Railroads of the Santa Maria Valley, Three California Railroads—Three Different Gauges

Los Olivos, California: Olive Press Publications, 2001. 1st edition. 184 pages. Hardcover with dustjacket; both are in FINE condition. SIGNED by Madson.   An outstanding book on the history of railroads in California's Santa Maria Valley. This book reflects years of research by the author who first wrote on the subject while enrolled at Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo. The book details the unusual variety of railroad operations in the Santa Maria Valley, located in the Central Coast region of California. Due to circumstances, including the purposes served by the railroads as well as the varying topography, there were three different railroads operating on three different gauges of track. There was significant oil production in the area, sizable livestock operations, and one of America’s largest sugar beet refineries. There were coastal ports and a significant military presence. Railroads were also used to haul personnel, sets, and equipment for movies shot in the area, including parts of “