Filmmaker Don Olsen first produced this film in 1992 with the help of Guy Dunscomb and Ted Wurm. Soon out of print, it is now re-issued and substantially upgraded in a two-volume set in wide screen format with stereo sound.

The saga begins in Volume One with scenes of the fledgling railroad's line, building the Northern California Extension, postwar operations in color, first Generation Diesel FTs, MOW equipment, snow removal, and wrecks.

The world-famous California Zephyr is the subject of Volume Two. We trace the evolution of the CZ from the Exposition Flyer. Train of Tomorrow, and Burlington Zephyr, through the design of the train to its 1949 inauguration. The halcyon days of rail travel in America are showcased, including dome cars, dining and Pullman services. The 50-year anniversary of WP's 1910 entry into Oakland with ten wheeler #94 on the point of the Zephyr is shown. Other features include early diesel freights, detours, subsidiaries Sacramento Northern, Tidewater Southern, the CCT and 1939-color footage of Stockton's Birneys.

Historians and author Ted Benson, Wayne Monger and Evan Werkema did the research necessary to bring the new version to fruition. Former WP Employees Jack Starr, Cathy and Ernie von lbsch are featured with on-screen interviews. Filmmaker Warren Haack directed the revised program.

The meticulous care, comprehensive research, production quality and attention to detail that make Catenary Video Productions products sought after world-wide by both Historians and Railfans are evident in this DVD program.

72 Minutes, Color, Stereo Sound Track