✕
CONNECT
reedsymarketplace Editing Design Marketing Publicity Ghostwriting Websites
LEARN
reedsyblog reedsylearning reedsylive Success Stories Bestseller Podcast
TOOLS
reedsybookeditor Writing Contests Short Story Ideas Book Review Blogs Book Promotion Sites Literary Magazines Writing Exercises Booktube Channel Guide Writing Prompts Character Name Generator Book Title Generator Pen Name Generator Epub to Mobi Converter Book Cover Art
ABOUT
About Reedsy Publishers Become a Freelancer Terms Privacy
Brian Solomon

Brian Solomon - Ghostwriter

Monson, MA, USA

Since 1996 I have authored and illustrated more than 60 books and dozens of magazine articles.

Request a quote
Reedsy profile URL
Reedsy profile URL https://reedsy.com/brian-solomon
Verified identity

Overview

I have authored dozens of books in addition to writing a monthly column for Trains Magazine.

Typically I collaborate with publishers to develop and refine ideas and subject-matter that will intrigue readers and fit a niche in the marketplace.

When researching for my writing, I draw upon a great variety of sources, including primary materials and personal experience as well as previously published literature. I plan to distill my subject while adding to greater body of accessible published material on the topic in order to make my writing interesting, informative, reliable and relevant.
Services
Book Ghostwriting
Book Proposal
Languages
English (US)
Non-Fiction
Photography
Transportation

Work experience

Editor

Self-employed
July, 1994 – September, 1996 (about 2 years)

Between 1994 to 1996 Brian Solomon worked at Pentrex Publishing as the Editor of Pacific RailNews and as an associate editor for Passenger Train Journal. He also helped launch the magazine Vintage Rails in 1995.

Portfolio (50 selected works)

North American Railroads North American Railroads

North American Railroads

Brian Solomon

Get an up-close and personal look at over 150 years of railway history.This richly illustrated encyclopedia of classic and contemporary American railroads features concise histories of 101 U.S. and Canadian railroads past and present. Over 400 stunning images include period and modern photography in both color and black and white, evocative print ads, and system maps.Author Brian Solomon, an a... read more

Get an up-close and personal look at over 150 years of railway history.This richly illustrated encyclopedia of classic and contemporary American railroads features concise histories of 101 U.S. and Canadian railroads past and present. Over 400 stunning images include period and modern photography in both color and black and white, evocative print ads, and system maps.Author Brian Solomon, an a... read more

Alco Locomotives Alco Locomotives

Alco Locomotives

Brian Solomon

Once the second-largest steam locomotive builder in the U.S., American Locomotive Company (Alco) produced 75,000 locomotives, among them such famous examples as the 4-6-4 Hudsons and 4-8-4 Niagaras built for the New York Central, and the 4-6-6-4 Challengers and 4-8-8-4 Big Boys built for the Union Pacific. Alco Locomotives is the first book to tell the full story of this company central to Ame... read more

Once the second-largest steam locomotive builder in the U.S., American Locomotive Company (Alco) produced 75,000 locomotives, among them such famous examples as the 4-6-4 Hudsons and 4-8-4 Niagaras built for the New York Central, and the 4-6-6-4 Challengers and 4-8-8-4 Big Boys built for the Union Pacific. Alco Locomotives is the first book to tell the full story of this company central to Ame... read more

Coal Trains Coal Trains

Coal Trains

Brian Solomon, Patrick Yough

From the first, U.S. railroads have carried coal from mines to docks, steel mills, and power plants across the country. In this authoritative book spanning the whole of that history, from the mid-nineteenth century to present, noted rail author Brian Solomon explores the railroads and hardware that have transported the fossil fuels that made America work. Brilliant period and contemporary phot... read more

From the first, U.S. railroads have carried coal from mines to docks, steel mills, and power plants across the country. In this authoritative book spanning the whole of that history, from the mid-nineteenth century to present, noted rail author Brian Solomon explores the railroads and hardware that have transported the fossil fuels that made America work. Brilliant period and contemporary phot... read more

Railroad Signaling Railroad Signaling

Railroad Signaling

Brian Solomon

From the 1830s to today, the railroad industry has developed myriad complex mechanisms to help keep North America’s railroad rights-of-ways safe, efficient, and relatively accident-free. In this paperback rerelease of the successful 2003 title, the otherwise-arcane world of railroad signaling is explained in concise language and brought to life with nearly 200 fantastic photographs that depict... read more

From the 1830s to today, the railroad industry has developed myriad complex mechanisms to help keep North America’s railroad rights-of-ways safe, efficient, and relatively accident-free. In this paperback rerelease of the successful 2003 title, the otherwise-arcane world of railroad signaling is explained in concise language and brought to life with nearly 200 fantastic photographs that depict... read more

Steam Power (Gallery) Steam Power (Gallery)

Steam Power (Gallery)

Brian Solomon

They steamed westward with America, carrying goods and people to the new frontier. They powered through the industrial revolution, moving with the times. And they transported a nation in motion, soldiers and settlers and immigrants, captains of industry and itinerant laborers. These were the steam locomotives that ruled the rails and kept America moving and working for more than a century. Pic... read more

