Researching prototype industries from a bygone era???

I am working on a layout based on a portion of Southern Pacific's San Joaquin Division in the early to mid 60's. I would like to model some prototypical industries but have no idea where to look for reference material.

How does one go about locating a customer list and other information that would be helpful for modeling???

Thanks for the help!!!

 

Check out the hisorical societies from the railroad and the towns located along the line.

 

Espee:

I am doing much the same thing but with Canadian National in South-Western Ontaroi ... my hometown of Ingersoll in the decade 1957 to 67.

What really set me on the right track was aerial photographs. There will be a set of them taken very close to whatever time period you are after.

These are very detailed shots made with large format cameras and fine-grained film. On top of that, they are generally pretty cheap for the value in being able to look at a particular area .... then get a strong magnifying glass or jeweller's loupe and you can see what industries are operating, what types of cars are spotted ... empties in - full ones out.

That sort of thing. By being an amateur "photo intelligence officer" you can learn a great deal about what's going on there.

Unfortunately I can't seem to attach a small picture but would be happy to email you a sample.

Regards,
Lee Smith

 

Espee, I did all the above, It took close to 2 years to get all the info I needed. I used aireal photos, Contacted the Milw. Road historical society and the historical society and chamber of commerce in the town I was modeling. That was for just one town! now I only have 7 more to go.

 

Espee, you might check the Chamber of Commerce at Patterson, and Modesto towns out in California.

 

Great advise! Thanks Doofus, Lee, Andy, and Watash!!!

Lee, Welcome aboard! Glad to have you here. If it's not too much trouble you can email me at espeeman@comcast.net .

Thanks!