The against-all-odds story of a World War II–era steam locomotive and the determination of two generations of volunteers to keep it running comes alive in Twelve Twenty-Five: The Life and Times of a Steam Locomotive. Pere Marquette 1225 was built in 1941 at the peak of steam locomotive development. The narrative traces the 1225’s regular freight service in Michigan; its unlikely salvation from the scrapyard for preservation at Michigan State University; and the subsequent work to bring it back to steam; first by a student club and later by a railroad museum. Milestones along the way include 1225’s retirement in 1951; its donation to MSU in 1957; its return to steam in 1988; a successful career hauling tens of thousands of excursion riders; and its starring role in the 2004 movie The Polar Express. The massive infrastructure that supported American steam locomotives in their heyday disappeared long ago; forcing 1225’s faithful to make their own spare parts; learn ancient railroad skills; and interpret the entire effort for the public. As such; the continuing career of 1225 is a triumph of historic preservation.
#965300 in Books 2014-05-05 2014-05-19Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.00 x .44 x 6.00l; .66 #File Name: 1611211875192 pages
Review
4 of 4 people found the following review helpful. Good if you plan trip to the battle site.By George SToo many repetitious descriptions of the battle from different sources. Chapters interspersed with automobile travelogues of directions to the various sites. Good details of battle but interrupted by summaries of what you will already have read2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Could be betterBy Sadaunhe1This a well researched; but poorly proofed book. This is a shame. The authors clearly are devoted to the material; but the poor editing provides a constant irritation to anyone who loves the English language. Unless you are considering the book for its driving tour information; I suggest you look elsewhere for enjoyable reading on the Overland Campaign.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. A focused study of one of General Lee's last victories.By Robert H ZiprickA well written history of one of the Confederacy's last victories. I wish this book had existed when visiting the battlefield as it provides sufficient detail to enhance such exploration. It also provides the background of the events which led the two contending armies to this battlefield.
