Description
Book Synopsis: Meadow River Lumber was a giant among Central Appalachian hardwood manufacturers. The railroad served a vital role – keeping the big mill stocked with logs. Once the land of log trains, West Virginia’s array of railroads included many significant timber-related operations. This was the last and most long lived of them all – and one of the most colorful Meadow River Lumber is remembered by railfans of the 1950s as an especially compelling combination of geared steam power and mechanized logging. Diesel-electric switchers came onto the scene, but the last of Meadow River’s steam remained available for service until the mid-1960s. Two steamers found new homes on the Cass Scenic Railroad.
Brothers Tom and John Raine spearheaded the company’s formation in 1906. Building a shortline railroad connection and mill preceded log trains and their hardwood loads. The mill entered production in 1910. By the last 1920’s, Meadow River was heralded as “World’s Largest Hardwood Manufacturer.”
The span of rail-logging involved eight hard-working geared steam locomotives (six Shays, Heisler, Climax: and three diesel electrics. The final log train ran in May 1971, six months after Georgia-Pacific bought MRLCo.
The company’s innovative machines hop designed and produced a wealth of equipment specifically tailored for the demands of full-tree utilization – including steel log cars and loaders, and skidders with enlarged capabilities. Numerous examples of this can-do technology survive at Cass, where Skidder No. 1 – the East’s last steam-powered skyline yarder (and one of the largest) – is a true standout among interpretive displays.
Sticking to rail-related subjects, this book celebrates Meadow River Lumber’s grand saga through a comprehensive text, 127 photos and track system map.
Details
Discover the fascinating tale of West Virginia's Last Logging Railroad with the Meadow River Lumber Company Book. Immerse yourself in the rich history of this giant among Central Appalachian hardwood manufacturers. From the vital role it played in keeping the mill stocked with logs to its captivating combination of geared steam power and mechanized logging, the story of Meadow River Lumber is a compelling one.
Experience the thrill of the last and most long-lived logging operation in West Virginia. With steam locomotives that remained in service until the mid-1960s, Meadow River Lumber captured the imaginations of railfans in the 1950s. Even as diesel-electric switchers emerged, the steamers found new homes on the Cass Scenic Railroad, a testament to their lasting impact.
Brothers Tom and John Raine's vision came to life in 1906 when they formed the Meadow River Lumber Company. They built a shortline railroad connection and mill that paved the way for the iconic log trains and the hardwood loads they carried. By the late 1920s, Meadow River Lumber had earned the prestigious title of "World's Largest Hardwood Manufacturer".
Experience the legacy of Meadow River's eight hard-working geared steam locomotives. From Shays to Heislers and Climaxes, these machines played a vital role in the company's success. Even after the final log train ran in May 1971, the impact of Meadow River's innovative machines continued to be felt in the industry.
With 127 captivating photos, a comprehensive text, and a track system map, this book is a must-have for history enthusiasts and railfans alike. Celebrate Meadow River Lumber's grand saga and immerse yourself in the world of rail-logging.
Experience the captivating story of Meadow River Lumber Company Book and relive the era of West Virginia's Last Logging Railroad. Don't miss out on this incredible journey. Get your copy now!
Discover More Best Sellers in Man-Made Objects
Shop Man-Made Objects
$29.95
Man-Made Objects - Iron Roads of the Monadnock Region: Railroads of Southwestern New Hampshire and North-Central Massachusetts: Volume III (Iron Roads of the Monadnock Region, 3)
In the Spirit of New Orleans - Assouline Coffee Table Book
$8.43
Man-Made Objects - In the Spirit of New Orleans - Assouline Coffee Table Book
The Complete Book of Ducati Motorcycles, 2nd Edition: Every Model Since 1946
$32.52
Man-Made Objects - The Complete Book of Ducati Motorcycles, 2nd Edition: Every Model Since 1946
Niles Canyon Railways (Images of Rail)
$9.99
Man-Made Objects - Niles Canyon Railways (Images of Rail)
Autocourse 2021-2022: The World's Leading Grand Prix Annual - 71st Year of Publication
$126.38
Man-Made Objects - Autocourse 2021-2022: The World's Leading Grand Prix Annual - 71st Year of Publication
