The book covers the history of the Milwaukee Road's most famous passenger train, the Hiawatha, from its creation in 1934–1935 up through 1970.

Richard C. Overton reviewed the book for Technology and Culture and called it "worthy of some attention by the serious student of American railroading."

Overton wrote that while Scribbins had included much railfan-pleasing technical detail the book "should appeal to a wide audience.

"[1] Martin Baker, writing in RQ, called the book an "exceptionally thorough and attractive account.

"[3] At its annual meeting in 1971 the Wisconsin Historical Society presented an "Award of Merit" to Scribbins for The Hiawatha Story.