ARM China displays
Before the creation of America's National Railroad, Amtrak, each railroad provided and promoted their OWN passenger trains to carry people across the nation. Each railroad formed a "identity" by creating unique paint schemes on the passenger equipment. As equally important, the railroads often provided meal services on longer trips. Each railroad had a unique china pattern. Some railroads even went to the extent of creating a unique china pattern for a single train!
During operation it was common practice to throw damaged pieces of china "out the window" of the moving trains. It was against railroad rules to serve a meal on chipped china. Today, if you happen to be walking along (safely) a stretch of track, you just might find some shattered pieces of railroading bygone heyday.
Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe RR "Bleeding Blue"
This piece was manufactured by the Albert Pick Company. Heavyweight era dining car pattern. Used from 1920's into the early 1950's.
Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe RR "Black Chain"
Manufactured by Shenango China of New Castle, PA. Used in the 1930's on the "SCOUT" an economy coach - tourist sleeper transcontinental train.

Pullman"Indian Tree"
Standard pattern for all Pullman operated dining cars. Design has been found on old English pieces dating to early 1800's. This pattern was used on the "ARIZONA LIMITED" on the Chicago to Phoenix streamlined train.
Southern Pacific RR "Prarie Mountain Wild Flower"
Most common of all Southern Pacific patterns. First used in the 1930's. Two versions were produced, Straight rim and Econo-Rim. Flowers used are Ruby Lily, California Poppy, Azalea, Baby Blue Eyes, and Mariposa Tulip. No single piece had all the flowers. This is an example of an Econo-Rim plate.
Southern Pacific RR "Prarie Mountain Wild Flower"
Most common of all Southern Pacific patterns. First used in the 1930's. Two versions were produced, Straight rim and Econo-Rim. Flowers used are Ruby Lily, California Poppy, Azalea, Baby Blue Eyes, and Mariposa Tulip. No single piece had all the flowers. This is an example of an Econo-Rim bowl.
Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe RR "Adobe"
Used from 1941 through the end of passenger service on the "EL CAPITAN". This pattern reflects the economy of the all coach streamliner.

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