Founded in the early 1830¿s by Philadelphia jeweler Matthais Baldwin, the Baldwin Locomotive Works built a huge number of steam locomotives before ceasing production in 1949. These included the 4-4-0 American type, 2-8-2 Mikado and 2-8-0 Consolidation. This 1881 illustrated catalog shows the company¿s full line of steam locomotives, from switchers the to the massive, triple-articulated compound model.

The 'Illustrated Catalogue of Locomotives' by Baldwin Locomotive Works is a comprehensive and visually striking collection of detailed descriptions and illustrations of the locomotives built by the Baldwin Locomotive Works. This book serves as a valuable resource for historians, train enthusiasts, and engineers due to its meticulous documentation of locomotive specifications, design features, and manufacturing processes. The literary style is direct and informative, focusing on technical details and practical information rather than flowery prose. The context of the book within the history of locomotive engineering is significant, as it provides insight into the evolution of steam locomotives in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Baldwin Locomotive Works' dedication to craftsmanship and innovation is evident throughout the pages of this catalogue, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the history of rail transportation.