The Oak Park Society Of Model Engineers H.O Scale Model Railroad Club. Oak Park Illinois USA. Early April 2011.

The Oak Park Society Of Model Engineers H.O Scale Model Railroad Club. Oak Park Illinois USA. Early April 2011., 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.

This is My 1960's era A,T & S,F freight train operating on the club layout.

I took this photo way back in October of 1983, at the Grand Trunk Western Railroad Elsdon Yard in Chicago Illinois.

The GTW Elsdon Yard, was in it's last week of operation prior to abandonement.

This GTW transfer caboose, was seen just north of adjacent West 51st Street near South St. Louis Avenue in Chicago's Elsdon neighborhood.

I took this photo way back in October of 1983, and cropped it on My computer today for a different perspective altogether.

The Grand Trunk Western Railroad Elsdon Yard facility in Chicago, was in it's last week of operation during this visit. It would close for good by the weekend.

This GTW EMD roadswitcher and caboose, were photographed just north of adjacent West 51st Street, just east of South Lawndale Avenue in Chicago's Elsdon neighborhood.

A classic American automobile from the 1950's. Elmwood Park Illinois USA. November 2006.

A classic American automobile from the 1950's. Elmwood Park Illinois USA. November 2006., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

Hi everyone!
welcome aboard Eddie's Railfan Page from the city of Chicago Illinois USA.

Nice things will show up on location many times when You least expect them to.

I was so glad that I took My camera with Me when I took a walk one November day , back in November of 2006.

Seen here in near northwest suburban Elmwood Park Illinois, is a privately owned classic 1956 era American automobile.

I spotted this historic Union Pacific photo at My Link page Yesteryear Depot.Com, wich is located to the right of Your computer screen.

This photo was taken around sunset at Ogden Utah USA one evening, back in 1949.

The Union Pacific Railroad, has always been a nationwide favorite amongst railfans for many years. Proboubly one of the key reasons being, is that they were a late user of regular service steam locomotives. Steam trains were operated by the Union Pacific until 1959. The Union Pacific has also set aside many for historic preservation at many on line towns and railroad museums. The Union Pacific has also operated numerous mainline steam excursions with preserved and operable 4-8-4 Northern steam locomotive # 844, and the "Giant" 4-6-6-4 Challenger type articulated steam locomotive # 3985.

In this photo taken around sunset one evening way back in 1949, Union Pacific dual service 4 -8- 2 Mountain type steam locomotive # 7855, is leading U.P passenger train # 31 "The Butte Special" in to the Ogden Utah station.

Prior to the Union Pacific standardizing on todays yellow and gray paint scheme used on passenger trains and diesel locomotives during the 1940's, the U.P experimented with a unique and stylish two tone gray color scheme with either silver or yellow color seperation stripes. Yjis color scheme was known a the U.P "Grayhound" paint scheme.

For a few years during the late 1980's and early 1990's Union Pacific 4-8-4 # 844 was repainted in to this color scheme, and operated on mainline passenger fantrips.

Although the Union Pacific was very generous about saving some steam locomotives at the end of the 1950's, a few wheel arrangement types were cut up for scrap, and permanently lost to history. Unfortunately, non of the U.P 4-8-2's were saved.

Still, this is an outstanding photograph from a very outstanding railroad. Nice!

Thanks.
Eddie K.

Westbound Chicago Transit Authority blue line train. Oak Park Illinois. July 2006.

Westbound Chicago Transit Authority blue line train. Oak Park Illinois. July 2006., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo during a very hazy hot and quiete humid Summer morning, back in July of 2006.

We are looking immediately southwest, near the Oak Park Avenue overpass bridge over the Illinois U.S Route # 290 Congress Expressway.

A westbound Chicago Transit Authority blue line rapid transit train enroute to the west terminal at Des Plaines Avenue in nearby Forest Park Illinois, passes underneath the Oak Park Avenue overpass bridge, in west suburban Oak Park Illinois.

Chicago's Congress Expressway. was built during the 1950's, and was also known for several years as the Eisenhower Expressway.

SP # 4449 blowing the whistle. Franklin Park IL. Aug 1st, 2009.

