The Harvey Girls

The Role of the Harvey Girls

The Harvey Girls were a group of young, single women who worked in Fred Harvey’s restaurants along the Santa Fe Railroad in the early 20th century. These women, typically aged 18-30, were known for their intelligence, good character, and exceptional customer service skills. They became iconic figures in American history, symbolizing independence and professionalism for women during a time when such opportunities were rare.

Their Training and Standards

The Harvey Girls were recruited from across the country and trained to provide impeccable service in Harvey Houses, restaurants known for their high standards of food and hospitality. They served complete meals on fine china, adhering to the Harvey Way, which emphasized cleanliness and customer satisfaction.

Challenges and Legacy

These women not only worked but also lived in Harvey Houses, often in remote locations, braving challenges to provide service to railroad patrons. Their story has been celebrated in various forms of media, including the 1946 film The Harvey Girls and Juliette Fay’s book The Harvey Girls: Women Who Opened the West. These works highlight their resilience and the significant role they played in shaping the hospitality industry.

The Harvey Girls’ legacy continues to inspire, with their story remaining a testament to the power of women’s contributions in historically male-dominated fields. Today, the Harvey Girls’ impact is still felt, with their story preserved in museums, books, and cultural references. Their journey from being trailblazers in the early 1900s to becoming a symbol of female empowerment continues to captivate audiences, showing how a group of determined women left an indelible mark on American history.

*TAGS* – Fred Harvey Restaurants, Santa Fe Railroad, women’s roles early 20th century, hospitality industry history, female empowerment, American history