Fukushima Chuo Television: Fukushima SL Story - Fukushima Bunko 36 - Many Local Train Scenery Shots

Published in 1977 (Showa 52) by Fukushima Chuo Television, Fukushima SL Stories (Fukushima Bunko 36) is a gem of a book that weaves together the majestic presence of steam locomotives that once ran through Fukushima Prefecture and the stories of the people surrounding them.

This book vividly captures the original scenery of Fukushima Prefecture's main and local lines in the 1960s (Showa 40s) with abundant photographs. It features precious images of a wide variety of steam locomotives, from powerful large locomotives like the D51 and C62 to smaller ones that ran on scenic local lines.

Beyond simply introducing the locomotives, the book is appealing for its emotionally rich descriptions of the impact SLs had on the region and episodes leading up to their discontinuation. The stories, told alongside nostalgic photographs, depict what steam locomotives meant to the people of Fukushima at the time, resonating deeply not only with railway enthusiasts but also with those interested in regional history and culture.

It includes numerous valuable records of discontinued lines such as the Kawamata Line, Shirataki Line, and Nicchu Line. The collection of unique shots, packed with the reporting power and passion of a local TV station, is truly impressive.

Furthermore, the latter half of the book contains a comprehensive data section. It provides detailed explanations of each steam locomotive type from the Meiji era, including dimensioned vehicle diagrams and performance details, satisfying railway modelers seeking reference material for their hobby and railway enthusiasts who wish to delve deeper into the mechanics of steam locomotives.