US Rangers: Leading the Way Paperback - 2009

Ever since the first railways it has been necessary to ensure than two trains do not attempt to occupy the same section of track at the same time. At first, control was rudimentary, but as steam replaced the horse and trains became faster, signalling systems quickly developed. However, it was not until a tragic accident occurred at Armagh in 1889 that legislation regarding train control began to take effect. Today, centralised control and a high degree of automation are used, with some metro lines even running without drivers.First published in 1998 and quickly reprinted, this new and fully revised second edition will be warmly welcomed by all enthusiasts. This brilliant book gives a detailed history of the development of railway signalling, from the earliest days through the introduction of the disc and crossbar signal, to semaphores and colour lights and all the modern communications systems of the 1990s. Compiled by two highly regarded railway authors who have had a life-long interest in signalling and the safe operation of railways, this impressive volume should be in the library of all serious railway enthusiasts. The writers show that Britain's railways, already the safest form of travel, continue to strive for absolute safety but, despite the best part of 200 years of experience, things can still go disastrously wrong! Providing an enormous breadth of coverage, this is the one book you simply must have to accurately chronicle Britain's signalling history.