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.

Canada’s Connection to the Railway

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.

Before the Blades Fall

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.

The Problem of Books

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.

1960s: Two Generations Removed

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.

What’s In a Name?

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?

Why Buy New When You Can Rebuild (Again)?

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…

Persistence and Nostalgia

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.

Transit’s Legacy and Character

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.

Railroading’s Rogues’ Gallery Redux

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.

Get Outside This Summer

June 15, 2023

Get Outside This Summer

Ditch the screens, get outside, and spend some time trackside this summer; whether it’s a busy main line, pokey local, or nearby museum.