LUCIUS BEEBE: December 9, 1902 – February 4, 1966

Fifty years ago today one of the most prolific railroad book authors of all time passed away at the age of 63. Between 1938 and 1966, Lucius Beebe wrote more than 20 railroad books, as well as another dozen or so on other topics. He shared credit for many of his books with his partner, Charles Clegg.

During the 1940s, Beebe and Clegg became fans of various western railroads. The Colorado narrow gauge lines and the Virginia & Truckee were particular favorites. Multiple books were devoted to chronicling them with pictures and prose, including “Virginia & Truckee” (1949), “Steamcars to the Comstock” (1957), and “Narrow Gauge in the Rockies” (1958). The latter book, which I checked out of the Reseda (California) Branch of the Los Angeles Public Library, was my first introduction to the lines in Colorado. Their books on the V&T introduced me to that railroad, too. I owe the boys a debt of gratitude for the introductions. I'm sure I'm not the only one.

I've put a brief biography and some photos online at [www.facebook.com]. You need not have a Facebook page to look at it.

Enjoy!

Larry