Before the widespread popularity of automobiles, buses, and trucks, freight and passenger trains bound the nation together. The Station Agent and the American Railroad Experience explores the role of local frontline workers that kept the country's vast rail network running.

Virtually every community with a railroad connection had a depot and an agent. These men and occasionally women became the official representatives of their companies and were highly respected. They met the public when they sold tickets, planned travel itineraries, and reported freight and express shipments. Additionally, their first-hand knowledge of Morse code made them the most informed in town. But as times changed, so did the role of, and the need for, the station agent.

The Station Agent and the American Railroad Experience, brings back to life the day-to-day experience of the station agent and captures the evolution of railroad operations as technology advanced.

The book is published by Indiana University Press. The audiobook is published by University Press Audiobooks.

"A superb account of the lives and responsibilities of the station agents that were at the heart of every community in small-town America." (Albert J. Churella, Kennesaw State University)

"Fine study of an integral part of railroad operations...a terrific job..." (Thomas G. Hoback, Founder, President and CEO, Indiana Rail Road, Retired)

"An excellent social history that focuses on the station agen...Another winner from Roger Grant." (Carlos A. Schwantes, St. Louis Mercantile Library Professor Emeritus)