They steamed westward with America, carrying goods and people to the new frontier. They powered through the industrial revolution, moving with the times. And they transported a nation in motion, soldiers and settlers and immigrants, captains of industry and itinerant laborers. These were the steam locomotives that ruled the rails and kept America moving and working for more than a century. Pic... read more

Electro-Motive E-Units and F-Units Electro-Motive E-Units and F-Units

Electro-Motive E-Units and F-Units

Brian Solomon

Blending automotive manufacturing and styling techniques with state-of-the-art diesel-electric technologies, General Motors’ Electro-Motive Division conceived and marketed America’s first commercially successful road diesels: the fabulous E-Units and F-Units. This illustrated companion to Voyageur Press’ Alco Locomotives (2009) and Baldwin Locomotives (2010) is the most comprehensive history o... read more

Blending automotive manufacturing and styling techniques with state-of-the-art diesel-electric technologies, General Motors’ Electro-Motive Division conceived and marketed America’s first commercially successful road diesels: the fabulous E-Units and F-Units. This illustrated companion to Voyageur Press’ Alco Locomotives (2009) and Baldwin Locomotives (2010) is the most comprehensive history o... read more

Streetcars of America (Shire Library USA Book 779) Streetcars of America (Shire Library USA Book 779)

Streetcars of America (Shire Library USA Book 779)

Brian Solomon, John Gruber

The handsome multicolored streetcar is a nostalgic icon of the some of the most romantic and heritage-rich locales in America, including San Francisco, New Orleans and Chicago, immortalised on stage and screen in classics including 'Meet Me In St Louis' and 'A Streetcar Named Desire'. Streetcars of America chronicles these vehicles from the earliest animal-drawn carriages to the height of thei... read more

The handsome multicolored streetcar is a nostalgic icon of the some of the most romantic and heritage-rich locales in America, including San Francisco, New Orleans and Chicago, immortalised on stage and screen in classics including 'Meet Me In St Louis' and 'A Streetcar Named Desire'. Streetcars of America chronicles these vehicles from the earliest animal-drawn carriages to the height of thei... read more

The Railroad Never Sleeps: 24 Hours in the Life of Modern Railroading The Railroad Never Sleeps: 24 Hours in the Life of Modern Railroading

The Railroad Never Sleeps: 24 Hours in the Life of Modern Railroading

For well over a century and a half the railroad has rolled on, crisscrossing the continent in the ceaseless activity that keeps the North American economy moving. This never-ending workday unfolds hour by hour in The Railroad Never Sleeps, a remarkable photographic chronicle of North American railroading over twenty-four hours. On May 10, 2007, the anniversary of the Golden Spike ceremony mark... read more

For well over a century and a half the railroad has rolled on, crisscrossing the continent in the ceaseless activity that keeps the North American economy moving. This never-ending workday unfolds hour by hour in The Railroad Never Sleeps, a remarkable photographic chronicle of North American railroading over twenty-four hours. On May 10, 2007, the anniversary of the Golden Spike ceremony mark... read more

Vintage Diesel Power Vintage Diesel Power

Vintage Diesel Power

Brian Solomon

This formative period of diesel locomotive evolution is examined with the help of more than 250 modern and period photos depicting passenger, freight, and switching locomotives. Author Brian Solomon covers every prominent manufacturer of the period—including Electro-Motive, Alco, Baldwin, and GE—as well as iconic models like Geeps, E and F units, PAs and FAs, sharknoses, U-boats, and more. The... read more

This formative period of diesel locomotive evolution is examined with the help of more than 250 modern and period photos depicting passenger, freight, and switching locomotives. Author Brian Solomon covers every prominent manufacturer of the period—including Electro-Motive, Alco, Baldwin, and GE—as well as iconic models like Geeps, E and F units, PAs and FAs, sharknoses, U-boats, and more. The... read more

GE and EMD Locomotives: The Illustrated History GE and EMD Locomotives: The Illustrated History

GE and EMD Locomotives: The Illustrated History

Brian Solomon

The complete history of the world's foremost locomotive builders. With roots stretching back to the turn of the twentieth century, General Electric and Electro-Motive have designed some of the most iconic locomotives in the history of North American railroading. Now, for the first time, acclaimed rail author Brian Solomon's landmark historical accounts of these manufacturers' North American ma... read more

The complete history of the world's foremost locomotive builders. With roots stretching back to the turn of the twentieth century, General Electric and Electro-Motive have designed some of the most iconic locomotives in the history of North American railroading. Now, for the first time, acclaimed rail author Brian Solomon's landmark historical accounts of these manufacturers' North American ma... read more

North American Locomotives North American Locomotives

North American Locomotives

Brian Solomon

Profusely illustrated with rare historic and previously unpublished modern photography, North American Locomotives this is the perfect addition to the library of any rail fan. This invaluable volume spans more than 150 years of locomotive technology to examine the wide variety of steam, diesel, and electric locomotives that have powered ninety North American railroads, past and present, throug... read more

