The Express Companies of the United States A Study of a Public Utility By: Bert Benedict
In "The Express Companies of the United States: A Study of a Public Utility" by Bert Benedict, readers are provided with a comprehensive and insightful examination of an often-overlooked aspect of American transportation history. Benedict dives deep into the workings and significance of express companies as a vital public utility during the 19th and early 20th centuries, shedding light on a topic that has largely been overshadowed by the more glamorous narratives of railroads and telegraphs. One of the book's greatest strengths lies in Benedict's ability to make a potentially dry subject engaging and accessible. He weaves together an impressive array of historical data, anecdotes, and personal accounts to bring express companies to life, illuminating their impact on the growth of American commerce and industry. Benedict's expertise in the field is evident throughout, as he provides a meticulous analysis of the economic, legal, and logistical challenges these companies faced. Notably, the book is not limited to a purely historical perspective. Benedict identifies parallels between the rise of express companies in the 19th century and contemporary challenges faced by public utilities. In doing so, he raises thought-provoking questions about regulation, monopolies, and the role of private versus public ownership in providing essential services. This broader analysis adds great value to the book, making it relevant to readers outside the realm of transportation history. Benedict's writing style is engaging and concise, making it easy for readers to delve into the intricacies of the express company system. The book flows seamlessly from one chapter to the next, providing a well-structured and organized narrative. Additionally, Benedict's attention to detail is commendable, as he includes numerous illustrations, maps, and tables that aid in visualizing the historical context and economic impact of express companies. While "The Express Companies of the United States" is undoubtedly a valuable resource for scholars and enthusiasts of transportation history, it may not be for everyone. The level of detail and the technical nature of certain sections might overwhelm casual readers seeking a lighter historical account. However, those with a keen interest in public utilities, economic history, or the development of American commerce will undoubtedly find this book an enriching and rewarding read. In conclusion, Bert Benedict's "The Express Companies of the United States: A Study of a Public Utility" serves as an important contribution to transportation history, shedding light on a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of American infrastructure. With meticulous research, engaging storytelling, and timely analysis, Benedict brings the world of express companies to life, ultimately showcasing their significance in shaping America's economic landscape. Whether you are a transportation history aficionado, an economist, or someone simply seeking a deeper understanding of American progress, this book should be on your reading list. First Page: THE EXPRESS COMPANIES OF THE UNITED STATES A Study of a Public Utility By BERT BENEDICT Price 10 Cents Published by THE INTERCOLLEGIATE SOCIALIST SOCIETY 70 Fifth Avenue, New York City 1919 FOREWORD The Intercollegiate Socialist Society takes pleasure in presenting to the public this careful monograph of Mr. Bertram Benedict on the important subject of "The Express Companies of the United States." The pamphlet is particularly timely in these days when the nation is endeavoring to formulate its policy regarding the future control of the express business. It is, moreover, the first concise and scholarly analysis of the express service in America that has appeared in recent years and is a distinct contribution to the literature on the subject. The author herein presents a vivid, bird's eye view of the development of the express companies from the days of the stage driver up to the present time. He portrays the rapid consolidation of express systems, their integration with the great railroads, their remarkable enlargement of activities, the growing competition of the parcel post with the private express systems and the increasing governmental regulation over this utility. This survey is followed by an analysis of the present status of the express companies, and a discussion of express profits... Continue reading book >>

The Express Companies of the United States A Study of a Public Utility By: Bert Benedict

In "The Express Companies of the United States: A Study of a Public Utility" by Bert Benedict, readers are provided with a comprehensive and insightful examination of an often-overlooked aspect of American transportation history. Benedict dives deep into the workings and significance of express companies as a vital public utility during the 19th and early 20th centuries, shedding light on a topic that has largely been overshadowed by the more glamorous narratives of railroads and telegraphs.

One of the book's greatest strengths lies in Benedict's ability to make a potentially dry subject engaging and accessible. He weaves together an impressive array of historical data, anecdotes, and personal accounts to bring express companies to life, illuminating their impact on the growth of American commerce and industry. Benedict's expertise in the field is evident throughout, as he provides a meticulous analysis of the economic, legal, and logistical challenges these companies faced.

Notably, the book is not limited to a purely historical perspective. Benedict identifies parallels between the rise of express companies in the 19th century and contemporary challenges faced by public utilities. In doing so, he raises thought-provoking questions about regulation, monopolies, and the role of private versus public ownership in providing essential services. This broader analysis adds great value to the book, making it relevant to readers outside the realm of transportation history.

Benedict's writing style is engaging and concise, making it easy for readers to delve into the intricacies of the express company system. The book flows seamlessly from one chapter to the next, providing a well-structured and organized narrative. Additionally, Benedict's attention to detail is commendable, as he includes numerous illustrations, maps, and tables that aid in visualizing the historical context and economic impact of express companies.

While "The Express Companies of the United States" is undoubtedly a valuable resource for scholars and enthusiasts of transportation history, it may not be for everyone. The level of detail and the technical nature of certain sections might overwhelm casual readers seeking a lighter historical account. However, those with a keen interest in public utilities, economic history, or the development of American commerce will undoubtedly find this book an enriching and rewarding read.

In conclusion, Bert Benedict's "The Express Companies of the United States: A Study of a Public Utility" serves as an important contribution to transportation history, shedding light on a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of American infrastructure. With meticulous research, engaging storytelling, and timely analysis, Benedict brings the world of express companies to life, ultimately showcasing their significance in shaping America's economic landscape. Whether you are a transportation history aficionado, an economist, or someone simply seeking a deeper understanding of American progress, this book should be on your reading list.

First Page:

THE EXPRESS COMPANIES OF THE UNITED STATES

A Study of a Public Utility

By BERT BENEDICT

Price 10 Cents

Published by THE INTERCOLLEGIATE SOCIALIST SOCIETY 70 Fifth Avenue, New York City 1919

FOREWORD

The Intercollegiate Socialist Society takes pleasure in presenting to the public this careful monograph of Mr. Bertram Benedict on the important subject of "The Express Companies of the United States." The pamphlet is particularly timely in these days when the nation is endeavoring to formulate its policy regarding the future control of the express business.

It is, moreover, the first concise and scholarly analysis of the express service in America that has appeared in recent years and is a distinct contribution to the literature on the subject. The author herein presents a vivid, bird's eye view of the development of the express companies from the days of the stage driver up to the present time. He portrays the rapid consolidation of express systems, their integration with the great railroads, their remarkable enlargement of activities, the growing competition of the parcel post with the private express systems and the increasing governmental regulation over this utility.

This survey is followed by an analysis of the present status of the express companies, and a discussion of express profits... Continue reading book >>

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