of the dedicated steam locomotive enthusiast and the novice who wants to learn more about them. There's something in this book for everybody. I mentioned that he presents it in an unusual way. Many books like this tend to be a rather dry recitation of facts. Or, they are often shallow surveys of the general world of steam locomotives. But Mr. Withuhn's approach is refreshingly different. In his telling the story of the development of these amazing machines, he considers the importance of understanding the people who specified and designed them and the factors that played into their decisions. This adds a dimension to the story that brings it alive. It puts you in touch with them and lets you relate to the fact that these machines were the high tech of their day and these men were breaking new ground, just as our computer and communications engineers do today. It also heightens your understanding of the machines and why they developed the way they did. This book would have been worth it at the price I thought it would go for. At its actual price, it is a phenomenal bargain. This is a must-have book for any railroad enthusiasts library.

Sometimes it doesn't hurt to throw yourself into the deep end. I've had an interest in trains for some time and was looking for something a little more substantial than the usual fare. To say that I got more than I expected would be an understatement; this is, by far, the most detailed book on the subject I've ever read. Rather than another fuzzy, nostalgic look at the "Romance of Steam," this is book delivers exactly what its title promises. It's not terribly surprising that Mr. Withun, the former transportation curator at the Smithsonian Museum of American History, spent more than three decades writing this book, or that he died before it was completely finished. In a word, it's a beast. At once ruthlessly efficient and meticulously detailed, I'd compare it with Norman Friedman's "Illustrated Design Histories" of American warships in terms of detail and scope. He takes us step-by-step through the breathtakingly rapid technical advancement (and occasional embarrassing failure) of American steam locomotive design. Individual chapters cover subjects such as valve gear, wheel design, counterbalancing, compounding, superheating, streamlining, the introduction of diesel locomotives, and poppet valves. Others focus on iconic or groundbreaking locomotives, railroad safety, famous designers, and some of the failed attempts at resisting the diesel revolution. Rather than simply being a dense collection fo statistics, this is a surprisingly readable and flowing text that doesn't read like a technical manual. It does a fine job explaining how each new technology was developed and how it affected locomotive design as a whole, without drifting off on unrelated tangents. I've never seen the many tradeoffs required to design a successful locomotive described with such clarity or detail. The overarching story is one of continuous progress, each locomotive faster, safer, more fuel-efficient, more technically advanced, and more powerful than the last, all in the name of continually driving down the cost of moving freight by rail. It says a lot that, as soon as I finished reading this, I immediately wanted to read the first few chapters again to see if I'd missed anything. That's in spite of the fact it took me nearly five months, on and off, to actually read it from cover to cover. That's not to say that it's boring, it's just that it's extremely lengthy, never really picks up beyond a walking pace, and is best read in ten or fifteen-page segments. The illustrations are functional black and white photographs and the occasional diagram, all with useful captions and all (thankfully!) placed on the same page as the subject being discussed. This is obviously a bit of a niche book, but if you're of a technical bent, and enjoy reading about fireboxes, equalizers, counterweights, steam domes, and starting tractive efforts, and scowl at folks who call pilots "cowcatchers" or locomotives "trains," it belongs on your shelf.

Though the book did cover the history of steam locomotives in America, it spent WAY too much time focusing on the technical aspects of the operation of the engines - and I don't mean the simple basics - this book dove really deep into so much detail that it was useless and unreadable unless I'd be operating a steam locomotive or rebuilding one soon. Worst part is that it didn't really give accompanying drawings that really showed what the author was talking about - there were some tech drawings included but they were basically unreadable - a bit disappointed in this book

Impressive book with lots of info, but it could use more diagrams to illustrate and explain things like the suspension systems of locomotives. And many of the diagrams in the book could be larger and should have parts labelled to help understand what the text is explaining. I have numerous other books about steam locomotives so I can figure out some of these details by referring to other texts, but not everyone has this option. I had hoped that this book would be the longed-for complete reference on steam locomotives, but I don't feel it is quite complete enough. Still, I'm glad I got the book, just a little disappointed.

Anyone who is serious about railroads and their history appreciates a good source of information that is factual and understandable. There have been many bench mark books written over the years on all manner of subjects that pertain to railroading. This volume should be included with them. American Steam Locomotives: Design and Development, 1880–1960 by Bill Withuhn is a tutorial on the reasoning and science as it pertains to how Steam locomotive designs were changed, grew to massive proportions and what worked and what did not. The history starts at the turn of the 1900s and explores the high points of that era and subsequently details the process of improvement that occurred following this to the end of mainline steam operations. Detailed explanations of what worked and why or how it compared to older designs are offered and while the author did not get caught up in the minute details and mathematics of the physics and engineering involved sufficient technical information is included for the essential understanding of this to be made understandable by the reader. If you are serious about the steam era of railroading and want to the genesis of the designs of locomotives that came into prominence this volume would be exactly what you are looking for. It is an easy read and contains enough information that I have started reading it again just so I can glean a little more. I cannot recommend this book more highly.

Excellent and very detailed book about the later development of the American Steam Locomotive. Besides having a very thorough knowledge of the engineering work, thermodynamics, and economics involved in creating these machines, the author obviously did an enormous amount of research, and further is a very good wordsmith. Characteristics that are all too often missing among contemporary authors. An interesting and highly recommended book. Well worth the money.

We bought this book for my father-in-law’s birthday. He used to be a train conductor years ago. He is totally obsessed with trains! This book has everything in it. Lots of pictures, lots of information. You will not be disappointed. It’s definitely worth it. (My boyfriend actually read it first, before he gave it to him. 😂) If you are a big train nerd like them, this book is for you. Also, it’s a really nice book. Perfect gift for someone who loves trains 🚂

I just got my copy, and it is great so far. As a train nerd and former electrical engineer by trade, I have enjoyed every detail of the engineering trade-offs, such as air brakes versus vacuum brakes, iron versus steel fireboxes, and passenger engine versus freight engine wheel size. For me, the only glaring omission is a photo of the author, William L. Withuhn, who died in 2017 after completing the manuscript. I found it touching that his wife, Gail, and his editor, Peter Hansen pushed this great volume through to publication. Fortunately, photos of Mr. Withuhn are available online, owing to his lifetime of accomplishments beyond this book.

this book has a lot of detail and is generally interesting. the author is very knowledgeable and there are a ton of details. However for me, reading about ten details of a coal grate, or how this grate is different from that one without an occasional illustration is not really what I wanted in this book. Perhaps I was looking for a bit less detail and a bit more illustrative explanation.

This book has a wealth of information - sometimes a little too detailed. There are a few areas where it would be easier to understand if photos or diagrams were used, but getting past that minor difficulty, I learned a great deal about steam locomotives and their limitations. I knew maintenance was a problem, but I had no idea how big of a problem it was. And I was not aware that counterbalancing was so difficult. I only wish they had today's computers in 1930-1940. The book takes the reader from early steam through the 1940's. This is a very intense book and I think it is a must for those seriously interested in how steam locomotives were designed and how they performed in service.

I had read a review on this book and thought it might be a nice addition to my railroad library, so I jumped onto Amazon and was immediately put off by its price. Based on the review, the number of pages and the reputation of the author, I was expecting something in the $120 - 150 range, so when I saw the actual price, it made me wonder if the book would be as good as I had thought. Well, it is - and more. They say the best things come in small packages. Physically, with 464 pages, it is fairly thick, but it's a smaller book - certainly not coffee table size. Just a bit smaller than a magazine. And it is packed with information. A long-time curator at the Smithonian and a licensed locomotive engineer on steam locomotives, Mr. Withuhn not only brings a wealth of information that has been thoroughly researched, but presents it in an unusual way that is very informative and at the same time very easy to read and understand. He balances very well, meeting the needs and interests of the dedicated steam locomotive enthusiast and the novice who wants to learn more about them. There's something in this book for everybody. I mentioned that he presents it in an unusual way. Many books like this tend to be a rather dry recitation of facts. Or, they are often shallow surveys of the general world of steam locomotives. But Mr. Withuhn's approach is refreshingly different. In his telling the story of the development of these amazing machines, he considers the importance of understanding the people who specified and designed them and the factors that played into their decisions. This adds a dimension to the story that brings it alive. It puts you in touch with them and lets you relate to the fact that these machines were the high tech of their day and these men were breaking new ground, just as our computer and communications engineers do today. It also heightens your understanding of the machines and why they developed the way they did. This book would have been worth it at the price I thought it would go for. At its actual price, it is a phenomenal bargain. This is a must-have book for any railroad enthusiasts library.

