Steam railroading

Steam railroading involves operating trains powered by steam engines, which generate power through boiling water to create steam that moves pistons connected to the wheels. This technology was the backbone of rail transportation from the 19th to early 20th centuries, enabling efficient freight and passenger movement over long distances. The process requires a boiler to produce steam, a fire to heat the water, and mechanical components to convert steam pressure into motion. While largely replaced by diesel and electric trains today, steam railroading remains a popular hobby and historical preservation activity, showcasing the engineering marvels of the steam era.