Eddie's Rail Fan Page

2012-01-26T12:03:00.003-06:00

Hi everyone!
This is Eddie K, Your host and photographer here at Eddie's Railfan Page.

Aside from My interests in trains, buses, and various transportation subjects...
I have been a lifelong fan of classic American roadside drive in restaurants from the 1950's and 60's era.

I was born in Chicago Illinois in 1962, and I remember seeing the last of these classic American roadside icons in the greater Chicagoland area. Most were gone by 1975. I seem to recall, that west suburban Berwyn Illinois once had a good number of these on Illinois U.S Route # 34 / Ogden Avenue aka Old U.S Rt # 66.

I found this photo on the internet today.

Seen here is a place that was known as Sandy's Drive In, wich no longer exists, but was located in the city of Peoria Illinois.

Until it closed in 2007, I can fondly remember hanging out at The Frosted Mug Drive In, wich was located at 11601 South Pulaski Road in Alsip Illinois.

TV shows like Happy Days and movies like American Grafitti, help to revive this era.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

The Hesston Steam Museum. Hesston Indiana USA. Sunday, September 12th, 2010.

2012-01-26T11:43:00.001-06:00

The Hesston Steam Museum. Hesston Indiana USA. Sunday, September 12th, 2010., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo during a September 2010 visit to The Hesston Steam Museum, located in northwest Indiana, near the Michigan state line at neighboring New Buffalo Michigan.

A 14 inch guage miniature live steam passenger train to the left, shares depot space with a larger 2 foot narrow guage steam train to the right, at the museum's Hesston Junction depot.

The Hesston Steam Museum, is a fun and very family oriented attraction, located just east of Michigan City Indiana.

For more information, log on to
www.hesston.org

Digital Live Sound Video: The Chicago Botanic Garden. Glencoe Illinois USA. Wednsday, September 15th, 2010.

2012-01-26T11:39:00.001-06:00

Digital Live Sound Video: The Chicago Botanic Garden. Glencoe Illinois USA. Wednsday, September 15th, 2010. a video by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I photographed this digital live sound video back in September of 2010, at a popular local Chicago area atrraction known as The Chicago Botanic Garden, wich is located in north suburban Glencoe Illinois.

During the warm weather months from approximately May to October, the Chicago Botanic Garden operates a series of outdoor G Scale model railroads through some of their gardens.

I captured this Milwaukee Road freight train passing through at the time of My visit.

Tiger Rag - Midlife Dixieland Jazzband

2012-01-26T11:31:00.000-06:00

Hi everyone!
This is Eddie K, Your host and photographer here at Eddie's Railfan Page.

Call Me old fashioned if You feel a need to do so, but I have always enjoyed
listening to traditional American Dixieland Jazz music.

Dixieland Jazz band proboubly dates back to the early 1900's era, circa the "Teens",
and evolved from the once popular Ragtime Music of the turn of the century. This
up tempo and fun style of jazz music, originated in the "Crescent City" known as New Orleans Louisianna, and is a "Must" every year at Mardi Gras time.

I vacationed in New Orleans Louisianna during Mardi Gras in 1977 and 1978 when I was a teenager, and absolutely loved dixieland jazz music. Especiually when it was performed live!

Here is an ensemble I discovered today on the You Tube channel, known as the Midlife Dixieland Jazz Band. Here they perform a Dixieland Jazz classic entitled
"The Tiger Rag."

Thanks.
Eddie K.

Morton Grove Department of Public Works Elgin street sweeper vehicle. Morton Grove Illinois USA. November 2011.

2012-01-26T11:21:00.001-06:00

Morton Grove Department of Public Works Elgin street sweeper vehicle. Morton Grove Illinois USA. November 2011., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo in traffic one day last November during My morning lunch break.

We are facing south on North Harlem Avenue, at the intersection of West Dempster Street in north suburban Morton Grove Illinois.

An Elgin Pelican model street sweeper vehicle from the Morton Grove Department of Public Works, is waiting for the left turning signal in the eastbound turning lane.

There were plenty of Autum leaves to be swept op on the residential side streets of Morton Grove on this overcast Autum day.

An Athearn Santa Fe freight train.

2012-01-26T11:17:00.001-06:00

An Athearn Santa Fe freight train., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo recently, at The Oak Park Society of Model Engineers,H.O Scale Model Railroad Club.

I grew up on the near southwest side of the city of Chicago Illinois, during the 1960's and 70's era, and I enjoy modeling the trains from My youth during this period.

One of My all time favorite railroads from this part of Chicago that I fondly remember, was the former Atchinson, Topeka & Santa Fe.

My Athearn EMD GP 35 shown here, is decorated in the 1960's era Santa Fe blue with the yellow ends and letting color scheme, wich was used by the A,T & S,F from 1960 until 1972.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

2012-01-26T11:05:00.003-06:00

I found this classic late 1950's era black and white photo at My Link page Fallen Flags.Org, located to the right of Your computer screen at www.rr-fallenflags.org

The photo wich is dated for March 31st, 1958.

Photographer Dennis Schmidt, captured this classic and proboubly recently dieselized Grand Trunk Western Railroad passenger train, at the South Bend Indiana train station.

During this period, the GTW was in the process of a late dieselization of their motive power fleet. The GTW was one of the last railroads in North America, to operate steam locomotives in daily revenue service until 1961. The GTW EMD GP 9 roadswitcher locomotives viewed on the head end of this passenger train, were painted in the olive green, black and gold colors of the parent railroad company Canadian National.

The Grand Trunk Western, was a United States subsidiary of the Canadian National Railroad.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

2012-01-25T11:51:00.003-06:00

Hello everyone!
This is Eddie K, Your host and photographer here at Eddie's Railfan Page.

Be sure to come out to the Hillside Public Library on Saturday, February 25th
from 1:00 until 3:00 PM, as I will be hosting a nostalgic railfan multi media
photo slideshow event in the library's downstairs meeting room.
The Hillside Public Library, is located at 405 Hillside Avenue in west -
suburban Hillside Illinois.

The main theme of My presentation, will feature a homemade musical photo
slideshow entitled "When Chicago Rode The Streetcars"! If You or someone
You know had grew up in the city of Chicago Illinois prior to the end of
CTA electric streetcar operations in 1958, then You won't want to miss this
nostalgic transit ride down memory lane.

This will be a fun event, and We hope to see You there.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

Metra switcher running light. Franklin Park Illinois.

2012-01-25T11:33:00.000-06:00

Chicago & NorthWestern Railroad track maintenance crew. Union Illinois. September 1985.

2012-01-25T11:26:00.001-06:00

Chicago & NorthWestern Railroad track maintenance crew. Union Illinois. September 1985., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo during My September 1985 members weekend visit, to the Illinois Railway Museum in the town of Union Illinois.

An added bonus of My visit, was capturing this image of a Chicago & NorthWestern Railroad M.O.W crew, performing spot repairs at the adjacent Olson Road railroad crossing, on the C & N,W branchline in pre Union Pacific days.

Notice the stationary railroad crossing crossbucks, with no yield signs on the posts.

Eastbound Iowa, Chicago & Eastern Railroad freight train approaching the Edgington Street railroad crossing. Franklin Park Illinois. October 2008.

2012-01-25T11:21:00.001-06:00

Eastbound Iowa, Chicago & Eastern Railroad freight train approaching the Edgington Street railroad crossing. Franklin Park Illinois. October 2008., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo back in October of 2008.

An eastbound Iowa, Chicago & Eastern Railroad freight train, is viewed departing from northwest suburban Franklin Park Illinois.

Wintertime at the Fox River Trolley Museum. South Elgin Illinois. December 2007.

2012-01-25T11:16:00.001-06:00

Wintertime at the Fox River Trolley Museum. South Elgin Illinois. December 2007., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo one day, back in December of 2007.

