The Mail Pay on the Burlington Railroad   By: Anonymous

The Mail Pay on the Burlington Railroad, written by an anonymous author, is a comprehensive exploration of a particular aspect of American railway history. The book delves into the intricate workings of the mail pay system during the heyday of the Burlington Railroad, shedding light on a fascinating and often overlooked subject.

One of the standout qualities of this book is the author's meticulous attention to detail. Every aspect of the mail pay system, from its inception to its development and eventual decline, is thoroughly researched and presented in a clear and concise manner. The reader is taken on a journey through time, following the evolution of this crucial aspect of transportation and commerce.

While the writing style is admittedly dry at times, it stands as a testament to the author's dedication to providing accurate information. Every chapter is well-organized and filled with facts, figures, and historical anecdotes that paint a comprehensive picture of the mail pay system. The author clearly possesses a deep understanding of the subject matter and successfully conveys their knowledge to the reader.

In addition to its strong informational content, the book also offers valuable insights into the social and economic implications of the mail pay system. The author explores how this system influenced the lives of workers, businesses, and the general public. By examining the various perspectives on this subject, the book goes beyond mere facts and figures, making it a relevant and thought-provoking read.

However, one potential drawback for readers is the lack of a compelling narrative or personal anecdotes that could enhance the storytelling aspect of the book. It is primarily a scholarly study, placing a heavy emphasis on facts and historical analysis rather than engaging storytelling. This may deter readers seeking a more captivating and emotionally-driven account.

Despite this minor limitation, The Mail Pay on the Burlington Railroad is an illuminating book that shines a light on an often overlooked aspect of American history. Its thorough research, attention to detail, and insightful analysis make it a valuable resource for scholars, railway enthusiasts, and anyone interested in understanding the intricate workings of transportation and communication systems of the past. While it may not have broad appeal for casual readers, those with a specific interest in the subject matter will find this book to be a worthwhile and informative addition to their collection.

First Page:

The present system under which the Government employs railroads to carry the mails was established in 1873, thirty seven years ago. Under this system, the Post Office Department designates between what named towns upon each railroad in the country a so called "mail route" shall be established. Congress prescribes a scale of rates for payment per mile of such mail route per year, based upon the average weight of mails transported over the route daily, "with due frequency and speed," and under "regulations" promulgated from time to time by the Post Office Department. To this is added a certain allowance for the haulage and use of post office cars built and run exclusively for the mails, based upon their length. The annual rate of expenditure to all railroads for mail service on all routes in operation June 30, 1909, was $44,885,395.29 for weight of mail, and for post office cars $4,721,044.87, the "car pay," so called, being nine and five tenths per cent of the total pay... Continue reading book >>