The advent of the railways brought new opportunities to visit other places, be reunited with old friends, enjoy holidays and day trips. It encouraged tourism and boosted the economy.
Sadly in the 1960s there was a decline in the railways and many stations closed - a trend which has been partially reversed in recent years with the opening of new lines and stations.
Here are some evocative pictures selected from the Evening News archive which recall the past of the railways in an around the Capital.
The photos include shots of stations on Edinburgh’s South Suburban line as well as stops on the route from Edinburgh through the Borders.
The exhibition, "Scots on the Move: Railways and Tourism in Victorian Scotland" is free to visit in the Adam Dome at General Register House on Princes Street, opposite Waverley station. It runs until September 26 and is open from 9am until 4pm on weekdays, with late opening until 6:30pm on August 21.
13. East Fortune railway station
East Fortune railway station in East Lothian, March 1966 Photo: TSPL
14. Last train from Hawick to Edinburgh
The last train from Hawick to Edinburgh on the Waverley route in January 1969. The picture is thought to show Fountainhall station in background. Photo: Joe Steele
15. Dalkeith to Edinburgh line
The disused railway line, part of the Borders line, between Dalkeith and Edinburgh, in November 1970. Pollock Halls of residence can be seen in the background. Photo: Denis Straughan
16. Newington railway station
Locked gates at the old Newington railway station in Edinburgh in June 1966. The station had been closed since 1962. Photo: Joe Steele