By Brian Solomon
As soon as the second-largest steam locomotive builder within the united states, American Locomotive corporation (Alco) produced 75,000 locomotives, between them such well-known examples because the 4-6-4 Hudsons and 4-8-4 Niagaras equipped for the hot York significant, and the 4-6-6-4 Challengers and 4-8-8-4 huge Boys outfitted for the Union Pacific. Alco Locomotives is the 1st publication to inform the complete tale of this corporation important to American railroad history—and cherished by means of railfans for its wealthy history and its underdog allure. famous rail historian Brian Solomon appears to be like again on the founding of Schenectady Locomotive Works in 1848 and proceeds to hide that company’s merger with numerous smaller locomotive developers in 1901 to shape Alco. Solomon describes the locomotives that made Alco’s identify world wide, from the normal designs like Mikados, Atlantics, and Mallets to the extra strong and flashy post–World struggle I versions. His particular, richly illustrated narrative re-creates the drama of a difficult, bold corporation within the American tradition—rising repeatedly to the calls for of an ever-changing and financial system. Solomon additionally covers Alco electrics (built in partnership with GE), in addition to the company’s profitable and quirky diesel choices, together with the RS-2 and RS-3 street switchers, FA/FB highway freight devices, PA street passenger diesel, and the wares of Canadian associate Montreal Locomotive Works. Enlivened through quite a few old photos, glossy photos, curious information, and firsthand money owed, this background is a whole, interesting, and becoming tribute to a real icon of yank railroading.