Celebrating Amtrak's50th Anniversary
The Future Rides with Us
Since 1971, Amtrak has been America’s Railroad, connecting friends and families across the country to the places they want to go. As we celebrate our 50th Anniversary, we welcome you to join us as we honor our past and look toward our future.
On May 1, 1971, when the first Amtrak train rolled out of New York City en route to Philadelphia, no one could have imagined what lied ahead. Yet, here we are today with more than 17,000 dedicated employees and a national system connecting more than 500 destinations across 46 states, the District of Columbia and three Canadian provinces, on more than 21,400 miles of routes.
We continue to make incredible investments in the customer experience. And the best is yet to come. Amtrak has a bold vision for the future of rail that includes investing in new equipment, reimagining our stations, modernizing vital rail infrastructure, leveraging new technology, combating climate change and expanding service to enhance the mobility of more Americans.
At 50, we are just getting started.
The future rides with us.
Amtrak: 50 Years of Leading the Way
For 50 years, Amtrak has made passenger rail service accessible to communities all across America — both large and small. Take a look at our five decades of investments in innovation, safety, service, sustainability and to the communities we serve. Then see what we are doing to fulfill our commitment to safe, reliable and state-of-the-art rail service in the 21st century.
1970s
Amtrak ushers in a new era of passenger rail travel in the U.S.
1980s
Modernization and innovation bring new routes, station improvements and enhanced safety initiatives.
1990s
Amtrak invests in new equipment and safety upgrades that power the railroad while bringing jobs and opportunities to communities across America.
2000s
Amtrak demonstrates the critical role it plays in supporting the nation’s 21st century transportation infrastructure.
2010s
With continued investments in sustainable technologies and equipment to reduce its carbon footprint, Amtrak continues to be a leader in eco-friendly travel.
2020s
Amtrak continues to lead the way in safety innovations, sustainability initiatives and a commitment to helping people discover the joy of experiencing America by rail.
50th Anniversary Celebration Event, Philadelphia, PA
Watch our celebration event from April 30, 2021, as we look back at 50 years of America's Railroad and look toward the future of passenger rail. The future rides with us — from our dedicated employees to our loyal riders.
Employee Spotlight
Stephanie Pritchard
New Orleans Timekeeper and Assignment Clerk Stephanie Pritchard's story began when she was a teenager. In August 1980, her mother Maria Creamer was looking for a new career and a neighbor suggested Amtrak. In 1993, Stephanie followed in her mother's footsteps and joined Amtrak, first working on the extra board and learning every role she could.
“I hope when employees walk out the door, they know I'm doing my very best job for them so they can do their very best job for our customers — just like my mom did for them so many years ago. And I hope that by following in her footsteps, I have made my mom and Amtrak proud!”
More About Stephanie
Employee Spotlight
Ralph McClinton
“Keep an open mind and challenge yourself.” This advice comes from military veteran Ralph McClinton. Striving to always put one’s best foot forward and be constantly bettering themselves are top ingredients for success according to Ralph.
After serving in the military, Ralph found himself at Amtrak. Ralph is thankful that his lifelong dream of instructing was able to be fulfilled while at Amtrak in his current position. We are grateful to Ralph for always looking out for the success and safety of his peers.
More About Ralph
Employee Spotlight
Kevin O’Connell
When faced with the decision between working as a police officer for a local department or for Amtrak, Kevin O’Connell ultimately knew Amtrak would be able to provide him more opportunities for growth.
From working presidential inaugurations, to special national security events, he’s always seen his career as “law enforcement with a twist.” With the opportunity to meet a diverse team and experience an ever-changing organization, he offers this advice to new employees: “The horizons are endless … so it is key to maintain an open and eager mind.”
More About Kevin
Pauline Pena
“There’s plenty to see and do in America’s wide open spaces, as well as plenty of friendly people to meet along the way.” These words come from Pauline Pena, Williston lead customer service representative.
Pauline gets to interact with commuters and tourists of the Empire Builder line. Her small town passengers have become a part her life and experience here at Amtrak.
More About PaulineEmployee Spotlight
More Employees
We value and appreciate all current and retired employees and are sharing just a few of their Amtrak stories to commemorate our 50th Anniversary. Amtrak would not be the company it is today without our employees.
See Employee StoriesAn Influential 50 Years
Amtrak takes great pride in its innovative advancements in rail travel safety and sustainability, as well as its contribution to the economic vitality of the communities it serves.
50th Anniversary Graphic Photo Wall
Celebrating the Past, Looking To the Future
Celebrating 50 Years with J. Craig Thorpe
Committed to Sustainability
Wishes Past and Future
Celebrate with Commemorative Amtrak 50th Merch
Shop store.amtrak.com for the latest and greatest Amtrak merchandise, featuring new 50th Anniversary items sure to satisfy a variety of tastes. From collectibles to pet gifts, and retro wearables to huggable plush locomotives, we’ve got something for everyone. Item selection and availability is subject to change, so don’t delay and get your merch today.
Celebrate with Commemorative Amtrak 50th Merch
Shop store.amtrak.com for the latest and greatest Amtrak merchandise, featuring new 50th Anniversary items sure to satisfy a variety of tastes. From collectibles to pet gifts, and retro wearables to huggable plush locomotives, we’ve got something for everyone. Item selection and availability is subject to change, so don’t delay and get your merch today.
Collectible 50th Anniversary Pins
To commemorate Amtrak’s 50th anniversary, we are randomly distributing collectible pins to our stations and crew bases to celebrate the changes in our locomotives over the years. There are a total of six different locomotive pins, each representing a different era of Amtrak.
Lucky customers may be surprised with a special 50th anniversary pin by Amtrak employees in the stations or onboard trains.
Pins are available on a first-come, first-served basis, one per customer per visit. Not all employees will have pins.
Collectible 50th Anniversary Pins
To commemorate Amtrak’s 50th anniversary, we are randomly distributing collectible pins to our stations and crew bases to celebrate the changes in our locomotives over the years. There are a total of six different locomotive pins, each representing a different era of Amtrak.
Lucky customers may be surprised with a special 50th anniversary pin by Amtrak employees in the stations or onboard trains.
Pins are available on a first-come, first-served basis, one per customer per visit. Not all employees will have pins.
50 Reasons to Travel
See Majestic Landscapes and Awe-Inspiring Views
Whether exploring majestic American landscapes or touring cities great and small, there’s no better way to see the country than through the views from our windows. Sit back. Relax. Plug in or unwind. On Amtrak, the reasons to travel are endless. With over 500 destinations, you can visit our national parks, soak in the local culture of a nearby community, reach the beach or visit with family and friends. Need a reason to travel? Here are 50 to start you on your journey.
See the ReasonsSpecial Fares for Everyone
Save with Amtrak Everyday Deals
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Everyday Savings for Kids, Seniors, Military, Groups and More
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Amtrak Deals, Promotions and Partner Offers
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Vacation & Rail Tours Throughout North America
Learn MoreAmtrak Guest Rewards
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