Conductor (rail)
Railroad trains are typically staffed by two officials, with the conductor being responsible for managing the loading and unloading of cargo and passengers on the train, and monitoring the operation of all the vehicles, other than the locomotives, when the train is in transit. According to the National Park Service conductors in the United States began wearing a distinguishing uniform in the 1840s.[1]
The other official, the Engineer is responsible for operating the train's locomotive(s).[1]
Historian debate when conductor first used a recognizeable caboose, with his office, living quarters, and an observation deck.[2] One candidate dated back to 1863.
References
[edit | edit source]- ↑ 1.0 1.1 "Railroad Workers". National Park Service. 2025-05-30. Retrieved 2026-02-03.
- ↑
"The Caboose – Caso Station". Caso Station. Archived from the original on 2022-11-29. Retrieved 2026-02-03.
It was the original house trailer that contained the conductor’s office, living room, kitchen, dining room, workshop, bedroom, den and toilet.