The Pennsylvania Railroad (PRR) was once the largest corporation and railroad in the world, famously known as the "Standard Railroad of the World" for its technical innovations and administrative efficiency. Chartered in 1846, it was established to provide a faster, all-rail alternative to the state-run Main Line of Public Works, which relied on a cumbersome mix of canals and inclined planes. At its peak in the early 20th century, the PRR operated over 10,000 miles of track, hauling 10% of all freight and 20% of all passengers in the United States. Here’s a nice example of one of their hammers from an estate in New Jersey. 15” long and weighs over two pounds. Contact me with any questions, comments, or concerns.