Sometimes it doesn't hurt to throw yourself into the deep end. I've had an interest in trains for some time and was looking for something a little more substantial than the usual fare. To say that I got more than I expected would be an understatement; this is, by far, the most detailed book on the subject I've ever read. Rather than another fuzzy, nostalgic look at the "Romance of Steam," this is book delivers exactly what its title promises. It's not terribly surprising that Mr. Withun, the former transportation curator at the Smithsonian Museum of American History, spent more than three decades writing this book, or that he died before it was completely finished. In a word, it's a beast. At once ruthlessly efficient and meticulously detailed, I'd compare it with Norman Friedman's "Illustrated Design Histories" of American warships in terms of detail and scope. He takes us step-by-step through the breathtakingly rapid technical advancement (and occasional embarrassing failure) of American steam locomotive design. Individual chapters cover subjects such as valve gear, wheel design, counterbalancing, compounding, superheating, streamlining, the introduction of diesel locomotives, and poppet valves. Others focus on iconic or groundbreaking locomotives, railroad safety, famous designers, and some of the failed attempts at resisting the diesel revolution. Rather than simply being a dense collection fo statistics, this is a surprisingly readable and flowing text that doesn't read like a technical manual. It does a fine job explaining how each new technology was developed and how it affected locomotive design as a whole, without drifting off on unrelated tangents. I've never seen the many tradeoffs required to design a successful locomotive described with such clarity or detail. The overarching story is one of continuous progress, each locomotive faster, safer, more fuel-efficient, more technically advanced, and more powerful than the last, all in the name of continually driving down the cost of moving freight by rail. It says a lot that, as soon as I finished reading this, I immediately wanted to read the first few chapters again to see if I'd missed anything. That's in spite of the fact it took me nearly five months, on and off, to actually read it from cover to cover. That's not to say that it's boring, it's just that it's extremely lengthy, never really picks up beyond a walking pace, and is best read in ten or fifteen-page segments. The illustrations are functional black and white photographs and the occasional diagram, all with useful captions and all (thankfully!) placed on the same page as the subject being discussed. This is obviously a bit of a niche book, but if you're of a technical bent, and enjoy reading about fireboxes, equalizers, counterweights, steam domes, and starting tractive efforts, and scowl at folks who call pilots "cowcatchers" or locomotives "trains," it belongs on your shelf.

Though the book did cover the history of steam locomotives in America, it spent WAY too much time focusing on the technical aspects of the operation of the engines - and I don't mean the simple basics - this book dove really deep into so much detail that it was useless and unreadable unless I'd be operating a steam locomotive or rebuilding one soon. Worst part is that it didn't really give accompanying drawings that really showed what the author was talking about - there were some tech drawings included but they were basically unreadable - a bit disappointed in this book

Impressive book with lots of info, but it could use more diagrams to illustrate and explain things like the suspension systems of locomotives. And many of the diagrams in the book could be larger and should have parts labelled to help understand what the text is explaining. I have numerous other books about steam locomotives so I can figure out some of these details by referring to other texts, but not everyone has this option. I had hoped that this book would be the longed-for complete reference on steam locomotives, but I don't feel it is quite complete enough. Still, I'm glad I got the book, just a little disappointed.

Anyone who is serious about railroads and their history appreciates a good source of information that is factual and understandable. There have been many bench mark books written over the years on all manner of subjects that pertain to railroading. This volume should be included with them. American Steam Locomotives: Design and Development, 1880–1960 by Bill Withuhn is a tutorial on the reasoning and science as it pertains to how Steam locomotive designs were changed, grew to massive proportions and what worked and what did not. The history starts at the turn of the 1900s and explores the high points of that era and subsequently details the process of improvement that occurred following this to the end of mainline steam operations. Detailed explanations of what worked and why or how it compared to older designs are offered and while the author did not get caught up in the minute details and mathematics of the physics and engineering involved sufficient technical information is included for the essential understanding of this to be made understandable by the reader. If you are serious about the steam era of railroading and want to the genesis of the designs of locomotives that came into prominence this volume would be exactly what you are looking for. It is an easy read and contains enough information that I have started reading it again just so I can glean a little more. I cannot recommend this book more highly.

Excellent and very detailed book about the later development of the American Steam Locomotive. Besides having a very thorough knowledge of the engineering work, thermodynamics, and economics involved in creating these machines, the author obviously did an enormous amount of research, and further is a very good wordsmith. Characteristics that are all too often missing among contemporary authors. An interesting and highly recommended book. Well worth the money.

We bought this book for my father-in-law’s birthday. He used to be a train conductor years ago. He is totally obsessed with trains! This book has everything in it. Lots of pictures, lots of information. You will not be disappointed. It’s definitely worth it. (My boyfriend actually read it first, before he gave it to him. 😂) If you are a big train nerd like them, this book is for you. Also, it’s a really nice book. Perfect gift for someone who loves trains 🚂

I just got my copy, and it is great so far. As a train nerd and former electrical engineer by trade, I have enjoyed every detail of the engineering trade-offs, such as air brakes versus vacuum brakes, iron versus steel fireboxes, and passenger engine versus freight engine wheel size. For me, the only glaring omission is a photo of the author, William L. Withuhn, who died in 2017 after completing the manuscript. I found it touching that his wife, Gail, and his editor, Peter Hansen pushed this great volume through to publication. Fortunately, photos of Mr. Withuhn are available online, owing to his lifetime of accomplishments beyond this book.

this book has a lot of detail and is generally interesting. the author is very knowledgeable and there are a ton of details. However for me, reading about ten details of a coal grate, or how this grate is different from that one without an occasional illustration is not really what I wanted in this book. Perhaps I was looking for a bit less detail and a bit more illustrative explanation.

This book has a wealth of information - sometimes a little too detailed. There are a few areas where it would be easier to understand if photos or diagrams were used, but getting past that minor difficulty, I learned a great deal about steam locomotives and their limitations. I knew maintenance was a problem, but I had no idea how big of a problem it was. And I was not aware that counterbalancing was so difficult. I only wish they had today's computers in 1930-1940. The book takes the reader from early steam through the 1940's. This is a very intense book and I think it is a must for those seriously interested in how steam locomotives were designed and how they performed in service.

I had read a review on this book and thought it might be a nice addition to my railroad library, so I jumped onto Amazon and was immediately put off by its price. Based on the review, the number of pages and the reputation of the author, I was expecting something in the $120 - 150 range, so when I saw the actual price, it made me wonder if the book would be as good as I had thought. Well, it is - and more. They say the best things come in small packages. Physically, with 464 pages, it is fairly thick, but it's a smaller book - certainly not coffee table size. Just a bit smaller than a magazine. And it is packed with information. A long-time curator at the Smithonian and a licensed locomotive engineer on steam locomotives, Mr. Withuhn not only brings a wealth of information that has been thoroughly researched, but presents it in an unusual way that is very informative and at the same time very easy to read and understand. He balances very well, meeting the needs and interests of the dedicated steam locomotive enthusiast and the novice who wants to learn more about them. There's something in this book for everybody. I mentioned that he presents it in an unusual way. Many books like this tend to be a rather dry recitation of facts. Or, they are often shallow surveys of the general world of steam locomotives. But Mr. Withuhn's approach is refreshingly different. In his telling the story of the development of these amazing machines, he considers the importance of understanding the people who specified and designed them and the factors that played into their decisions. This adds a dimension to the story that brings it alive. It puts you in touch with them and lets you relate to the fact that these machines were the high tech of their day and these men were breaking new ground, just as our computer and communications engineers do today. It also heightens your understanding of the machines and why they developed the way they did. This book would have been worth it at the price I thought it would go for. At its actual price, it is a phenomenal bargain. This is a must-have book for any railroad enthusiasts library.