The Fox River Trolley Museum in South Elgin Illinois, was officially closed for the season. I was passing by the museum on Illinois U.s Rt # 31, and briefly stopped to snap a few photos of the museum equipment in a Winter setting.

Coming this Saturday to the Brookfield Public Library! 3609 Grand Boulevard In Brookfield Illinois. Remembering Chicago's Historic Amusement Parks Of The Past ! 1:00 until 3:00 PM! Hosted by Eddie K from Eddie's Railfan Page ! http://eddiesrailroad.blogspot.com

2012-01-24T12:00:00.001-06:00

Playland Park. (Gone) Justice Illinois USA., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

Hello everyone!
This is Eddie K, Your host and photographer here at Eddie's Railfan Page.

Be sure to come out to the Brookfield Public Library this Saturday from 1 until 3 PM. I will be hosting a musical photo slideshow / Multi Media event entitled "Remembering Chicago's Historic Amusement Parks of The Past"!

If You could remember growing up in the greater Chicagoland area, and visiting such fun Summer places like Riverview Park in Chicago Illinois, Adventureland in Addison Illinois, Playland Park in Justice Illinois, or even the recently closed and greatly missed Kiddieland Amusement Park in Melrose Park Illinois...then You absolutely will not want to miss this fun presentation in the library's downstairs meeting room.

So please...mark Your calendar for Saturday, January 28th at the Brookfield Public Library, located at 3609 Grand Boulevard in west suburban Brookfield Illinois. 1 to 3 PM.

This will be a fun event, and We hope to see You there.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

A City Of Chicago Department Of Streets And Sanitation Autocar garbage truck. Chicago Illinois USA. Early January 2012.

2012-01-24T11:50:00.001-06:00

A City Of Chicago Department Of Streets And Sanitation Autocar garbage truck. Chicago Illinois USA. Early January 2012., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo one morning recently during My lunch break.

A trash collection crew from the City of Chicago Department of Streets and Sanitation, apparently was also enjoying their much deserved lunch break as well at a nearby Mc Donald's Restaurant.

The truck is a new Autocar cabover, with a Loadmaster disposal body.

This photo was taken looking north on North Harlem Avenue, at West Addison Street on the northside of Chicago Illinois.

The Heritage Series: Illinois Central Gulf

2012-01-24T11:46:00.000-06:00

Eddie K's new ICG side door caboose on it's first run.

2012-01-24T11:45:00.000-06:00

I photographed this digital live sound video, at The Oak Park Society of Model Engineers, H.O Scale Model Railroad Club.

I had just purchased this orange Centrailia Car Shops H.O Scale model of a 1970's era Illinois Central Gulf Railroad side door caboose. My caboose was making it's debut on the model railroad club layout that night.

This train, reminds Me of the Illinois Central Gulf trains I grew up with on the near southwest side of Chicago, just after the August 10th 1972 merger of the Gulf, Mobile & Ohio, and the Illinois Central railroads.

MTH 1941 New York Central Railroad streamlined J 3 4-6-4 Hudson steam locomotive.

2012-01-24T11:35:00.001-06:00

MTH 1941 New York Central Railroad streamlined J 3 4-6-4 Hudson steam locomotive., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photograph recently, at a Wednsday night operating session at the Oak Park Society Of Model Engineers, H.O Scale Model Railroad Club.

Model train manufacturer MTH (Mike's Train House) ,has recently produced this historic early 1940's era model of a New York Central Railroad streamlined J 3 Hudson type passenger steam locomotive.

This model is sound equipped, and is quiete a sight to see in action, just like the prototype must have been like back in the day.

Eastbound Norfolk Southern /BNSF transfer train entering the Belt Railway of Chicago Clearing Yard. Chicago Illinois USA. Saturday, October 15th, 2011.

2012-01-24T11:31:00.001-06:00

Eastbound Norfolk Southern /BNSF transfer train entering the Belt Railway of Chicago Clearing Yard. Chicago Illinois USA. Saturday, October 15th, 2011., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo one morning, back in October of 2011.

An eastbound Norfolk Southern / BNSF Railway transfer train, is viewed heading eastbound and entering the Chicago side of the Belt Railway of Chicago Clearing Yard, after interchanging off of the BRC 's West 68th Street wye junction.

Welcome aboard the "Bus Day" edition of Eddie's Railfan Page!

2012-01-23T12:02:00.001-06:00

A Chicago Transit Authority 2006 New Flyer bus, modified as a clean air hybrid bus. Chicago Illinois USA. May 2011., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

2012-01-23T11:50:00.006-06:00

I found this unique and very historic photo from Southern California at My Link page "Northern California Bus Fans", located to the right of Your computer screen at www.norcalbusfans.com

The Pacific Electric, was a major electric powered interurban / commuter railroad that operated out of the city of Los Angeles California, from the early 1900's until 1961.

Aside from their already famous and popular electric interurban trains, the Pacific Electric also augmented their operations with a fleet of transit buses. These buses provided local service around the Los Angeles area, and served the Pacific Electric quiete well.

Seen here in the foreground, is a late 1940's era propane powered transit bus, manufactured by the Twin Coach Company of Kent Ohio. Many citties in North America, utilized these propane powered buses during the 1950's and 60's era. The buses inthe background, are standard General Motors 40 foot TDH Series "Old Look" (Pre 1959) transit buses. Many transit agencies in North America, operated the old look GM's until the early to mid 1970's.

This photo is from the Jim Husing collection.

Mechanical failure. A disabled handicapped bus is being towed back tothe garage. Glenview Illinois. September 2008.

2012-01-23T11:43:00.002-06:00

Mechanical failure. A disabled handicapped bus is being towed back to the garage. Glenview Illinois. September 2008., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

Nothing like the sight of a disabled handicapped bus.

I took this photo during My first year of employment at First Transit. The old 2001 vintage Chevrolet paratransit mini buses, were definately on their last leg mechanically, and were breaking down on the road quiete a bit.

2001 Chevrolet bus # 5038, is viewed being towed to the Glenview Illinois garage.

These buses were finally retired by 2010, and replaced by newer Ford models.

2012-01-23T11:25:00.007-06:00

I found this photo from the city of Modesto California at My Link page "Northern California Bus Fans", located to the right of Your computer screen at www.norcalbusfans.com

The General Motors TDH Series "Old Look" transit buses, were a very popular and versatile standard transit bus model. Introduced during the mid 1940's, the 40 foot model was manufactured from 1945 until 1959, when the "New Look" Fishbowl Windshield models were introduced.

General Motors actually manufactured smaller 30 foot GM old look style buses, until approximately 1967. The later model GM old look TDH Series buses like the one shown here, had twin sealed beam headlights.

This photo was taken in the city of Modesto California, in February of 1979.

Photo courtessy of the Melvin Bemero collection.

The Greyhound Bus Company's large Chicago maintenance facility. Chicago Illinois. October 2006.

2012-01-23T11:08:00.001-06:00

The Greyhound Bus Company's large Chicago maintenance facility. Chicago Illinois. October 2006., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo one Autum morning, back in October of 2006.

Seen here along the north bank of the north branch of the Chicago River at North Halsted Street near West Chicago Avenue, is the large Greyhound Bus Company Chicago maintetnace facility.

Silent digital video: Chicago Transit Authority buses on North Clark Street. Chicago Illinois. July 2007.

2012-01-23T11:02:00.001-06:00

Silent digital video: Chicago Transit Authority buses on North Clark Street. Chicago Illinois. July 2007. a video by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I photographed this silent digital video with My old digital camera, back in July of 2007.

Several Chicago Transit Authority Route # 22 / Clark Street buses, are viewed passing by on North Clark Street near West North Avenue, in Chicago's Lincoln Park neighborhood on a hot Summer day.

The last passenger drop off of the work day. Wheeling Illinois USA. January 2012.