Profusely illustrated with rare historic and previously unpublished modern photography, North American Locomotives this is the perfect addition to the library of any rail fan. This invaluable volume spans more than 150 years of locomotive technology to examine the wide variety of steam, diesel, and electric locomotives that have powered ninety North American railroads, past and present, throug... read more

Railway Depots, Stations & Terminals Railway Depots, Stations & Terminals

Railway Depots, Stations & Terminals

Brian Solomon

From the railway's beginnings, the station building, itself, had civic importance greater than ordinary structures. Let historian Brian Solomon show you how beautifully it filled that role. Railway Depots, Stations & Terminals is a unique book about some of the finest, most interesting, and most famous railway stations. Contemporary photographs, historic images, and postcard views provide an i... read more

From the railway's beginnings, the station building, itself, had civic importance greater than ordinary structures. Let historian Brian Solomon show you how beautifully it filled that role. Railway Depots, Stations & Terminals is a unique book about some of the finest, most interesting, and most famous railway stations. Contemporary photographs, historic images, and postcard views provide an i... read more

The Twilight of Steam: Great Photography from the Last Days of Steam Locomotives in America The Twilight of Steam: Great Photography from the Last Days of Steam Locomotives in America

The Twilight of Steam: Great Photography from the Last Days of Steam Locomotives in America

Brian Solomon

Chicago: America's Railroad Capital: The Illustrated History, 1836 to Today Chicago: America's Railroad Capital: The Illustrated History, 1836 to Today

Chicago: America's Railroad Capital: The Illustrated History, 1836 to Today

Brian Solomon, John Gruber, Chris Guss, Michael Blaszak

The first illustrated history of the people, machines, facilities, and operations that made Chicago the hub around which an entire continent's rail industry still revolves. In the mid-nineteenth century, Chicago's central location in the expanding nation helped establish it as the capital of the still-new North American railroad industry. As the United States expanded westward, new railroads a... read more

The first illustrated history of the people, machines, facilities, and operations that made Chicago the hub around which an entire continent's rail industry still revolves. In the mid-nineteenth century, Chicago's central location in the expanding nation helped establish it as the capital of the still-new North American railroad industry. As the United States expanded westward, new railroads a... read more

Streamliners: Locomotives and Trains in the Age of Speed and Style Streamliners: Locomotives and Trains in the Age of Speed and Style

Streamliners: Locomotives and Trains in the Age of Speed and Style

Brian Solomon

See the streamlined trains of the 1930s in all of their sleek glory.In the 1930s, streamlined styling was applied to everything from kitchen appliances to farm tractors as it captured the American imagination. Keen to regain passenger traffic lost to automobiles and expanding roadways, railroads hired industrial-design giants like Raymond Loewy, Otto Kuhler, Henry Dreyfuss, and Brooks Stevens ... read more

See the streamlined trains of the 1930s in all of their sleek glory.In the 1930s, streamlined styling was applied to everything from kitchen appliances to farm tractors as it captured the American imagination. Keen to regain passenger traffic lost to automobiles and expanding roadways, railroads hired industrial-design giants like Raymond Loewy, Otto Kuhler, Henry Dreyfuss, and Brooks Stevens ... read more

The Milwaukee Road's Hiawathas (Great Passenger Trains) The Milwaukee Road's Hiawathas (Great Passenger Trains)

The Milwaukee Road's Hiawathas (Great Passenger Trains)

In 1935, the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul & Pacific Railroad-better known as the Milwaukee Road-introduced a new passenger service, one of the nation's first regularly scheduled streamlined passenger trains. Traveling from Chicago to Milwaukee and the Twin Cities-the train traveled routes steeped in native lore, and thus was called the Hiawatha. By 1945, there were three routes-the Twin Cities... read more

In 1935, the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul & Pacific Railroad-better known as the Milwaukee Road-introduced a new passenger service, one of the nation's first regularly scheduled streamlined passenger trains. Traveling from Chicago to Milwaukee and the Twin Cities-the train traveled routes steeped in native lore, and thus was called the Hiawatha. By 1945, there were three routes-the Twin Cities... read more

Classic Railroad Signals: Semaphores, Searchlights, and Towers Classic Railroad Signals: Semaphores, Searchlights, and Towers

Classic Railroad Signals: Semaphores, Searchlights, and Towers

Brian Solomon

Explore the history, quirks, and stories behind signals with gorgeous period and contemporary photography.Railroad signals are the link between the steam era and modern railroading. Designed for reliability and durability, signals can survive for decades. In fact, old semaphores installed during the early years of the twentieth century were still in service during the 1990s, protecting trains ... read more

Explore the history, quirks, and stories behind signals with gorgeous period and contemporary photography.Railroad signals are the link between the steam era and modern railroading. Designed for reliability and durability, signals can survive for decades. In fact, old semaphores installed during the early years of the twentieth century were still in service during the 1990s, protecting trains ... read more

Railway Maintenance: The Men and Machines That Keep the Railroads Running Railway Maintenance: The Men and Machines That Keep the Railroads Running

