Click HERE to learn how to help save the California Zephyr.

Zephyr Project Overview and Goals

The Zephyr Project began in 1999 under the auspices of the Feather River Rail Society as an on-going program to acquire, preserve and present the history and artifacts of the California Zephyr passenger train.  Created by Eugene Vicknair and Doug Morgan, two long-time FRRS members, the formation of the Project was spurred by the acquisition of the Western Pacific dome-lounge-dormitory car Silver Hostel and the presence in the FRRS collection of Western Pacific FP7 805-A, a former CZ locomotive.  In late 2004, the FRRS and the Project took another major step with the acquisition of dome-coach Silver Lodge, our second CZ car.

Since 1999, the Project has succeeded in raising over $30,000 for the restoration of the Silver Hostel and eventual mechanical restoration of the 805-A.  Also through its efforts, numerous CZ artifacts have been donated and will be displayed as part of the historical presentation of the train.

Our ultimate goal is to recreate, in a proper historical context, the complete experience of this famous and unique passenger train.  "The Silver Lady", as it is commonly called, won an enduring place in the hearts and minds of those who experienced it, as we feel that this must be preserved for future generations.

As the Project grows and develops, we have plans to add oral history projects, interpretive presentations and travelling exhibits featuring restored CZ equipment to our preservation efforts.

Click HERE to download the Zephyr Project Mission Booklet in PDF format.