Coffee Creek Restoration
Iowa Pacific Holdings is seeking to restore an iconic railway observation-sleeping car, Coffee Creek, to service.
Iowa Pacific's Pullman Sleeping Car subsidiary operates a scheduled service between Chicago and New Orleans as well as charter trains. Pullman recreates the spirit of the golden age of rail travel, with heritage cars full restored and maintaining traditional on board service and ambiance with the addition of contemporary amenities.
In 1948 Pullman-Standard built six observation sleeping cars for service on the Milwaukee Road's Olympian Hiawatha service between Chicago, Minneapolis-St. Paul, and Seattle. These cars contained a unique end-of-train "Skytop" lounge that was 90% glass, offering a panoramic view of passing scenery. No other railroad had comparable cars.
These cars operated on the Olympian Hiawatha until the train was discontinued in 1961. The cars continued in service for Canadian National Railway through the early 1970s, and were subsequently sold to private owners.
Iowa Pacific acquired one of these cars, Coffee Creek, and intends to restore the car, maintaining its traditional ambiance while adding contemporary amenities. When completed, Coffee Creek will have six double bedrooms with upper and lower berths, and enclosed toilet facilities; one shared shower facility; a galley and dining room seating ten; Wi-Fi; and the original lounge area under glass.
Coffee Creek will operate between Chicago and New Orleans and in charter service.