Copy of the imprint for the Union Pacific Railroad Photograph Car

The U.P.R.R. Photograph Car was not much more than a standard Union Pacific caboose fitted with living quarters, a darkroom, and a portrait studio illuminated by a skylight cut into the roof. The skylight also made it possible to print photographs during inclement weather. Elaborately painted on the exterior, signs on its sides declaring "STEREOSCOPIC & LANDSCAPE VIEWS of NOTABLE POINTS on LINE of PACIFIC R.R. ALWAYS on HAND." Trophy horns of elk and bighorn sheep, and sometimes the American flag, decorated the roof. While the car was stationary, J. B. Silvis hung examples of his work on the outside. On one occasion, in mourning for slain President James A. Garfield, the Photograph Car was draped with black bunting. John B. Silvis owned and oporated  the U.P.R.R. Photograph Car. He would travel on the Union Pacific tracks and take portraits of the local inhabitants along the tracks.