Amtrak's Former Santa Fe Depot at Raton, New Mexico

Amtrak's historic depot at Raton, NM was built by the Santa Fe Railroad.  Raton is served by Amtrak's Southwest Chief, successor to the Santa Fe Super Chief.  Amtrak travels on the rails of Santa Fe successor BNSF.
Troops of Boy Scouts ride Amtrak from across America to Raton where they disembark to head to Philmont Scout Ranch.  The scenery along the Southwest Chief is truly spectacular.

Santa Fe All The Way

Santa Fe linked the Midwest gateways of Chicago and Kansas City with the Southwest.  Known for its scenic mainline and its streamlined trains such as the Super Chief, Santa Fe not only connected people and places, but it stood in the hearts of many.

The Santa Fe Super Chief-One of America's Most Beautiful Trains

The Santa Fe Super Chief is truly one of America's most beautiful trains and is well loved and remembered as the flagship of the Santa Fe.  The Super Chief operated between Chicago and Los Angeles.  Not only was its brightly painted silver and red consist truly beautiful, but the Super Chief operated across some of America's most breathtaking landscapes as it traversed the Southwest.  Today's Amtrak Southwest Chief proudly stands upon the shoulders of this train.

The Joy of Being a Railroad Artist

I always enjoy meeting with the public at Amtrak Train Days.  Here I share stories with those who attended Amtrak Train Days in Galesburg.  We talk about riding Amtrak and about our love of railroading.
I have always enjoyed that my artwork allows me to begin great conversations with rail enthusiasts of all ages.  We all love seeing Amtrak's proudly painted Veterans and Heritage locomotives.  Some remember taking the Santa Fe Super Chief many years ago.  Railfans love seeing the trains as they pass by headed across America.
With each new drawing I do, I find another story I am able to share.  That is the greatest gift of all for being a railroad artist.

Drawing a Santa Fe Super Chief aboard the Amtrak Southwest Chief

Drawing aboard Amtrak is truly an experience I cherish.  Here I am drawing a Santa Fe Super Chief F7 as the Amtrak Southwest Chief heads toward Albuquerque.  Much of the scenery and landmarks, and many of the stations and business remain as they were years ago.
This journey along the historic Santa Fe route helps me be at one with my muse.  Not only will this journey inspire this drawing, but it will inspire many drawings to come.