According to his publisher, Joe Stra- Scale Models
pac, himself considered a knowledgeable source of Southern California railroad- ing, author David Coscia haunted every museum, newspaper office, historical so- ciety, and photo collection he could find looking for photographs and information. Judging by the dozens and dozens of nev- er-published before photographs in this book, he has succeeded admirably. More than just a hobbyist book, Cos-
cia weaves the history of the San Fer- nando Valley into a fascinating tale of once-empty fields dotted by small towns here and there to its current place in California history with a popu- lation of more than 1.75 million people. The coming of the Pacific Electric into
the Valley, and how it changed its char- acter with a flood of soon-to-be residents, is well detailed, as is its eventual demise, due in great part to improved roads and an expanding freeway system. There are also McKeen cars, diesels, the inevitable busses, stations, timetables, old adver- tisements, and construction shots. There is even a photo of a freight train over Cahuenga Pass, which separates the Valley from the rest of Los Angeles. Yes, it’s just a work train, but for hardcore PE fans, this can be an eye opener. The is a fine, well-researched book.
www.caboosehobbies.com
The author’s attention to detail is excel- lent and the photo reproduction is top- notch.–DAVID LUSTIG
34
NOVEMBER 2012
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