Rides on Railways By: Samuel Sidney (1813-1883)
In "Rides on Railways" by Samuel Sidney, readers are taken on an insightful and thrilling journey through the world of railways that captivates the imagination and stirs a sense of adventure. Written in the mid-19th century, Sidney's book provides a vivid and detailed account of his experiences exploring various railways across England. One of the notable aspects of the book is Sidney's ability to transport readers to the era when railways were still relatively new and awe-inspiring. Through his descriptive writing, readers are able to visualize the landscapes, stations, and even the bustling cities that were connected by these intricate networks of steel. His passionate and enthusiastic approach to the subject matter shines through, encouraging readers to appreciate not only the practicality of railways but also their profound impact on society at large. Sidney takes the readers on numerous journeys, offering glimpses into the diverse communities and cultures he encounters along the way. From the rolling hills of Kent to the industrial landscapes of Manchester, the author brings to life the various regions and their unique features, giving readers a sense of the diversity and character of the people and places he encounters. In doing so, "Rides on Railways" merges travelogue with sociological observation, providing a comprehensive and holistic picture of the Victorian England railway experience. One of the standout qualities of Sidney's writing is his attention to detail. He meticulously describes the trains, their mechanisms, and the surrounding landscapes, making readers feel like they are sitting beside him on the narrow carriages, experiencing every twist and turn of the journey. His expertise and technical knowledge of railways are apparent throughout the book, adding an enlightening and educational aspect to the narrative. However, it is worth noting that some readers may find Sidney's writing style to be somewhat verbose and pedantic, especially by contemporary standards. There are moments when the level of detail can be overwhelming, and the pacing may slow down as a result. Nevertheless, for those seeking an in-depth exploration of the early railway era, these aspects may be seen as strengths rather than weaknesses. Overall, "Rides on Railways" by Samuel Sidney is a captivating and informative account of the Victorian railway experience. It takes readers on an adventurous journey, offering a glimpse into a rapidly changing world and the transformative power of railways. Despite its occasional tendency towards verbosity, the book remains an essential read for anyone interested in the history and impact of railways on society. First Page: This eBook was prepared by Les Bowler, St. Ives, Dorset. RIDES ON RAILWAYS by Samuel Sidney. PREFACE. The following pages are an attempt to supply something amusing, instructive, and suggestive to travellers who, not caring particularly where they go, or how long they stay at any particular place, may wish to know something of the towns and districts through which they pass, on their way to Wales, the Lakes of Cumberland, or the Highlands of Scotland; or to those who, having a brief vacation, may wish to employ it among pleasant rural scenes, and in investigating the manufactures, the mines, and other sources of the commerce and influence of this small island and great country. In performing this task, I have relied partly on personal observation, partly on notes and the memory of former journeys; and where needful have used the historical information to be found in cyclopaedias, and local guide books. This must account for, if it does not excuse, the unequal space devoted to districts with equal claims to attention. But it would take years, if not a lifetime, to render the manuscript of so discursive a work complete and correct. I feel that I have been guilty of many faults of commission and omission; but if the friends of those localities to which I have not done justice will take the trouble to forward to me any facts or figures of public general interest, they shall be carefully embodied in any future edition, should the book, as I hope it will, arrive at such an honour and profit... Continue reading book >>

Rides on Railways By: Samuel Sidney (1813-1883)

In "Rides on Railways" by Samuel Sidney, readers are taken on an insightful and thrilling journey through the world of railways that captivates the imagination and stirs a sense of adventure. Written in the mid-19th century, Sidney's book provides a vivid and detailed account of his experiences exploring various railways across England.

One of the notable aspects of the book is Sidney's ability to transport readers to the era when railways were still relatively new and awe-inspiring. Through his descriptive writing, readers are able to visualize the landscapes, stations, and even the bustling cities that were connected by these intricate networks of steel. His passionate and enthusiastic approach to the subject matter shines through, encouraging readers to appreciate not only the practicality of railways but also their profound impact on society at large.

Sidney takes the readers on numerous journeys, offering glimpses into the diverse communities and cultures he encounters along the way. From the rolling hills of Kent to the industrial landscapes of Manchester, the author brings to life the various regions and their unique features, giving readers a sense of the diversity and character of the people and places he encounters. In doing so, "Rides on Railways" merges travelogue with sociological observation, providing a comprehensive and holistic picture of the Victorian England railway experience.

One of the standout qualities of Sidney's writing is his attention to detail. He meticulously describes the trains, their mechanisms, and the surrounding landscapes, making readers feel like they are sitting beside him on the narrow carriages, experiencing every twist and turn of the journey. His expertise and technical knowledge of railways are apparent throughout the book, adding an enlightening and educational aspect to the narrative.

However, it is worth noting that some readers may find Sidney's writing style to be somewhat verbose and pedantic, especially by contemporary standards. There are moments when the level of detail can be overwhelming, and the pacing may slow down as a result. Nevertheless, for those seeking an in-depth exploration of the early railway era, these aspects may be seen as strengths rather than weaknesses.

Overall, "Rides on Railways" by Samuel Sidney is a captivating and informative account of the Victorian railway experience. It takes readers on an adventurous journey, offering a glimpse into a rapidly changing world and the transformative power of railways. Despite its occasional tendency towards verbosity, the book remains an essential read for anyone interested in the history and impact of railways on society.

First Page:

This eBook was prepared by Les Bowler, St. Ives, Dorset.

RIDES ON RAILWAYS by Samuel Sidney.

PREFACE.

The following pages are an attempt to supply something amusing, instructive, and suggestive to travellers who, not caring particularly where they go, or how long they stay at any particular place, may wish to know something of the towns and districts through which they pass, on their way to Wales, the Lakes of Cumberland, or the Highlands of Scotland; or to those who, having a brief vacation, may wish to employ it among pleasant rural scenes, and in investigating the manufactures, the mines, and other sources of the commerce and influence of this small island and great country.

In performing this task, I have relied partly on personal observation, partly on notes and the memory of former journeys; and where needful have used the historical information to be found in cyclopaedias, and local guide books.

This must account for, if it does not excuse, the unequal space devoted to districts with equal claims to attention. But it would take years, if not a lifetime, to render the manuscript of so discursive a work complete and correct.

I feel that I have been guilty of many faults of commission and omission; but if the friends of those localities to which I have not done justice will take the trouble to forward to me any facts or figures of public general interest, they shall be carefully embodied in any future edition, should the book, as I hope it will, arrive at such an honour and profit... Continue reading book >>

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