During the Great Depression, when times were tough all over America, Dorney Park was fighting to survive. Families had little extra money, and like many small parks, Dorney struggled to stay open. But in the middle of that hardship came an idea that would not only help save the park but become one of its most beloved attractions. A local machinist named Miles “Mike” Erbor, from nearby Wescosville, had been inspired by the Burlington Zephyr — a sleek, stainless-steel train that made headlines in 1934 for setting a speed record from Denver to Chicago. Erbor approached Dorney Park’s president, Bob Plarr, and suggested building a miniature version of the famous Zephyr that people could ride. Plarr loved the idea, and Erbor got to work — gathering spare parts from his garage, an old Ford automobile engine, and even components salvaged from a closed Philadelphia newspaper’s printing press.
What made Erbor’s creation even more amazing was its engineering. The Dorney Park Zephyr worked much like a real diesel-electric locomotive — a gas engine powered a generator, which sent electricity to motors in the wheels. By the time it was ready for its grand debut on May 23, 1936, Erbor had crafted a sleek, three-car train, originally painted a shining silver, just like the famous streamliner that inspired it.
The Zephyr traveled a scenic route through Dorney Park, starting near the main crossing of the park road. It chugged along Cedar Creek, rolled past the Water Skooter boats and the swimming pool, and even rumbled through a storage shed tunnel, which added a little thrill. On the far end, it curved around the boating lake, then made its way back, passing picnic groves, more Water Skooters, and classic rides like the Rocket Ship and the Old Mill, before crossing a small bridge near the French fry stand and returning to the station.
Below: Zephyr Train Route.
Tickets were just a nickel, and during those hard times, people were eager for something affordable and fun. The Zephyr was an instant hit — the crowds came, the nickels added up, and that steady flow of visitors and income helped Dorney Park stay alive through the Depression. In fact, many credit the Zephyr with saving the park during its most difficult years.
Today, more than 80 years later, the Zephyr is still running strong. Although its color has changed from silver to white and now to a stunning purple, the ride remains nearly unchanged — with its original cars and the same beloved route. For generations, families have lined up to take that gentle, nostalgic trip around the park, waving to passersby and enjoying a living piece of history.
So, the next time you visit Dorney Park, don’t forget to take a ride on the Zephyr — the little train that helped save the park and has been making memories ever since. Happy 80th birthday, Zephyr — and here’s to many more years of smiles and steam!
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