I photographed this digital live sound video, on Saturday, August 1st 2009.

Preserved 1941 built Southern Pacific GS 4 class 4-8-4 Northern type steam locomotive # 4449, was passing through Chicago Ilinois on the return leg from the Michigan Train Fest celebration at Owosso Michigan.

During the locomotives visit to the Chicago area, # 4449 spent Saturday afernoon on August 1st on display, in near northwest suburban Franklin Park Illinois.

A light rain was falling on and off on that overcast and damp afternon.

The operating crew of SP # 4449, is viewed demonstrating the steam whistle at the display site adjacent to preserved former Milwaukee Road Tower B 12.

Coming this Spring to the Franklin Park Public Library. 10311 West Grand Avenue in Franklin Park Illinois. "Kiddieland Memories!" Saturday, May 14th from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM. Hosted by Eddie K from Eddie's Railfan Page! http://eddiesrailroad.blogspot.com

Kiddieland Amusement Park. ( Gone.) Melrose Park Illinois USA. July 2006., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

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

On Saturday May 14th 2011 from 11:oo AM until 1:00 PM, I will be hosting a unique photo slideshow event at the Franklin Park Public Library, in the Community Room.

From 1928 until the amusement park had closed for good in 2009, the Kiddieland Amusement Park in Melrose Park Illinois, provided many families with happy summertime memories at the northwest corner of North and First Avenues.

Come out and enjoy the fun at the Franklin Park Public Library on May 14th, as I will be showing some of My photos and videos from Chicago's Kiddieland Amusement Park.

If You have an old home movie of Kiddieland transfered to DVD, or a newer video of the place, some old photos, some prizes from the carnival style games on the midway, or even a memory or two to share with us Yourself, then by all means...please come out to the Franklin Park Public Library, as I present the program "Kiddieland Memories!"

If You were a former Kiddieland Amusement Park employee, or just someone who enjoyed visiting the place with family or friends, then You won't want to miss this presentation.

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

Thanks.
Eddie K.

Grand Trunk Western train crossing West 51st Street. Chicago Illinois USA. April 1984.

Grand Trunk Western train crossing West 51st Street. Chicago Illinois USA. April 1984., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo, way back in April of 1984.

A northbound Grand Trunk Western empty intermodal train, is crossing West 51st Street at the recently closed GTW Elsdon Yard site.

This photo is facing east on West 51st Street, just east of South Lawndale Avenue in Chicago's Elsdon neighborhood.

Westbound Amtrak Illinois Zephyr passing the Maple Avenue railroad crossing. Brookfield Illinois. April 2007.

Westbound Amtrak Illinois Zephyr passing the Maple Avenue railroad crossing. Brookfield Illinois. April 2007., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo one overcast day after work, back in April of 2007.

The westbound Amtrak Illinois Zephyr regional passenger train, has just passed the Maple Avenue railroad crossing inwest suburban Brookfield Illinois.

This train is now slowing down as it is on approach to the La Grange Road Amtrak / Metra comuter rail station a mile away up ahead, in adjacent La Grange Illinois.

Early Springtime in Elmwood Park Illinois USA. Saturday, April 2nd, 2011.

Early Springtime in Elmwood Park Illinois USA. Saturday, April 2nd, 2011., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

Another Easter has came and went here in the greater Chicagoland area, but many happy memories of spending time with Family still linger in My heart.

A sure sign of Springtime, is the sight of seasonal Easter lawn decorations that delight many Young children this time of the year.

This inflatable Easter Bunny and decorations, was spotted earlier this month in near northwest suburban Elmwood Park Illinois.

A pleasant sign that Winter had ended recently.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

Being a camera carrying "Train Spotter" or "Railfan" as people of My kind have come to be known as, I have always had a deep appreciation for the historic period of railroading before My time, that was known as "The Steam Era".

Although My blogsite Eddie's Railfan Page features mostly rail and transportation subjects from the city of Chicago Illinois USA, or mostly North American USA rail subjects....I have always found a certain fascination with the railroads of England and other parts of the U.K.

Great Britain, is a European Nation that has come to be known as "The Mother of Railways". Yes, trains were invented and utilized here first during the early part of the 1800's around 1829.

