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