2012-01-23T10:58:00.001-06:00

The last passenger drop off of the work day. Wheeling Illinois USA. January 2012., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I tok this photo at work two weeks ago.

A long workday with short Wintertime daylight hours is coming to a close.

My last passenger of the day, wich was a kind lady in a wheelchair with a companion rider, have just been let off at an apartment complex in northwest suburban Wheeling Illinois. With no other passengers needing a pick up on My route, dispatch gave Me the go ahead to fuel the bus and return to the garage.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

A freshly washed Metra commuter train. Glenview Illinois USA. June 2011.

2012-01-20T12:07:00.001-06:00

A freshly washed Metra commuter train. Glenview Illinois USA. June 2011., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo on My way to work one morning, back in June of 2011.

A freshly washed and nicely maintained EMD model F 40PH locomotive, pushes a southbound local commuter train to Chicago Union Station from Fox Lake Illinois.

This train was photographed in the early morning sunshine, at The Glen Of North Glenview Metra commuter rail station.

2012-01-20T11:51:00.006-06:00

I found this old vintage tinted postcard of Chicago on the internet.

This picture, shows the very crowded (And still is today.) intersection of State and Madison Streets in downtown Chicago Illinois, circa the early 1900's.

From 1882 until 1906 when they were eventually phased out for good, some of
Chicago's then competing public transit companies utilized cable cars on surface transportation routes. Chicago once had the world's largest cable car system during the late 1800's. The introduction of the electric powered city streetcar in 1893, proved to be far more reliable than the old cable cars.

San Francisco Californai introduced their cable cars in the year of 1871, and they are still running today. After seeing the success firsthand on a late 1800's era business trip to San Francisco California, several local Chicago politicians, businessmen and transit company executives declared that Chicago had to have a cable car system.

During that time, slow moving horse drawn streetcars and omnibuses, were the industry standard on early public transit company systems in North America.
Cable cars were actually the "State of the art" in public transportation technology back then.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

Coming soon to the Brookfield Public Library! "Kiddieland Memories!" Saturday, January 28th from 1 to 3 PM! Hosted by Eddie K From Eddie's Railfan Page http://eddiesrailroad.blogspot.com

2012-01-20T11:44:00.001-06:00

Kiddieland Amusement Park at night. Melrose Park Illinois. July 2008., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

Hi everyone!
This is Eddie K, Your host and photographer here at Eddie's Railfan Page.

Next week Saturday afternoon, January 28th from 1 until 3 PM, I will be hosting an historic photo slideshow / multi media presentation in the downstairs meeting room of the Brookfield Public Library. The library is located at 3609 Grand Boulevard, in west suburban Brookfield Illinois.

I will be hosting a show, spotlighting "Chicago's Historic Amusement Parks Of The Past."

Aside from photos that were taken many years ago at Riverview Park in Chicago, Adventureland in Addison Illinois, and Playland Park in unincorporated Justice Illinois...I will be showing My own homemade musical photo slideshow I produced entitled "Kiddieland Memories!"

This will be a fun event, and We hope to see You there. Admission is free.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

Vintage Film of Brooklyn Trolleys Circa 1930s

2012-01-20T11:35:00.000-06:00

I spotted these old 1930's era vintage home movies that were taken in New York City
on You Tube this morning.

Seen here are the electric city streetcars, of the Brooklyn And Queens Railway.

1960's era B & O EMD 2nd Generation roadswitcher locomotives.

2012-01-20T11:11:00.001-06:00

1960's era B & O EMD 2nd Generation roadswitcher locomotives., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo recently, at The Oak Park Society of Model Engineers, H.O Scale Model Railroad Club.

A common sight I can recall when I was growing up on the southside of Chicago during the 1960's and 70's era, was the beautiful dark blue and yellow EMD 2nd generation roadswitcher locomotives, of the former Baltimore & Ohio Railroad.

This color scheme was introduced around the late 1950's and early 60's era, to replace the original blue, gray and yellow color scheme, wich was expensive and difficult to maintain. The original color scheme was attractive and quiete striking, but the economics of maintenance would soon introduce this much simplified solid "Dip Job" paint scheme for the B & O, and several other North American Railroads by the 1960's.

In 1972, the Baltimore & Ohio, the Chesapeke & Ohio, and the Western Maryland railroads merged and became the Chessie System Railroad.

A good number of former B & O and C & O EMD locomotives would operate in this 1960's era solid color scheme, until the current CSX Transportation Company railroad began operations in 1986.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

Niles Fire Department International ambulance truck responding to an emergency call. Niles Illinois USA. March 2011.

2012-01-20T11:02:00.001-06:00

Niles Fire Department International ambulance truck responding to an emergency call. Niles Illinois USA. March 2011., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo in traffic one day last year.

With the siren wailing and the emergency flashing strobe lights activated, a fast moving International fire amubulance from the Niles Fire Department, races northbound at the intersection of North Harlem and West Touhy Avenue, in north suburban Nilles Illinois USA.

View looking west from the Daley College pedestrian overpass. ChicagoIllinois. Late September 1982.

2012-01-19T05:47:00.002-06:00

View looking west from the Richard J. Daley College pedestrian overpass. Chicago Illinois. Late September 1982., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo, way back in September of 1982.

We are facing west toward the late day sun, on the Richard J.Daley College pedestrian overpass bridge wich spans West 76th Street near South Pulaski Road, at an area known as Ford City East, on the southwest side of Chicago Illinois..

The tall apartment building to the left, is the Ford City Apartments.

I was attending an evening adult education photography course here at the time of this photograph.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

Southbound Union Pacific freight train. Alsip Illinois. November 1989.

2012-01-19T05:42:00.001-06:00

Southbound Union Pacific freight train. Alsip Illinois. November 1989., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo way back in November of 1989.

A Union Pacific Railroad fast moving freight train, is viewed heading southeast over the Indiana Harbor Belt Railroad, in south suburban Alsip illinois USA.

Chicago Department of Streets and Sanitation garbage trucks. Chicago Illinois. November 2006.

2012-01-19T05:37:00.001-06:00

Chicago Department of Streets and Sanitation garbage trucks. Chicago Illinois. November 2006., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo back in November of 2006.

A small convoy of City Of Chicago Department Of Streets And Sanitation garbage trucks, are viewed heading southbound on North Cicero Avenue. These trucks are more than likely enroute to the large waste transfer station on North Kilbourn Avenue, in Chicago's nearby Northwest Industrial Park to dump their loads.

The Memphis Main Street Trolley. Memphis Tennesee. September 2007.

2012-01-19T05:24:00.001-06:00

The Memphis Main Street Trolley. Memphis Tennesee. September 2007., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo during My September 2007 vacation to the city of Memphis Tennesee.

Seen here heading southbound on Main Street in downtown Memphis, is a popular local attraction known as the Memphis Main Street Trolley.

For people like Myself and a few others out there who were born too late to experience electric city streetcars operating in a downtown urban setting, this alone is a great reason to visit Memphis.

My Wife and I had a wonderful time visitinf Memphis Tennesee USA.

Elmwood Park Department Of Public Works International snowplow equipped dump truck plowing and salting North 74th Court. Elmwood Park Illinois USA. Thursday, January 12th, 2012.

2012-01-18T12:41:00.001-06:00

Elmwood Park Department Of Public Works International snowplow equipped dump truck plowing and salting North 74th Court. Elmwood Park Illinois USA. Thursday, January 12th, 2012., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo last week Thursday during My lunch break.

After an unseasonabally mild December and early January...the greater Chicagoland area got hit with a heavy snowstorm on Thursday, January 12th, 2012.

An International snowplow equipped dump truck from the Village of Elmwood Park Department of Public Works, is viewed plowing snow and spreading rock salt on North 74th Court in Elmwood Park Illinois.

