The arrival of the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway in 1880 irrevocably altered the course of Santa Fe's history. While the railroad's impact is widely acknowledged, several lesser-known facets of this transformative period deserve closer examination.
1. The "Missed" Connection and its Profound Effects:
- It's a common misconception that the railroad went directly through the center of Santa Fe. In actuality, the main line bypassed the city, with a spur line connecting to it. This seemingly minor detail had significant repercussions.
- This "spur" meant that Santa Fe was somewhat removed from the main flow of transcontinental traffic. This impacted the speed of economic growth, and the type of industrialization that occured.
- This also had the effect of helping Santa Fe retain more of its historical charm, than many other western towns, that had the railroad run directly through their centers.
2. The Railroad as an Art Patron:
- The Santa Fe Railway played a pivotal role in fostering the artistic communities of Santa Fe and Taos. Recognizing the allure of the Southwest's landscapes and cultures, the railway actively promoted tourism by commissioning and displaying artwork.
- They used art in their advertising, and helped to create the romantic image of the southwest that is still present today.
- The railway's patronage extended beyond mere advertising. It supported artists by purchasing their works, providing them with travel opportunities, and exhibiting their creations in railway stations and hotels. This created a symbiotic relationship that significantly contributed to the development of the region's art scene.
3. The Harvey Houses and Social Change:
- The arrival of the railroad brought with it the famous Harvey Houses, a chain of restaurants and hotels that provided travelers with a level of comfort and civility previously unknown in the West.
- The "Harvey Girls," the well-mannered waitresses employed by the company, became symbols of refinement and played a role in shaping social norms in the region.
- These establishments also acted as cultural exchange points, where eastern travelers encountered the unique blend of cultures present in Santa Fe.
4. The Railroad and the Transformation of Commerce:
- The railroad's impact on commerce extended beyond the transportation of goods. It also facilitated the mass production and distribution of consumer goods, transforming the retail landscape of Santa Fe.
- Previously, goods were transported by wagon, which was slow and expensive. The railroad made it possible to bring in a wider variety of goods at lower prices, leading to the growth of new businesses and the expansion of existing ones.
- The rail road also allowed for the quicker transport of raw materials, and finished goods, greatly effecting the local economy.
5. The Railyard's Evolving Role:
- The Santa Fe Railyard has undergone a remarkable transformation over the years, reflecting the changing fortunes of the railroad and the city itself.
- From a bustling hub of industrial activity to a neglected urban space, the railyard has been reborn as a vibrant cultural and commercial district.
- The modern railyard, with its parks, markets, and arts venues, stands as a testament to Santa Fe's ability to adapt and reinvent itself. This space is a fantastic example of urban renewal, and historical preservation.
In essence, the Santa Fe Railroad's influence extended far beyond the laying of tracks. It was a catalyst for economic growth, cultural exchange, and social change, shaping the very essence of Santa Fe.
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