England, was a late user of steam locomotives, and had operated them in regular service pulling freight and passenger trains in to the 1960's era. England's railroads were "Nationalized" in 1948 a few years after World War 2 had ended.

The railroads of England, had a tendency to actually put name plates on their locomotives. The practice of famous and not so famous "Named Engines", was actually performed here in the United States and Canada during the 1800's, but was eventually stopped. Severla named 1800's era steam locomotives from the former Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, and the Virginia & Truckee Railroad, have been preserved in museums at Baltimore Maryland and Carson City Nevada USA.

The locomotive shown here is of the 2-10 -0 wheel arrangement, and were designed for pulling heavy freight trains. Locomotives of this wheel arrangement in North America, are refered to as the "Decapod" type of steam locomotive. The locomotive seen here, is the preserved Brittish Railways 2-10-0 "Evening Star."

Although 2-10-0's were generally slow and pondering beasts designed for lugging slow freight trains, for some odd reason or another, Brittish Railway's Eveniing Star was also quiete capable for fast passenger train service as well. A good and solid well built dual service railway machine.

Evening Star is also used for occasional mainline fantrips or specials in England.

One North American railroad that I considered a favorite, was the Northern Pacific Railroad.

I found this photo at My Link page Fallen Flags.Org, located to the right of Your computer screen.

Aside from the fact that the Northern Pacific was a late user of steam locomotives in to the mid to late 1950's, and had actually preserved several of them, the NP also had this very stylish and yet utilitarian color scheme on their diesel locomotives. The main color wich looks like it could be black, was actually a very dark and murky shade of green. Combined with the gold ends, frame and markings, these diesel locomotives were indeed a class act.

On March 2nd 1970, the Northern Pacific along with the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy, The Spokane, Portland & Seatle, and the Great Northern...had merged and became the Burlington Northern Railroad. For the first few years of the BN's existance, former Northern Pacific diesels and equipment could be found at the BN Clyde Yard in west suburban Cicero Illinois, or on the 3 track former C,B & Q mainline passing through Chicago's western suburbs like the towns of Brookfield and La Grange Illinois.

The Chicago Botanic Garden. Glencoe Illinois USA. Wednsday, September 15th, 2010.

The Chicago Botanic Garden. Glencoe Illinois USA. Wednsday, September 15th, 2010., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

One of the loveliest outdoor attractions I enjoy visiting in the greater Chicagoland area, is the Chicago Botanic Garden.

I took this photo during My September 2010 visit last year.

Springtime is here once again, and I am very sure that things are very well blooming at the Chicago Botanic Garden. The lovely colors and fragrences of the flower gardens, make for quiete a colorful sight this time of the year.

Heck! Even if You are not even in to these kind of things, the Chicago Botanic Garden also has a large outdoor G Scale model railroad exhibit with several layouts to view.

It is definately a very nice place to visit.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

Yolo Shortline #1233 (fmrSP#1233) on former Sacramento Northern

I found this video on the You Tube internet channel.

This video was photographed on the Yolo Shortline Railroad, wich operates in Northern California. One of the nice things about this railroad, is that they run excursion passenger trains behind restored Southern Pacific 0-6-0 steam switcher locomotive # 1233.

The steam excursion train, is viewed traveling over the Sacramento River levee. The Yolo Shortline Railroad hauls both freight and steam excursion passenger trains, over a portion of the former Sacramento Northern Railroad.

I found this photo today at My Link page Fallen Flags.Org, located to the right of Your computer screen.

The photo shown here, was taken in the city of Chicago Illinois, during August of 1978.

This photo brought back some happy memories of My High School days. I attended Chicago's Curie High School from 1977 to 1981. Located approximately 5 to 6 blocks east of My Alma Matter, was the former Atchinson, Topeka & Santa Fe Corwith Yard. The south hump at Corwith Yard, is located at the diagonal intersection of South Archer Avenue and West 47th Street, in Chicago's Brighton Park neighborhood.

The Santa Fe was using these EMD ist generation EMD SW 1200 yard switchers daily. At least a few times a day, it was possible to find a few of these with cabless Calf units, pulling transfer trains to and from Corwith Yard behind Curie High School, on the single track Belt Railway of Chicago owned branchline.