The Oak Park Society Of Model Engineers, H.O Scale Model Railroad Club. Oak Park Illinois USA.

2012-01-18T12:38:00.001-06:00

The Oak Park Society Of Model Engineers, H.O Scale Model Railroad Club. Oak Park Illinois USA., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo recently, at the Oak Park Society of Model Engineers, H.O Scale Model Railroad Club.

I grew up in the city of Chicago Illinois, on the near southwest side of town.

The real life day to day trains of My own youth here in the Windy City, is what I really enjoy modeling in H.O scale.

Seen here is y Athearn H.O scale freight train from the former Atchinson, Topeka & santa Fe Railroad. With the Athearn EMD GP 35 wearing the Santa Fe's 1960's era blue and yellow color scheme and some 1970's era box cars in tow...I can sit back and watch an A,T & S,F freight train from this period roll past Me on the club layout.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

5:00 AM snowplowing. Elmwood Park Illinois.Feb 2011.

2012-01-18T12:33:00.000-06:00

2012-01-18T12:22:00.005-06:00

San Francisco California isn't the only city in the United States of America to
operate Cable Cars in daily transit route service. Chicago once had them too.

The city of Chicago Illinois, had a network of cable car lines from approximately 1882, until they were phased out for good in 1906.

After seeing the San Francisco cable cars first hand on a business trip during the late 1800's, several Chicago politicians, businessmen and transit executives decided
that "Chicago must have a cable car system"! This was the "state of the art" in public transportation technology prior to the introduction of the electric powered streetcar in 1893.

At one point in time during this era, Chicago once had the worlds largest cable car system.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

Westbound Metra express. Elmwood Park IL. Dec 2011.

2012-01-18T12:22:00.000-06:00

I photographed this digital live sound video recently, back in late December of 2011.

A westbound Metra express commuter train, approaches and crosses the diagonal railroad crossing on Grand Avenue, in northwest suburban Elmwood Park Illinois.

Trains operate on a speed restriction through here, due to many railroad grade crossing accidents on Grand avenue in recent years past. Some quiete spectacular or unfortunately fatal.

A Grand Trunk western Railroad transfer caboose parked just north of adjacent west 51st Street near South St. Louis Avenue. Chicago Illinois USA. October 1983.

2012-01-18T12:18:00.001-06:00

A Grand Trunk western Railroad transfer caboose parked just north of adjacent west 51st Street near South St. Louis Avenue. Chicago Illinois USA. October 1983., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo way back in October of 1983.

A pair of Grand Trunk Western Railroad transfer cabooses, are sitting parked immediately north of West 51st Street near South St. Louis Avenue, at the very soon to be closed GTW Elsdon Yard.

This was taken during the final week of operation at the GTW Elsdon Yard on the southwest side of Chicago Illinois USA.

No white Christmas for Chicago in 2011. Elmwood Park Illinois USA. Late December 2011.

2012-01-18T12:13:00.001-06:00

No white Christmas for Chicago in 2011. Elmwood Park Illinois USA. Late December 2011., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo a few weeks ago, back in late December of 2011.

The entire Chicago area, experienced unseasonabally mild temperatures in the 50 degrees Frenheight range through out the month of December in 2011.

There was no sign of a white Christmas in the greater Chicagoland area for 2011.

Why complain? Heck! No ice to slip on either.

The Atchinson, Topeka & Santa Fe Corwith Yard engine terminal. Chicago Illinois. March 1985.

2012-01-18T12:11:00.001-06:00

The Atchinson, Topeka & Santa Fe Corwith Yard engine terminal. Chicago Illinois. March 1985., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo way back in March of 1985.

Seen here at approximately West 41st Street about 4 city blocks east of South Pulaski Road, is the former Atchinson, Topeka & Santa Fe Railroad Corwith Yard locomotive servicing facility.

Coming soon to the Brookfield Public Library! "Kiddieland Memories"! Saturday, January 28th from 1:00 until 3:00 PM! Hosted by Eddie K from the internet site "Eddie's Railfan Page"! http://eddiesrailroad.blogspot.com

2012-01-17T20:14:00.001-06:00

The Kiddieland Limited boarding passengers. July 1985., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

The Brookfield Public Library located at 3609 Grand Boulevard in west suburban Brookfield Illinois, welcomes local Chicago historian Edward Kwiatkowski to the library's downstairs meeting room on Saturday, January 28th from 1:00 until 3:00 PM.

Eddie will be hosting a multi media musical photo slideshow program about Chicago's Historic Amusement Parks Of The Past.

Eddie will be showing His homemade musical photo slideshow entitled "Kiddieland Memories", wich features several photos and video clips that Eddie had photographed at the recently closed Kiddieland Amusement Park in Melrose Park Illinois from 2006 to 2009.

This will be a fun event and We hope to see You there! Admission is free.

Thank You.

Southbound CTA Skokie Swift train. Skokie IL. Feb 2009.

2012-01-17T20:03:00.000-06:00

I photographed this digital live sound video, back in February of 2009.

A southbound Chicago Transit Authority yelow line train, is photographed
at the Main Street CTA railroad crossing in downtown north suburban Skokie
Illinois on a sunny but cold Winter afternoon.

Northbound Iowa, Chicago & Eastern transfer train at Hawthorne Junction. Chicago / Cicero Illinois. January 2007.

2012-01-17T19:57:00.001-06:00

Northbound Iowa, Chicago & Eastern transfer train at Hawthorne Junction. Chicago / Cicero Illinois. January 2007., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo on a cold and windy Winter morning, back in January of 2007.

A northbound Iowa, Chicago & Eastern Railroad transfer freight train, is viewed traveling over the Belt Railway of Chicago tracks, and approaching the crosstracks at Hawthorne Junction along the Chicago city limits border at Cicero Illinois.

There was plenty of brilliant sunshine, but the outside temperatures were in the single digits with a sharp wind blowing out of the west. Brrrrrrr!

Eastbound Metra morning commuter local passing through Elmwood Park Illinois. January 2007.

2012-01-17T19:54:00.001-06:00

Eastbound Metra morning commuter local passing through Elmwood Park Illinois. January 2007., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo on My way to work one morning around sunrise, back in January of 2007.

An eastbound Metra morning rush hour local commuter train enroute to Chicago Union Station, passes the 73rd Avenue railroad crossing in Elmwood Park Illinois USA.

Railroad Crew member.

2012-01-16T12:43:00.001-06:00

Railroad Crew member., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo way back around 1984.

A crew member of the former Atchinson, Topeka & Santa Fe Railroad I.N branchline local ( Illinois Northern), poses in the cab of Santa Fe rebuilt EMD GP 9 # 1310 between switching movements.

This photo was taken just east of South Kedzie Avenue near West 28th Street, in Chicago's Little Village neighborhood.

Succesor railroad BNSF Railway, recently abandoned the former I.N branchline due to a major lack of online businesses to be switched. During the Santa Fe days, this line was actually switched Monday thru Friday.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

A City Of Chicago Department Of Streets And Sanitation Volvo garbage truck. Chicago Illinois USA. Early January 2012.

2012-01-16T12:37:00.001-06:00

A City Of Chicago Department Of Streets And Sanitation Volvo garbage truck. Chicago Illinois USA. Early January 2012., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo recently, in early January of 2012.

A City of Chicago Department Of Streets And Sanitation Volvo garbage truck, is viewed heading southbound on North Harlem Avenue, just south of the intersections of Northwest Highway and West Devon Avenue near Chicago's Edison Park neighborhood.

H.O steam train on a tall steel trestle.

2012-01-16T12:33:00.000-06:00

I photographed this digital live sound video recently, during a Wednsday night operating session at the Oak Park Society of Model Engineers, H.O Scale Model Railroad Club.

