The Baldwin Locomotive Works 1831-1915

The Baldwin Locomotive Works of Philadelphia, largest maker of heavy machinery in Gilded Age America and an important global exporter, achieved renown as one of the nation's most successful and important firms. Relying on gifted designers and skilled craftsmen, Baldwin built thousands of standard and custom steam locomotives, ranging from narrow gauge 0-4-0 industrial engines to huge mallet compounds. In this monumental and prize-winning study, John

K. Brown analyzes the structure of railroad demand; the forces driving continual innovation in locomotive design; Baldwin's management systems, shop-floor skills, and career paths; and the evolution of production methods.