Ticketing desk at Philadelphia 30th Street Station, 1970s.

The temporary banner bearing the Amtrak service mark, rather than a formal sign, indicates that this scene is probably from the early to mid-1970s. When Amtrak took over operation of the nation's intercity passenger rail system on May 1, 1971, it simply did not have the time or resources to completely re-brand all passenger facilities. According to a press release from April 19, 1971, "Key functional areas in terminal buildings will be given an integrated look so that passengers can quickly identify AMTRAK ticket counters, information booths, arrival and departure boards, gate entrances and passenger holding areas."

From 1988-1991, Amtrak led a $75 million development effort to renovate 30th Street Station as it neared its 60th anniversary. The project included the restoration of the main concourse, with special attention given to its ceiling, chandeliers, travertine walls and massive marble columns. Above the passenger areas, approximately 280,000 square feet of office space was modernized to house approximately 1,100 Amtrak employees. New shops, stores and food vendors were installed in the South Arcade and South Concourse.

Photographer: Unknown for Amtrak. From the Amtrak Corporate Collection.