TRRA Issue 84 | Gulf Coast Rebel Railroad History

TRRA Issue 84 is a comprehensive railroad history publication from the Terminal Railroad Association Historical & Technical Society, continuing the organization's tradition of producing meticulously researched annual books. Focusing on the Gulf, Mobile & Ohio's famous Gulf Coast Rebel passenger service, TRRA Issue 84 offers an in-depth look at one of the South's most memorable trains through historical research, rare photographs, maps, drawings, advertisements, and archival documents.

This 206-page softcover volume traces the development of the Gulf Coast Rebel, which originally departed from the East St. Louis Relay Station before later operating from St. Louis Union Station. Readers follow the train's journey through southern Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Mississippi before arriving in Mobile, Alabama. The book also examines the earlier Mobile & Ohio operations, including the steam-powered Gulf Coast Special, and explains how the financially struggling Mobile & Ohio became part of the newly formed Gulf, Mobile & Ohio in 1940.

In addition to the history of the Gulf Coast Rebel, the book covers related passenger services such as the Little Rebels and the Orange State. Detailed chapters explore train consists, motive power, locomotive paint schemes, passenger accommodations, dining service, stations, business cars, and the daily operations that made these trains an important part of southern railroading.

Illustrated with both black-and-white and color photographs printed on high-quality gloss paper, TRRA Issue 84 is an outstanding reference for railroad historians, Gulf, Mobile & Ohio enthusiasts, and model railroaders seeking accurate historical information. Whether you're researching classic passenger trains or expanding your railroad library, TRRA Issue 84 delivers exceptional historical detail and outstanding visual documentation in one expertly produced volume.