Wood Engraving of a Railroad Train, 1848-1852

THF203211 / Wood Engraving of a Railroad Train, 1848-1852
01

Artifact Overview

Steam locomotive development continued at a steady pace throughout the 19th century. By 1840 the American locomotive's basic form was established. A horizontal boiler, with a firebox at back, lay atop a frame while water and fuel were supplied from a separate tender. This locomotive lacks some later refinements, including outside cylinders and a cab to protect the crew.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Print (Visual work)

Subject Date

1848-1852

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

82.129.1179

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Paper (Fiber product)
Cardboard

Technique

Wood engraving (Process)

Color

Black-and-white (Colors)

Dimensions

Height: 5.688 in
Width: 9.375 in

Inscriptions

Verso: Museum of Science and Industry (Founded by Julius Rosenwald) Chicago, Illinois
02

Related Content

  • The Susquehanna River and Canal near Shickshinny, Pennsylvania, 1885-1901
    Set

    America's Canal Era

    • 34 Artifacts
    In the early 19th century, Americans looked to canals for transportation. Artificial waterways carried people and goods over long distances with minimal power, extending water-borne commerce from seaports to inland communities. But canals were expensive to build and maintain, and floods, droughts and freezing weather interfered with operations. Railroads offered a better alternative and brought an end to America's canal era.