This first history of the L&A, traces the development of a premier railroad system from the early boom days of railroading to the modern era of takeovers. Known as "The Better Way", the L&A, was established at the turn of the century and expanded by shrewd acquisitions to connect New Orleans to Dallas.The most successful line in its region, it remained enduringly profitable throughout its long history, due primarily to the tenacity of three businessmen -- William Edenborn, William Buchanan, and Harvey Couch -- who consecutively oversaw all aspects of operations. Although for much of its existence the L&A, operated under a parent company, the KCS, it maintained independence until the eventual takeover in 1992 by that superline.