End of an Era(1962)

The Transcontinental Railroad(en)

Documentary filmmakers offer a fascinating look at one of the most spectacular engineering feats of the 19th Century as the story of the Transcontinental Railroad comes to life in a film that's sure to appeal to historians and railroad enthusiasts alike. As legions of tireless workers toiled for six years to realize the vision of shady entrepreneurs and imaginative engineers, the remarkable railway dream slowly became a reality. But not everyone was so pleased with the remarkable achievement. Despite the devastating effect that the tremendous transportation breakthrough would have on the Native American population, the lasting impact of the Transcontinental Railroad on the politics and culture of a rapidly expanding country would forever mark it as an invaluable component of the American success story.

Back on Track: Rebuilding the Waupaca Depot(en)

The film chronicles the remarkable saga of Mike Kirk, a devoted model train enthusiast, whose unwavering determination, along with the support of a dedicated circle of family and friends, spearheaded the decades-long restoration of the long-abandoned train depot nestled in the heart of rural Waupaca. Through Kirk's indomitable spirit and vision, the Waupaca Depot emerges as a phoenix rising from literal ashes, symbolizing resilience and community revival. ​ "Back on Track" transcends the boundaries of a mere restoration project, delving deep into the rich tapestry of American history and the birth of rural communities. This film explores the intertwined narratives of Kirk's personal quest and the broader narrative of American heritage.

Flight of the Century(en)

The story of the most famous train in the world

Desert Empire(en)

A travelogue, this film provides a guided tour of pre-World War II Utah and of course does not pretend to cinematic greatness. Recommended viewing for those in search of introductory Utah history. Also valuable for persons seeking insight into the state as it would have looked during this time period. Especially informative for those desiring a window into the past for a view of how Utah was in the days of their pre-World War II progenitors living in the state. Those whose Utah ancestors were involved in mining, railroading, sugar beets, and other featured industries; featured towns, sights, recreational attractions, and industries may find this otherwise banal travelogue a quite valuable addition to their family history.

This Is My Railroad(en)

A film about the Southern Pacific Railroad and the men and women who keep the trains running.

Big Trains Rolling(en)

A production of the association of American Railroads outlining the wonders of America's rail system.

Mainline U.S.A.(en)

A documentary on the railroads of America produced by the Association of American Railroads

Beef Rings the Bell(en)

The sory of the railroad's roll in getting beef to your local market

The Modern Coal Burning Steam Locomotive(en)

Documentary on the evolution and introduction of modern coal burning locomotives on the Norfolk and Western Railway line.

Railroads and Western Expansion 1845-1865(en)

A BFA Educational media production on western expansion via railroads and the role they played in the foundation of the Americas

Railroad Man(en)

The story of the railroad man in his role in keeping the trains moving on the rails.

Rolling the Freight(en)

Film on the movement of material from the Chicago and Northwestern System.

Zugkraft mit Strom – Die Hightech-E-Lok(de)

Metro(fr)

A short documentary about the construction of the parisian subway in the 50s.

Opening a New Frontier(en)

A documentary outlining the railroad's roll in expanding the nation.

Last of the Giants(en)

A Union Pacific production outlining the Big Boy locomotive and the history of the last great steam engine to rule the rails

A Railroad at Work(en)

A documentary on railroads doing their daily tasks created by trhe The Milwaukee Railroad

The Nickel Plate Story(en)

The story of the independent railroad and its survival against the giants.

TGV, génie français du rail(fr)

The Arrival of a Train at La Ciotat(fr)

A group of people are standing along the platform of a railway station in La Ciotat, waiting for a train. One is seen coming, at some distance, and eventually stops at the platform. Doors of the railway-cars open and attendants help passengers off and on. Popular legend has it that, when this film was shown, the first-night audience fled the café in terror, fearing being run over by the "approaching" train. This legend has since been identified as promotional embellishment, though there is evidence to suggest that people were astounded at the capabilities of the Lumières' cinématographe.