1947 Santa Fe Railroad Poster – “The Chief Way” – Original Vintage Travel Lithograph – 18"x24"

Capture the bold spirit of postwar American rail travel with this original 1947 Santa Fe Railroad poster titled “The Chief Way.” Printed in vibrant color and classic mid-century style, this rare piece of railroad advertising features the iconic Native American “Chief” image that became a symbol of the Santa Fe Railway’s luxury passenger service.

This poster is an original lithograph — not a reproduction — and is in excellent vintage condition with only a single horizontal crease running just above the word “Santa Fe,” extending left to right. This flaw does not detract significantly from the visual impact and would be minimized further with professional framing.

The Santa Fe Railway's “Chief” branding reflected a blend of Southwest romanticism and cutting-edge rail service, with named trains like the Super Chief, San Francisco Chief, and Texan Chief offering elegant transcontinental travel.

Details:
Title: The Chief Way

Railway: Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway (AT&SF)

Date: 1947

Size: 18" x 24"

Medium: Original lithograph poster (not linen-backed)

Condition: Excellent overall; single light crease above “Santa Fe” from left to right (see notes)

Framing: Unframed; ideal for archival mounting or display

Theme: Native American iconography, 1940s railway advertising

Provenance: From a private collection of Santa Fe Railway ephemera

Historical Significance:
Santa Fe Railway pioneered luxury rail service across the Southwest, and its “Chief” branding became legendary. This artwork continues the tradition of using Native American imagery to symbolize strength, speed, and cultural allure—elements that the railroad leveraged in its advertising.

These posters were printed in limited numbers for travel agencies and terminals and rarely survive in such display-ready condition.