Sometimes it doesn't hurt to throw yourself into the deep end. I've had an interest in trains for some time and was looking for something a little more substantial than the usual fare. To say that I got more than I expected would be an understatement; this is, by far, the most detailed book on the subject I've ever read. Rather than another fuzzy, nostalgic look at the "Romance of Steam," this is book delivers exactly what its title promises. It's not terribly surprising that Mr. Withun, the former transportation curator at the Smithsonian Museum of American History, spent more than three decades writing this book, or that he died before it was completely finished. In a word, it's a beast. At once ruthlessly efficient and meticulously detailed, I'd compare it with Norman Friedman's "Illustrated Design Histories" of American warships in terms of detail and scope. He takes us step-by-step through the breathtakingly rapid technical advancement (and occasional embarrassing failure) of American steam locomotive design. Individual chapters cover subjects such as valve gear, wheel design, counterbalancing, compounding, superheating, streamlining, the introduction of diesel locomotives, and poppet valves. Others focus on iconic or groundbreaking locomotives, railroad safety, famous designers, and some of the failed attempts at resisting the diesel revolution. Rather than simply being a dense collection fo statistics, this is a surprisingly readable and flowing text that doesn't read like a technical manual. It does a fine job explaining how each new technology was developed and how it affected locomotive design as a whole, without drifting off on unrelated tangents. I've never seen the many tradeoffs required to design a successful locomotive described with such clarity or detail. The overarching story is one of continuous progress, each locomotive faster, safer, more fuel-efficient, more technically advanced, and more powerful than the last, all in the name of continually driving down the cost of moving freight by rail. It says a lot that, as soon as I finished reading this, I immediately wanted to read the first few chapters again to see if I'd missed anything. That's in spite of the fact it took me nearly five months, on and off, to actually read it from cover to cover. That's not to say that it's boring, it's just that it's extremely lengthy, never really picks up beyond a walking pace, and is best read in ten or fifteen-page segments. The illustrations are functional black and white photographs and the occasional diagram, all with useful captions and all (thankfully!) placed on the same page as the subject being discussed. This is obviously a bit of a niche book, but if you're of a technical bent, and enjoy reading about fireboxes, equalizers, counterweights, steam domes, and starting tractive efforts, and scowl at folks who call pilots "cowcatchers" or locomotives "trains," it belongs on your shelf.

Though the book did cover the history of steam locomotives in America, it spent WAY too much time focusing on the technical aspects of the operation of the engines - and I don't mean the simple basics - this book dove really deep into so much detail that it was useless and unreadable unless I'd be operating a steam locomotive or rebuilding one soon. Worst part is that it didn't really give accompanying drawings that really showed what the author was talking about - there were some tech drawings included but they were basically unreadable - a bit disappointed in this book

Impressive book with lots of info, but it could use more diagrams to illustrate and explain things like the suspension systems of locomotives. And many of the diagrams in the book could be larger and should have parts labelled to help understand what the text is explaining. I have numerous other books about steam locomotives so I can figure out some of these details by referring to other texts, but not everyone has this option. I had hoped that this book would be the longed-for complete reference on steam locomotives, but I don't feel it is quite complete enough. Still, I'm glad I got the book, just a little disappointed.

Anyone who is serious about railroads and their history appreciates a good source of information that is factual and understandable. There have been many bench mark books written over the years on all manner of subjects that pertain to railroading. This volume should be included with them. American Steam Locomotives: Design and Development, 1880–1960 by Bill Withuhn is a tutorial on the reasoning and science as it pertains to how Steam locomotive designs were changed, grew to massive proportions and what worked and what did not. The history starts at the turn of the 1900s and explores the high points of that era and subsequently details the process of improvement that occurred following this to the end of mainline steam operations. Detailed explanations of what worked and why or how it compared to older designs are offered and while the author did not get caught up in the minute details and mathematics of the physics and engineering involved sufficient technical information is included for the essential understanding of this to be made understandable by the reader. If you are serious about the steam era of railroading and want to the genesis of the designs of locomotives that came into prominence this volume would be exactly what you are looking for. It is an easy read and contains enough information that I have started reading it again just so I can glean a little more. I cannot recommend this book more highly.

Excellent and very detailed book about the later development of the American Steam Locomotive. Besides having a very thorough knowledge of the engineering work, thermodynamics, and economics involved in creating these machines, the author obviously did an enormous amount of research, and further is a very good wordsmith. Characteristics that are all too often missing among contemporary authors. An interesting and highly recommended book. Well worth the money.

We bought this book for my father-in-law’s birthday. He used to be a train conductor years ago. He is totally obsessed with trains! This book has everything in it. Lots of pictures, lots of information. You will not be disappointed. It’s definitely worth it. (My boyfriend actually read it first, before he gave it to him. 😂) If you are a big train nerd like them, this book is for you. Also, it’s a really nice book. Perfect gift for someone who loves trains 🚂

I just got my copy, and it is great so far. As a train nerd and former electrical engineer by trade, I have enjoyed every detail of the engineering trade-offs, such as air brakes versus vacuum brakes, iron versus steel fireboxes, and passenger engine versus freight engine wheel size. For me, the only glaring omission is a photo of the author, William L. Withuhn, who died in 2017 after completing the manuscript. I found it touching that his wife, Gail, and his editor, Peter Hansen pushed this great volume through to publication. Fortunately, photos of Mr. Withuhn are available online, owing to his lifetime of accomplishments beyond this book.

this book has a lot of detail and is generally interesting. the author is very knowledgeable and there are a ton of details. However for me, reading about ten details of a coal grate, or how this grate is different from that one without an occasional illustration is not really what I wanted in this book. Perhaps I was looking for a bit less detail and a bit more illustrative explanation.

This book has a wealth of information - sometimes a little too detailed. There are a few areas where it would be easier to understand if photos or diagrams were used, but getting past that minor difficulty, I learned a great deal about steam locomotives and their limitations. I knew maintenance was a problem, but I had no idea how big of a problem it was. And I was not aware that counterbalancing was so difficult. I only wish they had today's computers in 1930-1940. The book takes the reader from early steam through the 1940's. This is a very intense book and I think it is a must for those seriously interested in how steam locomotives were designed and how they performed in service.

I had read a review on this book and thought it might be a nice addition to my railroad library, so I jumped onto Amazon and was immediately put off by its price. Based on the review, the number of pages and the reputation of the author, I was expecting something in the $120 - 150 range, so when I saw the actual price, it made me wonder if the book would be as good as I had thought. Well, it is - and more. They say the best things come in small packages. Physically, with 464 pages, it is fairly thick, but it's a smaller book - certainly not coffee table size. Just a bit smaller than a magazine. And it is packed with information. A long-time curator at the Smithonian and a licensed locomotive engineer on steam locomotives, Mr. Withuhn not only brings a wealth of information that has been thoroughly researched, but presents it in an unusual way that is very informative and at the same time very easy to read and understand. He balances very well, meeting the needs and interests of the dedicated steam locomotive enthusiast and the novice who wants to learn more about them. There's something in this book for everybody. I mentioned that he presents it in an unusual way. Many books like this tend to be a rather dry recitation of facts. Or, they are often shallow surveys of the general world of steam locomotives. But Mr. Withuhn's approach is refreshingly different. In his telling the story of the development of these amazing machines, he considers the importance of understanding the people who specified and designed them and the factors that played into their decisions. This adds a dimension to the story that brings it alive. It puts you in touch with them and lets you relate to the fact that these machines were the high tech of their day and these men were breaking new ground, just as our computer and communications engineers do today. It also heightens your understanding of the machines and why they developed the way they did. This book would have been worth it at the price I thought it would go for. At its actual price, it is a phenomenal bargain. This is a must-have book for any railroad enthusiasts library.

Sometimes it doesn't hurt to throw yourself into the deep end. I've had an interest in trains for some time and was looking for something a little more substantial than the usual fare. To say that I got more than I expected would be an understatement; this is, by far, the most detailed book on the subject I've ever read. Rather than another fuzzy, nostalgic look at the "Romance of Steam," this is book delivers exactly what its title promises. It's not terribly surprising that Mr. Withun, the former transportation curator at the Smithsonian Museum of American History, spent more than three decades writing this book, or that he died before it was completely finished. In a word, it's a beast. At once ruthlessly efficient and meticulously detailed, I'd compare it with Norman Friedman's "Illustrated Design Histories" of American warships in terms of detail and scope. He takes us step-by-step through the breathtakingly rapid technical advancement (and occasional embarrassing failure) of American steam locomotive design. Individual chapters cover subjects such as valve gear, wheel design, counterbalancing, compounding, superheating, streamlining, the introduction of diesel locomotives, and poppet valves. Others focus on iconic or groundbreaking locomotives, railroad safety, famous designers, and some of the failed attempts at resisting the diesel revolution. Rather than simply being a dense collection fo statistics, this is a surprisingly readable and flowing text that doesn't read like a technical manual. It does a fine job explaining how each new technology was developed and how it affected locomotive design as a whole, without drifting off on unrelated tangents. I've never seen the many tradeoffs required to design a successful locomotive described with such clarity or detail. The overarching story is one of continuous progress, each locomotive faster, safer, more fuel-efficient, more technically advanced, and more powerful than the last, all in the name of continually driving down the cost of moving freight by rail. It says a lot that, as soon as I finished reading this, I immediately wanted to read the first few chapters again to see if I'd missed anything. That's in spite of the fact it took me nearly five months, on and off, to actually read it from cover to cover. That's not to say that it's boring, it's just that it's extremely lengthy, never really picks up beyond a walking pace, and is best read in ten or fifteen-page segments. The illustrations are functional black and white photographs and the occasional diagram, all with useful captions and all (thankfully!) placed on the same page as the subject being discussed. This is obviously a bit of a niche book, but if you're of a technical bent, and enjoy reading about fireboxes, equalizers, counterweights, steam domes, and starting tractive efforts, and scowl at folks who call pilots "cowcatchers" or locomotives "trains," it belongs on your shelf.

