Reviewed by Sandra Merville Hart

This book was part of my research for A Not So Peaceful Journey, Book 3 in my “Second Chances” series. My characters take a train journey from Ohio to Oakland, California, in 1884.

I love this book. I needed to find a source that provided information about the depots, locations, how far apart they were, what was at each station, and the scenery.

This guidebook provided all that information and more. It’s a fount of information!

I read this book and several others to understand how train passengers in the 1880s traveled. There were long lines for the small washing rooms in the morning. Many, especially women, brought their own towels and toiletries. There was a basin with water to wash your face, brush your teeth, or take a quick sponge bath.

The trains stopped at specific depots for meal stops. These were called eating stations. The food might be undercooked or nearly raw. Each place had its specialties. In the 1880s, nearly every station charged a dollar per person.

I loved the early history the author included for towns that the trains passed on those journeys. Very interesting!

This book is fascinating, with wonderful details of situations and sights along the rails. Recommended for those interested in learning the history of the West and also train travel.

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