Subject
Railroads -- United States -- Employees Books
Best books
Edward Hungerford
The Railroad Problem
"The Railroad Problem" by Edward Hungerford is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book addresses the challenges and crises faced by the American railroad industry during a pivotal time, examining its financial difficulties, labor issues, and the broader implications for American society. At the start of the book, the author presents the railroad as the "sick man" of American business, struggling with a multitude of ailments despite its previous significance and potential for growth. Hungerford metaphorically describes this system as a large family with various members facing their own hardships, particularly focusing on the need for effective remedies to improve the situation. He emphasizes how recent economic conditions stemming from the European war have temporarily masked the depth of the railroad's troubles, setting the stage for a detailed exploration of its financial plight and labor relations in the ensuing chapters.
California. Infantry. First Regiment. Company B
The "City Guard": A History of Company "B" First Regiment Infantry, N. G. C. During the Sacremento Campaign, July 3 to 26, 1894 Including a Brief History of the Company Since Its Organization March 31, 1854, to July 3, 1894
"The City Guard: A History of Company 'B' First Regiment Infantry, N. G. C." is a historical account likely written in the late 19th century. This work focuses on the experiences of Company B during the Sacramento campaign of 1894, a pivotal event in California's labor history amidst a significant strike. The book details the company's formation, its role in responding to the labor unrest initiated by the Pullman strike, and the broader implications of these events on the California National Guard. The opening portion of the text introduces the reader to the context of the Sacramento campaign, beginning with a preface that outlines the motivations for documenting the history of Company B. It describes the strike's origins in the Pullman Car Manufacturing Company, detailing the subsequent labor unrest that paralyzed California and how it escalated to the point where the National Guard, including Company B, was mobilized to restore order. Initial chapters outline the strike's impact on local businesses and the challenges faced by the strikers and company members alike, setting the stage for the heightened tensions and potential confrontations that Company B anticipates as they prepare to deploy in July 1894.
James O. (James Octavius) Fagan
Confessions of a Railroad Signalman
"Confessions of a Railroad Signalman" by J. O. Fagan is a critical examination of safety practices and personal responsibility in the railroad industry, written in the early 20th century. This work offers insights into the life of a railroad signalman and addresses the pressing concerns surrounding railroad safety, employee conduct, and the systemic issues leading to frequent accidents. The narrative combines personal experience with broader commentary, aiming to raise awareness about the dangers inherent in railroad operations and the responsibilities of those who work within the industry. At the start of the book, the author establishes a historical context for the hazardous nature of railroad work, citing significant statistics about worker fatalities and injuries. He reflects on the discrepancies between railroads' machinery for safety and the actual behaviors of employees, which often lead to negligence and accidents. Fagan recounts specific incidents that triggered his investigation into railroad safety issues, emphasizing his perspective as a long-term employee deeply familiar with the inner workings of the system. Through his observations, he calls for a collective reevaluation of loyalty among railroad men, urging them to prioritize public safety over personal interests, and outlines a vision for improving accountability and adherence to safety protocols on American railroads.
John A. Hall
The Great Strike on the "Q"
"The Great Strike on the 'Q'" by John A. Hall is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work explores the origins, struggles, and repercussions of the strike involving locomotive engineers, firemen, and switchmen on the Chicago Burlington & Quincy (CB&Q) Railroad. The narrative focuses on the injustices faced by these workers due to the exploitation by corporate interests, as well as the formation and growth of labor organizations aimed at fighting for fair wages and conditions. At the start of the book, Hall introduces readers to the formation of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers in the 1860s, triggered by mistreatment from railroad officials. This section lays the groundwork for the major strike that followed, highlighting the grievances of workers due to wage disparities and unfair practices. As tensions rise, Hall recounts how committees of engineers and firemen began organizing in response to injustices, ultimately culminating in the decision to strike when negotiations failed. The opening establishes a strong sense of purpose and determination among the laborers, signaling a critical turning point in the labor movement of the time.
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