1905 Erb Broadside of the Rail Road Man's Prayer

This is a c. 1905 C. Erb broadside 'A Rail Road Man's Prayer'. Featuring a stunning illustration of a steam locomotive, the prayer occupies the majority of the broadside.

The Rail Road Man's Prayer

While different versions of the prayer exist, we have seen texts dating as early as 1895. It likely originated earlier than that, given the history of railroads in the United States, although no one is credited as the original author.

Publication History and Census

This broadside was printed by C. Erb c. 1905. An advertisement is included along the bottom border stating that if ten cents is mailed to C. Erb in York, Pennsylvania, a copy of the broadside would be sent. We have found no information about C. Erb. This is also the only known surviving example of this broadside.