Classic Locomotives: Steam and Diesel Power in 700 Photographs

Classic Locomotives: Steam and Diesel Power in 700 Photographs by Solomon, Brian. paperback edition. ISBN: 0752748345287.

This massive collection of 700 color photographs (comprising the previously published volumes Steam Power, Vintage Diesel Power, and Modern Diesel Power) traces the development of North American locomotives from the early nineteenth century right up to the present, spanning dozens of models from the likes of Alco, Baldwin, Electro-Motive, Fairbanks-Morse, General Electric, and more. Top-notch imagery from dozens of photographers is accompanied by detailed captions from author Brian Solomon that discuss locomotive technology, the roles of specific locomotives in individual railroads, and even the locations and operations depicted in the photographs. Together, this awesome collection stretches from the Baltimore & Ohios diminutive Tom Thumb steam locomotive - generally considered the starting point of North American locomotive technology - right up to todays high-horsepower "green" models from General Electric and Electro-Motive. The resulting volume, which also reflects the grand geographic and technological breadth of railroading in North America, is the ultimate gathering of great locomotive photographs for casual and hardcore railfans alike.