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Pioneer Zephyr

Specifications

Pioneer Zephyr

Category

Transportation

Classification

CHENHALL - Distribution & Transportation Objects - Rail Transportation Equipment - Rail Vehicles - Locomotive - Locomotive, Diesel-Electric

Object Origin
Manufacturer:

Edward G. Budd Manufacturing Company

Date Manufactured:

1934

Place of Production:

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America

Physical Characteristics

Object Description: Stainless steel high-speed motor train with diesel-electric systems. Train has an overall streamlined look with, at front of power (engine) car: a large headlight at top, curved grating, curved front windows, brand plate with white text and red border and slightly pointed pilot (front bumper of a train). Overall exterior design is horizontal lines, windows in cars vary depending on purpose. Cars include sections for mail and baggage, dining and o...

Marks: Front: "BURLINGTON/ ROUTE" Back: "PIONEER/ ZEPHYR"

Measurements: Total Size:
    Height: 12 ft 2 in, Length: 197 ft, Width: 9 ft
    Weight: 197,000 lbs

Credit

Gift of Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad Company, 60.14

Display Status

On Exhibit

Pioneer Zephyr

About: Pioneer Zephyr

About: Pioneer Zephyr

The Pioneer Zephyr was a revolutionary passenger train that played a key role in transforming American rail travel in the 1930s. Built by the Budd Company for the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad (CB&Q) in 1934, it introduced a groundbreaking design and engineering features that resulted in record speeds, as well as aerodynamically and visually striking aesthetics. More specifically, the train’s sleek Art Deco style and the durable stainless steel construction made it stand out among trains.


On May 26, 1934, the Pioneer Zephyr set a remarkable speed record by completing the 1,015-mile trip from Denver to Chicago in just 13 hours and 5 minutes (this became known as the “Dawn-to-Dusk” dash). Reaching speeds of up to 112 miles per hour, the Pioneer Zephyr exhibited the power of its diesel engines and demonstrated that diesel engines could compete with, and even surpass, traditional steam locomotives in speed and efficiency. In 1948 and 1949, the Pioneer Zephyr was temporarily removed from service to participate in the Chicago Railroad Fair’s “Wheels A-Rolling” pageant intended to celebrate 100 years of railway history.

Additional information

Copyright information

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