A&SV Dining Car Heritage Series:
Union Pacific’s Portland Rose
Central Kansas’ association with the Union Pacific Railroad goes back to 1867 when its predecessor, the Kansas Pacific, was completed, precipitating cattle drives on the Chisholm Trail to Abilene. Today, the UP remains a major force in the region’s economy. But the railroad’s 157-year history of service also includes a now-forgotten item: UP passenger trains that sped across Kansas carrying passengers to distant locations. One of those trains was known as the Portland Rose, a train known for comfort and fine dining that ran between Kansas City and Denver. On Saturday, July 13, the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad pays tribute to the Union Pacific as our Smoky Valley Limited takes a page from the Portland Rose’s menu and cookbooks. Lucinda’s Katering of Abilene will present cube steak smothered in brown gravy and sauteed onions, mashed potatoes, and fresh peas, with tossed salad, dinner rolls, and a cheesecake for dessert. Iced tea and water will accompany the meal.
We’ll see you on our version of the Portland Rose as you ride in air-conditioned comfort on the Smoky Valley Limited and get a taste of Kansas railroad history!
