The Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad (CB&Q), often referred to as the Burlington Route, was a major railroad that operated in the Midwestern United States from 1849 to 1970. It played a crucial role in connecting Chicago with the agricultural and industrial centers of the region. The Burlington Route was known for its passenger service, including the famous Zephyr trains, which were among the first streamlined diesel-electric trains in America.

Souvenir books like this one were often produced to commemorate special events or promote the railroad's services. The 1933 Chicago World's Fair, also known as the Century of Progress International Exposition, was a major event that attracted visitors from around the world. Railroads like the Burlington Route used the fair as an opportunity to showcase their modern technology and promote tourism to the American West. These souvenir books provide a glimpse into the history of rail travel and the marketing strategies used by railroads during this era.