My recently acquired used Athearn U.S.R.A light 2-8-2 Mikado steam locomotive equipped with an MRC sound decoder, is viewed pulling a freight train made up of club owned box cars, over a tall steel trestle.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

WGCI FM Radio billboard at East 99th Street and South Cottage Grove Avenue. Chicago Illinois USA. Saturday, October 15th, 2011.

2012-01-16T12:27:00.001-06:00

WGCI FM Radio billboard at East 99th Street and South Cottage Grove Avenue. Chicago Illinois USA. Saturday, October 15th, 2011., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo during an October 2011 photographers outing with My good friend and fellow Chicago railfan Anthony C.

Seen here just west of the intersection of East 99th Street and South Cottage Grove Avenue, is a tall billboard advertising Chicago's local WGCI 107.5 FM radio station.

This local Chicago FM station, specializes in R & B, Rap and Hip Hop music selections.

Union Pacific Railroad local freight. Des Plaines Illinois USA. November 2011.

2012-01-16T12:23:00.001-06:00

Union Pacific Railroad local freight. Des Plaines Illinois USA. November 2011., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo one morning during My lunch break, back in November of 2011.

A Union Pacific Railroad local freight, is viewed idling just west of the Wolf Road railroad crossing, in northwest suburban Des Plaines Illinois.

Coming soon to the Hillside Public Library! "When Chicago Rode TheStreetcars, And Other Rail Subjects!" Saturday, February 25th from 1 to3 PM! Hosted by Eddie K from the internet site Eddie's Railfan Page!http://eddiesrailroad.blogspot.com

2012-01-13T18:09:00.002-06:00

Chicago Surface Lines trolley cars on West Lake Street near North Mayfield Avenue. Chicago Illinois USA. Circa early 1950's., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

The Hillside Public Library located at 405 Hillside Avenue in west suburban Hillside Illinois, welcomes local Chicago historian Edward Kwiatkowski to the library's downstairs meeting room on Saturday, February 25th, 2012.

Eddie is also known as the host and photographer of the local Chicago based internet site "Eddie's Railfan Page", http://eddiesrailroad.blogspot.com

If You grew up in the city of Chicago Illinois prior to the end of CTA electric streetcar operations in June of 1958 or know someone who did, then You won't wan't to miss seeing these many vintage photographs taken in Chicago during the electric streetcar era. This homemade musical photo slideshow, is set to authentic historic period music ranging from Ragtime piano, Dixieland Jazz, and 1940's era Big Band Standards to help set the mood for this nostalgic transit ride down memory lane.

This will be a fun event, and We hope to see You there.

Eastbound CN freight at Mont Clare. Chicago IL. 7-16-2011.

2012-01-13T12:00:00.000-06:00

I photographed this digital live sound video, on a hot Summer day back in July of 2011.

An eastbound Canadian National transfer freight train, is viewed passing through the Metra Mont Clare commuter train depot east of North Harlem Avenue, at the Chicago City limits, a few blocks east of Elmwood Park Illinois USA.

Southbound Conrail light engine move. Brighton Junction. Chicago Illinois. January 1988.

2012-01-13T11:56:00.001-06:00

Southbound Conrail light engine move. Brighton Junction. Chicago Illinois. January 1988., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo on a sunny but yet cold and windy Saturday afternoon, back in January of 1988.

A southbound three unit set of Conrail locomotives running light, are viewed passing through Chicago's historic Brighton Junction near South Archer and Western Avenues in Chicago Illinois.

The old manual steam era Semaphore signals, the operator's little shanty and even Conrail itself, are all long gone now.

The Brady Bunch - Its a Sunshine Day

2012-01-13T11:53:00.000-06:00

This video is going out to any poor individual who has had a song "Stuck" constantly playing in their head all day.

Just for laughs, here is one of those tunes.

From the early 1970's era TV show "The Brady Bunch", here is "It's s sunshine day".

Riding onboard the yellow PCC electric streetcar. Kenosha Wisconsin USA. October 2003.

2012-01-13T11:49:00.001-06:00

Riding onboard the yellow PCC electric streetcar. Kenosha Wisconsin USA. October 2003., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo back in October of 2003.

We are riding aboard the "Yellow" Kenosha Wisconsin ex Toronto Transit Commision 1951 vintage electric streetcar # 4616, in downtown Kenosha Wisconsin USA.

Star Trekkin

2012-01-13T11:45:00.000-06:00

I tossed this comical You Tube music video on the blogsite today just for laughs.

Aside from My railfan and transportation interests, I am also a lifelong fan of the original 1960's era NBC TV show Star Trek. Yes it's true folks, I am a "Trekie" as well.

I first heard this song many years ago on WLUP Radio FM 98 in Chicago, on a Sunday night program known as the Dr. De Mento Show. I always liked the way this song would make Me laugh.

Live long and prosper.

Eddie K.

Chicago's Riverview Park. (Gone.) 1904-1967.

2012-01-13T11:40:00.001-06:00

Chicago's Riverview Park. (Gone.) 1904-1967., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I found this historic ariel photograph from Chicago's Riverview Park on the internet recently.

Chicago's Riverview amusement park existed from 1904 until 1967. Begining in the early 1960's during the park's final years of operation, an overhead cable gondola ariel skyride, was added to the park's rides on the midway.

This view, shows the Waterbug bumper boat ride, wich I am sure was well appreciated on those many hot and humid summer days in Chicago Illinois.

Chicago Railroad Fair

2012-01-13T11:36:00.000-06:00

I found this rare historic home movie of the 1948 and 1949 Chicago Railroad Fair on You Tube this morning.

This is a fascinating color movie. Many of the ancient steam locomotives and wooden cars, are preserved in several railroad museums around North America today.

The 7 and 1/2" guage live steam miniature railroad. The Hesston Steam Museum. Hesston Indiana USA. August 1984.

2012-01-13T11:27:00.001-06:00

The 7 and 1/2" guage live steam miniature railroad. The Hesston Steam Museum. Hesston Indiana USA. August 1984., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo way back in August of 1984.

A tiny but quiete powerful 7 and 1/2" guage coal burning Atlantic type 4-4-2 steam locomotive, pulls a miniature live steam train at The Hesston Steam Museum near Michigan City Indiana.

For more information about this wonderful family oriented museum, log on to
www.hesston.org

Thanks.
Eddie K.

Eastbound CTA Green line train at sunset. Chicago Illinois. November 2006.

2012-01-13T11:24:00.001-06:00

Eastbound CTA Green line train at sunset. Chicago Illinois. November 2006., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this beautiful silhouted photo at sunset, back in November of 2006.

An eastbound Chicago Transit Authority green line train, passes over the Belt Railway of Chicago tracks at North Kenton Avenue on the west side of Chicago Illinois USA.

Canadian Pacific transfer train. Franklin Park Illinois. January 2007.

2012-01-13T11:21:00.001-06:00

Canadian Pacific transfer train. Franklin Park Illinois. January 2007., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo on a bitterly cold and windy Winter morning, back in January of 2007.

An eastbound Canadian Pacific transfer train departing from the nearby Bensenville Yard, is viewed approaching the 25th Avenue railroad crossing, in northwest suburban Franklin Park Illinois USA.

Snowplow trucks double teaming a parking lot after a heavy lake effect snowstorm. River Grove Illinois. Febuary 2008.

2012-01-12T11:58:00.001-06:00

Snowplow trucks double teaming a parking lot after a heavy lake effect snowstorm. River Grove Illinois. Febuary 2008., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

Hello everyone!

Welcome aboard Eddie's Railfan Page, from the city of Chicago Illinois USA.

On todays date of Thursday, January 12th, 2012....Chicago is experiencing it's first real snowstorm of the 2012 Winter season.

Afer an unseasonabally mild December and early January with outside temperatures often reaching the upper 40's to the 50 degree mark, winter weather is no no longer on back order for the Windy city.