Prior to their retirement and subsequent replacement during the Spring of 1983, the Santa Fe would assign a single SW 1200 Yard Switcher to work the I.N ( Illinois Northern) industrial branchline local that passed through My old neighborhood 5 days a week Monday thru Friday.

This photo made Me smile.

Happy Memories!

Eddie K.

Spotting cars on insustrial factory spur sidings. Bensenville Illinois. September 2007.

Spotting cars on insustrial factory spur sidings. Bensenville Illinois. September 2007., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo facing west from the Wolf Road railroad crossing, in Bensenville Illinois.

A former Soo Line EMD roadswitcher, is viewed spotting cars on the various factory spur sidings, along an industrial branchline.

Canadian National train with former GTW units passing through Ash Street Junction. Chicago Illinois. June 2007.

Canadian National train with former GTW units passing through Ash Street Junction. Chicago Illinois. June 2007., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo, back in June of 2007.

A westbound Canadian National freight train with locomotives acquired through merger from the former Grand Trunk Western Railroad, are viewed passing the abandoned Ash Street tower at approximately West 33rd Street, just immediately west of South Western Avenue.

A light rain was falling, as I captured this train traveling over the former Illinois Central RR Iowa Division Mainline on Chicago's near southwest side.

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

Welcome aboard the "Bus Day" edition of Eddie's Railfan Page!, a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo at work last year, in August of 2010.

Seen here in the back parking lot across from the Mechanic's garage building, are two First Transit Ford Paratransit model buses.

The remaining older or "Gold Stripe" buses, were just retired last week and taken off the roster. New Ford buses like the one shown to the right in the blue and white colors, have replaced the older models recently.

First Transit is growng, and more new Ford buses are on order at the North Cook garage in Glenview Illinois.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

Small International school bus. Chicago Illinois USA. Early April 2011.

Small International school bus. Chicago Illinois USA. Early April 2011., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I spotted this little International school bus on North Harlem Avenue one day, back in early April of 2011.

International is known for their fine line of heavy duty commercial trucks, as well as their quality line of school buses.

With many factory options to choose from between tall tires and these little small ones, as well as both long and short lenght buses, International has proven to be a popular choice amongst many of North America's school districts.

The small wheel base tires, unfortunately seem to give this hard working bus, a "TV Cartoon Show" sort of a look.

This model is proboubly very fuel efficient nonetheless.

Chicago Transit Authority Route # 76 Diversey Avenue bus in the west terminal loop at West Diversy and North Neva Avenues. Chicago Illinois USA. November 2006.

Chicago Transit Authority Route # 76 Diversey Avenue bus in the west terminal loop at West Diversy and North Neva Avenues. Chicago Illinois USA. November 2006., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo, back in November of 2006.

Seen here at the West Terminal turn a round loop at West Diversey and North Neva Avenues, is a Chicago Transit Authority 1990's era Nova transit bus. This bus is assigned to the CTA Route # 76 Diversey Avenue line.

Behind the bus to the left, is a local Mexican take out restaurant or "Taqueria" as they are known. Many drivers will stop here to refuel themselves with tasty Mexican food at the end of the run.

I spotted this photo at My Link page Tom's Trolleybus Pictures, wich is located to the right of Your computer screen.

The city of New Orleans Louisiana, is known for many things in local transportation like, the sternwheel steamboat Natchez, open horse and carriage rides in the French Quarter, the St Charles Avenue electric streetcar line, and any number of local Taxi Cab Livery companies.

New Orlean's predecessor public transit company from many years ago known as the New Orleans Public Service Company or "NOPSI" as it was nicknamed, operated a fleet of electric trolley buses from December 2nd 1929, until March 26th 1967. Known as "Trackless Trolleys", these buses operated on 600 Volts DC via overhead wires much like the electric streetcars, but rode on rubber tires. These machines were quiet operating, and did not emit air pollution. They were an economical alternative when introduced, but high maintenance and infrastructure costs eventually did them in at many of the North American citties that they operated in.

This very striking red and white New Orleans Public Service Company Marmon Herrington trolley bus, is viewed at the corner of Canal and Rampart Street during the 1960's.

