Description

"Iron Horse" is a novel by R. M. Ballantyne that was published by Delmarva Publications, Inc. The story is set in the United States during the mid-19th century and follows the adventures of a young Scottish immigrant named Frank Forester.

At the beginning of the novel, Frank travels to the United States to seek his fortune. He quickly finds work as a railroad surveyor and engineer, helping to build the transcontinental railroad that will connect the East and West coasts of the country.

As Frank works on the railroad, he encounters a number of challenges and obstacles, including harsh weather, dangerous terrain, and hostile Native American tribes. Ballantyne's descriptions of the railroad construction process are detailed and vivid, providing readers with a fascinating glimpse into the engineering feats and human struggles that went into building one of the greatest engineering projects of the 19th century.

Along the way, Frank befriends a variety of colorful characters, including fellow workers, Native Americans, and settlers. He also falls in love with a young woman named May, who shares his passion for adventure and the wilderness.

As the novel progresses, Frank finds himself embroiled in a series of conflicts and crises, including battles with Native Americans, dangerous derailments, and unexpected betrayals. Through it all, he remains steadfast in his determination to build the railroad and achieve his dreams.

"Iron Horse" is a thrilling and entertaining novel that offers readers a unique perspective on the history of the United States and the challenges faced by those who built the country's infrastructure. Ballantyne's vivid descriptions of the landscape, people, and technology of the time make the novel an immersive and engrossing read, and his characters are engaging and well-drawn, providing readers with a cast of heroes to root for and villains to despise. Overall, "Iron Horse" is a classic adventure story that will delight readers of all ages.