Station at Boca del Monte

Mexico: Gallo & Co. Editors, 1876. HERNANDEZ, S.. View. Lithograph. Page measures 14.75" x 10".

This detailed view, likely after a photograph by Abel Briquet, buzzes with activity as a train enters the Boca Del Monte station in Mexico's Veracruz state. Published in the book "History of the Mexican Railway," by Gustavo Baz and E. L. Gallo, this print is one of many images documenting the construction of The Ferrocarril Mexicano, or Mexican Railroad system. The mountainous topography of the region necessitated the construction of many bridges and tunnels, spanning canyons and ravines in an impressive engineering feat. Construction was completed in 1872 after many setbacks, although today trains no longer run on the line and most of the stations remain in disuse. This view provides insight into the grueling construction process necessary to build a railroad through a mountainous region during this period. The print is in good condition, with two minor water stains, one of which slightly affects the top left corner of the printed image.