I spotted this photo at My Link page Northern California Bus Fans.Com, wich is located to the right of Your computer screen.

I grew up in the city of Chicago Illinois during the 1960's and 70's era, and I have somewhat vaque memories of seeing these Continental Trailways, Eagle motor coaches in downtown Chicago. During the 1960's and part of the 1970's, Continental Trailways had a bus depot with a coffee shop inside, I believe on West Randolph Street in downtown Chicago. These beautiful and stylish long distance intercity motor coaches, were quiete a sight to see in person with those unique White Wall tires.

Later on, proboubly due to maintenance costs during the early 1970's, Continental Trailways replaced these tires with standard Black Wall truck tires.

I always wanted to go for a ride aboard one of these Eagle coaches, but never got to do so when I was growing up. Still, it was nice being able to see and hear these machines in downtown Chicago amongst the traffic, pedestrians and sky scrapers.

Continental Air Transport bus. Downtown Chicago Illinois. May 1983.

Continental Air Transport bus. Downtown Chicago Illinois. May 1983., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo one morning way back in May of 1983.

A motor coach bus from Continental Air Transport, is viewed passing through the downtown streets of Chicago Illinois USA.

The GTW Elsdon Yard roundhouse turntable operator's cab. Chicago Illinois USA. December 1983.

The GTW Elsdon Yard roundhouse turntable operator's cab. Chicago Illinois USA. December 1983., 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 "Rare" behind the scenes photo during a December 1983 visit, to what was the recently closed Grand Trunk Western Railroad Elsdon Yard on the southwest side of Chicago.

I used to walk and explore the GTW property, and as long as I was responsible and respectful back then, the GTW crews didn't seem to mind at all. It was a different world back then for Chicago railfans like Myself.

I took this photo at the GTW 1914 built railroad roundhouse, located at approximately West 49th Street and South Kedzie Avenue.

The sign shown here, was located in the turntable operator's cab. The former Elsdon Roundhouse, was demolished in 1987, and today a medium sized retail strip mall now occupies the site.

I am so glad that I walked over to the roundhouse, and snapped this photo when I did. I may have been trespassing doing this, but like I said...."The GTW didn't seem to mind."

Digital Live Sound Video: Eastbound Canadian Pacific freight train. Elmwood Park Illinois USA. Saturday, Aprul 2nd, 2011.

Digital Live Sound Video: Eastbound Canadian Pacific freight train. Elmwood Park Illinois USA. Saturday, Aprul 2nd, 2011. a video by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

Coming this Spring to the Franklin Park Public Library! 10311 West Grand Avenue in Franklin Park Illinois. "Kiddieland Memories!" Saturday, May 14th from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM. Hosted by Eddie K from Eddie's Railfan Page! http://eddiesrailroad.blogspot.com

Kiddieland Amusement Park. (Gone.) Melrose Park Illinois USA. July 2006., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

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

On Saturday, May 14th 2011 from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM, I will be hosting a photo slideshow at the Franklin Park Public Library.

The main theme of My presentation, will be a photo and video tribute to Chicago's Kiddieland Amusement Park, wich operated from 1928 until 2009 in nearby Melrose Park Illinois.

If You have an old home movie of Kiddieland transfered to DVD, some photos of the place, or even just a memory or two to share with the audience, then You will enjoy this fun presentation.

If You were a former Kiddieland employee, or just someone who enjoyed visiting Kidieland with Your family or friends, then please by all means....come out and enjoy the fun at the Franklin Park Public Library on May 14th.

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

Thanks!
Eddie K.

Grand Trunk Western Railroad visiting business car at Elsdon Yard. Chicago Illinois USA. August 1983.

Grand Trunk Western Railroad visiting business car at Elsdon Yard. Chicago Illinois USA. August 1983., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo way back in August of 1983.

An old high school freiend of mine and Myself, had spotted this Grand Trunk Western Railroad business car, parked along the south edge of West 51st Street near South St. Louis Avenue, at the GTW Elsdon Yard site in Chicago Illinois.

The sun was setting here at the Elsdon Yard site at the end of this day, but it was also a sign of things to come in the near future.

