The Excellent Adventures of Dan & Maude: Part I

In 1939, Maude and her son, Dan, took a grand adventure across the United States. They traveled by rail from Boston, Massachusetts all the way to the west coast with various stops along the way. Throughout their journey, both Maude and Dan regularly corresponded with “D.H.” (as Maude refers to him)/Dad to share their stories with him. These letters have been miraculously preserved for 82 years. I am excited to be able to share these stories with you, so that the thrill and adventure of interwar period cross-country rail travel will not be forgotten.

Our first glimpse into Dan and Maude’s excellent adventure comes from a letter Dan writes to his father. The letter itself is not dated, but the postmark clearly displays May 24, 1939 A.M. and is mailed from the “Top of the world” Tennessee Pass, Colorado, Elevation 10242 feet.

Dan writes on “Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad” stationary:

Dear Dad,

I am writing you this note at about 9500 feet above sea level! We have had a beautiful day out of Denver and through the canyon. The motion of the train climbing this grade makes it a little difficult to write but I guess you will be able to read it.

Everything is going fine.

Yours,

Dan

The Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad started operation in 1870 and ran south from Denver, Colorado to Salt Lake City, Utah. It was known as a rugged, mountain railroad, boasting “Through the Rockies, not around them.” The section journeying through the Tennessee Pass was the highest rail line in the United States at the time. Especially compared to the coastal scenery of Boston, this must have been quite an experience for Dan and Maude!

Want to learn more? Check out The Great Railroad Revolution: The History of Trains in America by Christian Wolmar

Have you taken an excellent cross-country trip? Tell us your story of living history in the comments!