Images of Rail: Pere Marquette 1225 presents the history of steam locomotive 1225, one of 39 Berkshire Class 2-8-4's built between 1937 and 1944 for the Pere Marquette Railway. Although it is best known for being the sound and image behind the movie adaptation of Chris Van Allsburg's The Polar Express, 1225 has a rich history that preceded a life as a movie star. From her construction at Lima Locomotive Works and important role in hauling material from factories to the front in World War II to her unlikely preservation on Michigan State University's campus and eventual restoration, the history of 1225 covers nearly 75 years. The locomotive is now housed at the Steam Railroading Institute in Owosso, Michigan, and the story behind it will take readers back to a time when whistles in the night charged the imagination and the United States truly was the "Arsenal of Democracy."

In this wonderful collection of images, discover Port Huron as it once was. Although Port Huron is now referred to as the "Maritime Capital of the Great Lakes," its initial growth happened because it was a point where roads, rails, and water all met to create the center of commerce it became. Return to a time when people rode streetcars and interurbans, took day trips to Detroit on ships such as the Tashmoo and the Greyhound; when they worked and shopped in downtown stores; and when they lived in diverse ethnic neighborhoods such as South Park and the First Ward. Many of the postcards seen here were mailed at or near the beginning of the 20th century and were a way to communicate basic information between friends and family. These images have now returned to introduce a new generation to what Port Huron once was. In an age where e-mails instantly travel back and forth, it can be hard to imagine how those receiving these messages anxiously awaited what messages arrived with these penny postcards.