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.

Chicago Union Station: A Centennial Survivor

June 19, 2025

Chicago Union Station: A Centennial Survivor

Despite losing the original concourse in 1969, it is a minor miracle that so much of what is good about Chicago Union Station remains intact.

Hollywood Railroading

May 15, 2025

Hollywood Railroading

“Emperor of the North” got something fundamental right even as the details were wrong — and for that, it remains a touchstone.

River Railroads Stand the Test of Time

April 15, 2025

River Railroads Stand the Test of Time

The railroads skirting the Hudson River in New York share the longevity of other river routes in Oregon and Washington.

Enduring Industrial Design

March 15, 2025

Enduring Industrial Design

While PCC trolleys and Rail Diesel Car designs may be more than 60 years old, they have more in common with modern transit than you think.

‘Cape Gauge” Abroad and at Home

February 15, 2025

‘Cape Gauge” Abroad and at Home

Rails set just 42 inches — 3 feet 6 inches — apart can be found around the globe and right here in America.

Business Trains

January 15, 2025

Business Trains

Today’s corporate business trains are a nod to the rich traditions of glamorous private passenger trains of the past

Oregon’s Timber Heritage

December 17, 2024

Oregon’s Timber Heritage

Oregon’s history is tied to the timber industry, and the quirky short line railroads that brought their products to market.

Roll Your Own?

November 20, 2024

Roll Your Own?

What if you had the means to acquire your own steam locomotive? What would you get? Where would you run it? When can we visit?

Celebrating 50 Years of Railfan & Railroad

October 20, 2024

Celebrating 50 Years of Railfan & Railroad

When Editor Steve Barry first walked in to Carstens Publications as an employee in March 1996, it felt like he had already been there for 22 years.

Mexican Alcos and More

September 18, 2024

Mexican Alcos and More

Whether in the pages of books and magazines, or in person, there’s much to railfan if we look south.