The National Weather Service has advised the entire Chicago area, of a heavy snowstorm with an estimated accumulation of 3 to 6 inches. It began snowing this morning in Glenview Illinois around 9:35 AM, and is expected to snow all night, until approximately 9 AM tommorow morning..

This February 2008 photo taken in the parking lot of the River Grove Public Library and adjacent VFW Hall, gives one the idea of what We just might expect to dig out of.

Sometimes You have to double team the snow to clear things out in the greater Chicagoland area.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

Resurrection High School class of 2010 Graduation at the Pickwick Theatre in Uptown Park Ridge Illinois. Wednsday evening, May 26th 2010.

2012-01-12T11:47:00.001-06:00

Resurrection High School class of 2010 Graduation at the Pickwick Theatre in Uptown Park Ridge Illinois. Wednsday evening, May 26th 2010., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

A nicely restored and very classic neon movie theatre marquee in the greater Chicagoland area today, is that of the famous Pickwick Theatre in uptown northwest suburban Park Ridge Illinois.

Aside from the many movies that are shown here, this theatre also hots any number of special events and live music concerts.

The Pickwick Theatre, is located on Prospect Avenue, near the intersection of Touhy Avenue and Northwest Highway in Park Ridge Illinois.

This classic marquee, is a lovely sight on any given evening, when the neon sign and chase lights are operating.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

Johnstown Traction Company Part 2

2012-01-12T11:37:00.000-06:00

I spotted this video of a railfan's home movies of an electric streetcar fantrip charter excursion, in Johnstown Pennsylvania in 1960. There is also footage of an electric trolleybus fantrip charter in 1967.

Unfortunately, 1960 was the last year of streetcar operations in Johnstown Pennsylvania.
1967 would also be the final year of electric trolleybus operations here as well.

These historic color silent home movies, could be of some of the "Last Run" excursions.

Early 1970's era Illinois Central Gulf Railroad caboose hop. December 2011.

2012-01-12T11:30:00.001-06:00

Early 1970's era Illinois Central Gulf Railroad caboose hop. December 2011., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

There is nothing quiete like seeing the trains of Your youth, represented in miniature.

I was born in Chicago Illinois during 1962, and I have many happy memories of the former Illinois Central, and the post 1972 merger era Illinois Central Gulf railroad.

I used to see EMD switcher locomotive and caboose combinations like this, idling at the ICG Hawthorne Yard locomotive terminal near the Hawthorne horse racing track, in west suburban Cicero Illinois during the early 1970's.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

A Chicago Park District garbage truck at work. Chicago Illinois USA. Thursday, September 16th, 2010.

2012-01-12T11:25:00.001-06:00

A Chicago Park District garbage truck at work. Chicago Illinois USA. Thursday, September 16th, 2010., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo near the Chicago lakefront, back in September of 2010.

A second hand former City Of Chicago Department Of Streets And Sanitation Volvo garbage truck, is viewed working for it's
second employer, The Chicago Park District.

Wearing what appears to be a fresh coat of dark forest green paint, the light blue pnuematic tailgate lifting cylinder, could have came from another city of Chicago garbage truck during a recent repair.

Perhaps the paint shop may have actually missed a spot. Ooops. L.O.L

Thanks.
Eddie K.

Steam in Chile

2012-01-12T11:19:00.000-06:00

I found this fascinating video of steam trains from the Nation of Chile on You Tube this morning.

There is nothing like a fun mainline steam railway excursion, no matter what part
of this great big world You may live in.

2012-01-12T11:00:00.002-06:00

I found this historic mid 1970's era photo from the former Chicago & NorthWestern Railroad at My Link page Fallen Flags.Org, located to the right of Your computer screen at www.rr-fallenflags.org

Railfan photographer Dennis Shmidt, photographed idling Chicago & NorthWestern EMD first generation model NW 2 yard switcher # 1011, at the C & N,W's huge Proviso Yard near west suburban Maywood Illinois on June 14th, 1975.

2012-01-12T10:38:00.002-06:00

I found this photo at My Link page for the Illinois Railway Museum, located to the right of Your computer screen at www.irm.org

We are at the Chicago Transit Authority's Kedzie Avenue elevated rapid transit station along the old Garfield Park elevated line, during September of 1953.

The City of Chicago Illinois, was preparing to begin construction of the Illinois U.S Rt # 290 Congress Expressway, and the old Garfield Park rapid transit line, would be one of the first things to have to go.

A westbound train of wooden turn of the century electric interurban cars from the Chicago, Aurora And Elgin Railroad, enters the Kedzie Avenue station during the final week of operation for the Garfield Park elevated line. The next week, all Chicago, Aurora And Elgin trains would now make Des Plaines Avenue in west suburban Forest Park Illinois, their new east terminal. This would hurt the C,A & E financially, eventually causing them to go out of the passenger business in 1957.
Their freight business or what was left of it, would also follow in 1959.

Luckilly, several former C,A & E cars like # 319 shown leading this train, have been preserved and operate today at The Illinois Railway Museum, The Fox River Trolley Museum in South Elgin Illinois, and a few other tourist railroads as well.

Digital Live Sound Video: Westbound Chicago Transit Authority Skokie Swift train. Evanston Illinois USA. Tuesday, December 21st, 2010.

2012-01-12T10:34:00.001-06:00

Digital Live Sound Video: Westbound Chicago Transit Authority Skokie Swift train. Evanston Illinois USA. Tuesday, December 21st, 2010. a video by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I photographed this digital live sound video one morning, back in December of 2010.

A westbound Chicago Transit Authority yellow line train, is viewed just west of Dodge Avenue, in north suburban Evanston Illinois.

Night time at the Edgebrook Metra commuter depot. Chicago Illinois USA. Wednsday, January 19th, 2011.

2012-01-12T10:32:00.001-06:00

Night time at the Edgebrook Metra commuter depot. Chicago Illinois USA. Wednsday, January 19th, 2011., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo after work one evening last year.

Seen here between rush hour commuter trains on a bitterly cold January night, is the Edgebrook commuter train depot on the Metra / Milwaukee District northline to Fox Lake Illinois.

This depot is located near the intersection of West Devon and North Caldwell Avenues, in Chicago's Edgebrook neighborhood near north suburban Niles Illinois.

Welcome aboard the "Bus Day" edition of Eddie's Railfan Page!

2012-01-11T11:54:00.001-06:00

Eddie K next to a London England double deck bus. Dundee Illinois. May 1982., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

This internet blogsite issue, is dedicated to all fans of motorbuses.

Greetings from the city of Chicago Illinois USA!

CTA Route 52A Kedzie Avenue bus turning off of South Archer Avenue andheading west on 43rd Street / AKA Pope John Paul 2nd Drive. ChicagoIllinois. April 1989.

2012-01-11T11:52:00.002-06:00

CTA Route 52A Kedzie Avenue bus turning off of South Archer Avenue and heading west on 43rd Street / AKA Pope John Paul 2nd Drive. Chicago Illinois. April 1989., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo way back in April of 1989.

A Chicago Transit Authority 1970's era GMC fishbowl windshield bus assigned to the CTA Route # 52A South Kedzie line, is viewed turning west off of South Archer Avenue, and heading to the temporary north terminal at West 43rd Street / Pope John Paul the 2nd Drive and South Kedzie Avenue, in Chicago's Brighton Park neighborhood.

2012-01-11T11:34:00.004-06:00

I found this photo at My Link page Toms Trolleybus Pictures, located to the right of Your computer screen at www.trolleybuses.net

Before and after the electric streetcar era had ended in some North American citties, a number of transit agencies experimented with electric powered trolley buses. The city of Milwaukee Wisconsin was just one of those places that did.

Electric trolley buses when introduced, were an economical and air pollution free way to convert old streetcar lines, to a rubber tired bus route. No tracks in the street to maintain here. Electric trolleybuses, made good use of existing overhead wires and on line electrical power substations.

