A 1927 Manila Railroad Company (MRR) Pamphlet entitled “See the Philippines” describes Baguio in glowing terms, “Scenic Beauty, Pine Trees Abound, Towering Peaks, Cool Crisp Air, Masses of Brilliant Red and Green Foliage”. The writer goes on to judge Baguio as equal to, or perhaps exceeding, the famous British Hill Station “Shimla” in Northern India. There was much to do and entertain Baguio visitors. “Horse Back Rides on Mountain Trails, Golf at Camp John Hay, Trekking and Party Life”.

The Manila Railroad offered Special Night Trains to Baguio from December to June; departing Manila every Friday evening. Following a pleasant dinner in the Dining Car passengers retired for the night in Sleeper Berths covered with fresh white linens. At sunrise the train pulled into Damortis Station at the foot of the Northern Luzon Mountains. Passengers transferred to powerful Auto Buses. Up they went along the ten mile winding Kennon Road arriving at their lodging for a hearty breakfast at 8AM, five thousand feet above sea level. A number of passengers opted to bring their automobiles along. They were loaded on the train’s flatcars. A charge of P 51.94 ($26) applied.

Baguio 1927- America’s Asian Hill Station near its peak.BB

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Source: AERA Museum Collection at Villa Escudero)