Friday, March 13, 2009

The Harvey Girls

Fred Harvey opened his first Harvey House in Topeka, Kansas in 1876 at the Santa Fe depot because he felt that there should be better quality food available at train stops. By the 1890's he had opened numerous others in six other states, as well. Eventually, he also operated the dining car service on the Santa Fe trains. Shown below is a vintage brochure:
When he advertised for servers at his excellent restaurants, he wished to hire only "Young women of good character, attractive and intelligent, 18 to 30." You may have seen the musical film starring Judy Garland, Angela Lansbury, and Ray Bolger.
A piece of sheet music from the movie:
The best-known song from the film was this one - On The The Atchison, Topeka and The Santa Fe:
And an advertisement for the film, released in 1946:


These adorable figurines were available for purchase as souvenirs. Aren't they sweet?
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3 comments:

  1. Tina DawnMarch 13, 2009 at 7:28 AM

    Great way for a gal to get a start and meet a husband. Love T

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  2. The Viewliner LimitedMarch 13, 2009 at 7:44 AM

    This is incredible. What a post. My favorite subject, the Santa Fe Railroad.

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  3. yosemite faithMarch 13, 2009 at 7:51 AM

    i assume those are your figurines - how great are they!!!! this is the one judy garland film i haven't seen. i will definately have to check it out. you always have so much information heidi dear. another fantastic post.

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