Burlington Zephyrs Photo Archive: America's Distinctive Trains

With declining passenger revenues Burlington President Ralph Budd realized something new and unique was needed to lure passengers back to train travel. The result was the Zephyr. Featured in high quality photos and descriptive captions the Burlington Zephyrs are shown in a variety of scenic, rural and urban settings. Also included are vintage brochures, timetables, postcards and ads. The Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad, popularly known as the Burlington Route, conjures images of big time railroading and the largest fleet of streamliners in the United States. The Zephyr's appeal during the Great Depression was tremendous, its sleek lines and streamline design was the beginning of a styling revolution. In 1934, the only real hope was the future and the future was the Zephyr. Burlington maintained far-reaching passenger service with its silver fleet.