“Molly sponged the spilled coffee. She took orders from the crew of a night train bringing lumber over Raton Pass. She tried hard to stay awake. But at four in the morning, when the baker arrived to start his work, she was lulled into dreams by the odors of yeast, sugar and fruit. She stood, leaning against the cup shelf, and saw pies, endless pies. Alice-in-Wonderland pies, dancing do-si-dos behind her shut eyelids.” (Chapter 6, When Molly Was a Harvey Girl).

Author Frances M. Wood (above) was inspired by her great-grandmother, Jennie, who became a Harvey Girl in 1887.

All aboard!

If you were traveling in the Southwest on the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad in the late 1880’s, you’d probably stop to eat at a Harvey House lunch room or restaurant. You’d be mighty glad it was there — a spotless, efficiently-run establishment serving generous portions of delicious food at affordable prices.

Care for some warm cinnamon buns, a stack of orange pancakes, oatmeal with honey and a side of ham? How about a sandwich (meatloaf, corned beef or chicken salad), or maybe you’re in the mood for pork chops with gravy, a thick steak or hearty beef stew? Of course the coffee is always good — big urns of freshly brewed, steamy hot coffee ready to perk you up after those long hours on the train. For dessert? The pies here are cut in fourths. Mm–mmmmm!

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