On the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe

May, 2007

My first rail experience in the U.S.A. was in March, 1949. I remember it well. Having had five days of rough seas across the Atlantic Ocean from Southampton, England to New York City, it was great to be back on 'terra firma' and prepare for a three night and day train journey. Yes, California here I come. This was to be the longest train ride yet for this Scottish Lad and family. At my tender age of 15 my rail experiences were many; however, most were short rides via L.M.S. (London, Midland, and Scottish) and L.N.E.R. (London, North Eastern Railroad) within Scotland and England. How was I going to react to three days and nights?

The maiden run of Santa Fe's (AT&SF) luxurious 'The Super Chief' was in May of 1936. By the time I boarded and headed for The City of Angels this magnificent train was already accepted as 'the best train in North America. The commissary of 'The Super Chief' was considered the ultimate in dining. Hollywood celebrities of the late thirties, forties, and even into the fifties, who were accustomed to 'haute cuisine,' were dazzled by the variety and quality of food served on board. The Santa Fe dining service was managed by Fred Harvey, who, for over half a century had maintained Santa Fe's dining experiences. Hollywood produced a lavish musical about the Fred Harvey girls starring Judy Garland. Yes, the movie's title was 'The Harvey Girls.' A great movie. Rent it and it will give you an insight into Santa Fe's great dining throughout the rail network. I watch it occasionally. Now that's real nostalgia!

It was a beautiful sunny morning in Los Angeles as my family and yours truly arrived at Union Station in Los Angeles. We were met by relatives who, yes, treated us to our first meal in L.A. at the Fred Harvey Restaurant only a few yards from the rail tracks. Needless to say it's history now; however, when I escort my Travel Academy students through this magnificent historical edifice (Union Station opened in 1939) I always show them where I enjoyed my first meal in L.A. What a shame that we no longer have trains like 'The Super Chief.' Nevertheless, there remains many exciting and wonderful trains in all parts of planet earth. In future articles let me share some with you. Pack your sixteen Gucci bags and get ready. Happy training!

-Doug