All Aboard!!!!
By: David Kaiser
Advantages/ Disadvantages
Advantages: The railroad is a very good way to get around. We still use trains to get around today. They can haul a lot of passengers and make multiple stops. Trains are also used for shipping goods. They ship coal, cattle, and grains.
Disadvantages: Coal was used to fuel the engine. Coal cost a lot so it costs a lot to ride one. It also costs a lot to make the tracks for the trains. The rails for the tracks aren't that flexible so you basically have to be on a straight line to your destination.
Railroad History
The beginning of the railroad
Germany first had Wagonways which had wooden rails that horse-drawn wagons and carts moved on. This was the beginning of the railroad.
William Jessep
In 1789 he came up with the first wagon with with flanged wheels. The flange has a grove in it that could better grip the rail. This was used for later railroads too.
Steam Engine
Richard Trevithick built the first train with a steam engine in it. It could haul 10 tons of iron, 70 men and 5 extra wagons about only 9 miles. It would take about 2 hours though.
Colonel John Stevens
He is considered the father of American Railroads. In 1826 he demonstrated the steam locomotive on a circular track in his yard. The first railroad charter in North America was granted to John. This lead to the construction of the first operational railroad in North America.