Unfortunately...electric trolleybuses in the long run, were expensive to operate and maintain. Their flexibility was limited, as the early models like this late 1940's era Marmon Harrington bus viewed here in this December 26th, 1964 photo in West Allis Wisconsin, as these buses coule only operate strictly from the overhead wires, wich were also expensive to maintain. Extreme winter conditions, would cause ice to form on the overhead trolley wires, requiring an occasional sleet scraping by the bus company maintenance department crews. The electric motors were prone to shorting out in heavy snow as well as from the road salt wich would sometimes get inside the electric motors.

The Milwaukee Transport Company, retired their electric trolley buses on June 20th, 1965. One former 1948 Milwaukee Transport Company 1948 Marmon Harrington trolley bus, is preserved and operates today, at The Illinois Railway Museum in Union Illinois. www.irm.org

Thanks.
Eddie K.

MEHVA 1959 TDH-4512 departing Tukwilla Station

2012-01-11T11:27:00.000-06:00

I found this vintage transit bus video on You Tube this morning.

Growing up in Chicago during the 1960's and 70's...I got to see, ride and experience the remaining Chicago Transit Authority 1950's era General Motors TDH Series old look transit buses first hand as a kid, during their final years of opeation in the Windy City.

This video mentions King County, wich I assume is the city of Seatle Washington USA.
The video brought back many happy memories for Me, as the King County Transit agency buses, look and sound like the old CTA ones I remember back then. The color scheme is even simular.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

Kenosh Transit buses at the original Transfer Point terminal location. Kenosha Wisconsin. April 2000.

2012-01-11T11:07:00.001-06:00

Kenosh Transit buses at the original Transfer Point terminal location. Kenosha Wisconsin. April 2000., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo in downtown Kenosha Wisconsin, back in late April of 2000.

Seen here along West 56th Street, is the original transfer point location for the city buses for Kenosha Transit.

The remaining GMC RTS model transit buses , were retired recently fromKenosha Transit.

The end of the shift. Glenview Illinois. July 2008.

2012-01-11T11:01:00.001-06:00

The end of the shift. Glenview Illinois. July 2008., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo during My first year of employment at First Transit.

One of My fellow paratransit drivers, is bringing this old 2001 Ford paratransit mini bus in to the garage for the night, at the end of His working shift.

The last run of the Milwaukee Wisconsin GMC fishbowl windshield bus fantrip. Milwaukee Wisconsin USA. Sunday, July 8th, 2000.

2012-01-11T10:57:00.001-06:00

The last run of the Milwaukee Wisconsin GMC fishbowl windshield bus fantrip. Milwaukee Wisconsin USA. Sunday, July 8th, 2000., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo back on July 8th, 2000.

We are on location in the city of Milwaukee Wisconsin USA on a very hot Summer day.

The Milwaukee County Transit District, has finally decided to retire their remaining 1960's era rehabbed GMC fishbowl windshield transit buses, and today is the official "Last Run" chartered fantrip.

MCTD bus # 1925, was later donated to The Illinois Railway Museum in Union Illinois, but unfortunately has since been scrapped. The useable parts from bus # 1925, are being used to restore three former Chicago Transit Authority GMC fishbowl windshield buses acquired recently by the museum.

Coming soon to the Brookfield Public Library! "Remembering Chicago's Historic Amusement Parks Of The Past!" Saturday, January 28th from 1:00 until 3:00 PM! Hosted by Eddie K from the internet site Eddie's Railfan Page! http://eddiesrailroad.blogspot.com

2012-01-10T12:19:00.001-06:00

Chicago's Riverview Park. (Gone.) 1904-1967., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

The Brookfield Public Library located at 3609 Grand Boulevard in west suburban Brookfield Illinois, welcomes local Chicago historian Edward Kwiatkowski to the library's downstairs meeting room on Saturday, January 28th from 1:00 until 3:0 PM.

Eddie who is known as the host and photographer of the local Chicago based internet site Eddie's Railfan Page http://eddiesrailroad.blogspot.com...will be hosting a musical photo slideshow presentation entitled "Remembering Chicago's Historic Amusement Parks Of The Past!"

If You can remember such local fun family places like Riverview Park in Chicago Illinois, Adventureland in Addison Illinois, Playland Park in unincorporated southwest suburban Justice Illinois, or even Kiddieland in Melrose Park Illinois...then You won't want to miss this fun presentation at the library!

Admission is free.

Southbund sailboat on the Calumet River. Chicago Illinois USA. Saturday, October 15th, 2011.

2012-01-10T12:12:00.001-06:00

Southbund sailboat on the Calumet River. Chicago Illinois USA. Saturday, October 15th, 2011., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo back in October of 2011.

The Chicago boating season was drawing to a close, and this local recreational boater, is viewed enjoying a chilly but pleasantly sunny day for sailing on the Calumet River on the far southeast side of Chicago near the Indiana border.

2012-01-10T11:56:00.002-06:00

I found this wonderful historic photo at My Link page Yesteryear Depot.Com, located to the right of Your computer screen at www.yesteryeardepot.com

Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad 4-6-2 Pacific type steam locomotive # 2864, was photographed by railfan photographer Fred C. Stoes in 1949, heading up a westbound commuter train to Aurora Illinois, and approaching the Riverside Illinois commuter rail station.

A nice historic photo from Chicago's western suburbs.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

S B Amtrak Hiawatha at dusk. Northbrook IL. Oct 2011.

2012-01-10T11:53:00.000-06:00

I photographed this digital live sound video one evening at dusk, back in October of 2011.

With the last of the available daylight fading away, a shadowy fast moving southbound Amtrak Hiawatha, crosses the railroad crossing at Shermer Road, in downtown north suburban Northbrook Illinois USA.

2012-01-10T11:41:00.004-06:00

In recent times, I have enjoyed researching Chicago's historic amusement parks of the past. I was born in Chicago during 1962, and grew up enjoying the last of these once many local Chicago area family fun attractions.

A once popular "Tiny" amusement park located in Chicago's western suburbs, was a place known as "Dispensa's Kiddie Kingdom" in the town of Oak Brook Terrace Illinois.

Dispensa's Kiddie Kingdom existed from 1975 until 1984, and was an outdoor seasonal addition to the adjacent "Dispensa's Castle Of Toys" store on U.S Route # 83 near West Roosevelt Road / Illinois U.S Route # 38.

Today, this is the site of a 33 story tall glass covered skyscraper office building.

I actually visited Dispensa's Kiddie Kingdom just once back in 1980. The place resembled little more than a portable carnival in a parking lot. Beieve Me, it was small.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

N B CTA Skokie Swift train at Oakton Street. Skokie IL. Aug 2008.

2012-01-10T11:40:00.000-06:00

I photographed this digital live sound video, back in August of 2008.

A northbound Chicago Transit Authority yellow line train (Skokie Swift), is viewed crossing Oakton Street in downtown north suburban Skokie Illinois.

Prior to the 1963, this line was part of the Skokie Valley Mainline, of the now long defunct Chicago, North Shore And Milwaukee interurban railroad.

Eastbound Indiana Harbor Belt transfer train. Alsip Illinois. Late October 1990.

2012-01-10T11:35:00.001-06:00

Eastbound Indiana Harbor Belt transfer train. Alsip Illinois. Late October 1990., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo way back in late October of 1990.

Heading southeast across the diagonal 127th Street bridge in south suburban Alsip Illinois, is an Indiana Harbor Belt transfer train.

At the time of this photo, the Indiana Harbor Belt was utilizing these old and proboubly rebuilt several times, EMD first generation model NW 2 yard switchers from the late 1940's and early 1950's era on their road trains.

A Union Pacific maintenance crew member flags the North Kilbourn Avenue crossing for the switching local. Chicago Illinois. January 2007.

