Customer Reviews

The Pennsylvania Railroad: 1940s-1950s

5 star:		(11)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This is one of the "must have" books for every fan of the PRR. The color photos from the 1940s and 1950s (which make up the bulk of the book) are classic images of the railroad before its decline, and the text (which is limited to about the first 35 pages, plus photo captions, helps the reader understand the Pennsylania Railroad and its operations, particularly in the eastern half of the system. For those seeking more "technical" information, Staufer's Pennsy Power series will have more data, but the photos found here will complement the data found there. Those looking for historical information will some find some historical data here, although they may also be interested in Burgess & Kennedy's Centennial History of the Pennsylvania Railroad, Messer & Roberts' Triumph series, or in Rush Loving's book, The Men Who Loved Trains. There are also numerous other volumes published on the PRR, including many from smaller publishers.

Ball and his cohorts have assembled an excellent collection of color photos of the PRR. Coverage is biased to the eastern end of the system, but this is not bad. There is an interesting story of the testing of early electric locomotives at the start of this book. A must for any true pennsy fan.

This history of the famous Pennsylvania Railroad is written in style and understanding by Don Ball Jr that is unmatched, in my opinion, for quality and the author's passion and love for the American railroad saga. Don Ball Jr. died just before the distribution of this book in 1986. He did not get to sign the Limited First Edition of 1600 copies, so has widow Linda did so in his place. He was a gentleman with whom - coming across in his writing - I would enjoyed a chat across a dinner table. The photography is superb for model builders, history seekers, and those who enjoy quality composition and information flow. The quality of the printing is excellent.

This picture book was made for people like me who grew up beside the "Pennsy" in the 1950s. Every picture is pure nostalgia. I lived on the PRR's Washington-Philadelphia main line before moving west in the mid 50s. I then travelled the PRR to Chicago a couple of times a year so virtually every picture rings a bell and what pictures! There isn't a dud among the lot. Mr. Ball surpassed himself in his editing and captions. For those familiar with his work that is saying alot. I think he had a special place in his heart for the Pennsy as I do. A gem of a book.

This is certainly an incredible collection of color photos of PRR during the period the book is about. It's really amazing to see the PRR in all its color glory. But the book has a couple down sides that prevent it from receiving 5 stars, IMHO. First, I think there is just a bit too much covered of other railroads. Now I realize that the PRR interfaced with what seems like everyone. The stuff about the LIRR is fine, and of course the subsids of the PRR should be covered. But the other stuff just doesn't belong. I also felt some of the captions go off on wild tangets. I want to know about what is in the picture, not the state of war at that exact moment or other such unrelated info.

A wonderful window in time to the transition era on the PRR, and a valuable
reference for the PRR enthusiast and modeller.The book also showcases
the excellent photography of the late Don Ball Jr.

Don Ball's book shows in brilliant photography a railroad and a nation in its prime. Crisp color photography throughout. If there is a business to represent America when there were no doubts, this is it. Steam, electric, diesel, it's all here. And a surprising amount of classic images of other roads as well as the Pennsy borrowed power from the eastern US to make its manifests.

This book is simply a joy for rail enthusiasts. I am pleased to add it to my collection.

If you like the Pennsy, you need this book! IF I could only keep one book in my collection, this is the one I would keep. Excellent source for color photos of the late great Pennsy.

The book was purchased used and the only damage was to the dust cover. The book covered the PRR good and had several actual photos of the equipment in use . Provided good sound history and data provided for that period was excellent manner. This was a good purchase and glad I made it.

This book is outstanding, and an absolute requirement for any fan of the PRR. I've spent hours pouring over the incredible collection of photos collected in this book. 1940-1950 was probably the best time on ANY railroad - steam locomotives were at their largest, most powerful, and most technically advanced; and they shared the rails with the rapidly increasing swarm of diesels, all during a time of incredible railroad traffic volume. This book illustrates that time beautifully in full color. Don's extensive captions are wonderful as well, providing a flavor and context for the images portrayed.