Railroad Signatures Across the Pacific Northwest

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Carlos Schwantes reflects on his childhood memories of trains, expressing gratitude for their presence. His lifelong fascination, combined with a historian's perspective, has led to a groundbreaking photohistory that explores the railroads' profound impact on daily life in Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and Montana. The vast deserts and dense forests of the Pacific Northwest remained isolated until the railroads carved their paths, bringing significant social and economic transformations. Farmers in the Palouse gained access to eastern markets, while larger quantities of logs and ore reached distant mills. Willamette Valley fruit growers found new consumers, and scenic destinations like Mount Rainier and Glacier National Park attracted eager tourists. The railroads not only facilitated settlement and tourism but also helped shape the region's identity. Schwantes chronicles the intricate and often tumultuous histories of major railroads like the Northern Pacific and the Great Northern, as well as smaller lines such as the Sumpter Valley. He profiles influential figures like Henry Villard and James J. Hill, whose ambitions shaped the railroads and, in turn, the region. The engaging text is complemented by over 200 photographs, many unpublished, showcasing the trains, towns, and landscapes of the Northwest, along with vibrant posters and brochures used to attract settlers and tourists.