Baker, born in Racine, Wis., grew up with four brothers and a sister, learning the meaning of the word “share” at an early age.  It was a great time for a “young railfan.” There were North Shore interurbans, along with a good number passenger trains and long freights on the busy Chicago Northwestern Shore lines.  Baker, his wife, and their two children reside in Franklin, Wis.

Baker, a noted author, is a recognized expert on both the Chicago Northwestern and the North Shore. He has given many slide lectures, written books, and has had his photos featured in Trains Magazine, Chicago Northwestern Historical Society publications, and a number of books, including his own.  He has served the NRHS for a quarter century. He is past president and current program director. His generous “author’s donation” of his books are credited by most members as being the key factor for the club treasury.  Baker’s works include: C&NW, Railfans Guide to Wisconsin and Upper Michigan, Wisconsin Rails 1 and Wisconsin Rails II.  Baker, a noted composition photographer, has lent his skills as an instructor at the annual Trains Magazine photo clinic since its inception eight years ago. The clinic was formatted by Baker, along with Russ Larson and Kevin Keefe of Kalmbach Publishing, as a way of introducing rail photography to everyone. To date, hundreds of people across the country have benefited from Baker’s “brainchild.”  Baker was “discovered” by Chuck Zehner a number of years ago and has been featured on “Tracks Ahead,” All Star Railroad Night, TMERL&THS Trolley Club, C&NW Historical Society, and a number of other venues. His presentations have a mark of excellence that sets the bar for those that follow.

                                                  P. O. Box 2023