Though the book did cover the history of steam locomotives in America, it spent WAY too much time focusing on the technical aspects of the operation of the engines - and I don't mean the simple basics - this book dove really deep into so much detail that it was useless and unreadable unless I'd be operating a steam locomotive or rebuilding one soon. Worst part is that it didn't really give accompanying drawings that really showed what the author was talking about - there were some tech drawings included but they were basically unreadable - a bit disappointed in this book

Impressive book with lots of info, but it could use more diagrams to illustrate and explain things like the suspension systems of locomotives. And many of the diagrams in the book could be larger and should have parts labelled to help understand what the text is explaining. I have numerous other books about steam locomotives so I can figure out some of these details by referring to other texts, but not everyone has this option. I had hoped that this book would be the longed-for complete reference on steam locomotives, but I don't feel it is quite complete enough. Still, I'm glad I got the book, just a little disappointed.

Anyone who is serious about railroads and their history appreciates a good source of information that is factual and understandable. There have been many bench mark books written over the years on all manner of subjects that pertain to railroading. This volume should be included with them. American Steam Locomotives: Design and Development, 1880–1960 by Bill Withuhn is a tutorial on the reasoning and science as it pertains to how Steam locomotive designs were changed, grew to massive proportions and what worked and what did not. The history starts at the turn of the 1900s and explores the high points of that era and subsequently details the process of improvement that occurred following this to the end of mainline steam operations. Detailed explanations of what worked and why or how it compared to older designs are offered and while the author did not get caught up in the minute details and mathematics of the physics and engineering involved sufficient technical information is included for the essential understanding of this to be made understandable by the reader. If you are serious about the steam era of railroading and want to the genesis of the designs of locomotives that came into prominence this volume would be exactly what you are looking for. It is an easy read and contains enough information that I have started reading it again just so I can glean a little more. I cannot recommend this book more highly.

Excellent and very detailed book about the later development of the American Steam Locomotive. Besides having a very thorough knowledge of the engineering work, thermodynamics, and economics involved in creating these machines, the author obviously did an enormous amount of research, and further is a very good wordsmith. Characteristics that are all too often missing among contemporary authors. An interesting and highly recommended book. Well worth the money.

We bought this book for my father-in-law’s birthday. He used to be a train conductor years ago. He is totally obsessed with trains! This book has everything in it. Lots of pictures, lots of information. You will not be disappointed. It’s definitely worth it. (My boyfriend actually read it first, before he gave it to him. 😂) If you are a big train nerd like them, this book is for you. Also, it’s a really nice book. Perfect gift for someone who loves trains 🚂

First thing that struck me was how well written this book is. A superb source of knowledge for historians, rail fans, and those interested in the history of technology. It is tragic that the author did not live to see it's publication But he will be in the Pantheon of historians for a long time.

I am an engineer and have always been fascinated by the age of steam, and certainly the age of large steam locomotives. This book is full of history, photos, drawings, and engineering detail that is interesting to technical and engineering types. It makes me want to go back an tour again the many wonderful steam railroad museums around our country.

A huge collection of information here. Clearly explained and cross-referenced. Like WWII vets, the people who worked with these complex machines are fading fast. Thank you, Mr. Withuhn for sharing your wealth of knowledge here. R.I.P.

This book is the most comprehensive study of evolution of the "modern" American steam locomotive you will find. Mr. Withuhn, now gone, is one of a very few people who had the depth of understanding to write such a text. Although, as a mechanical engineer, I consider myself to be somewhat knowledgable about steam locomotive operation, my comprehension of the subject has been vastly expanded through reading this work. I see it is a valuable addition to my library and it would be an asset to anyone's collection who desires to learn about and understand steam locomotives and their operation.

As a railfan with a general understanding of steam locomotives, but by no means an expert, this was an excellent book for learning more about the development of US steam locomotives. It touches on both the engineering and the personalities behind various changes in US steam locomotives through the end. Though occasionally repetitive, the book does a good job introducing technologies, along with their rise and fall (and sometimes, resurrection.) Enough information is provided that the reader can draw their own conclusions and explore further if they so desire.

My Dad was in the Hospital and I got this for him. He has advanced alzheimers, but this book brought him back to a world of Steam Power and the Railroad life, ad he and I spoke for hours about the details of various steam locomotives.

A thorough history of the development of steam locomotives in America during the late 19th and first half of the 20th century. The author was able to describe technical developments in terms that everyone can understand. Readable and informative. An absolute delight to read.

Pretty much everything you need to know about this subject. Possibly could have done with some firsthand accounts from the men who drove them to give a personal touch.

The is the best book covering steam locomotive technology from 1880 to the end of U.S. steam locomotives in the 1950's. Discusses why's of famous locomotives like NYC Hudson 4-6-4's and Lima superpower 2-8-4's and explains issues with well known steam locomotives such as the C&O 2-6-6-6's. Easy to read history written by the Smithsonian curator of steam locomotives.

Pro: Well written book by an exceptionally well qualified author. Full of detail and wonderful pictures. Con: Some parts are hard to understand without an engineering background. Desperately needs some drawings to show some ideas he tries to explain with words alone

I just got my copy, and it is great so far. As a train nerd and former electrical engineer by trade, I have enjoyed every detail of the engineering trade-offs, such as air brakes versus vacuum brakes, iron versus steel fireboxes, and passenger engine versus freight engine wheel size. For me, the only glaring omission is a photo of the author, William L. Withuhn, who died in 2017 after completing the manuscript. I found it touching that his wife, Gail, and his editor, Peter Hansen pushed this great volume through to publication. Fortunately, photos of Mr. Withuhn are available online, owing to his lifetime of accomplishments beyond this book.

this book has a lot of detail and is generally interesting. the author is very knowledgeable and there are a ton of details. However for me, reading about ten details of a coal grate, or how this grate is different from that one without an occasional illustration is not really what I wanted in this book. Perhaps I was looking for a bit less detail and a bit more illustrative explanation.

This book has a wealth of information - sometimes a little too detailed. There are a few areas where it would be easier to understand if photos or diagrams were used, but getting past that minor difficulty, I learned a great deal about steam locomotives and their limitations. I knew maintenance was a problem, but I had no idea how big of a problem it was. And I was not aware that counterbalancing was so difficult. I only wish they had today's computers in 1930-1940. The book takes the reader from early steam through the 1940's. This is a very intense book and I think it is a must for those seriously interested in how steam locomotives were designed and how they performed in service.

I had read a review on this book and thought it might be a nice addition to my railroad library, so I jumped onto Amazon and was immediately put off by its price. Based on the review, the number of pages and the reputation of the author, I was expecting something in the $120 - 150 range, so when I saw the actual price, it made me wonder if the book would be as good as I had thought. Well, it is - and more. They say the best things come in small packages. Physically, with 464 pages, it is fairly thick, but it's a smaller book - certainly not coffee table size. Just a bit smaller than a magazine. And it is packed with information. A long-time curator at the Smithonian and a licensed locomotive engineer on steam locomotives, Mr. Withuhn not only brings a wealth of information that has been thoroughly researched, but presents it in an unusual way that is very informative and at the same time very easy to read and understand. He balances very well, meeting the needs and interests of the dedicated steam locomotive enthusiast and the novice who wants to learn more about them. There's something in this book for everybody. I mentioned that he presents it in an unusual way. Many books like this tend to be a rather dry recitation of facts. Or, they are often shallow surveys of the general world of steam locomotives. But Mr. Withuhn's approach is refreshingly different. In his telling the story of the development of these amazing machines, he considers the importance of understanding the people who specified and designed them and the factors that played into their decisions. This adds a dimension to the story that brings it alive. It puts you in touch with them and lets you relate to the fact that these machines were the high tech of their day and these men were breaking new ground, just as our computer and communications engineers do today. It also heightens your understanding of the machines and why they developed the way they did. This book would have been worth it at the price I thought it would go for. At its actual price, it is a phenomenal bargain. This is a must-have book for any railroad enthusiasts library.

