Railroads on Parade is a documentary film released in 1939 that delves into the history and importance of railroads in America. The film is directed by prolific filmmaker Ralph Keene, produced by Thayer Soule, and is a collaboration between Warner Bros. and the Association of American Railroads. The film begins with an overview of the early history of railroads in America, starting with the construction of the first steam-powered locomotive in the early 1800s. The film highlights the role that railroads played in the country's westward expansion and the growth of American industry.
Throughout the movie, viewers are treated to stunning visuals of various types of locomotives at work, including steam, diesel, and electric engines. The movie also explores the various roles that railroads played in American society, including transportation of goods and people, military logistics, and the transportation of mail.
One of the most notable sections of the film focuses on the men and women who worked on the railroads, including engineers, conductors, and the unsung heroes of track maintenance crews. The film provides an inside look into the inner workings of the industry, from the operations of large train yards to the precision involved in scheduling trains across the country.
Railroads on Parade also showcases the various technological advancements that transformed the railroad industry, from the introduction of air brakes and vestibuled trains to the development of radio communication and signaling systems. These advancements not only made rail travel safer but also allowed trains to operate at faster speeds and with greater efficiency.
The documentary also explores how the railroad industry adapted to the challenges of the Great Depression, highlighting innovative approaches that allowed railroads to maintain profitability even during difficult times. This section of the film also touches on the role that the federal government played in regulating the industry, from the establishment of the Interstate Commerce Commission to the construction of the national highway system.
Viewers are also treated to a glimpse of the future of the railroad industry, including new types of locomotives and streamlined passenger trains that would come to define the industry in the decades to come.
Overall, Railroads on Parade is a fascinating glimpse into a pivotal era in American history, a time when the railroad industry played an integral role in shaping the country and its economy. The film provides a wealth of insightful details into the various aspects of the industry, from the engineering feats required to lay track across vast distances to the human stories behind the people who worked on the rails. For anyone interested in the history of railroads in America, this documentary is an absolute must-see.
Railroads on Parade is a 2013 family movie with a runtime of 48 minutes.
