1. Home
  2.  ›
  3. Reviews
  4.  ›
  5. The Iron Way

The Iron Way, By William G. Thomas

Last revised: May 9, 2023

The Iron Way, by William Thomas, looks at the role the railroads played both before the Civil War, during the conflict, and after Reconstruction took place.

It should be noted, however, that the book is not a historical documentation of the tactics in how trains decided the war.

While it does describe how each side, North and South, used their railroads Mr. Thomas also details their larger implications in shaping modern society and helping to find African Americans' place as free people (this latter topic is discussed at length through the book, particularly in the later chapters).

The immense amount of research and correct history covered in the The Iron Way is really quite fascinating and interesting as Mr. Thomas dispels some long-held myths about railroads during the war.

As such, whether you have an interest in railroads, the Civil War, or simply the history of the United States during those turbulent years this book is a must-read.

The book begins with the prologue, which highlights the topics to be discussed such as describing Asa Whitney's vision of seeing the United States connected by railroads as early as the 1840s.

Mr. Thomas also touches on the role trains played for enslaved African Americans and the idea of freedoms the new technology represented.

About mid-way through this section you learn the three central themes to be discussed; the new modern society trains allowed, personal mobility, and finally the idea of freedom this new form of transportation represented for all races (from Irish and Italian immigrants to African Americans).

The prologue concludes by looking at the role the U.S. Military Railroads played in shaping the outcome of the conflict, especially in the later years.

The Iron Way's opening chapter highlights slavery in the South and the region's railroads.

Interestingly, while the North had a strong manufacturing base the South was well-equipped with a modern railroad network which the book describes in great detail.

It was this network, built using to a greater extent slave-labor, that allowed the South to see itself as its own nation-state and resentment towards the North.

The rapid development of railroads in the South during the 1850s was, as mentioned above, due to slavery and it was so intertwined within its industry that it provided for collateral as well as much lower construction costs (both topics of which are covered in great detail).

The second chapter, in contracts, looks at railroads in the North and their use of paid labor, usually Irish, German, or Italian immigrants to complete new lines and related projects.

The title of chapter three, "Secession and a Modern War", frankly describes what is to be discussed.

The breaking up of the Union is presented and how each side staunchly believed in their ideals, the South for its independence and the North in keeping the country together. In the succeeding chapter the early conflicts are presented and how the railroads role was first employed.

Essentially, neither side utilized their railroads very well during the early years.

However, as time wore on both became much more efficient and effective particularly the North (this point is greatly emphasized in chapter five).

Other books have described this and The Iron Way only further reinforces the argument, which was particularly true after Confederate general Stonewall Jackson was killed in 1863 (he was quite adept in employing railroads for military use).

Much of the problem for the South was two-fold. First, the Confederate States could never move the war out its region and secondly, the Union continued to strangle its counterpart as its blockade became ever more effective over time.

Both of these subjects are also covered by Mr. Thomas, particularly in chapter six. During chapter seven the reader learns how effective the Union was becoming in adopting a strategy involving the railroads.

By 1864 the North finally had effective military leadership in general, something which President Lincoln had been searching for since the war had begun in 1861 and involved top commander Ulysses S. Grant as well as William T. Sherman and Philip Sheridan.

In particular, Mr. Thomas highlights Sherman's southern campaign as he focused heavily on crippling the region's railroad network and dispensed with the idea of fighting the Confederate's large armies.

In the book's final chapter, Mr. Thomas discusses emancipation and life for African Americans after the war.

While they were, indeed, free in both the North and South it took nearly another century until they were given equal rights. In chapter eight you also learn one of the true misconceptions of the aftermath of the Civil War.

The South was not left in ruins as has often been described, at least its transportation network. For the U.S. Army's part and the U.S. Military Railroads both worked to rebuild the southern lines which they controlled during the war, and actually repaired them to a better state than ever before spending millions of dollars to do so.

As per President Lincoln's request, the railroads were simply handed back over to their same owners once the conflict ended.

The book concludes with an epilogue, which looks at the railroad industry following the Civil War as it expanded westward and completed the Transcontinental Railroad in 1869.

As Mr. Thomas describes in the book the completion of this route had a far greater impact than simply bridging the nation, it also was symbolic to many Americans as a return to modernity and a move past the long and bloody war that took place earlier that decade.

Overall, the review of the book I have provided here is a just a fraction of the topics discussed in The Iron Way and as mentioned before I would very much recommend purchasing it. 

Recent Articles

  1. Washington's Whiskey Tasting Train Rides

    Mar 04, 26 11:43 AM

    18216254124617859869079078.jpg
    Climb aboard the Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad for a whiskey tasting adventure by train!

    Read More

  2. Illinois "Murder Mystery" Dinner Train Rides

    Mar 04, 26 11:39 AM

    14180316949_0e9a4fafa4_o.jpg
    Among Illinois's scenic train rides, one of the most unique and captivating experiences is the murder mystery excursion.

