Book Description

This volume features 140 photographs and 26 folio drawings, as well as maps, timetables and equipment rosters from 1891 to 1956, when the last standard gauge steam locomotive roamed the Rio Grande. It traces the development of Rio Grande’s steam locomotives from the early days to the last days of steam when locomotive fires were dropped and diesels took over the task of hauling tonnage through the beautiful but rugged Western terrain. Rio Grande Steam Locomotives is a book that will interest not only Rio Grande fans, but also steam locomotive fans as well. Besides giving an overview history of the railroad, the book highlights numerous standard gauge steam locomotives from the 0-6-0 and 4-6-2 to the giant 2-8-8-2 and 4-6-6-4. Two special chapters are included in the book: one chapter features Rio Grande steamers built by the American Locomotive Company and its predecessor companies, and another chapter features more builder’s photographs from the Baldwin Locomotive Works. There are 14 chapters in all, each adding more valuable information and photographs to the exciting steam locomotive history of this popular Western railroad.