Railway Maintenance: The Men and Machines That Keep the Railroads Running

Brian Solomon

You may have seen some of these machines and tools as you roll alongside a rail bed. But what to call them, or knowing how they work, may allude you. Find the true identity of the different tools used to build and maintain railbeds and lines including tie pullers, rail grinders, and much, much more. Detailed photos show the machines and tools in action. This is a handy reference guide for fans... read more

You may have seen some of these machines and tools as you roll alongside a rail bed. But what to call them, or knowing how they work, may allude you. Find the true identity of the different tools used to build and maintain railbeds and lines including tie pullers, rail grinders, and much, much more. Detailed photos show the machines and tools in action. This is a handy reference guide for fans... read more

Caboose Caboose

Caboose

Brian Solomon

The image of a little red caboose trundling along behind a long freight train is a classic slice of Americana. With the help of nearly 300 marvelous modern and historical images depicting cabooses of all colors, this collection traces the development of this iconic, bygone rolling stock from the nineteenth century to their almost total demise by the mid-1990s. Bobber, cupola, bay window, and t... read more

The image of a little red caboose trundling along behind a long freight train is a classic slice of Americana. With the help of nearly 300 marvelous modern and historical images depicting cabooses of all colors, this collection traces the development of this iconic, bygone rolling stock from the nineteenth century to their almost total demise by the mid-1990s. Bobber, cupola, bay window, and t... read more

Working on the Railroad by Brian Solomon (2006-08-15) Working on the Railroad by Brian Solomon (2006-08-15)

Working on the Railroad by Brian Solomon (2006-08-15)

Brian Solomon

Emd F-Unit Locomotives (Traintech) Emd F-Unit Locomotives (Traintech)

Emd F-Unit Locomotives (Traintech)

Brain Solomon

In the 1940s and 1950s, American railroads made the historic transition from steam to diesel-electric power. At a time when railroads still relied on steam power for most service and diesels remained a novelty, Electro-Motive took the nation by storm with its distinctive-looking four-motor F-unit locomotives that echoed across America. The F unit soon became the standard diesel on many America... read more

In the 1940s and 1950s, American railroads made the historic transition from steam to diesel-electric power. At a time when railroads still relied on steam power for most service and diesels remained a novelty, Electro-Motive took the nation by storm with its distinctive-looking four-motor F-unit locomotives that echoed across America. The F unit soon became the standard diesel on many America... read more

Amtrak (MBI Railroad Color History) Amtrak (MBI Railroad Color History)

Amtrak (MBI Railroad Color History)

Brian Solomon

This pictorial history is only the second of its kind to trace the 30-plus-year history of Amtrak, beginning with a look at the rise and fall of privately run passenger train service followed by a look at Amtrak's infant stage from 1971 through 1976. Also examined is the period from 1976 to 1991, when Amtrak finally established an image, buying new equipment and refurbished old and grew its ri... read more

This pictorial history is only the second of its kind to trace the 30-plus-year history of Amtrak, beginning with a look at the rise and fall of privately run passenger train service followed by a look at Amtrak's infant stage from 1971 through 1976. Also examined is the period from 1976 to 1991, when Amtrak finally established an image, buying new equipment and refurbished old and grew its ri... read more

Railroads of California: The Complete Guide to Historic Trains and Railway Sites Railroads of California: The Complete Guide to Historic Trains and Railway Sites

Railroads of California: The Complete Guide to Historic Trains and Railway Sites

Brian Solomon

This wonderfully illustrated book celebrates Golden State railroading, offering a colorful look at California’s legendary railroads, the men who built and ran them, and the engineering feats that made them possible, and the legacy those railroads have left in the form of the state’s historic tourist roads and museums, as well as modern railroad operations. In addition to examining historic rai... read more

This wonderfully illustrated book celebrates Golden State railroading, offering a colorful look at California’s legendary railroads, the men who built and ran them, and the engineering feats that made them possible, and the legacy those railroads have left in the form of the state’s historic tourist roads and museums, as well as modern railroad operations. In addition to examining historic rai... read more

Modern Diesel Power (Gallery) Modern Diesel Power (Gallery)

Modern Diesel Power (Gallery)

Brian Solomon

The 1960s onward witnessed unprecedented technological and horsepower developments in the field of diesel-electric locomotives. Spurred by market demands, EMD and GE have developed locomotives of ever-greater speeds and tractive effort, allowing the railroads to bring resources to market more quickly and cheaply. This collection of more than 200 photos features the most significant of these hi... read more

The 1960s onward witnessed unprecedented technological and horsepower developments in the field of diesel-electric locomotives. Spurred by market demands, EMD and GE have developed locomotives of ever-greater speeds and tractive effort, allowing the railroads to bring resources to market more quickly and cheaply. This collection of more than 200 photos features the most significant of these hi... read more

The Majesty of Big Steam The Majesty of Big Steam

The Majesty of Big Steam

Brian Solomon

Relive the romance and power of the steam locomotive era, the product of a century of continuous research and development. In the United States, the final decades of steam power were characterized by very large and capable locomotives. Beginning in the 1920s with Alco's three-cylinder types and Lima's "Super Power" concept, steam locomotive design crossed new thresholds of power and efficiency... read more

