Nine Thousand Miles on a Pullman Train: An Account of a Tour of Railroad Conductors from Philadelphia to the Pacific Coast and Return

"Nine Thousand Miles on a Pullman Train" by Milton M. Shaw is a travelogue documenting a journey taken by a group of railroad conductors in the late 19th century. The narrative begins in the late 1800s as the party sets off from Philadelphia to explore the railroads that span the United States, offering a rich account of the experiences and encounters along their 9,000-mile adventure. The opening of the book introduces readers to the grand departure at Broad Street Station, filled with excitement and farewells as the group boards their train. Shaw describes the train's details and introduces key figures, including the conductors and service staff responsible for their journey. As the train rolls out, the author provides vivid snapshots of the setting, highlighting the camaraderie within the group as well as the meticulous preparation that went into organizing the trip. With a tone that mixes eager anticipation and detailed observations, the beginning sets the stage for a journey filled with experiences, hospitality, and the exploration of new terrains and cultures encountered along the way.