The Ma & Pa: A History of the Maryland & Pennsylvania Railroad

by George W. Hilton

Overview

George W. Hilton's The Ma & Pa: A History of the Maryland & Pennsylvania Railroad is a definitive and richly detailed account of one of America's most beloved and storied short-line railroads. Known for its winding routes, picturesque scenery, and deep connection to the communities it served, the "Ma & Pa" was more than just a railroad—it was a symbol of regional heritage and resilience.Hilton traces the history of the Maryland & Pennsylvania Railroad from its origins in the late 19th century through its heyday as a vital link between Baltimore and York, Pennsylvania. With meticulous research and engaging storytelling, he explores the railroad's construction, operations, and the unique challenges it faced as it navigated the transition from steam to diesel, competition from larger railroads, and the decline of local passenger service.The book brings to life the people who made the Ma & Pa legendary—railroaders, station agents, and loyal passengers who relied on its winding tracks for travel and commerce. Hilton also examines the railroad's engineering feats, including its famously sharp curves, steep grades, and rustic charm that made it a favorite among rail enthusiasts and historians.Illustrated with rare photographs, maps, and technical details, The Ma & Pa is an essential read for railroad historians, model railroaders, and anyone fascinated by the golden age of American railroading. Hilton's thorough and affectionate tribute ensures that the legacy of the Ma & Pa lives on for future generations of rail fans and historians alike.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781779790521
Publisher:	Porirua Publishing
Publication date:	06/18/2025
Sold by:	Bookwire
Format:	eBook
Pages:	159
File size:	93 MB
Note:	This product may take a few minutes to download.

About the Author

George W. Hilton (1925–2014) was a renowned economist, historian, and author known for his authoritative works on transportation history, especially railroads and steamships. His meticulous research and accessible style earned him a distinguished place in American transport historiography.

Table of Contents

	Preface, 1999	ix
	Preface to the Original Edition	xi
	Chronology of Major Events	xv
I.	The Peach Bottom Railway	1
II.	The Maryland Central Railroad	15
III.	The Lancaster Oxford & Southern	29
IV.	Unification	37
V.	The Glory Years	63
VI.	The Lean Years	91
VII.	The Postwar Years	125
VIII.	Emons Industries	163
	Epilogue, 1999	193
	Appendixes
	Time-Table No. 61	199
	Locomotive Rosters	205
	Equipment Roster	213
	Populations of Major Towns	216
	Modeling the Ma & Pa	217
	Index	225

Editorial Reviews

George Hilton's affectionate yet complete and accurate account of Ma & Pa is at once all that the short line's host of admirers could ask as well as a model of How To Write Railroad History. Hilton can examine a balance sheet without forgetting the flanged drivers that generated its figures; to the past he can be sympathetic without letting the sentiment become sticky. In eight chapters he moves across the years from 3-foot beginnings to the road's World War I peak and beyond the lean times, amputation, and a 1960 I.C.C. refusal of an abandonment petition. His text is supported by a chronology, all-time engine and equipment rosters, employee timecard, maps, even a dispatcher's train sheet . . . The photo count exceeds 175 and these are supplemented by side and end elevation drawings of several locomotives and doodlebug 62.
—Trains

Probably no railroad in the east has enjoyed more popularity with the model makers than this one . . . Once you have started to read this book, you'll have difficulty in letting it alone. The author is to be congratulated for giving us such a valuable and interesting history.
—Railway & Locomotive Historical Society Bulletin

Hilton's well written history of the Ma & Pa remains an interesting read, taking one back to the glory years of shortline railroading.
—David J. Mrozek, The Michigan Railfan

From the Publisher

Hilton's well written history of the Ma & Pa remains an interesting read, taking one back to the glory years of shortline railroading.

The Michigan Railfan - David J. Mrozek

Probably no railroad in the east has enjoyed more popularity with the model makers than this one . . . Once you have started to read this book, you'll have difficulty in letting it alone. The author is to be congratulated for giving us such a valuable and interesting history.

Railway & Locomotive Historical Society Bulletin

George Hilton's affectionate yet complete and accurate account of Ma & Pa is at once all that the short line's host of admirers could ask as well as a model of How To Write Railroad History. Hilton can examine a balance sheet without forgetting the flanged drivers that generated its figures; to the past he can be sympathetic without letting the sentiment become sticky. In eight chapters he moves across the years from 3-foot beginnings to the road's World War I peak and beyond the lean times, amputation, and a 1960 I.C.C. refusal of an abandonment petition. His text is supported by a chronology, all-time engine and equipment rosters, employee timecard, maps, even a dispatcher's train sheet . . . The photo count exceeds 175 and these are supplemented by side and end elevation drawings of several locomotives and doodlebug 62.

Trains