Relive the romance and power of the steam locomotive era, the product of a century of continuous research and development. In the United States, the final decades of steam power were characterized by very large and capable locomotives. Beginning in the 1920s with Alco's three-cylinder types and Lima's "Super Power" concept, steam locomotive design crossed new thresholds of power and efficiency... read more

Railroads of Pennsylvania: Your Guide To Pennsylvania's Historic Trains and Railway Sites Railroads of Pennsylvania: Your Guide To Pennsylvania's Historic Trains and Railway Sites

Railroads of Pennsylvania: Your Guide To Pennsylvania's Historic Trains and Railway Sites

Brian Solomon

Few states have a railroad heritage as rich as Pennsylvanias. This illustrated book offers a colorful look at the Keystone States historic railroads, the men who built and ran them, and the engineering feats that made them possible. Railway historian Brian Solomon also shows readers the legacy those railroads have left in the form of todays historic tourist roads, museums, and destinations. Ra... read more

Few states have a railroad heritage as rich as Pennsylvanias. This illustrated book offers a colorful look at the Keystone States historic railroads, the men who built and ran them, and the engineering feats that made them possible. Railway historian Brian Solomon also shows readers the legacy those railroads have left in the form of todays historic tourist roads, museums, and destinations. Ra... read more

Southern Pacific Railroad (Railroad Color History) Southern Pacific Railroad (Railroad Color History)

Southern Pacific Railroad (Railroad Color History)

Brian Solomon

A colorful look at the great American railroad - the Southern Pacific. The Southern Pacific Railroad is one of the most important railroads in the US. In its heyday, Southern Pacific operating revenues were overshadowed only by the New York Central and Pennsylvania Railroad. Southern Pacific is famous for participating in the building of the transcontinental railroad, its fleet of Daylight str... read more

A colorful look at the great American railroad - the Southern Pacific. The Southern Pacific Railroad is one of the most important railroads in the US. In its heyday, Southern Pacific operating revenues were overshadowed only by the New York Central and Pennsylvania Railroad. Southern Pacific is famous for participating in the building of the transcontinental railroad, its fleet of Daylight str... read more

Baldwin Locomotives Baldwin Locomotives

Baldwin Locomotives

Brian Solomon

Philadelphia-based Baldwin began designing and building steam locomotives in the 1830s and gave the U.S. many of its most significant and famous types of steam,and diesel-electric motive power. This history of Baldwin is illustrated with a large selection of rare, superb builder's photos and other publicity images from the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, with the book's large page size showca... read more

Philadelphia-based Baldwin began designing and building steam locomotives in the 1830s and gave the U.S. many of its most significant and famous types of steam,and diesel-electric motive power. This history of Baldwin is illustrated with a large selection of rare, superb builder's photos and other publicity images from the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, with the book's large page size showca... read more

Field Guide to Trains: Locomotives and Rolling Stock (Voyageur Field Guides) Field Guide to Trains: Locomotives and Rolling Stock (Voyageur Field Guides)

Field Guide to Trains: Locomotives and Rolling Stock (Voyageur Field Guides)

Brian Solomon

Now you can be the human Wikipedia page of trains--from locomotives to rolling stock. No Great American road trip would be complete without seeing trains streaming across wild prairies and through thick forests. All kinds of diesel and even a few steam locomotives can be seen, with everything from boxy frontends to curving streamlined bodies. The containers, flat cars, and boxcars pulled by th... read more

Now you can be the human Wikipedia page of trains--from locomotives to rolling stock. No Great American road trip would be complete without seeing trains streaming across wild prairies and through thick forests. All kinds of diesel and even a few steam locomotives can be seen, with everything from boxy frontends to curving streamlined bodies. The containers, flat cars, and boxcars pulled by th... read more

Intermodal Railroading Intermodal Railroading

Intermodal Railroading

Brian Solomon

This richly illustrated history chronicles one of the most revolutionary developments in freight railroading during the twentieth century: intermodal shipping, or the use of containers to move cargo between trains, trucks, and oceangoing vessels. It was a development that transformed the movement of freight around the world, with an almost incalculable impact on American industry. Intermodal r... read more

This richly illustrated history chronicles one of the most revolutionary developments in freight railroading during the twentieth century: intermodal shipping, or the use of containers to move cargo between trains, trucks, and oceangoing vessels. It was a development that transformed the movement of freight around the world, with an almost incalculable impact on American industry. Intermodal r... read more

Bullet Trains (Enthusiast Color Series) Bullet Trains (Enthusiast Color Series)

Bullet Trains (Enthusiast Color Series)

Brian Solomon

Indispensable to travelers in Japan and Europe, electric-powered bullet trains offer incomparable benefits: chiefly a relatively quiet, high-speed mode of mass transportation with low environmental impact. This colorful book examines the history, current use, and technology of these sleek trains, the fastest of which reach speeds of nearly 200 miles per hour. Noted train historian and author B... read more

