You'd be an active member in the oldest organization in North America devoted to railroad history and to researching railroad history. R&LHS was first among today's many groups in this field. Its seniority is significant not only for its own sake but also because the resources that R&LHS can make available to researchers, historians and enthusiasts reflect the efforts of experts who were at work well before the "railfan movement" in railroad history began to grow. The membership of R&LHS is international.

Twice a year, you'd receive Railroad History, the journal of R&LHS. Railroad History and its predecessor, the R&LHS Bulletin, have been published since the society was founded. All issues (or photocopies of them) are still available to members, as is a cumulative index. Current issues average about 120 pages each. They contain in-depth articles about rolling equipment, fixed facilities such a station buildings, finance, engineering, public policy, and labor matters. Each issue is well illustrated. Authors' manuscripts are well documented. The editor of Railroad History ensures that the journal caters to the reading tastes of all members, be they scholars or persons with more casual interests in railroad or locomotive history. R&LHS maintains a comprehensive archive of locomotive builders' lists and rosters.

You'd also receive our companion publication the Quarterly four times a year, addressing topics of current interest in the Society and in railroading. It offers brief articles on railroad history. It includes a "Trading Post" column of members' classified ads. In these and other ways the Quarterly forges a link between members and their Society.

The Internet discussion group:- You'd be eligible to be subscribed to a members-only Internet discussion group, where your research question might be answered by one of the nation's leading scholars in the field. Members may contact the Webmaster to be subscribed. Click here to see some recent highlights.

You'd be invited to the annual meetings of R&LHS, held each spring at locations significant in railroad history. You'd have the opportunity to join a regional chapter, receive its publications, attend its meetings, and participate in its activities -- which, for some, includes restoring railroad equipment or other artifacts. If you're looking for historical facts about railroads, the services of volunteer researchers working in the Society's collections are available for a modest fee. Or you may wish to visit the Society's archives in Sacramento, California, where archivists will help you in your quest for information.

Members can purchase in print RAILROAD HISTORY at the standard bookseller price of 40% off retail, $7.50 instead of $12.50. Plus 20% off of individually-priced out of print issues of both RAILROAD HISTORY and the R&LHS BULLETIN. Plus an additional quantity discount.

Membership in R&LHS is the only ticket you need to enjoy these benefits. See the "Membership" section for details on how to join.