Unusual vintage Pennsylvania Railroad engineering publication titled:

“An Idea for Conquering the Allegheny Mountain Barrier to Economize Transportation on the Pennsylvania Railroad.”

The publication presents a proposed engineering solution for improving Pennsylvania Railroad operations across the Allegheny Mountains. The text discusses a proposed new railroad line and tunnel system, including grades, tunnel construction, signaling, electrification, ventilation, operating practices, passenger and freight movements, and projected reductions in running time.

The authors listed are:

John K. Johnston – Engineer and Geologist, Tyrone, PA
Charles A. Sims – Civil Engineer, Philadelphia, PA
John Read Pettit – Civil Engineer, Philadelphia, PA

One particularly interesting section describes a proposed line approximately 42.3 miles long, including three tunnels, and compares passenger and freight schedules on the existing main line with the proposed route. This appears to be a serious engineering proposal rather than a general promotional railroad booklet, which should make it particularly interesting to PRR historians and collectors interested in Pennsylvania Railroad infrastructure, engineering and operations through the Alleghenies.

The booklet has an attractive blue textured cover with red lettering and appears to have been produced as a presentation-style publication. Based on the ruler in the photographs, it measures approximately 8½" x 11". The text is only a few pages long. 

Vintage condition with some age-related wear, toning and minor spotting visible. Interior pages remain quite presentable. Please examine all photographs closely for condition.

An unusual piece of Pennsylvania Railroad engineering history that would make an excellent addition to a specialized PRR, railroad engineering, tunnel, or Pennsylvania transportation collection.

Domestic shipping will be $6.00.