Sometimes it doesn't hurt to throw yourself into the deep end. I've had an interest in trains for some time and was looking for something a little more substantial than the usual fare. To say that I got more than I expected would be an understatement; this is, by far, the most detailed book on the subject I've ever read. Rather than another fuzzy, nostalgic look at the "Romance of Steam," this is book delivers exactly what its title promises. It's not terribly surprising that Mr. Withun, the former transportation curator at the Smithsonian Museum of American History, spent more than three decades writing this book, or that he died before it was completely finished. In a word, it's a beast. At once ruthlessly efficient and meticulously detailed, I'd compare it with Norman Friedman's "Illustrated Design Histories" of American warships in terms of detail and scope. He takes us step-by-step through the breathtakingly rapid technical advancement (and occasional embarrassing failure) of American steam locomotive design. Individual chapters cover subjects such as valve gear, wheel design, counterbalancing, compounding, superheating, streamlining, the introduction of diesel locomotives, and poppet valves. Others focus on iconic or groundbreaking locomotives, railroad safety, famous designers, and some of the failed attempts at resisting the diesel revolution. Rather than simply being a dense collection fo statistics, this is a surprisingly readable and flowing text that doesn't read like a technical manual. It does a fine job explaining how each new technology was developed and how it affected locomotive design as a whole, without drifting off on unrelated tangents. I've never seen the many tradeoffs required to design a successful locomotive described with such clarity or detail. The overarching story is one of continuous progress, each locomotive faster, safer, more fuel-efficient, more technically advanced, and more powerful than the last, all in the name of continually driving down the cost of moving freight by rail. It says a lot that, as soon as I finished reading this, I immediately wanted to read the first few chapters again to see if I'd missed anything. That's in spite of the fact it took me nearly five months, on and off, to actually read it from cover to cover. That's not to say that it's boring, it's just that it's extremely lengthy, never really picks up beyond a walking pace, and is best read in ten or fifteen-page segments. The illustrations are functional black and white photographs and the occasional diagram, all with useful captions and all (thankfully!) placed on the same page as the subject being discussed. This is obviously a bit of a niche book, but if you're of a technical bent, and enjoy reading about fireboxes, equalizers, counterweights, steam domes, and starting tractive efforts, and scowl at folks who call pilots "cowcatchers" or locomotives "trains," it belongs on your shelf.

Though the book did cover the history of steam locomotives in America, it spent WAY too much time focusing on the technical aspects of the operation of the engines - and I don't mean the simple basics - this book dove really deep into so much detail that it was useless and unreadable unless I'd be operating a steam locomotive or rebuilding one soon. Worst part is that it didn't really give accompanying drawings that really showed what the author was talking about - there were some tech drawings included but they were basically unreadable - a bit disappointed in this book

Impressive book with lots of info, but it could use more diagrams to illustrate and explain things like the suspension systems of locomotives. And many of the diagrams in the book could be larger and should have parts labelled to help understand what the text is explaining. I have numerous other books about steam locomotives so I can figure out some of these details by referring to other texts, but not everyone has this option. I had hoped that this book would be the longed-for complete reference on steam locomotives, but I don't feel it is quite complete enough. Still, I'm glad I got the book, just a little disappointed.

Anyone who is serious about railroads and their history appreciates a good source of information that is factual and understandable. There have been many bench mark books written over the years on all manner of subjects that pertain to railroading. This volume should be included with them. American Steam Locomotives: Design and Development, 1880–1960 by Bill Withuhn is a tutorial on the reasoning and science as it pertains to how Steam locomotive designs were changed, grew to massive proportions and what worked and what did not. The history starts at the turn of the 1900s and explores the high points of that era and subsequently details the process of improvement that occurred following this to the end of mainline steam operations. Detailed explanations of what worked and why or how it compared to older designs are offered and while the author did not get caught up in the minute details and mathematics of the physics and engineering involved sufficient technical information is included for the essential understanding of this to be made understandable by the reader. If you are serious about the steam era of railroading and want to the genesis of the designs of locomotives that came into prominence this volume would be exactly what you are looking for. It is an easy read and contains enough information that I have started reading it again just so I can glean a little more. I cannot recommend this book more highly.

Excellent and very detailed book about the later development of the American Steam Locomotive. Besides having a very thorough knowledge of the engineering work, thermodynamics, and economics involved in creating these machines, the author obviously did an enormous amount of research, and further is a very good wordsmith. Characteristics that are all too often missing among contemporary authors. An interesting and highly recommended book. Well worth the money.

We bought this book for my father-in-law’s birthday. He used to be a train conductor years ago. He is totally obsessed with trains! This book has everything in it. Lots of pictures, lots of information. You will not be disappointed. It’s definitely worth it. (My boyfriend actually read it first, before he gave it to him. 😂) If you are a big train nerd like them, this book is for you. Also, it’s a really nice book. Perfect gift for someone who loves trains 🚂

Not only American locomotive, but the hystory of drvlopment of Steam trcton is well treatise.

This book is a very thorough study of the development of the North American steam locomotive during the last 80 years that it was built. There a few errors (very few), mostly in the form of inaccurate photo captions, but overall the book evaluates remarkably well the engineering and people behind locomotive development during that time.

Somewhat technical at times but very comprehensive in scope.

Best reference on RR steam engine developments

Just got started...about 30 pages in....but so far so good....in the midst of comparing several design aspects of various 4-4-0 locomotives in North America...specifically Pennsy and B&A (NYC) design differences.

Very comprehensive read for all Rail Fans.

I have not had the opportunity to read the entire book yet, but what I have read is an impressive undertaking of capturing the history of locomotives by the author, more than any other book that I own.

Even better than I expected, it was a gift for someone and they absolutely loved it.

This book has so much detail yet is still an easy read. The definitive work on steam locomotives of this era.

Very comprehensive, enough to boggle your mind.

I just got my copy, and it is great so far. As a train nerd and former electrical engineer by trade, I have enjoyed every detail of the engineering trade-offs, such as air brakes versus vacuum brakes, iron versus steel fireboxes, and passenger engine versus freight engine wheel size. For me, the only glaring omission is a photo of the author, William L. Withuhn, who died in 2017 after completing the manuscript. I found it touching that his wife, Gail, and his editor, Peter Hansen pushed this great volume through to publication. Fortunately, photos of Mr. Withuhn are available online, owing to his lifetime of accomplishments beyond this book.

this book has a lot of detail and is generally interesting. the author is very knowledgeable and there are a ton of details. However for me, reading about ten details of a coal grate, or how this grate is different from that one without an occasional illustration is not really what I wanted in this book. Perhaps I was looking for a bit less detail and a bit more illustrative explanation.

This book has a wealth of information - sometimes a little too detailed. There are a few areas where it would be easier to understand if photos or diagrams were used, but getting past that minor difficulty, I learned a great deal about steam locomotives and their limitations. I knew maintenance was a problem, but I had no idea how big of a problem it was. And I was not aware that counterbalancing was so difficult. I only wish they had today's computers in 1930-1940. The book takes the reader from early steam through the 1940's. This is a very intense book and I think it is a must for those seriously interested in how steam locomotives were designed and how they performed in service.

