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 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.
April 17, 2024
No Regrets?
Don’t wait for the last run… Get out, ride every train you can, visit every line you want to see, and take nothing for granted.
March 14, 2024
Canada’s Connection to the Railway
Canadian railways dominated commercial culture for far longer than they did in the U.S., and to a far greater extent.
February 19, 2024
Before the Blades Fall
While the semaphore was often the first choice for many railroads installing their first signal systems, many were replaced by the march of progress.
January 15, 2024
The Problem of Books
A recent discussion got me thinking how we have a serious problem with access to good railroading books in our hobby.
December 18, 2023
1960s: Two Generations Removed
The 1960s were a period of great transition for American railroads, a mix of classic and modern technology in the midst of great social and political upheaval.
November 16, 2023
What’s In a Name?
Railroad names serve many purposes, from identifying regions served, to boasting ambitions of future expansion. But what of modern names?
October 18, 2023
Why Buy New When You Can Rebuild (Again)?
Why are so many railroads turning to rehabbed and rebuilt diesels instead of buying brand new? The answer may surprise you…
September 15, 2023
Persistence and Nostalgia
Among the most potent subjects of nostalgia in the railfan world is the diesel locomotives built by American Locomotive Company, or Alco.
August 15, 2023
Transit’s Legacy and Character
Today, there are more than 140,000 miles of rail transit in the U.S. alone, spread over more than 50 metropolitan regions.
July 16, 2023
Railroading’s Rogues’ Gallery Redux
For better or worse, ee all know who Henry Ford and Elon Musk are, but names like Stuart Saunders and Patrick McGinnis have almost no impact on our collective culture.