The sun was also setting on the GTW Elsdon Yard facility, and the 1914 built steam era roundhouse at West 49th Street and South Kedzie Avenue. During October of 1983, the GTW had decided to officially "Close" Elsdon Yard, and demolish many of the buildings and facilities.

The Oak Park Society of Model Engineers H.O Scale Model Railroad Club. Oak Park Illinois USA. March 2011.

The Oak Park Society of Model Engineers H.O Scale Model Railroad Club. Oak Park Illinois USA. March 2011., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo recently, during an operating session at the Oak Park Society Of Model Engineers H.O Scale Model Railroad Club.

I grew up in the city of Chicago Illinois during the 1960's and 70's. A favorite Chicago railroad of Mine, going back to My childhood, was the former Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad from pre 1970 times.

The C,B & Q had began to paint some of their road freight hood unit diesel locomotives and some freight cars, in to this red color scheme begining in the late 1950's.

A always enjoyed the colors, markings equipment and facilities that the old C,B & Q had to offer prior to the March 2nd 1970 merger with the GN, NP, and S,P & S that created the Burlington Northern.

The Oak Park Society of Model Engineers H.O Scale Model Railroad Club, is located at 255 West Augusta Boulevard, in the Oak Park Public Library's Dole Learning Center building.

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

Earlier today from 1:00 until 3:00 PM, I hosted the Chicago Railfan Photo Slideshow at the Eisenhower Public Library in Harwood Heights Illinois.

The event was a well recieved success, and I am writing to thank everyone for coming out and seeing My presentation in the upstairs meetimng room. Ny homemad musical photo slideshow I put together entitled "When Chicago Rode The Streetcars", brought a smile and many poitive questions from the audience. Some had actualy rode the Chicago streetcars prior to the end of CTA electric streetcar operations in 1958.

Many happy memories of Chicago some sixty something years ago abounded, new acqaintences were met, and many handshakes and smiles exchanged.

My next upcoming slideshow appearance hosting, will be Saturday, May 14th 2011 at the Franklin Park Public Library from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM in the library's Comminity Room. This will be a special presentation commemorating the memories of Chicago's Kiddieland Amusement Park in Melrose Park Illinois.

Thank You everyone for the questions and suggestions, and I hope to have the wonderful opportunity to see You again everyone.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

Grand Trunk Western locomotive, caboose and train of flatcars at Elsdon Yard. Chicago Illinois USA. October 1983.

Grand Trunk Western locomotive, caboose and train of flatcars at Elsdon Yard. Chicago Illinois USA. October 1983., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo way back, in October of 1983.

The former Grand Trunk Western Railroad, was in the process of closing their Elsdon Yard facility on est 51st Street in Chicago Illinois, during My October 1983 visit. This would be Elsdon Yard's last week of operation.

This view is facing north from West 51st Street, just east of South Lawndale Avenue.

Steam engine 4501 on the way to Chattanooga

I spotted this video on You Tube today.

A popular minline excursion steam locomotive for many years in America's southern states region, was restored Southern Railway 2-8-2 Mikado type steam locomotive # 4501.

Originally painted black and used in freight train service by the Southern Railway, this locomotive was retired in 1948, and sold to the coal hauling short line Kentucky & Tennesee Railroad in Stearns Kentucky.

Reaquired by the Southern Railway after the K & T retired # 4501 in 1963, it was mechanically overhauled, repainted in the Southern Railway's green passenger train livery, and used for several years after on mainline charterd steam fantrips.

This locomotive is displayed today, at the Tennesee Valley Railroad museum in Chattanooga Tennesee.

The Belt Railway of Chicago locomotive shop at Clearing Yard. Bedford Park Illinois. July 2007.

The Belt Railway of Chicago locomotive shop at Clearing Yard. Bedford Park Illinois. July 2007., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo one evening after work, back in July of 2007.

Two EMD roadswitcher locomotives from the Canadian National Railroad, are viewed being moved or "Hostled" from the Belt Railway of Chicago locomotive shop at Clearing Yard in Bedford Park Illinois, to the locomotive ready track just immediately west of this location.

The locomotive to the left, is a former Illinois Central locomotive acquired through merger by the CN in 1999.

