Happy Thanksgiving! Many of us are beginning a long weekend today, so let's unwind a bit with some photos of railroading in the real world.
I spent the last few days in an unusual railroad town... New York City. It doesn't strike many people as a railroad town, because of so many trains running underground. But you can find trains in many unusual spots. 
Case in point, I stayed at the Hotel Edison, an art deco structure named after the famous American inventor, Thomas Edison. He is known for many things, but not being a railroader. Yet, in the lobby, here is a mural about railroads.
This mural is quite a bit newer than 1931, but features the art deco design of the 20th Century Limited and the Commodore Vanderbilt locomotives, plus a streamlined streetcar or subway crossing overhead.
I also took a tour of the Woolworth building. This structure was the tallest in the world from 1913 until 1930, I believe. Frank Woolworth and his brother Charles practically invented modern shopping in their more than 3000 5 and 10 cent stores. Not railroaders, but railroads were such an important part of the culture at the time, a locomotive fits into this triptych mural in the lobby.
The center goddess is labeled "Industry." On her left is this knave holding a locomotive, whereas on her right is another holding a ship.
I also visited one of the temples of railroading to meet up with a couple friends.
Yes, indeed! Grand Central Terminal, home to the New York Central and New Haven. Still as magnificent as in 1913.
Inside and out. I have other photos, but my computer is not working too reliably at the moment. So I am handing the thread to you to fill out with real trains in the real world. Have a happy turkey day, and enjoy your weekend.
