The railways of France present a uniquely interesting picture, consisting as they once did of two entirely separate but overlapping systems: the standard-gauge network of the great railway companies and the mostly meter-gauge network of the local rural railways. This book attempts to provide a comprehensive picture of this fascinating diversity. Featuring a variety of locations throughout France, subjects covered include the seven pre-nationalization railway companies; locomotives of all types, including the successful and the spectacular failures; freight and passenger trains; the great railway engineers; famous lines, such as the Vivarais, as well as the not-so-famous; tourist railways; some of the great engineering marvels, such as the Viaduc du Gabarit; accidents and disasters; railways in wartime; and even railways which were built but never saw a train. Using the authors own photographs as well as historic postcard views, this book will appeal to anyone with an interest in railways.
ThriftBooks sells millions of used books at the lowest everyday prices. We personally assess every book's quality and offer rare, out-of-print treasures. We deliver the joy of reading in recyclable packaging with free standard shipping on US orders over $20. ThriftBooks.com. Read more. Spend less.