The Coming of the Streamliners

Year Published: 1934

Creator: Blackhawk Films

Description: Released by Blackhawk Films, "The Coming of the Streamliners" uses newsreel footage to show the dramatic rise of streamlined railroad technology during the early 20th century, beginning with the introduction of America’s first bullet train—a lightweight, diesel-driven marvel capable of 110 miles per hour that promised to revolutionize rail travel and industry. This innovation leads to the development of other famous trains such as the Zephyr, which thrilled passengers on record-breaking runs between Denver and Chicago, and the sleek Super Chief that cut cross-country travel time to a day and a half. Around the world, similar advances appeared: France’s aerodynamic express between Paris and La Rochelle, Germany’s two-story double-decker train, and Canada’s enormous streamline locomotive celebrating a century of rail service. The era culminates with the Silver Meteor at the New York World’s Fair, symbolizing luxury and modernity in motion. However, the optimism of technological progress ends darkly with news of a deliberate train wreck in Nevada—a grim reminder that even the triumphs of speed and innovation could not escape the dangers of human malice. 0:00 - Main titles. The railroad industry's focus on improved speed and power. 0:41 - 1934: The first American bullet train is presented and accepted by Mr. Harriman, signaling the start of a new era in rail travel. 0:49 - This technological advancement is expected to be available to all U.S. railroads, potentially replacing old equipment nationwide. 1:06 - It is described as a major boost for industrial recovery and economic progress. 1:18 - The streamlined, diesel-driven train can reach 110 mph, halving travel time between Chicago and Los Angeles and offering luxury with air-conditioned, shatterproof coaches. 1:38 - Built of lightweight duralumin, the three-car train weighs as much as one Pullman car, representing beauty, speed, and progress—a “new deal” for railroads. 2:01 -Las Vegas, Nevada: the bullet train visits Boulder Dam, a marvel of modern engineering, before the dam’s reservoir submerges nearby approaches. 2:59 Philadelphia, 1934: The Zephyr train makes its trial run, reaching 107 mph, thrilling passengers as the landscape blurs past. 3:26 - Dubbed the “Zephyr Cyclone,” it outpaces an airplane and will soon serve routes between Kansas City, Omaha, and Lincoln. 3:47 -Streamline Zephyr makes record run between Denver and Chicago. The Zephyr’s oil-powered efficiency cuts operating costs by two-thirds, marking a leap in railroad progress. 4:10 - 1934. The Zephyr completes a record-breaking 1,000-mile run at 112 mph, averaging 78 mph between Denver and Chicago—cutting travel time in half. 6:01 - New York Central streamline. In Albany, New York, a new streamlined steam locomotive debuts, blending traditional steam power with sleek, aerodynamic design. 6:46 - 1935. France unveils its own streamlined train between Paris and La Rochelle, reaching 90 mph, matching the city’s fast-paced spirit. 7:13 - 1936. Germany introduces a two-story double-decker train seating 300 passengers, cutting travel time in half between Lübeck and Hamburg. 7:46 - 1936. Canada celebrates 100 years of passenger trains with the world’s largest streamline locomotive, operating between Montreal and Chicago at 110 mph. 8:18 - 1937. The Super Chief, a lightweight 3,600-horsepower diesel train, makes its first run from Chicago to Los Angeles in just 36 hours, reaching speeds up to 100 mph. 10:45 - 1939. At the New York World’s Fair, the “Silver Meteor” is christened for the Florida run—an all-stainless steel, high-speed luxury train featuring lounges and comfort cars. 11:30 - 1939. The tone shifts as tragedy strikes. On August 12, 1939, the City of San Francisco train derailed outside of Harney, Nevada, United States, killing 24 and injuring 121 passengers and crew. The derailment was caused by sabotage of the tracks. The case was never solved

Online Copy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rOSAYE0C2VY

Metadata Source:YouTube