UPDATE, Mr.Walter M. Macdougall's presentation in Smithfield was fantastic! A book is now available titled "By Brain and Brawn", subtitled, An account of How Railroad Tracks Were Maintained and of the Men Who Did the Job, by Walter M. Macdougall, as told by Robert Roberts and Other Veteran Trackmen. I'm reading my new copy now and learning much about Section Foremen and the daily work involved in keeping a railroad in proper shape. A glossary of terms helps a novice like me understand the ins and outs. With all the track work going on at The WW&F Museum being talked about on The Discussion Forum, reading this book really brings the reality of it all right up front. It doesn't matter the gauge of the railroad, most of the maintainence problems and tools of the trade are similar. The cruel Maine winters along with the annual spring thaw creates nightmares for Section Hands. We try to do the work now as it was done back in the day and here, in first hand reflections, are the methods. This book will hold you spellbound. You can have your own autographed copy for $16 postpaid by writing: Walter M. Macdougall, 75 Sargent Hill Dr., Milo, ME. 04463. If we would like to make this book available through the WW&F Museum Bookstore and the Museum make a profit, contact the author at 207-943-2331. And lastly, if you ever want a speaker at an event or gathering that will leave you dreaming Maine Railroad Adventures all night long, this is your boy. Don't miss the opportunity.
