Review

In recent decades, regional carriers have become an important part of the railroad scene. As larger railroads sold off secondary routes in favor of more profitable main lines, it opened the door for regional carriers to provide regular, more personalized service to online customers.

Author Steve Glischinski, a special correspondent for Trains magazine and noted railroad photographer and author, tells the stories of these railroads in a clear, concise manner in his book "Regional Railroads of the Midwest."

Documenting a dozen regional railroads in 12- to 14-page chapters isn't easy, but Glischinski has done a superb job of it without glossing over topics. Glischinski covers each railroad's history, operations, and equipment, as well as system maps. The book is up to date, with information on Dakota, Minnesota & Eastern's proposed Powder River Basin expansion and Indiana Rail Road's recent purchase of ex-Soo Line SD60s.

Glischinski has railfanned the Midwest since 1970, which adds authority to his text. One of the highlights of the book is the now-and-then photos. It's fun to compare the images to see what has changed and what has remained the same.

Don't let the "Midwest" label fool you, as this book's scope is quite large. The 12 railroads featured in this book serve 11 states, from Colorado to the West, Minnesota to the North, Indiana to the East, and Kansas to the South.

Glischinski's book is a valuable resource for railfans (enthusiasts of real railroads) and model railroaders alike. Railfans will find the maps especially useful, as most of the key towns and cities served by each railroad are noted. Model railroaders will appreciate the prototype photos, which show the type of equipment used by each railroad and the environment it operates in.