|
Collector's Book of The Locomotive By Edwin P Alexander w dust jacket
The Collectors Book of The Locomotive By Edwin P Alexander
197 Pages
Hard cover with DUST JACKET HAS DAMAGE SEE PHOTOS
Copyright MCMLXVI 1966
Preface
THE IRON HORSE WAS NO MORE THAN A GANGLING Colt when, universally capturing imaginations, it began to be woven as a theme into many objects familiar to man. From the very early contemporary paintings and prints, which appeared shortly after the birth of the engine, to modern times, its likeness may be found in both decorative and useful objects. It was also often depicted as a fascinating symbol of speed, power, and the ingenuity of man.
Because the subject was so diversely reproduced, it is only natural that collectors of railroadiana would develop classifications into which representations of the steam locomotive fall. The largest groupings are generally those comprising prints, photographs, toys, and scale models. But while these categories are accordingly given most space in this book, the lesser-known groups are not neglected, for my purpose is to show how variously and widely the locomotive's likeness has been duplicated.
Not only devotees of the iron horse, but I think, most people enjoy seeing the locomotive in any form, especially now, as its kind becomes obsolete. Undoubtedly some of the reproductions shown here will be new to readers other than genuine enthusiasts, but even the latter will find some unknown or different variations of their favorite subject. And with the exception of some toys, only the steam locomotive is depicted.
Addict that I am, compiling the contents of this book has been a truly enjoyable experience for me. There is a minimum of text, for I subscribe to the supposedly Chinese saying, "One picture is worth ten thousand words." Now that the days of the steam locomotive are numbered, perhaps this tribute to its worldwide influence will help in some measure to perpetuate its memory and aid its admirers in their respective hobbies.
The steam locomotive was for nearly a century and a half not only a potent force in the development of the American continent, it was also the inspiration to generations of boys and men who took it as the most perfect symbol of power and mechanical refinement, not to mention sheer romance. Here is the first book ever to show how the iron horse was the theme incorporated into many dozens of other objects-things that have by now almost all become prized collectors' items.
With text and ample illustration, the author shows how the locomotive was used as the subject of popular lithographs, made in miniatures, and reproduced in china. The iron horse was central to dozens of dime-novel plots, being often featured on the cover, and it also inspired circus acts (the collector can sometimes find colorful posters). Toy trains are still being made, but here early ones or rare examples, including those run by steam and clockwork, are covered in several fascinating chapters. The whole field of making accurate scale models of historic locomotives continues today as well, but here also the collector can find early examples. In medals, jigsaw puzzles, stamps, stock certificates, desk sets, and many other items, the locomotive served as subject and inspiration, and this colorful book celebrates all those marvelous transformations of the magnificent iron horse.
Edwin P. Alexander, founder of the Alexander Railroad Museum (and sometimes known as the "Father of American Model Railroading") has been immersed from his early youth in railroading and railroadiana. Among his many accomplishments is his appointment to the Directorship of the New York Society of Model Engineers, for whom he designed their first layout. He is credited with designing the first track system of the Westchester Model Club, and has also built railroad models for a number of museums, including the Smithsonian Institution and Philadelphia's Franklin Institute.
Mr. Alexander has written a number of standard books in the field, including the comprehensive Model Railroading, and his massive history, The Pennsylvania Railroad.
All pictures are of the actual item. If this is a railroad item, this material is obsolete and no longer in use by the railroad. Please email with questions. Publishers of Train Shed Cyclopedias and Stephans Railroad Directories. Large inventory of railroad books and magazines. Thank you for buying from us.
Shipping charges
Postage rates quoted are for shipments to the US only. Ebay Global shipping charges are shown. These items are shipped to Kentucky and then ebay ships them to you. Ebay collects the shipping and customs / import fees. For direct postage rates to these countries, send me an email. Shipping to Canada and other countries varies by weight.
Payment options
Payment must be received within 10 days. Paypal is accepted.
Terms and conditions
All sales are final. Returns accepted if item is not as described. Contact us first. No warranty is stated or implied. Please e-mail us with any questions before bidding.
Thanks for looking at our items.
| 