    Read More

  3. OmniTRAX Unveils Restored Business Car "Savannah Sunrise"

    Mar 04, 26 11:18 AM

    8126352163428759206309789.webp
    Short line and industrial railroad operator OmniTRAX has completed the restoration of a vintage business car “Savannah Sunrise," built in 1959 by National Steel Car.

    Read More

  4. CN Unveils Two America250 Locomotives

    Mar 04, 26 10:42 AM

    260303-cnphoto1.jpg
    Canadian National (CN) announced today the launch of its America250 celebration, unveiling two specially painted locomotives that will operate across the railroad’s U.S. network in tribute to the upco…

    Read More

  5. Vermont Murder Mystery Dinner Train Rides

    Mar 04, 26 10:29 AM

    8237425354235427872689297.jpg
    There are currently murder mystery dinner trains offered in Vermont but until recently the Champlain Valley Dinner Train offered such a trip!

    Read More

  6. Washington Wine Tasting Train Rides

    Mar 04, 26 10:25 AM

    5983265112_3688b74245_o.jpg
    Here’s a detailed look at where and how to ride, what to expect, and practical tips to make the most of wine tasting by rail in Washington.

    Read More

  7. Kentucky Wine Tasting Train Rides

    Mar 04, 26 10:21 AM

    92834273532578238698389788.jpg
    Kentucky, often celebrated for its rolling pastures, thoroughbred horses, and bourbon legacy, has been cultivating another gem in its storied landscapes; enjoying wine by rail.

    Read More

  8. CPKC Unveils KCS 1776 Honoring America’s 250th

    Mar 03, 26 04:32 PM

    8587165512531526481257987.jpg
    Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) today officially unveiled a striking new commemorative locomotive, KCS 1776, a specially painted Tier 4 ET44AC designed to celebrate the upcoming 250th anniversary…

    Read More

  9. Illinois Railway Museum Completes Barn 15

    Mar 03, 26 11:54 AM

    50912446527_c32bd0b037_o.jpg
    The Illinois Railway Museum announced on March 3, 2026 it had completed Barn 15, adding 2000 feet of indoor storage space.

    Read More

  10. North Carolina's Beer Tasting Train Rides

    Mar 03, 26 10:14 AM

    1828165345123788924872568977.jpg
    If you’re looking for the most “Bryson City” way to combine railroading and local flavor, the Smoky Mountain Beer Run is the one to circle on the calendar.

    Read More

  11. Connecticut's Whiskey Tasting Train Rides

    Mar 03, 26 09:59 AM

    92374265346527667893789089.jpg
    While the Naugatuck Railroad runs a variety of trips throughout the year, one event has quickly become a “circle it on the calendar” outing for fans of great food and spirited tastings: the BBQ & Bour…

    Read More

  12. New Mexico's Murder Mystery Train Rides

    Mar 03, 26 09:55 AM

    9875422q2rtrtr4e6t65r.jpg
    Among Sky Railway's most theatrical offerings is “A Murder Mystery,” a 2–2.5 hour immersive production that drops passengers into a stylized whodunit on the rails.

    Read More

  13. Michigan Murder Mystery Dinner Train Rides

    Mar 03, 26 09:50 AM

    12i47127634123561258712378287896893789.jpg
    Among the lesser-known treasures of this state are the intriguing murder mystery dinner train rides—a perfect blend of suspense, dining, and scenic exploration.

    Read More

  14. Florida Wine Tasting Train Rides

    Mar 03, 26 09:45 AM

    231284612783589236.jpg
    Wine by train not only showcases the beauty of Florida's lesser-known regions but also celebrate the growing importance of local wineries and vineyards.

    Read More

  15. Texas Wine Tasting Train Rides

    Mar 03, 26 09:43 AM

    53474493464_f5bdf5bc27_k.jpg
    This article invites you on a metaphorical journey through some of these unique wine tasting train experiences in Texas.

    Read More

  16. Nevada Museum Acquires Amtrak F40PHR 315

    Mar 02, 26 10:32 PM

    3294075495_c66a7a5ea1_o.jpg
    The Nevada State Railroad Museum has stated they have acquired Amtrak F40PHR 315 from Western Rail, Inc. where it will be used for static display.

    Read More

  17. Virginia Railway Express Surpasses 100 Million Riders

    Mar 02, 26 09:42 PM

    37754403985_0c58087da2_k.jpg
    In October 2025, the Virginia Railway Express (VRE) reached one of the most significant milestones in its history, officially carrying its 100 millionth passenger since beginning operations more than…

    Read More

  18. Restoration Continues On New Haven RS3 529

    Mar 02, 26 11:29 AM

    8172437124829853908678.jpg
    The Railroad Museum of New England's efforts to completely restore New Haven RS3 529 to operating condition as they provide the latest updates on the project.

