Following one of the most scenic routes in the country, the Clinchfield Railroad penetrates the most rugged mountain barriers in the eastern United States. Much has been written about the Clinchfield, but this volume by a retired chief engineer of the railroad fills a unique niche. He places a special emphasis on what was built, when it was built, and who did the building, including a brief biography of George L. Carter, the driving force that put it all together. Filled with photographs, maps, schedules. copies of letters, diagrams and other documents, this is a valuable source of information for researchers and rail enthusiasts.

The book covers the Clinchfield's history, and deals specifically with its towns, locomotives, cars, structures, and operations in the coalfields of Eastern Kentucky and Southwestern Virginia. Interviews with retirees and employees, first-hand accounts of operations, and detailed treatment of locomotives, equipment, and trains make this an ideal book for railfans interested in Appalachian coal roads and for modelers. A chapter on modeling the line is included. This book is the culmination of 12 years research.

Details track planning and benchwork with numerous ideas for researching and constructing a fantastic railroad. Includes basic techniques for modeling any prototype line in any scale or gauge.