PSRHS supported publication of this book by member and historian Roger Staab in 2013. It started out being a study of the narrow gauge logging railroad built by the Towle family, but soon grew into a more comprehensive book about the family business, logging railroad, company town of Towle near Alta, and related business ventures of family members

Book Synopsis

Three Towle brothers came to California from Vermont in the 1850’s to seek their fortunes.  They settled near Dutch Flat in Placer County and became prominent contributors to the economic growth of both Placer and Nevada counties in the late 1800’s.  They are perhaps best known for building a narrow gauge logging railroad, but their involvement in the area’s development goes far beyond that venture alone.  By the early 1900’s the three brothers were no longer living, but the creative contributions of their descendants and extended family continue to benefit the state even today.

This book is about the logging railroad, sawmills, and businesses they built and operated as Towle Brothers Company, the now forgotten town of Towle they created in the Sierra foothills to support their lumber empire, and some interesting stories about their heirs.

NOTE:  This book is currently out of print.  The former printer TheBookpatch.com is is no longer offering it and has been unresponsive as to why it has been dropped from their book selections. 

PSRHS may offer the book again in the future from another on-line printer who will provide copies on demand.  Meanwhile, a low-resolution PDF file of the book will soon be offered here for download.