Briefly describes the types of steam locomotives used all over the world.

This book examines how modern steam locomotive works, including all its major sub-systems and appliances. Illustrations show how each part of the locomotive fits into the overall functioning, some background on each aspect of each function, and examples of various locomotives from a wide variety of railroads all over the U.S. The book is written for the layman to understand, providing a really easy to comprehend, yet technically competent and complete volume that will be valuable for anyone interested in the steam era.

"Discover the story of railroads--from the age of steam to the high-speed trains of today"--Cover.

This book describes 40 species of reptile from North America and Europe, including tortoises, turtles and terrapins, lizards, crocodiles, and snakes. Each entry provides information on the reptile's distribution, description and size, as well as describing its way of life. An artwork and a photograph also accompany each entry.

Perfecting the American Steam Locomotive documents the role played by mechanical engineers in the development of locomotive design. The steam engine and the mechanical engineering profession both grew directly out of the Industrial Revolution's need for sources of power beyond that of men and animals. Invented in England when coal mining was being developed, the practical steam engine eventually found numerous applications in transportation, especially in railroad technology. J. Parker Lamb traces the evolution of the steam engine from the early 1700s through the early 1800s, when the first locomotives were sent to the United States from England. Lamb then shifts the scene to the development of the American steam locomotive, first by numerous small builders, and later, by the early 20th century, by only three major enterprises and a handful of railroad company shops. Lamb reviews the steady progress of steam locomotive technology through its pinnacle during the 1930s, then discusses the reasons for its subsequent decline.

A lavishly illustrated look at the glory years of travel by rail, with over 160 profiles, front and top views, and interior layouts depicting three dozen of the nation’s most celebrated trains of the golden age.