Overview

A thoroughly revised and expanded successor to Alfred Runte's Trains of Discovery: Western Railroads and the National Parks, the new edition now includes protected landscapes and historical sites east of the Mississippi made possible or influenced by railroads: the Hudson River Valley; Delaware Water Gap; Harpers Ferry; Indiana Dunes; Gettysburg; Steamtown; and Shenandoah, Great Smoky Mountains, and Acadia National Parks. Illustrated with paintings, posters, photographs, and artifacts from major libraries and public archives, as well as America's railroads and the author's private collection, this book is a sight to behold as well as a wonderful, nostalgic armchair read.

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9781570984419

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Alfred Runte brilliantly demonstrates why he is considered one of America's preeminent environmental historians. Not only does National Parks sing with inspiration but it is the most trustworthy synthesis scholars have on the American preservation movement. Everybody should read this marvelous study. Highly recommended!--Douglas Brinkley

A splendidly produced book featuring beautiful cover art and rich period imagery promoting the railroads' relationship with the environment. The book's high production values, engaging and accessible narrative, and timeliness-considering the current national debate over increased energy costs-makes this fascinating study essential for environmental historians, students, and the general public.-- Environmental History

Alfred Runte brilliantly demonstrates why he is considered one of America's preeminent environmental historians. Not only does National Parks sing with inspiration but it is the most trustworthy synthesis scholars have on the American preservation movement. Everybody should read this marvelous study. Highly recommended! -- Douglas Brinkley, author of The Wilderness Warrior: Theodore Roosevelt and the Crusade for America Al Runte is a hardcore conservationist, and his work reflects that. He's obviously in love with passenger trains, and his work reflects that, too. His books are a combination of excellent history about passenger trains and his passion for conservation. Whether you read the book for trains or read the book so you can enjoy hugging the next tree you see, either way, you will spend an enjoyable time with the writing of Al Runte. The book also contains full color photos of many of his extensive railroad collectibles and many illustrations by J. Craig Thorpe. This Week at Amtrak ...[B]eautifully illustrated...Trains of Discovery presents educational information in an engaging manner. Deseret News The railroads were an essential part of what filmmaker Ken Burns called America's Best Idea, and Runte has no peer in telling that story. Trains Magazine

Author Information

Alfred Runte received his Ph.D. from the University of California, Santa Barbara and is the author of Yosemite: Embattled Wilderness, National Parks: The American Experience, and Allies of the Earth: Railroads and the Soul of Preservation. He lives in Seattle, Washington.

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