Special Commemorative Railroad Pass

Railroad passes have been given out by railroads for as long as railroads have existed. They were given out for various reason to various people, such as railroad workers and their family members as a courtesy, allowing passage over the railroad (sometimes with restrictions). Others were given out to employees of other railroads as a courtesy. These employees were usually in the billing or other departments where they would deal with other railroad companies on a regular basis. This pass, given by the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy to a Canadian National Freight Agent is typical of passes given to employees of other railroads. What is special about this pass is the pass itself. It was issued during 1949, the 100th Anniversary of the CB&Q. The pass has special commemorative designs, featuring a steam locomotive as well as the first diesel powered streamline train to operate in the U.S., the Pioneer Zephyr, which the CB&Q started operating in 1934. The Pioneer Zephyr survives today in the Museum of Science & Industry in Chicago. The CB&Q is now part of BNSF (Burlington Northern Santa Fe).