Indispensable to travelers in Japan and Europe, electric-powered bullet trains offer incomparable benefits: chiefly a relatively quiet, high-speed mode of mass transportation with low environmental impact. This colorful book examines the history, current use, and technology of these sleek trains, the fastest of which reach speeds of nearly 200 miles per hour. Noted train historian and author B... read more

CSX (MBI Railroad Color History) CSX (MBI Railroad Color History)

CSX (MBI Railroad Color History)

Brian Solomon

Formed in 1980 as a holding company for the Chessie and Seaboard Systems and several other eastern railroads, CSX in 1986 merged these several companies into CSX Transportation, staking its claim as one of the nation's dominant merger roads. This illustrated history provides a background of CSX's 25 years on the American railroad scene, describing how the company came to swallow several legend... read more

Formed in 1980 as a holding company for the Chessie and Seaboard Systems and several other eastern railroads, CSX in 1986 merged these several companies into CSX Transportation, staking its claim as one of the nation's dominant merger roads. This illustrated history provides a background of CSX's 25 years on the American railroad scene, describing how the company came to swallow several legend... read more

Southern Pacific Passenger Trains (Great Trains) Southern Pacific Passenger Trains (Great Trains)

Southern Pacific Passenger Trains (Great Trains)

Brian Solomon

Brian Solomon. Well into the 1950s, the Southern Pacific operated an extensive fleet of colorful (a color scheme nicknamed "daylight") and highly-regarded passenger trains that became the preferred mode of travel for the West Coast's nouveau riche film stars and businesspeople. This authoritative illustrated history covers the various forms of motive power used, the rolling stock and the SP's ... read more

Brian Solomon. Well into the 1950s, the Southern Pacific operated an extensive fleet of colorful (a color scheme nicknamed "daylight") and highly-regarded passenger trains that became the preferred mode of travel for the West Coast's nouveau riche film stars and businesspeople. This authoritative illustrated history covers the various forms of motive power used, the rolling stock and the SP's ... read more

Electric Locomotives (Enthusiast Color) Electric Locomotives (Enthusiast Color)

Electric Locomotives (Enthusiast Color)

Brian Solomon

The history of electric freight and inter-urban commuter locomotives in the U.S. begins with their development in East Coast urban centers and continues their service in the present day. Railways that used or continue to use electric motive power in cities, suburbs and even over mountain passes - including the B&O, Pennsylvania, New Haven, New York Central, Norfolk & Western, Illinois Central,... read more

The history of electric freight and inter-urban commuter locomotives in the U.S. begins with their development in East Coast urban centers and continues their service in the present day. Railways that used or continue to use electric motive power in cities, suburbs and even over mountain passes - including the B&O, Pennsylvania, New Haven, New York Central, Norfolk & Western, Illinois Central,... read more

Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway

Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway

Brian Solomon

Here is the detailed and fascinating history of how two legendary railroads — the Santa Fe and the Burlington Northern (which itself was comprised four major railroads) — merged in 1995 to create what remains one of America’s rail icons, the Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF). A blockbuster railroad merits a history book of the same scale, and this book will awe railfans with its rich content.

Here is the detailed and fascinating history of how two legendary railroads — the Santa Fe and the Burlington Northern (which itself was comprised four major railroads) — merged in 1995 to create what remains one of America’s rail icons, the Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF). A blockbuster railroad merits a history book of the same scale, and this book will awe railfans with its rich content.

New York Central Railroad (Railroad Color History Series) New York Central Railroad (Railroad Color History Series)

New York Central Railroad (Railroad Color History Series)

Brian Solomon, Mike Schafer

In the twentieth century, the New York Central Railroad was one of the most powerful lines in the United States. Famous for its many great passenger trains, including the 20th Century Limited streamliner, the New York Central also operated high-volume freight trains and Grand Central Station in Midtown Manhattan. Prolific railway authors and historians Brian Solomon and Mike Schafer team up to... read more

In the twentieth century, the New York Central Railroad was one of the most powerful lines in the United States. Famous for its many great passenger trains, including the 20th Century Limited streamliner, the New York Central also operated high-volume freight trains and Grand Central Station in Midtown Manhattan. Prolific railway authors and historians Brian Solomon and Mike Schafer team up to... read more

North American Railroad Bridges North American Railroad Bridges

North American Railroad Bridges

Brian Solomon

Few railroading scenes are as enduring as those that depict a train traversing river or roadway, creek or cayon, atop a sturdy structure specially engineered for the situation. In this marvelously illustrated work sure to appeal to modelers and railfans alike, prolific rail historian Brian Solomon presents the only completely illustrated book to tackle the development and evolution of North Am... read more

Few railroading scenes are as enduring as those that depict a train traversing river or roadway, creek or cayon, atop a sturdy structure specially engineered for the situation. In this marvelously illustrated work sure to appeal to modelers and railfans alike, prolific rail historian Brian Solomon presents the only completely illustrated book to tackle the development and evolution of North Am... read more

