Tales Of The Rails

Although the train as a mode of transportation and, for many, way of life, is today a thing of the past, many Midwesterners still remember the days when trains not only accounted for the livelihood of a good many communities--but were also a source of recreation for the kids. Writer/director Dirk Eitzen interviewed several Iowa elders about the days when the railroads were a major facet of daily life. For farming towns, the railroad brought instant prosperity as farmers now had a fast mode of transportation for delivering perishable goods. And goods could vary widely: one interviewee recalls the days when turtles, rabbits, and dogs were cargo on trains. Another explains the difference between hobos and bums, while yet another recalls the days of "greasing the rails" so that a train might have a slightly difficult time on an upgrade. Divided into broad subject categories--progress, freight, entertainment, romance, etc.--these tales of the rails will surely appeal to railroad buffs and make for a pleasant half-hour for general patrons as well. Recommended. (Available from: Vis-a-vis Productions, 1735 Wilson St., Iowa City, IA 52245.)