Originating in 1870, the Southern Pacific Railroad, became one of the most powerful rail companies of the 19th century. In 1883, the company built one of the first transcontinental routes that carried passengers from New Orleans to California. 

As rail travel evolved throughout the US, attractive amenities were created to enhance passenger experience and provided ways to stay ahead of the competition. Dining cars became de rigueur and families that were traveling were well attended to. Children's menus were designed to entertain the kiddies providing clever but familiar graphics, often accompanied by stories and poems that parents could read aloud, and offering what the railroad's culinary wizards thought appropriate. Mom and dad were assured that their children would be well entertained while nibbling on a PB & J sandwich and looking out at the landscape passing by.