Rockville Bridge Books and Reviews

This section features reviews and information about various books and resources that may be of interest to folks wanting to model Rockville Bridge or the surrounding area.  This section is a work in progress as titles will be added in the future.

Rockville Bridge - Rails Over the Susquehanna

By Dan Cupper (2002)

Rockville Bridge - Rails Across the Susquehanna is the definitive source for information of the history of the bridge, construction information, plans, and historical photos available today.  Cupper has filled 112 pages with wonderful information about the bridge - a goldmine for anyone interested in building a scale model of the 48 arch stone masonry bridge.  Included are construction plans of the bridge along with some fun stories of the history of the bridge - such as the plans to have the Pennsylvania Turnpike bridge over the Susquehanna be built over the rail line instead of its current location south of the bridge.  If you can manage to find a copy at a train show, eBay, or on Amazon below, it is a must read.

90 Days to Rockville

By Jim Spavins (2009)

Obviously, this is a shameless self promotion so I won't review this book.  However, here is the description for those who are interested:

 Follow along with the construction of an HO scale model railroad module based on the renowned Rockville Bridge over the Susquehanna River in Pennsylvania. Numerous pictures and diagrams show the complete process of building the module from design through scenery. See how the module was constructed in less than 90 days!

Model Railroad Bridges and Trestles

By Bob Hayden (1992)

For those who are simply interested in building credible model railroad bridges, the perfect book to get you up to speed for designing model railroad bridges is Model Railroad Bridges and Trestles from Kalmbach.  While a bit dated, the bridge designs and principles have stood the test of time.  While there isn't a lot of information on stone arch bridges, there are several example bridges that are discussed in detail based on this design.  A lot of the book talks about steel and timber trestles.  There is even an entire chapter devoted to drawbridges and movable spans.  If you want to become an expert model bridge builder, this is a good place to start as all types of bridges are covered. 

Heart of the Pennsylvania Railroad 

By Robert S. McGonical (1996)

Rockville Bridge was built by the Pennsylvania Railroad so naturally some folks might be interested in understanding more about the routes and history of the railroad that is carried over the Susquehanna by Rockville Bridge.  This book covers the Pennsy's route from Philadelphia to Pittsburg including the Middle Division from Harrisburg to Altoona which is home to Rockville Bridge.  There are several photos of the bridge in its four track Pennsylvania Railroad heyday along with a good overview of the history of the line.  If you don't know much about the Pennsy, its route, or history, this book is a good starting point.  If you are already an expert, it may be a bit basic.

 

 

Find "90 Days to Rockville" at your local library or hobby shop!

Does your local library or hobby shop not carry the book?  They can easily order it for you.  Print this sheet and bring it to them.  It has all the information they need to get a copy of the book!

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