Repository: UIHistories Project: Dedication - Transportation Building Dedication Addresses [PAGE 96]

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with passenger trains a few years back, and, at the same time, these trains represent a gross tonnage of from 2000 to 4000 tons or more per train. Likewise, the same change has been brought about with the passenger equipment. Only a few years back this

class of equipment was built entirely of wood, light of weight, and stove-heated. Oil lamps were used for light-

ing. Today these oars, which were marvels a few years ago, are not considered satisfactory for even branch service in the back-woods. In their place, we have the solid vestibu-

led, all steel passenger equipment, steam heated, electric lighted, dining oar service, barber shops and bath room, and, in fact, all of the conveniences of modern times. These cars, in trains of 10 to 12 or more, rush across the country at speedB of a mile a minute or better, under the control of the engineer through modern air brake apparatus, making it possible for him to completely control the momentum of his train and stop at will. The past decade also has been one of changing conditions as regards the employment of labor by the railroads. The various organizations have had their influence,

and have Ihad to be met and dealt with by the heads of mechanical departments. Today there is a lack of the right sort of young men entering the shops of the railroad, and more and more is it becoming necessary to depend upon the foreign immigrant to fill the need for employes of all crafts*