I had read a review on this book and thought it might be a nice addition to my railroad library, so I jumped onto Amazon and was immediately put off by its price. Based on the review, the number of pages and the reputation of the author, I was expecting something in the $120 - 150 range, so when I saw the actual price, it made me wonder if the book would be as good as I had thought. Well, it is - and more. They say the best things come in small packages. Physically, with 464 pages, it is fairly thick, but it's a smaller book - certainly not coffee table size. Just a bit smaller than a magazine. And it is packed with information. A long-time curator at the Smithonian and a licensed locomotive engineer on steam locomotives, Mr. Withuhn not only brings a wealth of information that has been thoroughly researched, but presents it in an unusual way that is very informative and at the same time very easy to read and understand. He balances very well, meeting the needs and interests of the dedicated steam locomotive enthusiast and the novice who wants to learn more about them. There's something in this book for everybody. I mentioned that he presents it in an unusual way. Many books like this tend to be a rather dry recitation of facts. Or, they are often shallow surveys of the general world of steam locomotives. But Mr. Withuhn's approach is refreshingly different. In his telling the story of the development of these amazing machines, he considers the importance of understanding the people who specified and designed them and the factors that played into their decisions. This adds a dimension to the story that brings it alive. It puts you in touch with them and lets you relate to the fact that these machines were the high tech of their day and these men were breaking new ground, just as our computer and communications engineers do today. It also heightens your understanding of the machines and why they developed the way they did. This book would have been worth it at the price I thought it would go for. At its actual price, it is a phenomenal bargain. This is a must-have book for any railroad enthusiasts library.

Sometimes it doesn't hurt to throw yourself into the deep end. I've had an interest in trains for some time and was looking for something a little more substantial than the usual fare. To say that I got more than I expected would be an understatement; this is, by far, the most detailed book on the subject I've ever read. Rather than another fuzzy, nostalgic look at the "Romance of Steam," this is book delivers exactly what its title promises. It's not terribly surprising that Mr. Withun, the former transportation curator at the Smithsonian Museum of American History, spent more than three decades writing this book, or that he died before it was completely finished. In a word, it's a beast. At once ruthlessly efficient and meticulously detailed, I'd compare it with Norman Friedman's "Illustrated Design Histories" of American warships in terms of detail and scope. He takes us step-by-step through the breathtakingly rapid technical advancement (and occasional embarrassing failure) of American steam locomotive design. Individual chapters cover subjects such as valve gear, wheel design, counterbalancing, compounding, superheating, streamlining, the introduction of diesel locomotives, and poppet valves. Others focus on iconic or groundbreaking locomotives, railroad safety, famous designers, and some of the failed attempts at resisting the diesel revolution. Rather than simply being a dense collection fo statistics, this is a surprisingly readable and flowing text that doesn't read like a technical manual. It does a fine job explaining how each new technology was developed and how it affected locomotive design as a whole, without drifting off on unrelated tangents. I've never seen the many tradeoffs required to design a successful locomotive described with such clarity or detail. The overarching story is one of continuous progress, each locomotive faster, safer, more fuel-efficient, more technically advanced, and more powerful than the last, all in the name of continually driving down the cost of moving freight by rail. It says a lot that, as soon as I finished reading this, I immediately wanted to read the first few chapters again to see if I'd missed anything. That's in spite of the fact it took me nearly five months, on and off, to actually read it from cover to cover. That's not to say that it's boring, it's just that it's extremely lengthy, never really picks up beyond a walking pace, and is best read in ten or fifteen-page segments. The illustrations are functional black and white photographs and the occasional diagram, all with useful captions and all (thankfully!) placed on the same page as the subject being discussed. This is obviously a bit of a niche book, but if you're of a technical bent, and enjoy reading about fireboxes, equalizers, counterweights, steam domes, and starting tractive efforts, and scowl at folks who call pilots "cowcatchers" or locomotives "trains," it belongs on your shelf.

Though the book did cover the history of steam locomotives in America, it spent WAY too much time focusing on the technical aspects of the operation of the engines - and I don't mean the simple basics - this book dove really deep into so much detail that it was useless and unreadable unless I'd be operating a steam locomotive or rebuilding one soon. Worst part is that it didn't really give accompanying drawings that really showed what the author was talking about - there were some tech drawings included but they were basically unreadable - a bit disappointed in this book

Impressive book with lots of info, but it could use more diagrams to illustrate and explain things like the suspension systems of locomotives. And many of the diagrams in the book could be larger and should have parts labelled to help understand what the text is explaining. I have numerous other books about steam locomotives so I can figure out some of these details by referring to other texts, but not everyone has this option. I had hoped that this book would be the longed-for complete reference on steam locomotives, but I don't feel it is quite complete enough. Still, I'm glad I got the book, just a little disappointed.

Anyone who is serious about railroads and their history appreciates a good source of information that is factual and understandable. There have been many bench mark books written over the years on all manner of subjects that pertain to railroading. This volume should be included with them. American Steam Locomotives: Design and Development, 1880–1960 by Bill Withuhn is a tutorial on the reasoning and science as it pertains to how Steam locomotive designs were changed, grew to massive proportions and what worked and what did not. The history starts at the turn of the 1900s and explores the high points of that era and subsequently details the process of improvement that occurred following this to the end of mainline steam operations. Detailed explanations of what worked and why or how it compared to older designs are offered and while the author did not get caught up in the minute details and mathematics of the physics and engineering involved sufficient technical information is included for the essential understanding of this to be made understandable by the reader. If you are serious about the steam era of railroading and want to the genesis of the designs of locomotives that came into prominence this volume would be exactly what you are looking for. It is an easy read and contains enough information that I have started reading it again just so I can glean a little more. I cannot recommend this book more highly.

Excellent and very detailed book about the later development of the American Steam Locomotive. Besides having a very thorough knowledge of the engineering work, thermodynamics, and economics involved in creating these machines, the author obviously did an enormous amount of research, and further is a very good wordsmith. Characteristics that are all too often missing among contemporary authors. An interesting and highly recommended book. Well worth the money.

We bought this book for my father-in-law’s birthday. He used to be a train conductor years ago. He is totally obsessed with trains! This book has everything in it. Lots of pictures, lots of information. You will not be disappointed. It’s definitely worth it. (My boyfriend actually read it first, before he gave it to him. 😂) If you are a big train nerd like them, this book is for you. Also, it’s a really nice book. Perfect gift for someone who loves trains 🚂

Very comprehensive book on steam.

I like the chapters on the later engines and the final technological advances made in the last 15 years 1935-1950

Tremendously comprehensive, yet in language for lay-folk.

Nothing major to not like. Larger pictures would be nice to see the details.

Great book full of wonderful information

If you want to understand steam locomotive technology development and function in an easy to understand and interesting format, this is it. The book presents the many technological aspects and challenges faced by locomotive designers and builders that are not well known or appreciated today. The modern steam locomotive isn't as simple as it may appear. However Bill Withuhn's easy to read writing style and interesting presentation makes this book a pleasure to learn from. It is authoritative and well documented as well. This is THE best book on steam locomotives EVER! I loved it!

The auther was a locomotive engineer, the curator of part of the Smithsonian Institue collection and a remarkable writer. Despite the techncial intracacies of steam locomotives, he disects the subjet into many easier to understand parts. His chronolgoical treatment allows technology to build upon itself to achive the evolving improvement up to the very end of steam power in America. He makes complicated systems less intimidating to the novice and displays a depth of knowledge that rivals college professors and inventors. The best book on steam locomotive technology that I have ever read, but he is quick to credit other authors and scources to allow the reader to research the subject more fully.

‘American Steam Locomotives- Design and Development’ isn’t the usual ‘glossy-paged’ coffee-table tome destined to gather dust on an out-sized bookshelf, or to carry the tattoos of countless moist drink glasses and spilled queso. There are dozens, if not hundreds of railroad books of varying quality, featuring over-published, glossy paged photographs of pre-diesel motive power. Most all are ‘authored/assembled’ by rail-buffs, not a bad thing in itself, but certainly lacking the perspective of this publication, written by someone who not only understood steam power (such as Samuel Vauclain), but one who was a successful author, steam curator, rail enthusiast, AND a Licensed Steam Locomotive Engineer. True, there are a few sections (no pun intended!) that tend to bog (again, no pun intended!) with incredibly detailed descriptions of metallurgy and valving systems, but these fade as the page turns. Above all, this work will become a reference point for anyone who, as I have, has marvelled at the trembling of the very ground felt as a massive 2-6-6-4 thundered past, or at the sheer beauty of a Norfolk & Western J-Class easing an excursion along through the fall colors of the Piedmont. For in that, we recognise a human component, lacking in the coffee-table tomes mentioned earlier; a component that along with all the tables and comparisons, sets this offering to rail buffs and connoisseurs alike apart: William Withuhn’s enthusiasm for his experience and knowledge gained between the rails!

Possibly more detail than the casual reader wants about the design of steam locomotives. I thought it was great since I am that kind of nerd.

This must be on of the best ever discussions of different aspects of steam railway locomotive design, construction and operation. Naturally American practice predominates, but the author does not ignore external influences. Essential for anyone seriously interested in the subject (reviewer in Great Britain).

