"Deluxe dining car" postcard, early 1970s.

When Amtrak took over most of the nation's intercity passenger rail services in 1971, the company inherited locomotives and rolling stock from the predecessor railroads. The Dining car in this image is one of those inherited cars, and it was later replaced as Amtrak started ordering new equipment in the late 1970s.

The blue serving pieces on the table were made by the Hall China Company of Ohio and included teapots, coffeepots, creamers, sugar bowls, water pitchers and bud vases. They are noted for their angular handles, as well as the medium blue color specified by Amtrak. Other china used in Amtrak's early years included plates and bowls manufactured by the Mayer China Company and then the Homer Laughlin Company; they have a cream/beige base with blue rims. In general, these serving pieces and chinaware are referred to as the "Amtrak National" pattern.

Postcards were often sold on board trains and in stations, or provided as a
complimentary gift to sleeping car passengers.