I am deeply grateful to many people who patiently gave of their time and their expertise to help me put together this story. Todd A. Burdick, Director of Interpretation and Education at Hancock Shaker Village, was invaluable for his knowledge of historical detail about the Hancock Shakers. Any errors are, of course, mine alone. For their memories and knowledge of train travel in the 1930s, many thanks to James R. Woodworth, David Schiferl, Mike Stousland, and Peter Dahoda. And, as always, I appreciate the insightful editorial comments provided by Tom Rucker; Becky Bohan; Norm Schiferl; my agent, Barbara Gislason; and my editor, Patricia Lande Grader.