The Last of the Great Stations: 40 years of the Los Angeles Union Passenger Terminal

by Bill Bradley

The Last of the Great 50 years of the Los Angeles Union Passenger Terminal (Interurbans Special No. 72) This fascinating book about the Los Angeles Union Terminal was published in 1979 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the station. The book covers every aspect of the terminal, from a look at the prior railroad stations, the planning and architecture (with plans), construction, operation, and the struggle to keep the station alive in the era of airplanes. Illustrated throughout with B&W photos from all eras. w/ arrival timetables. 120 pages.

Genres: Railways

110 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1979

Reviews

[Robert Vincent · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a good history of the LA Union Station from the time of the politics surrounding the action of concept and design, to the actual work of making it happen, to the early glory days, and decline up until 1979. Bill Bradley gives a good overview of the development, construction, opening and operations of the historic building. The book also covered a bit of information on the three railways using the terminal: Santa Fe, Southern Pacific and Union Pacific. Early photos with interesting captions made the short book not only more informative but very interesting. This is yet another good “filler read” for me as I took a break from the more serious readings I am accustomed to pursue. I believe railroad enthusiasts would fine this book interesting but probably not supplying much new information for them. However, I intend to pass it on to someone who loves the railroads.

[Michele Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully illustrated with copies of old photos, tickets, station plans, time tables...all in black and white.
A great historic overview of Union Station that touches on the development of Los Angeles as a City.