Appleton's Railway Guide to the United States & Canada was originally published in two volumes, describing the variety of attractions offered in each North American town or city the train traveler would encounter along the railway system's numerous routes. It was the first tourist guide specifically organized around railway journeys, offering a rare glimpse through the carriage window of a continent lost to history.

As with many guidebooks of the era, Appleton Guides became obsolete as routes and destinations became less popular and new guidebooks took their place. Both these volumes became collector's items due to their rarity, until now. An unprecedented snapshot of North America in the 1870s, Appleton's Railway Guide is a must-have for any travel and railway enthusiast, historian, and fan of Americana.