Publication: 2 April 2026

This quirky book, drawn from code books published in the UK, America, Australia and the former British Empire, provides a fascinating insight into the running of railways in the first half of the nineteenth century.

Provide afternoon tea. Anxil
Weather is bad; wait until the storm is over. Waylay
Baggage was not found. Bagpiped
There will be no delay. Dishonest

In the early days of railway transport, telegrams were an essential means of communication to keep trains running on time, manage passengers, organize freight transport and deal with unexpected events. Prearranged codes enabled railway staff around the world to communicate quickly with station masters, head office and guards. Each company developed its own code book in which these shorthand messages and corresponding descriptive words were published. The codes give a fascinating insight into the running of the railways at this time, such as the favourable weather for the liberation of pigeons, the
spread of cholera, the glamour of Pullman dining cars and the involvement of the Pinkerton Detective Agency.

With sections on horses, weather, accidents, livestock, lost property and strikes, among many more, this quirky book, drawn from code books published in the UK, America, Australia and the former British Empire, gives us an intriguing glimpse into a world where communication was rapidly changing and all manner of life could be found on the railways.

DEBORAH SUSMAN is a freelance editor and writer.

• Hardback
• ISBN: 9781851246724
• 96 pages
• Size: 170 x 110 mm
• 21 Black & white illustrations