Sunday, August 10, 2014

Famous Transcontinental Train


From the collection:  A small brochure advertising The Olympian, Famous Transcontinental Train between Chicago and Seattle-Tacoma. The timing on this is interesting ... published by the railroad in February, 1929, just 8 months before the big stock market crash setting off the Great Depression.  So these times were the "roaring twenties." Some of the comforts of travelling aboard this train are described ... "The Equipment ... In originality of design, artistry of decorations and furnishings, astounding innovations -- ROLLER BEARINGS, and completeness of facilities, The Olympian is the most beautiful and most comfortable transcontinental train ever placed in service on an American railroad." We ask, Have you ever seen roller bearings described as an "astounding innovation" or is this a first for you, as it was for us when first looking over this brochure?



Dining Car Service ... "The Dining Car Steward and his staff are pleased and anxious to render service incidental to the requirements of your trip. Hot water, milk, mineral waters, cigars, etc., are available at all times." We wonder if you have done any recent travel that involved staff who were "pleased and anxious to render service"? : - )

Four O'Clock Tea ... "At 4:00 o'clock each afternoon in the Observation Car, tea is served as a compliment to our patrons. No compensation of any kind will be accepted. You are cordially invited to avail yourself of this service."  Our judgment tells us things couldn't have been so perfect, but it sure sounds good, doesn't it?


Thanks for stopping by John's Island.

2 comments:

  1. Yes, it certainly speaks of a bygone era. How little they knew how much would be changed within a year's time. Thanks for sharing this, John. :-)

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  2. Traveling by train is about the only way I haven't traveled....yet :)

    As for your inquiry, I teach second grade at a local primary school. I do have a graduate degree in Learning and Behavior Disorders and have also taught special needs children. I would love to retire at 20 years! Not sure that will happen though!

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