Evening Republican, Volume 16, Number 156, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 29 June 1912 — STEEL CARS ARE THE BEST [ARTICLE]

STEEL CARS ARE THE BEST

Superiority of Metal Construction Over Wood le Shown In Recent Train Accidents. Recent train accidents have demonstrated 'Conclusively the superiority of steel over wood in the construction of cars. That the steel cars are fireproof and are built so as to prevent telescoping is the assertion of railroad men. Alexander J. Cassatt is credited with foreseeing the substitution of steel for wood in the construction of passenger cars. He directed about nine years ago that the design of steel cars be undertaken. The first steel car was turned out In June, 1906. The steel cars have been frequently called "dreadnoughts" on account of their construction. Each car weighs 118,500 pounds, while” the woden cars weigh only 85,000 pounds. This increase In weight reduces the vibration of the cars, adding thereby to the comfort of the passengers. One feature of the steel car which has won considerable commendation is a long girder which so far has prevented telescoping In collisions.