Ronald DeGraw, whose lifelong interest in traction (especially in the Philadelphia area) started by riding with his motorman father in P&W trolleys, died early this week of a stroke at age 63. DeGraw, a longtime SEPTA employee and recently a freelance consultant for transit systems across the country, was also a longtime researcher of the history of the Red Arrow and Philadelphia transit in general. He wrote three books, the last of which is still scheduled for publication later this year. His first book, 1972's The Red Arrow, is conisdered the ultimate history of traction in the Philadelphia region, and was essential research material in the creation of the P&W and Beechwood Park pages of this site. Although scarce today, The Red Arrow should be required reading for anybody interested in the history of mass transit or Philadelphia.

DeGraw's obituary can be read here.