Residents of northern New England can hardly be blamed for thinking that railroads are a thing of the past and no longer relevant. However, nothing could be further from the truth. Railroads are hauling more freight today than during their so called “glory days” in the 1920’s. They have become so successful that people like Bill Gates have invested billions of dollars in companies like the Canadian National. Indeed, Warren Buffett liked the BNSF railway so much that he bought it lock, stock, and barrel for thirty billion dollars. Even passenger rail, while not profitable, is making something of a comeback as our roads and airways become more congested.

This two-session course will consist of four PowerPoint presentations about the rise of the railroads, their role in creating White River Junction, VT, their role in unifying Canada, and their role today.

While no readings will be required, some supplemental materials may be supplied for those who want to study railroads beyond the scope provided by the PowerPoint presentations.

I always enjoy opportunities to discuss this important, but often ignored, industry with others, so I’m looking forward to leading this class.