    Read More

  19. American Freedom Train No. 250 Completes FRA Steam Test

    Mar 02, 26 10:17 AM

    22258627728_1fa764b477_k.jpg
    One of the most anticipated steam locomotive restorations in modern preservation reached a major milestone this week as American Freedom Train 4-8-4 No. 250 successfully completed a federally observed…

    Read More

  20. Indiana's Beer Tasting Train Rides

    Mar 02, 26 10:00 AM

    982134721561258960078.jpg
    On select dates, the French Lick Scenic Railway adds a social twist with its popular Beer Tasting Train—a 21+ evening built around craft pours, rail ambience, and views you can’t get from the highway.

    Read More

  21. Maryland's Whiskey Tasting Train Rides

    Mar 02, 26 09:54 AM

    891731525124721752896887667.jpg
    You can enjoy whiskey tasting by train at just one location in Maryland, the popular Western Maryland Scenic Railroad based in Cumberland.

    Read More

  22. California's Whiskey Tasting Train Rides

    Mar 02, 26 09:46 AM

    75142371258712978185723872566.jpg
    There is currently just one location in California offering whiskey tasting by train, the famous Skunk Train in Fort Bragg.

    Read More

  23. Virginia Murder Mystery Dinner Train Rides

    Mar 02, 26 09:42 AM

    679569bv3442q354789675.jpg
    Among the state's railroad attractions, murder mystery dinner trains stand out as a captivating fusion of theatrical entertainment, fine dining, and scenic travel.

    Read More

  24. New York Wine Tasting Train Rides

    Mar 02, 26 09:32 AM

    53034630924_ab314fd817_k.jpg
    This article will delve into the history, offerings, and appeal of wine tasting trains in New York, guiding you through a unique experience that combines the romance of the rails with the sophisticati…

    Read More

  25. Michigan Wine Tasting Train Rides

    Mar 02, 26 09:30 AM

    18243612451767896126.jpg
    In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Michigan’s wine tasting train experiences that cater to both wine connoisseurs and railway aficionados.

    Read More

  26. NS Completes 1,000th DC-to-AC Locomotive Conversion

    Mar 01, 26 11:26 PM

    54290303350_ad78ea1aca_k.jpg
    In October 2025, Norfolk Southern Railway reached one of the most significant mechanical milestones in modern North American railroading, announcing completion of its 1,000th DC-to-AC locomotive conve…

    Read More

  27. California Easter Train Rides

    Mar 01, 26 10:11 AM

    981235123`142341568759482666.jpg
    California is home to many tourist railroads and museums; several offer Easter-themed train rides for the entire family.

    Read More

  28. North Carolina Easter Train Rides

    Mar 01, 26 10:09 AM

    87126341524616418959866.jpg
    The springs are typically warm and balmy in the Tarheel State and a few tourist trains here offer Easter-themed train rides.

    Read More

  29. Maryland Murder Mystery Dinner Train Rides

    Mar 01, 26 10:05 AM

    91724176524124615878926908707.jpg
    Maryland is known for its scenic landscapes, historical landmarks, and vibrant culture, but did you know that it’s also home to some of the most thrilling murder mystery dinner trains?

    Read More

  30. Minnesota Murder Mystery Dinner Train Rides

    Mar 01, 26 10:03 AM

    987582745782689897890098.jpg
    Murder mystery dinner trains offer an enticing blend of suspense, culinary delight, and perpetual motion, where passengers become both detectives and dining companions on an unforgettable journey.

    Read More

  31. Indiana Wine Tasting Train Rides

    Mar 01, 26 10:01 AM

    1726316523512361481786566.jpg
    In this article, we'll delve into the experience of wine tasting trains in Indiana, exploring their routes, services, and the rising popularity of this unique adventure.

    Read More

  32. South Dakota Wine Tasting Train Rides

    Mar 01, 26 09:58 AM

    25378396769_5ee5ad8c84_k.jpg
    For wine enthusiasts and adventurers alike, South Dakota introduces a novel way to experience its local viticulture: wine tasting aboard the Black Hills Central Railroad.

    Read More

  33. Metro-North Unveils Veterans Heritage Locomotive

    Feb 28, 26 11:02 PM

    821736412564671592836389789.jpg
    The Metro-North Railroad marked Veterans Day 2025 with the unveiling of a striking new heritage locomotive honoring the service and sacrifice of America’s military veterans.

    Read More

  34. Pennsylvania's Whiskey Tasting Train Rides

    Feb 28, 26 08:46 AM

    13995229310_eed685382b_b.jpg
    For whiskey aficionados and history buffs alike, a train ride through the Keystone State offering such spirits provides a unique and memorable experience.

