The story of North Carolina's railroad development is the story of a long and unsuccessful struggle to secure a trunk line east and west. Today the main railroads run north and south, following the fundamental geographical lay of the land, the original dream defeated by geography, sectional differences, politics, and the paralyzing effects of war. Originally published in 1928. A UNC Press Enduring Edition -- UNC Press Enduring Editions use the latest in digital technology to make available again books from our distinguished backlist that were previously out of print. These editions are published unaltered from the original, and are presented in affordable paperback formats, bringing readers both historical and cultural value.