Departures

Just what does it mean to be a railfan? In Departures, we attempt to answer this question. Geeky but cool, obsessive yet interesting, artistic yet accessible, it’s a broad hobby with something for everyone. But what does it mean to you? We’ll discuss the leading trends in photography and how they shape our approach to the craft. For the historian and the collector, we’ll explore our rich past and look ahead to the future. Join us as we embark upon exciting railway journeys and discover what draws us trackside. Learn about the fascinating people who have enlivened our hobby and make us eager to join them. There’s never been a more exciting time to be a railfan, and we’ll show you why each month!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Alexander CragheadAlexander B. Craghead, is the author of Departures. He is a writer, photographer, illustrator, and self-described “transportation geek” from Portland, Oregon. His interest in trains was partially inspired by childhood stories about his great-great uncle, who worked for the Portland Traction Company, and his great-great grandfather, who worked for the Southern Pacific.

His writing and photography have appeared in Railfan & Railroad Magazine, Trains Magazine, and the National Railroad Historical Society Bulletin, and in Railroad Heritage published by the Center for Railroad Photography & Art.

Branching Out

May 22, 2023

Branching Out

Loaded with character and often a throwback to earlier times, rural branch lines are often worthy of our attention.

Time for USRA’s Third Act?

April 19, 2023

Time for USRA’s Third Act?

Could the railroads be closer to national control due to the number of recent fatal accidents plaguing the nation?

Change and Opportunity

March 16, 2023

Change and Opportunity

If there’s any lesson from East Broad Top, it’s that you never know what might be possible when it comes to railway preservation.

Give the Railfan the Brass Hat?

February 21, 2023

Give the Railfan the Brass Hat?

The railroads suffered spectacular service failures through the winter, when it should have been a shining example of all-weather travel.

Railroading is Stubborn

January 19, 2023

Railroading is Stubborn

As some railroads stubbornly push for one-man crews (with an “expeditor” to assist from the ground), labor continues pushes back.

How Railroads Fight Snow

December 15, 2022

How Railroads Fight Snow

When railroads fight winter snows to keep their lines open through the winter, the show quickly becomes a railfan spectacle show of might.

What Gets Preserved, and Why?

December 10, 2022

What Gets Preserved, and Why?

What we preserve today reflects what we value now, but will future generations assign it the same level of importance?

Montana Rail Link: End of the Line

November 15, 2022

Montana Rail Link: End of the Line

Thirty-five years ago, Montana Rail Link began operations on the former Northern Pacific and soon became a fan favorite.

Alco: Our Favorite Failure?

October 15, 2022

Alco: Our Favorite Failure?

Alco locomotives exude an underdog quality, and following the builder’s closure in 1969, that only increased among railfans and enthusiasts.

BART: 50 Years of Big Plans

September 15, 2022

BART: 50 Years of Big Plans

Fifty years ago, Bay Area Rapid Transit had the audacity to transform the San Francisco Bay Area with a modern rail transit system.