I just got my copy, and it is great so far. As a train nerd and former electrical engineer by trade, I have enjoyed every detail of the engineering trade-offs, such as air brakes versus vacuum brakes, iron versus steel fireboxes, and passenger engine versus freight engine wheel size. For me, the only glaring omission is a photo of the author, William L. Withuhn, who died in 2017 after completing the manuscript. I found it touching that his wife, Gail, and his editor, Peter Hansen pushed this great volume through to publication. Fortunately, photos of Mr. Withuhn are available online, owing to his lifetime of accomplishments beyond this book.

this book has a lot of detail and is generally interesting. the author is very knowledgeable and there are a ton of details. However for me, reading about ten details of a coal grate, or how this grate is different from that one without an occasional illustration is not really what I wanted in this book. Perhaps I was looking for a bit less detail and a bit more illustrative explanation.

This book has a wealth of information - sometimes a little too detailed. There are a few areas where it would be easier to understand if photos or diagrams were used, but getting past that minor difficulty, I learned a great deal about steam locomotives and their limitations. I knew maintenance was a problem, but I had no idea how big of a problem it was. And I was not aware that counterbalancing was so difficult. I only wish they had today's computers in 1930-1940. The book takes the reader from early steam through the 1940's. This is a very intense book and I think it is a must for those seriously interested in how steam locomotives were designed and how they performed in service.

I had read a review on this book and thought it might be a nice addition to my railroad library, so I jumped onto Amazon and was immediately put off by its price. Based on the review, the number of pages and the reputation of the author, I was expecting something in the $120 - 150 range, so when I saw the actual price, it made me wonder if the book would be as good as I had thought. Well, it is - and more. They say the best things come in small packages. Physically, with 464 pages, it is fairly thick, but it's a smaller book - certainly not coffee table size. Just a bit smaller than a magazine. And it is packed with information. A long-time curator at the Smithonian and a licensed locomotive engineer on steam locomotives, Mr. Withuhn not only brings a wealth of information that has been thoroughly researched, but presents it in an unusual way that is very informative and at the same time very easy to read and understand. He balances very well, meeting the needs and interests of the dedicated steam locomotive enthusiast and the novice who wants to learn more about them. There's something in this book for everybody. I mentioned that he presents it in an unusual way. Many books like this tend to be a rather dry recitation of facts. Or, they are often shallow surveys of the general world of steam locomotives. But Mr. Withuhn's approach is refreshingly different. In his telling the story of the development of these amazing machines, he considers the importance of understanding the people who specified and designed them and the factors that played into their decisions. This adds a dimension to the story that brings it alive. It puts you in touch with them and lets you relate to the fact that these machines were the high tech of their day and these men were breaking new ground, just as our computer and communications engineers do today. It also heightens your understanding of the machines and why they developed the way they did. This book would have been worth it at the price I thought it would go for. At its actual price, it is a phenomenal bargain. This is a must-have book for any railroad enthusiasts library.

Sometimes it doesn't hurt to throw yourself into the deep end. I've had an interest in trains for some time and was looking for something a little more substantial than the usual fare. To say that I got more than I expected would be an understatement; this is, by far, the most detailed book on the subject I've ever read. Rather than another fuzzy, nostalgic look at the "Romance of Steam," this is book delivers exactly what its title promises. It's not terribly surprising that Mr. Withun, the former transportation curator at the Smithsonian Museum of American History, spent more than three decades writing this book, or that he died before it was completely finished. In a word, it's a beast. At once ruthlessly efficient and meticulously detailed, I'd compare it with Norman Friedman's "Illustrated Design Histories" of American warships in terms of detail and scope. He takes us step-by-step through the breathtakingly rapid technical advancement (and occasional embarrassing failure) of American steam locomotive design. Individual chapters cover subjects such as valve gear, wheel design, counterbalancing, compounding, superheating, streamlining, the introduction of diesel locomotives, and poppet valves. Others focus on iconic or groundbreaking locomotives, railroad safety, famous designers, and some of the failed attempts at resisting the diesel revolution. Rather than simply being a dense collection fo statistics, this is a surprisingly readable and flowing text that doesn't read like a technical manual. It does a fine job explaining how each new technology was developed and how it affected locomotive design as a whole, without drifting off on unrelated tangents. I've never seen the many tradeoffs required to design a successful locomotive described with such clarity or detail. The overarching story is one of continuous progress, each locomotive faster, safer, more fuel-efficient, more technically advanced, and more powerful than the last, all in the name of continually driving down the cost of moving freight by rail. It says a lot that, as soon as I finished reading this, I immediately wanted to read the first few chapters again to see if I'd missed anything. That's in spite of the fact it took me nearly five months, on and off, to actually read it from cover to cover. That's not to say that it's boring, it's just that it's extremely lengthy, never really picks up beyond a walking pace, and is best read in ten or fifteen-page segments. The illustrations are functional black and white photographs and the occasional diagram, all with useful captions and all (thankfully!) placed on the same page as the subject being discussed. This is obviously a bit of a niche book, but if you're of a technical bent, and enjoy reading about fireboxes, equalizers, counterweights, steam domes, and starting tractive efforts, and scowl at folks who call pilots "cowcatchers" or locomotives "trains," it belongs on your shelf.

Though the book did cover the history of steam locomotives in America, it spent WAY too much time focusing on the technical aspects of the operation of the engines - and I don't mean the simple basics - this book dove really deep into so much detail that it was useless and unreadable unless I'd be operating a steam locomotive or rebuilding one soon. Worst part is that it didn't really give accompanying drawings that really showed what the author was talking about - there were some tech drawings included but they were basically unreadable - a bit disappointed in this book

Impressive book with lots of info, but it could use more diagrams to illustrate and explain things like the suspension systems of locomotives. And many of the diagrams in the book could be larger and should have parts labelled to help understand what the text is explaining. I have numerous other books about steam locomotives so I can figure out some of these details by referring to other texts, but not everyone has this option. I had hoped that this book would be the longed-for complete reference on steam locomotives, but I don't feel it is quite complete enough. Still, I'm glad I got the book, just a little disappointed.

Anyone who is serious about railroads and their history appreciates a good source of information that is factual and understandable. There have been many bench mark books written over the years on all manner of subjects that pertain to railroading. This volume should be included with them. American Steam Locomotives: Design and Development, 1880–1960 by Bill Withuhn is a tutorial on the reasoning and science as it pertains to how Steam locomotive designs were changed, grew to massive proportions and what worked and what did not. The history starts at the turn of the 1900s and explores the high points of that era and subsequently details the process of improvement that occurred following this to the end of mainline steam operations. Detailed explanations of what worked and why or how it compared to older designs are offered and while the author did not get caught up in the minute details and mathematics of the physics and engineering involved sufficient technical information is included for the essential understanding of this to be made understandable by the reader. If you are serious about the steam era of railroading and want to the genesis of the designs of locomotives that came into prominence this volume would be exactly what you are looking for. It is an easy read and contains enough information that I have started reading it again just so I can glean a little more. I cannot recommend this book more highly.

Excellent and very detailed book about the later development of the American Steam Locomotive. Besides having a very thorough knowledge of the engineering work, thermodynamics, and economics involved in creating these machines, the author obviously did an enormous amount of research, and further is a very good wordsmith. Characteristics that are all too often missing among contemporary authors. An interesting and highly recommended book. Well worth the money.

We bought this book for my father-in-law’s birthday. He used to be a train conductor years ago. He is totally obsessed with trains! This book has everything in it. Lots of pictures, lots of information. You will not be disappointed. It’s definitely worth it. (My boyfriend actually read it first, before he gave it to him. 😂) If you are a big train nerd like them, this book is for you. Also, it’s a really nice book. Perfect gift for someone who loves trains 🚂

Very good be careful if you do not like technical details though

This is "the bible" on American steam locomotives and covers the subject in enough detail to satisfy the biggest anorak around. Not the sort of thing you will read in one sitting ! Not cheap but worth every penny.

Present. Recepitant enjoyed it

This is an amazing and insightful study of the development of steam locomotives in North America, by William Withuhn, former curator at the Smithsonian Insitution. It summarizes in understandable language the technology and its developments in the prime years of steam utilization on North American railroads. The book also explains the challenges and limitations that were so much a part of the refinement of steam power and why, ultimately, it was replaced by diesels. Moreover, there are many insights into the individuals and companies that were central to this story. The book is also very nicely designed and produced and it is extensively referenced. It is a wonderful credit to the author, William Withuhn and the publisher, Indiana Univ. Press, in cooperation with the Railway & Locomotive Historical Society.