North American Railroad Family Trees: An Infographic History of the Industry's Mergers and Evolution North American Railroad Family Trees: An Infographic History of the Industry's Mergers and Evolution

North American Railroad Family Trees: An Infographic History of the Industry's Mergers and Evolution

Brian Solomon

The history of railroading in North America is as much a story of boardroom intrigue as it is a story of the brute force that stamped thousands of miles of train track across a rugged continent. Today’s nine U.S. and Canadian Class I railroads are the result of well over a century of convoluted bankruptcies, mergers, acquisitions, and expansions. North American Railroad Family Trees marks the ... read more

The history of railroading in North America is as much a story of boardroom intrigue as it is a story of the brute force that stamped thousands of miles of train track across a rugged continent. Today’s nine U.S. and Canadian Class I railroads are the result of well over a century of convoluted bankruptcies, mergers, acquisitions, and expansions. North American Railroad Family Trees marks the ... read more

Modern Locomotives: High-Power Diesels, 1966-2000 Modern Locomotives: High-Power Diesels, 1966-2000

Modern Locomotives: High-Power Diesels, 1966-2000

Brian Solomon

Stunning color photographs presented across two-foot-long landscape spreads reveal the greatest giant diesel locomotives ever conceived. Ride the rails with best-selling author Brian Solomon as he delivers the goods on two dozen of these titans of the tracks. Observe these mighty leviathans hauling freight and dressed in the liveries of popular American railroads from yesterday and today. Get ... read more

Stunning color photographs presented across two-foot-long landscape spreads reveal the greatest giant diesel locomotives ever conceived. Ride the rails with best-selling author Brian Solomon as he delivers the goods on two dozen of these titans of the tracks. Observe these mighty leviathans hauling freight and dressed in the liveries of popular American railroads from yesterday and today. Get ... read more

EMD Locomotives EMD Locomotives

EMD Locomotives

Brian Solomon

In February 2005, General Motors announced its decision to sell its Electro-Motive Division (EMD), thus ending its 75-year association with one of the most renowned brands in railroading. Looking at the heritage of the venerable EMD in light of this momentous development, this monumental volume offers an overview of the great locomotive maker unprecedented in its scope and unparalleled in the ... read more

In February 2005, General Motors announced its decision to sell its Electro-Motive Division (EMD), thus ending its 75-year association with one of the most renowned brands in railroading. Looking at the heritage of the venerable EMD in light of this momentous development, this monumental volume offers an overview of the great locomotive maker unprecedented in its scope and unparalleled in the ... read more

The World's Most Spectacular Railway Journeys The World's Most Spectacular Railway Journeys

The World's Most Spectacular Railway Journeys

Brian Solomon

A portrait in words and photographs of over 50 of the world’s most exciting, unusual and exotic railway journeys, including North America, Europe, Africa, Asia and Australia. Each journey is accompanied by a route map and is described in terms of the technical challenges of the construction of the track as well as the stunning views to be seen while travelling on the trains. Some of the railwa... read more

A portrait in words and photographs of over 50 of the world’s most exciting, unusual and exotic railway journeys, including North America, Europe, Africa, Asia and Australia. Each journey is accompanied by a route map and is described in terms of the technical challenges of the construction of the track as well as the stunning views to be seen while travelling on the trains. Some of the railwa... read more

Emd Early Road Switchers: Gp7-Gp20 Locomotives (Traintech) Emd Early Road Switchers: Gp7-Gp20 Locomotives (Traintech)

Emd Early Road Switchers: Gp7-Gp20 Locomotives (Traintech)

Brain Solomon

Diesel, the most significant development in railway technology during the 20th century, was refined and perfected resulting in locomotives that were more powerful, faster, more reliable, and more versatile than the earliest machines on the market. General Motors' Electro-Motive Division rapidly moved to become the leader in diesel-electric technology. Its business practice and models essential... read more

Diesel, the most significant development in railway technology during the 20th century, was refined and perfected resulting in locomotives that were more powerful, faster, more reliable, and more versatile than the earliest machines on the market. General Motors' Electro-Motive Division rapidly moved to become the leader in diesel-electric technology. Its business practice and models essential... read more

Union Pacific Railroad (Railroad Color History) Union Pacific Railroad (Railroad Color History)

Union Pacific Railroad (Railroad Color History)

Brian Solomon

Famous for its role in the Transcontinental Railroad, Union Pacific is Americas oldest- and the worlds largest- railway, serving two-thirds of the United States for a century and a half. This retrospective spans the UPs entire history from 1862 to present, detailing key personalities, depots and terminals, locomotives, trains, rolling stock, and memoriabilia. Modern and period color photograph... read more

Famous for its role in the Transcontinental Railroad, Union Pacific is Americas oldest- and the worlds largest- railway, serving two-thirds of the United States for a century and a half. This retrospective spans the UPs entire history from 1862 to present, detailing key personalities, depots and terminals, locomotives, trains, rolling stock, and memoriabilia. Modern and period color photograph... read more

GE Locomotives: 110 Years of General Electric Motive Power GE Locomotives: 110 Years of General Electric Motive Power

