The original California Zephyr was a passenger train that ran between Chicago, Illinois, and Oakland, California, from 1949 to 1970.

The train traveled through Omaha, Denver, Salt Lake City, Winnemucca, Oroville and Pleasanton, passing spectacular scenery during the daylight hours.

Passengers saw the scenic highlights of this transcontinental journey in one of five Vista-Dome carriages. The trip lasted approximately 50 hours and would have been quite an adventure. Sleeping accommodation was in ‘ roomettes’ or suites.

On hand to cater to passengers were the Zephyrettes, hostesses in smart blue uniforms and hats whose duties included welcoming passengers, making announcements, sending telegrams and making dinner reservations in the dining cars. They served from 1949 until 1970.

The current version of the California Zephyr operates partially over the route of the original Zephyr and partially over the route of its former rival, the City of San Francisco.

This 1969 Zephyr menu, with an attractive illustration of San Francisco on the cover, was for the dining car.