This book is a photographic tribute to steam locomotive operation on what was truly a remarkable branch line railway, that from
Aliwal North (or, more specifically, the section forward from Lady Grey) to Barkly East, taking in no less than eight ‘Reverses’ during the course of some epic mountain climbing. Beyond the rather ‘tame’ section from Aliwal North to Lady Grey (64 kms) the ensuing 93 kms to the terminus offered many excellent photographic opportunities. With regular steam services having finished well before the Author ever visited South Africa, it is indeed fortunate that it has been possible to participate in no less than twelve days of specialised chartered steam hauled trains operating on this line. With one exception, all the workings replicate the mixed train services that were commonplace during the steam era. Four different classes of steam locomotives are featured at work in this remarkable book, including a GB Garratt and the 19Ds that were iconic motive power on this line.

The 138 pages of this book, incorporating no less than 168 fine photographs, present the ultimate photographic homage to one of the Great Railways of South Africa. Historical details of this remarkable line are provided throughout the appropriate sections of the book, together with anecdotal comments and the expected caption details, quite extended in many instances. The book serves as a memorable souvenir for those who ever took a trip through the reverses to Barkly East and an adequate substitute for those who did not.