A Pioneer Railway of the West   By: Maude Ward Lafferty (1869-1962)

In "A Pioneer Railway of the West" by Maude Ward Lafferty, readers are taken on a compelling journey through the early days of rail travel in the American West. Lafferty skillfully blends historical facts with personal anecdotes, giving us a vivid and authentic account of this important chapter in our nation's transportation history.

What sets this book apart is the author's meticulous research. Lafferty leaves no stone unturned as she delves into the origins, challenges, and triumphs of the railway's construction and operation. Her attention to detail is commendable, and readers will appreciate her ability to bring the past to life through vivid descriptions and engaging storytelling.

Furthermore, Lafferty's inclusion of personal narratives adds a touching and relatable element to the narrative. By incorporating firsthand accounts from those involved in the railway's development, she adds depth and humanity to the overall story. We witness the hopes, dreams, and struggles of the pioneers who dedicated their lives to this monumental project, making it all the more inspiring.

The book's organization is another strength. Lafferty presents the historical events in a logical and coherent manner, making it easy for readers to follow the chronological progression of the railway's growth. Additionally, she provides ample context, ensuring that even those with minimal knowledge of the time period can fully grasp the significance of each milestone.

However, there are a few minor drawbacks to be mentioned. At times, the book's extensive amount of detail can be overwhelming, especially for readers less familiar with the subject matter. Additionally, while the inclusion of personal narratives is admirable, some readers may find them distracting or unnecessary, as they occasionally detract from the overall flow of the historical account.

Overall, "A Pioneer Railway of the West" is a captivating exploration of an important era in American history. Maude Ward Lafferty's impeccable research, attention to detail, and inclusion of personal narratives make this book a valuable resource for anyone interested in the development of railways in the American West. Despite a few minor shortcomings, this work stands as a testament to the vision, determination, and ingenuity of the pioneers who helped shape the nation's rail transportation system.

First Page:

During the month of July, 1915, there appeared in a local newspaper an account of the finding of "Old Rail Stones" and "Old Strap Iron Rails" which had been used in the construction of the railroad generally known as "the old Lexington and Frankfort Road," though it was incorporated under the name of the "Lexington and Ohio Rail Road." It is believed by many to have been the first railroad west of the Alleghany Mountains. Be that as it may, the quaint and interesting relics had just been dug up that week by the workmen who were reconstructing the freight yards of the Louisville and Nashville Railroad. The workmen were moving more recently laid tracks back to the old original road bed of the pioneer railroad , and in doing so they unearthed those curious relics of 1831... Continue reading book >>