Train sheds at night, a bright moon overhead and a light in every window of the Union Station was the scene on an old post card mailed in 1916. The scene is especially nostalgic at Chrstmastime. At this time of the year students were coming home from school for the holidays. Trains arrived all day and from all directions, and a jam of parents and friends were in the station lobby, awaiting their arrival. Everyone was in a gay mood, and sometimes carolers sang from balconies above the lobby. Those waiting who wished to rest could sit on the curved oak benches. The arrival of trains was called over the loudspeaker, along with information as to whether the passengers would be arriving at doors A or B. Nearby was Fred Harvey’s shop with a wealth of gifts, toys, drug items, household items – and post cards of trains and the station. A snack or lunch could be obtained at Harvey’s lunch counter, served by a waitress in a crisp white uniform and cap. Station and lobby were always decorated with holly and pine. Near the front door was the desk of the Travelers Aid lady who helped travelers with their special holiday travel problems. Kansas City Times, December 18, 1981.
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