GE Locomotives: 110 Years of General Electric Motive Power

Brian Solomon

General Electric entered the railroad industry in the early twentieth century and this collection of history explores all types of electric locomotives with a stunning collection of archival black-and-white, period, and modern color photography. Depicting a broad cross-section of American railroads in a variety of regions both urban and remote, Brian Solomon leads us through GE’s entire locomo... read more

General Electric entered the railroad industry in the early twentieth century and this collection of history explores all types of electric locomotives with a stunning collection of archival black-and-white, period, and modern color photography. Depicting a broad cross-section of American railroads in a variety of regions both urban and remote, Brian Solomon leads us through GE’s entire locomo... read more

Santa Fe Railway (Enthusiast Color Series) Santa Fe Railway (Enthusiast Color Series)

Santa Fe Railway (Enthusiast Color Series)

Brian Solomon

As a tribute to America's favorite railroad-the Santa Fe, this book discusses everything from its origins, to locomotives, freight operations, passenger operations, and more. The Santa Fe Railway's charisma and mystique has long made it one of America's compelling railways. From Chicago to LA it blends a nation's westward vision with all the best elements of railroading: colorful passenger tra... read more

As a tribute to America's favorite railroad-the Santa Fe, this book discusses everything from its origins, to locomotives, freight operations, passenger operations, and more. The Santa Fe Railway's charisma and mystique has long made it one of America's compelling railways. From Chicago to LA it blends a nation's westward vision with all the best elements of railroading: colorful passenger tra... read more

American Steam Locomotives by Brian Solomon (1998-05-23) American Steam Locomotives by Brian Solomon (1998-05-23)

American Steam Locomotives by Brian Solomon (1998-05-23)

Conrail (Railroad Color History) Conrail (Railroad Color History)

Conrail (Railroad Color History)

Tim Doherty

During its 25-year history, Conrail became one of the most familiar modern railroads, a freight line that connected most of the Northeast's population centers and was renowned for its clean locomotives, tight schedules, and frequent heavy freight trains. This comprehensive and gorgeously illustrated history examines Conrail's motive power and rolling stock, its yards and terminals, and its mos... read more

During its 25-year history, Conrail became one of the most familiar modern railroads, a freight line that connected most of the Northeast's population centers and was renowned for its clean locomotives, tight schedules, and frequent heavy freight trains. This comprehensive and gorgeously illustrated history examines Conrail's motive power and rolling stock, its yards and terminals, and its mos... read more

Trains of the Old West Trains of the Old West

Trains of the Old West

Brian Solomon

Trains of the Old West

Trains of the Old West

Railway Photography Railway Photography

Railway Photography

Brian Solomon, John Gruber

Travel the world through the pages of this unique pictorial capturing some of the most impressive, significant, and interesting elements of railroading from today and yesterday. Lush photos are accompanied by informative and fascinating stories that convey the energy and excitement of steel-rail transport. Locomotives, trains, stations, bridges, tunnels, and other railway masterpieces are rich... read more

Travel the world through the pages of this unique pictorial capturing some of the most impressive, significant, and interesting elements of railroading from today and yesterday. Lush photos are accompanied by informative and fascinating stories that convey the energy and excitement of steel-rail transport. Locomotives, trains, stations, bridges, tunnels, and other railway masterpieces are rich... read more

Railway Masterpieces Railway Masterpieces

Railway Masterpieces

Brian Solomon

Travel the world through the pages of this unique pictorial capturing some of the most impressive, significant, and interesting elements of railroading from today and yesterday. Lush photos are accompanied by informative and fascinating stories that convey the energy and excitement of steel-rail transport. Locomotives, trains, stations, bridges, tunnels, and other railway masterpieces are rich... read more

Travel the world through the pages of this unique pictorial capturing some of the most impressive, significant, and interesting elements of railroading from today and yesterday. Lush photos are accompanied by informative and fascinating stories that convey the energy and excitement of steel-rail transport. Locomotives, trains, stations, bridges, tunnels, and other railway masterpieces are rich... read more

CP_Alfa_Pendolino_at_Oriente_Station_Lisbon_Portugal_1April2019_Sharpened_BrianSolomon_592785.jpg
Conrail_BUOI_6338_east_crossing_Portage_Bridge_at_Letchworth_State_Park_Genesee_River_TMY_f8_1-500th_May9_1987_840am_Brian_Solomon_494907.jpg
Bord_na_Mona_Brian_Solomon_494875.jpg
CPRail_wb_w_BNSF_284_and_CPRail_diesels_at_Salisbury_Road_Wyocena_Wis_DSCF1299.jpg

Explore the Reedsy Community

Reedsy is a community of top publishing professionals. Join Reedsy today to browse 1000+ profiles.

Roly Allen

Ex-Hachette publisher: now I write books, and offer non-fiction writing and pitching services. Varied, proven expertise: art, food, sport...

Hove, UK

Rod Green

I write for people, with people, to a brief or completely off piste and love getting involved in creating the right approach to a project.

London, UK

To view 1,000+ more profiles, Join Reedsy