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Text from: Star Flight Workbook (Published by Scott, Foresman & Company, USA)

In 1800 railroad cars in the United States were pulled along the tracks by horses. Travel was slow because the horses became tired. Then, in 1815, John Stevens got permission to build a steam-powered railroad across the state of New Jersey. Many people did not believe in the steam engine, or locomotive, so they were not willing to spend money to build the railroad.

Stevens did not give up his idea entirely. He thought that he could prove the usefulness of the locomotive if people could see one running. So he built a circular track near his home in Hoboken, New Jersey. Then he built a small locomotive to run on it. In 1825 the locomotive made a successful trip around the track, and so became the first railroad locomotive in America.

People in the United States were slow to accept the locomotive because many felt that the steam engine was not dependable. When running, it might be faster than the horse, but it did not always get where it was going.

A stagecoach company suggested having a race to prove, once and for all, that the horse was more dependable than the locomotive. So, in 1830, a small engine called the Tom Thumb was raced against a horse.

Crowds gathered along the railroad tracks to see the race. In the beginning the locomotive led. Then it had engine trouble and could not go on. The horse passed the stopped locomotive and won the race. Fortunately, this race did not discourage the people who believed in the locomotive.

THINK & SEARCH  2.    Think of 3 words you could use to describe John Stevens. Justify each word choice.  [2 marks]

AUTHOR & YOU   3.    After reading this article, you know a little about John Stevens. What is your opinion of this person? Do you think he was a positive or negative person? Give reasons for what you say.  [3 marks]  »[Help]

ON MY OWN   4.    Has the railroad been useful? Justify your opinions.  [4 marks]