    Read More

  35. Alabama's Whiskey Tasting Train Rides

    Feb 28, 26 08:44 AM

    9237236268598626876777.jpg
    With a little planning, you can build a memorable whiskey-and-rails getaway in the Heart of Dixie.

    Read More

  36. Georgia Murder Mystery Dinner Train Rides

    Feb 28, 26 08:43 AM

    8654sart8789755767.jpg
    In the heart of the Peach State, a unique form of entertainment combines the thrill of a murder mystery with the charm of a historic train ride.

    Read More

  37. Colorado Murder Mystery Dinner Train Rides

    Feb 28, 26 08:40 AM

    10821872472148723598238746893.jpg
    Nestled among the breathtaking vistas and rugged terrains of Colorado lies a unique fusion of theater, gastronomy, and travel—a murder mystery dinner train ride.

    Read More

  38. New Mexico Wine Tasting Train Rides

    Feb 28, 26 08:37 AM

    1827316425231872689709907908.jpg
    For oenophiles and adventure seekers alike, wine tasting train rides in New Mexico provide a unique opportunity to explore the region's vineyards in comfort and style.

    Read More

  39. Ohio Wine Tasting Train Rides

    Feb 28, 26 08:35 AM

    54063270967_8ea485da9a_k.jpg
    Among the intriguing ways to experience Ohio's splendor is aboard the wine tasting trains that journey through some of Ohio's most picturesque vineyards and wineries.

    Read More

  40. KC Streetcar Ridership Surges With Opening of Main Street Extension

    Feb 27, 26 11:24 AM

    982341724361247235982098689.jpg
    Kansas City’s investment in modern urban rail transit is already paying dividends, especially following the opening of the Main Street Extension.

    Read More

  41. “Auburn Road Special” Excursions To Aid URHS

    Feb 27, 26 09:04 AM

    51540955414_0f7654cb64_k.jpg
    The United Railroad Historical Society of New Jersey (URHS) and the Finger Lakes Railway have jointly announced a special series of rare-mileage passenger excursions scheduled for April 18–19, 2026.

    Read More

  42. New Jersey Easter Train Rides

    Feb 27, 26 08:53 AM

    91231623124685923687966.jpg
    New Jersey is home to several museums and a few heritage railroads that vividly illustrate its long history with the iron horse. A few host special events for the Easter holiday.

    Read More

  43. Washington Easter Train Rides

    Feb 27, 26 08:49 AM

    91826152512512634571855.jpg
    You can find many heritage railroads in Washington State which illustrates its rich history with the iron horse. A few host Easter-themed events each spring.

    Read More

  44. South Dakota Murder Mystery Dinner Train Rides

    Feb 27, 26 08:46 AM

    44769036_2007471786211415_7062575978807033856_n.jpg
    While the state currently does not offer any murder mystery dinner train rides, the popular 1880 Train at the Black Hills Central recently hosted these popular trips!

    Read More

  45. Wisconsin Murder Mystery Dinner Train Rides

    Feb 27, 26 08:42 AM

    124981724762157892785298689667.jpg
    Whether you're a fan of mystery novels or simply relish a night of theatrical entertainment, Wisconsin's murder mystery dinner trains promise an unforgettable adventure.

    Read More

  46. Pennsylvania Wine Tasting Train Rides

    Feb 27, 26 08:38 AM

    912743174352378268979008.jpg
    Wine tasting trains are a unique and enchanting way to explore the state’s burgeoning wine scene while enjoying a leisurely ride through picturesque landscapes.

    Read More

  47. West Virginia Wine Tasting Train Rides

    Feb 27, 26 08:37 AM

    182746126415624563827892687.jpg
    West Virginia, often celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and rich history, offers visitors a unique way to explore its rolling hills and picturesque vineyards: wine tasting trains.

    Read More

  48. Nebraska Lawmakers Advance UP Tax Incentive Bill

    Feb 27, 26 08:31 AM

    48661419322_b26d4c5d4a_k.jpg
    Nebraska lawmakers are advancing new economic development legislation designed in large part to ensure that Union Pacific Railroad maintains its historic corporate headquarters in Omaha.

    Read More

  49. UP And NS Ask FRA To Waive Cab-Signals For Big Boy 4014

    Feb 26, 26 01:44 PM

    8126512512465278389390709788.jpg
    Union Pacific’s famed 4-8-8-4 “Big Boy” No. 4014 could see new eastern mileage on Norfolk Southern in 2026—but first, the two railroads are asking federal regulators for help bridging a technology gap…

    Read More

  50. Cando Rail & Terminals to Acquire Savage Rail

    Feb 26, 26 11:29 AM

    53411864587_46f5f5bf93_k.jpg
    Cando Rail & Terminals has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Savage Rail, the U.S. rail-services business of Savage Enterprises LLC.

    Read More