Railroads In The African American Experience

This captivating book takes readers on an illustrated tour of the black railroad experience from slavery to Amtrak. With almost 200 imagesmany never before publishedTheodore Kornweibel, Jr., examines the significant contributions of African Americans to the building, maintenance, operation, and profitability of the American railway system. Kornweibel's visual presentation of this history brings to life the hundreds of thousands of blacks who toiled for decades on America's rail system. Each chapter focuses on a different occupation or railroading experience, some peculiar to blacks. Together, the evocative images and the complementary essays supply a comprehensive and powerful survey of the social, cultural, political, and economic influence of African Americans on railroads and of railroads on the black community.These stories of hardship and heroism, exploitation and endurance, anger and artistry illuminate a rich heritage and fascinating chapter in American history.