Where can I find a railroad atlas?

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

[?]Hey guy’s, I was wondering where I can find an atlas. Preferably one that covers every railroad, in every state. Any help will be appreciated.

Robert

2

Try the Routledge Historical Atlas of the American Railroads by John F. Stover. It’s full of maps, photos, and gives compact histories of 25 or so railroads.

3

Rand McNally produced a railroad atlas entitled “Handy Railroad Atlas of the United States. I have a copy of the 1988 edition, and it lists railroad maps of all 50 states, mileage between key points, and rail company names and important service information on U.S. railroads. I paid $14.95 for it back in the early 90’s at what used to be The Great American Train Shop here in New Orleans; they have been long gone for some time now. I went to the Rand McNally web site (http://www.randmcnally.com/) and ran a quick search but I did not see any listing for this atlas. You may want to give them a call at: 1-800-275-7263 for more information.

  • Ryan
4

Thanks guy’s for all the info, I just might call Rand Mcnally.

5

I’m surprised this site dosen’t include a railroad bookstore. You could look into Carsten’s R&R or RMC magazines. The Steam Powered Video series is good for specific states. There are other versions on CD. Another source could be your state’s DOT website. THey may include a rail section. Your state U may also be the official library for your state. It’s worth finding out what resources the state/local govmt provides. Your local library should be glad to help you!

6

Hey, I found another listing for an atlas. It is in the Historic Rail catalog I received in the mail today, on page 13. Titled “Professional Railroad Atlas of North America”, 112 pages and it lists for $74.95. It can be purchased from their web site: http://www.historicrail.com

  • Ryan
7

Here’s one you can buy and dowload or get a CD of online.

http://www.railroadmap.com/

8

Very nice CD version!

Thanks CB&Q Guy!

  • Ryan
9

Glad to be of assistance!

Enjoy!!

10

At large public libraries, you can find Rand McNally Commercial Atlas, a big heavy book about 2 x 3 feet. (Almost as big as one of my layouts.) The maps general show RAILROAD ROUTES state by state with railroads identified, and all railroads in the state listed in a corner somewhere. Many states are double page spread map. Usually updated yearly. Great if you just want to go to the library and consult it. Probably $$$$ to buy one. I imagine many Chambers of Commerce may have a volume handy. Or Industrial Development commissions.