Union Pacific's Challenger: An Unusual Passenger Train, 1935-1971

by Patrick C. Dorin

For the first time, detailed coverage of the Union Pacific/Chicago & Northwestern passenger trains tells the entire story of this innovative line. Complete with coaches and tourist sleepers, the UP and C&NW in 1935 inaugurated a transcontinental train tailored to middle-class passengers. On its new line, UP provided stewardess-nurses, special women's coaches, distinctive dining on special china, lounges, and other amenities normally associated with the best first-class trains. Read how the trains expanded into a fleet, despite the soft passenger market.

80 pages, Paperback

First published December 21, 2001

Reviews

[M.J. Rodriguez · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a very good study of Union Pacific’s efforts at creating a transcontinental passenger train with budget-conscious families in mind. It features photos of the cars, including cars for exclusive occupancy by women and children, steam and diesel locomotives. Also included is the switch from C&NW to Milwaukee Road rails for the run into Chicago from Omaha. An essential book for fans of the traditional UP system!