June 21, 2018

Digitizing Railroad and Telegraph Systems

Michael Weaver

Aaron Honsowetz

Telegraph Data

Railroad Data

Railroad Data

Has this been done before?

Why do we need this?

We already have…

  • Maps of railroad lines, canals, etc.
  • Over time

Why do we need this?

… but we can do more

Limited points in time

  • Dependent on reliable line maps
  • Rate of growth from 1870 and 1910
  • Limits research designs

Lines vs. points

  • Where does access to rail network happen?
  • Do lines actually intersect?

Why do we need this?

… but we can do more

Owners and operators

  • Politics and economics of largest companies in 19th century
  • Who owns and operates these railroads?

Where can we find this information?

Official Guide of the Railways

Official Guide of the Railways

What is it?

  • Trade publication
    • frequently updated, for booking travel/freight
  • Monthly/quarterly updates
  • Years: 1868 through entire 20th century.
  • (We start with 1880 to 1910, but more is possible)

Official Guide of the Railways

What does it include?

Timetables