I'm fairly new to the whole train scene. I have always had a little bit of interest in them, but it wasn't much until I made a friend last year who is a lifelong railfan. Because of that, my mild interest in trains has become more intense and I still have no idea where to begin researching the "iron horse." The bulk of my knowledge so far comes from my friend, random websites, Wikipedia, the 286th issue of Passenger Train Journal, the winter 2021 issue of Classic Trains, and the Train Eyewitness book.
I have had some struggle finding general information about trains, and I think that's because I'm trying to look for something cohesive and accessible for beginners, versus sources that are aimed at more seasoned fans. I've narrowed my interests in trains to primarily focus on pre-Amtrak railroads of the US (mostly the Pennsylvania Railroad and B&O), passenger trains, both operation and equipment, and the personal experiences of other people riding passenger trains. What I read from PTJ hits most of those spots for me, but I would also like to find other sources that are more beginner-friendly and does have too much of the intimidating train jargon.
If anyone could point me in the right direction of some "for beginners" ways to get into trains, that would be very helpful. Even some sites, books, videos, etc that fall into my interests would be great as well.
Hit up your local library - they may well have a number of books that would pique your interest. Very often they can borrow books from other libraries, saving you a trip out of town to acquire that book you want to read.
Look into the historical groups for the railroads you favor. Most have regular publications that focus on their history. They are often listed in Trains and Classic Trains.
There are several regular publications that focus on the history of railroads - Classic Trains from folks here at Trains (they have a forum here, too) and TRP (a competitor to Kalmbach, but worth the read) come to mind.
Local model railroad clubs often are knowledgeable on local railroad history, and may even have retired railroaders as members.
Also check on rail museums in your area. While there are big museums, oftimes the small, local museums are unremarked, but still have a wealth of information.
You don't say where you live, but if you live in the middle Atlantic region, a trip to the B&O Museum in Baltimore, and to the PA museum at Strasburg should both be on your bucket list.
As for a primer for railroading, I'll let someone else give you some ideas.
Larry Resident Microferroequinologist (at least at my house) Everyone goes home; Safety begins with you My Opinion. Standard Disclaimers Apply. No Expiration Date Come ride the rails with me! There's one thing about humility - the moment you think you've got it, you've lost it...
Don't do it! Look what it did to me - one cab ride as a three year old with dad and gradpa and I was addicted for life!! I tried going cold turkey, joined the Army, even tried girls and nothing worked !
longdistancedrunkI'm fairly new to the whole train scene. I have always had a little bit of interest in them, but it wasn't much until I made a friend last year who is a lifelong railfan. Because of that, my mild interest in trains has become more intense and I still have no idea where to begin research
I'd suggest that you spend the next year reading every issue of trains magazine and classic trains magazine that you can get your hands on, go to your local library in the "Business and Technology" section and find a couple good books, and make use of the internet to dig deeper into topics you find of interest from the above.
Gradually, youll start to develop more specific tastes, such as hardware, or the business side, or other. And can focus your research accordingly.
Get ahold of this book:
https://www.amazon.com/Railroad-What-Does-Introduction-Railroading/dp/0911382585/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=the+railroad+what+it+is+what+it+does&qid=1644947422&sr=8-3
Welcome aboard! It's a fascinating hobby. Ask all the questions you want. Most members will be glad to respond.
Still in training.
If he is in the mid-Atlantic region, add The Hagley Museum and Library (Wilmington, DE) ,to that list, especially for things PRR .
Thank you. From what I read from Classic Trains, I just might keep going. I even got the Trains Unlimited trial so I'll check out the main Trains magazine as well!
Thanks, I actually work at a library, so I was able to find the book in our system. So far this seems like a welcoming community, so I'll be sure to ask questions every so often.
I actually visited the B&O museum a few weeks ago. I had a pretty good time and I learned a bunch. Then last Sunday I went to the Bowie Railroad Museum and I plan on going to the Strasburg museum this weekend.
I'll check out TRP since I'm pretty sure my friend has a few issues.
Also, I'm from Maryland.
#1 piece of advice - don't stand within the track gauge of the track of a approaching train.
Never too old to have a happy childhood!
BaltACD #1 piece of advice - don't stand within the track gauge of the track of a approaching train.
Plus - if the fingertips of your outstretched arm are over the rail, you're too close.
That loose piece of steel banding flopping off the side of that flatcar will wreak untold havoc on your body...
My advise, just get out there and have fun.. that's the whole idea of having a hobby.
longdistancedrunk I actually visited the B&O museum a few weeks ago. I had a pretty good time and I learned a bunch. Then last Sunday I went to the Bowie Railroad Museum and I plan on going to the Strasburg museum this weekend. I'll check out TRP since I'm pretty sure my friend has a few issues. Also, I'm from Maryland.
Thanks to Chris / CopCarSS for my avatar.
tree68 Plus - if the fingertips of your outstretched arm are over the rail, you're too close. That loose piece of steel banding flopping off the side of that flatcar will wreak untold havoc on your body...
See CSX train going through Ashland VA: https://imgur.com/3r3Kas0
Lithonia OperatorSee CSX train going through Ashland VA: https://imgur.com/3r3Kas0
Exactly.
I've recounted before the story of a large chain seen hanging off the side of a flat car, bouncing off the ballast...
As kids in Reading, we'd hang out at Klapperthal Junction and curve. We'd learned to be on the curve's inside when a train passed. On the outside was a boxcar door. Also the Reading's passenger cars were the "do not flush while in station" type.
Rick
rixflix aka Captain Video. Blessed be Jean Shepherd and all His works!!! Hooray for 1939, the all time movie year!!! I took that ride on the Reading but my Baby caught the Katy and left me a mule to ride.
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