This is a terrific book particularly for people who love steam locomotives, their images and function. I am glad that I bought this book. It is an essential part of my collection of books on railroading.

A full and complete account of the development of the steam locomotive in North America.

The most informative book ever written on the later development of the steam locomotive in North America.

Only for 'real' steam lomotive fans

Sehr gutes Buch zu diesem Thema. Sehr schön aufgegliedert. Interessant geschrieben. Viel Info, wo ich sonst noch nirgends gelesen habe. Empfehlenswert.

This book is a valuable addition to anyone with a collection of railroad literature.

I just got my copy, and it is great so far. As a train nerd and former electrical engineer by trade, I have enjoyed every detail of the engineering trade-offs, such as air brakes versus vacuum brakes, iron versus steel fireboxes, and passenger engine versus freight engine wheel size. For me, the only glaring omission is a photo of the author, William L. Withuhn, who died in 2017 after completing the manuscript. I found it touching that his wife, Gail, and his editor, Peter Hansen pushed this great volume through to publication. Fortunately, photos of Mr. Withuhn are available online, owing to his lifetime of accomplishments beyond this book.

this book has a lot of detail and is generally interesting. the author is very knowledgeable and there are a ton of details. However for me, reading about ten details of a coal grate, or how this grate is different from that one without an occasional illustration is not really what I wanted in this book. Perhaps I was looking for a bit less detail and a bit more illustrative explanation.

This book has a wealth of information - sometimes a little too detailed. There are a few areas where it would be easier to understand if photos or diagrams were used, but getting past that minor difficulty, I learned a great deal about steam locomotives and their limitations. I knew maintenance was a problem, but I had no idea how big of a problem it was. And I was not aware that counterbalancing was so difficult. I only wish they had today's computers in 1930-1940. The book takes the reader from early steam through the 1940's. This is a very intense book and I think it is a must for those seriously interested in how steam locomotives were designed and how they performed in service.

I had read a review on this book and thought it might be a nice addition to my railroad library, so I jumped onto Amazon and was immediately put off by its price. Based on the review, the number of pages and the reputation of the author, I was expecting something in the $120 - 150 range, so when I saw the actual price, it made me wonder if the book would be as good as I had thought. Well, it is - and more. They say the best things come in small packages. Physically, with 464 pages, it is fairly thick, but it's a smaller book - certainly not coffee table size. Just a bit smaller than a magazine. And it is packed with information. A long-time curator at the Smithonian and a licensed locomotive engineer on steam locomotives, Mr. Withuhn not only brings a wealth of information that has been thoroughly researched, but presents it in an unusual way that is very informative and at the same time very easy to read and understand. He balances very well, meeting the needs and interests of the dedicated steam locomotive enthusiast and the novice who wants to learn more about them. There's something in this book for everybody. I mentioned that he presents it in an unusual way. Many books like this tend to be a rather dry recitation of facts. Or, they are often shallow surveys of the general world of steam locomotives. But Mr. Withuhn's approach is refreshingly different. In his telling the story of the development of these amazing machines, he considers the importance of understanding the people who specified and designed them and the factors that played into their decisions. This adds a dimension to the story that brings it alive. It puts you in touch with them and lets you relate to the fact that these machines were the high tech of their day and these men were breaking new ground, just as our computer and communications engineers do today. It also heightens your understanding of the machines and why they developed the way they did. This book would have been worth it at the price I thought it would go for. At its actual price, it is a phenomenal bargain. This is a must-have book for any railroad enthusiasts library.

Sometimes it doesn't hurt to throw yourself into the deep end. I've had an interest in trains for some time and was looking for something a little more substantial than the usual fare. To say that I got more than I expected would be an understatement; this is, by far, the most detailed book on the subject I've ever read. Rather than another fuzzy, nostalgic look at the "Romance of Steam," this is book delivers exactly what its title promises. It's not terribly surprising that Mr. Withun, the former transportation curator at the Smithsonian Museum of American History, spent more than three decades writing this book, or that he died before it was completely finished. In a word, it's a beast. At once ruthlessly efficient and meticulously detailed, I'd compare it with Norman Friedman's "Illustrated Design Histories" of American warships in terms of detail and scope. He takes us step-by-step through the breathtakingly rapid technical advancement (and occasional embarrassing failure) of American steam locomotive design. Individual chapters cover subjects such as valve gear, wheel design, counterbalancing, compounding, superheating, streamlining, the introduction of diesel locomotives, and poppet valves. Others focus on iconic or groundbreaking locomotives, railroad safety, famous designers, and some of the failed attempts at resisting the diesel revolution. Rather than simply being a dense collection fo statistics, this is a surprisingly readable and flowing text that doesn't read like a technical manual. It does a fine job explaining how each new technology was developed and how it affected locomotive design as a whole, without drifting off on unrelated tangents. I've never seen the many tradeoffs required to design a successful locomotive described with such clarity or detail. The overarching story is one of continuous progress, each locomotive faster, safer, more fuel-efficient, more technically advanced, and more powerful than the last, all in the name of continually driving down the cost of moving freight by rail. It says a lot that, as soon as I finished reading this, I immediately wanted to read the first few chapters again to see if I'd missed anything. That's in spite of the fact it took me nearly five months, on and off, to actually read it from cover to cover. That's not to say that it's boring, it's just that it's extremely lengthy, never really picks up beyond a walking pace, and is best read in ten or fifteen-page segments. The illustrations are functional black and white photographs and the occasional diagram, all with useful captions and all (thankfully!) placed on the same page as the subject being discussed. This is obviously a bit of a niche book, but if you're of a technical bent, and enjoy reading about fireboxes, equalizers, counterweights, steam domes, and starting tractive efforts, and scowl at folks who call pilots "cowcatchers" or locomotives "trains," it belongs on your shelf.

Though the book did cover the history of steam locomotives in America, it spent WAY too much time focusing on the technical aspects of the operation of the engines - and I don't mean the simple basics - this book dove really deep into so much detail that it was useless and unreadable unless I'd be operating a steam locomotive or rebuilding one soon. Worst part is that it didn't really give accompanying drawings that really showed what the author was talking about - there were some tech drawings included but they were basically unreadable - a bit disappointed in this book

Impressive book with lots of info, but it could use more diagrams to illustrate and explain things like the suspension systems of locomotives. And many of the diagrams in the book could be larger and should have parts labelled to help understand what the text is explaining. I have numerous other books about steam locomotives so I can figure out some of these details by referring to other texts, but not everyone has this option. I had hoped that this book would be the longed-for complete reference on steam locomotives, but I don't feel it is quite complete enough. Still, I'm glad I got the book, just a little disappointed.

Anyone who is serious about railroads and their history appreciates a good source of information that is factual and understandable. There have been many bench mark books written over the years on all manner of subjects that pertain to railroading. This volume should be included with them. American Steam Locomotives: Design and Development, 1880–1960 by Bill Withuhn is a tutorial on the reasoning and science as it pertains to how Steam locomotive designs were changed, grew to massive proportions and what worked and what did not. The history starts at the turn of the 1900s and explores the high points of that era and subsequently details the process of improvement that occurred following this to the end of mainline steam operations. Detailed explanations of what worked and why or how it compared to older designs are offered and while the author did not get caught up in the minute details and mathematics of the physics and engineering involved sufficient technical information is included for the essential understanding of this to be made understandable by the reader. If you are serious about the steam era of railroading and want to the genesis of the designs of locomotives that came into prominence this volume would be exactly what you are looking for. It is an easy read and contains enough information that I have started reading it again just so I can glean a little more. I cannot recommend this book more highly.

Excellent and very detailed book about the later development of the American Steam Locomotive. Besides having a very thorough knowledge of the engineering work, thermodynamics, and economics involved in creating these machines, the author obviously did an enormous amount of research, and further is a very good wordsmith. Characteristics that are all too often missing among contemporary authors. An interesting and highly recommended book. Well worth the money.

We bought this book for my father-in-law’s birthday. He used to be a train conductor years ago. He is totally obsessed with trains! This book has everything in it. Lots of pictures, lots of information. You will not be disappointed. It’s definitely worth it. (My boyfriend actually read it first, before he gave it to him. 😂) If you are a big train nerd like them, this book is for you. Also, it’s a really nice book. Perfect gift for someone who loves trains 🚂