2012-01-10T11:31:00.001-06:00

A Union Pacific maintenance crew member flags the North Kilbourn Avenue crossing for the switching local. Chicago Illinois. January 2007., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo on a very bitterly cold Winter morning, back in January of 2007.

With an outside temperature of 5 degrees above zero Farenheight and plenty of bright sunshine, the locomotive engineer of a Union Pacific Railroad switching local, is being flagged across the North Klbourn Avenue railroad crossing, inside Chicago's Northwest Industrial Park.

The operator of this Union Pacific model EMD GP 15 light roadswitcher, has just dropped off a box car on a local industrial spur siding. The man flagging the North Kilbourn Avenue railroad crossing, is a member of a nearby working U.P maintenance of way department crew.

A bright red EMD switcher on a CP Rail switching local. Franklin Park Illinois. October 2007.

2012-01-10T11:17:00.001-06:00

A bright red EMD switcher on a CP Rail switching local. Franklin Park Illinois. October 2007., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo back in October of 2007.

A bright red freshly painted Canadian Pacific Railroad EMD light roadswitcher, is viewed pulling an eastbound local freight near the Franklin Park Metra commuter rail station.

Strasburg Railroad steam locomotive # 31 running in reverse. StrasburgPennsylvania USA. August 1990.

2012-01-09T11:45:00.002-06:00

Strasburg Railroad steam locomotive # 31 running in reverse. Strasburg Pennsylvania USA. August 1990., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

Hi everyone!

Welcome aboard Eddie's Railfan Page, from the city of Chicago Illinois USA.

I took this photo one morning, during My August 1990 vacation to Strasburg Pennsylvania USA.

Strasburg Railroad 0-6-0 steam locomotive # 31, has just had repairs completed at the tourist railroad enginehouse, and is viewed making a shakedown test run on the Strasburg Railroad mainline near the Cherry Hill Road railroad crossing adjacent to the Groffs Grove depot.

The East Troy Electric Railroad and Museum. East Troy Wisconsin. September 2006.

2012-01-09T11:40:00.001-06:00

The East Troy Electric Railroad and Museum. East Troy Wisconsin. September 2006., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo back in September of 2006.

Recently restored wooden interuraban car # 26 from Sheboygen Wisconsin, has unfortunately suffered a mechanical breakdown on line, and has been ordered to stay where it is at until further notice.

A former city streetcar from the city of Milwaukee Wisconsin, is viewed transporting passengers to and from the east end of the line at The East Troy Electric Railroad and Museum in East Troy Wisconsin USA.

Chicago sightseeing boats in winter storage on the North branch of the Chicago River. Chicago Illinois. January 2007.

2012-01-09T11:33:00.001-06:00

Chicago sightseeing boats in winter storage on the North branch of the Chicago River. Chicago Illinois. January 2007., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo back in January of 2007.

Some visiting tourists to the city of Chicago Illinois may sometimes ask questions like..."Where do the Chicago sightseeing boats go during the off season?"

Some are docked at or near Chicago's Navy Pier during the Winter, however...I spotted these moored and shrink wrapped Chicago sightseeing boats near the North Ashland Avenue bridge, along the north branch of the Chicago River one cold and dry Winter morning.

Once it becomes mid to late April again, these boats will begin their annual operating season once again in Chicago.

7470 Rolling Through The Countryside

2012-01-09T11:27:00.000-06:00

I found this video on You Tube this morning.

The Conway Scenic Railroad of Conway New Hampshire in the northeastern United States, is viewed operating this rare wintertime steam excursion utilizing their former Canadian National Railroad 0-6-0 steam locomotive # 7470.

Grand Trunk Western freight train approaching the southbound interchange conection at Hayford Junction. Chicago Illinois. January 1987.

2012-01-09T11:24:00.001-06:00

Grand Trunk Western freight train approaching the southbound interchange conection at Hayford Junction. Chicago Illinois. January 1987., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo way back in January of 1987.

A Grand Trunk Western Railroad freight train, is viewed departing from the Belt Railway of Chicago Clearing Yard just east of South Pulaski Road, and is entering the southbound interchange curve connection at Hayford Junction.

It had snowed all morning that day, and had just stopped by early afternoon.

What a great time to go railfanning on location with a camera in hand! Chicago winter railroading in a very photogentic setting.

A small Holder snowplow tractor. Glenview Illinois. January 2010.

2012-01-09T11:20:00.001-06:00

A small Holder snowplow tractor. Glenview Illinois. January 2010., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo, back in January of 2010.

A small orange Holder snowplow equipped utility tractor from the Village Of Glenview Illinois Department Of Public Works, is viewed parked between assignments in a local municipal parking lot.

Digital Live Sound Video: Southbound CTA Purple line train crossing Isabella Street just before sunset. Wilmette Illinois. Wednsday evening, August 4th, 2010.

2012-01-09T11:10:00.001-06:00

Digital Live Sound Video: Southbound CTA Purple line train crossing Isabella Street just before sunset. Wilmette Illinois. Wednsday evening, August 4th, 2010. a video by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I photographed this digital live sound video, on a hot and humid Summer evening back in August of 2010.

With several local Mosquitos trying to put the bite on Me at this location, a southbound Chicago Transit Authority purple line train enroute to downtown Chicago, departs from the nearby Linden Avenue terminal, and crosses Isabella Street in north suburban Wilmette Illinois.

A Grand Trunk Western Railroad business car at the soon to be closed GTW Elsdon Yard. ( Gone.) Chicago Illinois USA. August 1983.

2012-01-09T11:01:00.001-06:00

A Grand Trunk Western Railroad business car at the soon to be closed GTW Elsdon Yard. ( Gone.) Chicago Illinois USA. August 1983., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo around sunset, way back in August of 1983.

The sun was begining to set on the quaint little steam era GTW Elsdon Yard when I took this photo, as the Grand Trunk Western Railroad was in the process of phasing this old facility on West 51st Street out for good.

This classic railroad business car from the GTW, was photographed just immediately south of West 51st Street, near South St. Louis Avenue near the GTW railroad police headquarters building.

Elsdon Yard was officially closed in October of 1983. Today, this old railroad freight yard property, is gradually being redeveloped today.

Preserved Illinois Central 1970's era wide vision caboose. Lemont Illinois. Early January 2007.

2012-01-06T10:52:00.001-06:00

Preserved Illinois Central 1970's era wide vision caboose. Lemont Illinois. Early January 2007., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

Silent digital video: The Kiddieland Limited departing the station. Kiddieland Amusement Park. Melrose Park Illinois. June 2007.

2012-01-06T10:47:00.001-06:00

Silent digital video: The Kiddieland Limited departing the station. Kiddieland Amusement Park. Melrose Park Illinois. June 2007. a video by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I photographed this now historic silent digital video with My old camera back in June of 2007.

I knew that Chicago's Kiddieland Amusement Park in northwest suburban Melrose Park Illinois, was in it's final years of operation. I made it a point to go to the east parking lot along First Avenue whenever I had a chance to do so, and ended up capturing many valuable and historic photos and video clips.

The Kiddieland limited streamliner passenger train, is viewed departing the boarding station on a weeknight early in the season, and entering the east parking lot.

Kiddieland closed after 81 years on Sunday, September 27th, 2009. Today this is the site of a large Costco wholesale warehouse club store.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

Westbound Union Pacific transfer train. Hodgkins Illinois. January 2007.

2012-01-06T10:41:00.001-06:00

Westbound Union Pacific transfer train. Hodgkins Illinois. January 2007., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo one overcast Winter morning, back in January of 2007.

A westbound Union Pacific Railroad intermodal transfer train, is viewed traveling over the BNSF Railway's former Atchinson, Topeka & Santa Fe mainline through southwest suburban Hodgkins Illinois.