Midnight train rides, head-on freight collisions-there is never a dull moment when it comes to trains. Take a look at America's biggest railroads and meet the thunderous personalities who operate them.

In Last Train to Texas, author Fred W. Frailey examines the workings behind the railroad industry and captures incredible true stories along the way. Discover how men like William "Pisser Bill" F. Thompson swerve from financial ruin, bad merger deals, and cutthroat competition, all while racking up enough notoriety to inspire a poem titled "Ode to a Jerk." Bold, savvy, and ready for a friendly brawl, the only thing louder and more thrilling than these men are the trains that they handle. Come along with Frailey as he travels the world, one railroad at a time. Whether it's riding the Canadian Pacific Railway through a blizzard, witnessing a container train burglary in the Abo Canyon, or commemorating a poem to Limerick Junction in Dublin, Ireland, Frailey's journeys are rife with excitement and the occasional mishap.

Filled with humorous anecdotes and thoughtful insights into the railroading industry, Last Train to Texas is an adventure in every sense of the word.

About the Author

Journalist Fred Frailey has written for Trains magazine for more than 40 years. He has authored five other railroad books, including Twilight of the Great Trains, Southern Pacific's Blue Streak Merchandise, and Rolling Thunder (with Gary Benson).

Reviews

Last Train to Texas depicts modern railroading, warts and all, though a fascinating amalgam of stories. Readers finish understanding Frailey's love of railroading because of the breadth of his narratives.

-- Mark Lardas * The Daily News Galveston *

...a terrific read, a collection of short, snappy essays that mirror Fred's ceaseless curiosity about not only the business of railroading, but more importantly its people.

-- Kevin Keefe * Trains Magazine *

This book is more than just about a rail line re-birth in Nowheresville, Texas. Rather, it is an outstanding anthology of 46 short stores compiled by Fred Frailey recounting his rail adventures over the past four decades. The author's writing style is contemporary, straightforward, and entertaining with its clever wit.

-- David J Mrozek * The Michigan Railfan *

"...this book is a pleasent diversion, perfect for pool-side reading. Longtime followers of Fred W. Frailey will want to read this book."

-- Bill Hough * The NRHS Bulletin *



Book Information
ISBN 9780253045249
Author Fred W. Frailey
Format Hardback
Page Count 232
Imprint Indiana University Press
Publisher Indiana University Press
Weight(grams) 476g