I spotted this painting honoring the defunct and long gone Chicago, North Shore And Milwaukee electric interurban railroad, in the window of the Wilmette Custom Framing store on Ridge Avenue in north suburban Wilmette Illinois.

North suburban Wilmette Illinois, was one of several north suburban communities that was served by the Chicago, North Shore And Milwaukee. This painting, honors Wilmette's historical association with the North Shore Line.

Wilmette had two seperate North Shore interurban route lines passing through town.
To the east near the Linden Square section of Wilmette, was the "Shore Line Route" wich was abandoned in June of 1955. This route would travel through the tree lined streets of Wilmette, and provided local service to Ravinia Park and points north.

The other line to the west at the border of Glenview Illinois, was the high speed bypass line known as the "Skokie Valley Mainline." Express passenger trains to Milwukee Wisconsin used this line along the west side of Wilmette, as did the North Shore Lines freight trains

This painting shows a local train, making the Wilmette station stop on the old Shore Line Route prior to the 1955 abandonement of this route.

Northbound BNSF Railway light engine movement. Hawthorne Junction. Chicago / Cicero Illinois. June 2008.

Northbound BNSF Railway light engine movement. Hawthorne Junction. Chicago / Cicero Illinois. June 2008., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo one hot Summer afternoon, back in June of 2008.

A 4 unit set of BNSF Railway locomotives running light, are viewed passing through the Canadian National ex Illinois Central Railroad crosstracks at Hawthorne Junction

These BNSF Railway engines, are viewed heading northbound over the Belt Railway of Chicago tracks, and are returning to the nearby BNSF Clyde Yard in west suburban Cicero Illinois.

Springtime in Elmwood Park Illinois USA. Sunday, April 10th, 2011.

Springtime in Elmwood Park Illinois USA. Sunday, April 10th, 2011., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

When Chicago Rode The Streetcars! Saturday, April 23rd at The Eisenhower Public Library! 4613 N Oketo Avenue in Harwood Heights Illinois! Hosted by Eddie K from Eddie's Railfan Page! http://eddiesrailroad.blogspot.com

Chicago Surface Lines car # 1374. The Illinois Railway Museum. Union Illinois. June 1993., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

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

Don't forget....Tommorow is "The Chicago Railfan Photo Slideshow from 1:00 to 3:00 PM, at The Eisenhower Public Library in Harwood Heights Illinois. The Library is located at 4613 N Oketo Avenue.

I will also be showing a special feature I have put together, entitled "When Chicago Rode The Streetcars!" This is a short musical photo slideshow of Chicago during the electric streetcar era prior to the end of CTA electric streetcar operations in 1958.

If You grew up in Chicago Illinois during this time or know someone who did, then You will enjoy seeing these historic transit pictures of Chicago set to period music.

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

Thanks.
Eddie K.

I found this photo at My Link page Fallen Flags.Org, located to the right of Your computer screen.

For many years begining during the steam era, cabooses were coupled on to the rear of freight trains. This car, is where the trains Brakeman and Conductor rode aboard. There was a desk for sorting "Way bills" or other paperwork, tools, flares lanterns, a somewhat primative onboard "Bathroom" depending on the railroad and how much they were willing to "Spend" on such ammenities, a coal stove for heating, and in later years, Radio communications.

This photo of a wooden Baltimore & Ohio Railroad wooden caboose, is listed as being photographed at Sterling Ohio during June of 1966.

Wooden cabooses were the industry standard for many years, but were eventually replaced by steel designs during the late steam era. Steel cabooses are believed to have been introduced during the 1920's era. Wood and steel cabooses were used throughout the 1950's, but wooden cabooses began to be phased out for good on most railroads during the 1960's.

Some wooden cabooses, were demoted to the M.O.W or "Maintenance Of Way" departments, and spent their final working years on "Work" or "Wrecker" trains." Acording to this, the B & O was a late used of wooden cabooses.

The Oak Park Society of Model Engineers H.O Scale Model Railroad Club. Oak Park Illinois USA. Early April 2011.

The Oak Park Society of Model Engineers H.O Scale Model Railroad Club. Oak Park Illinois USA. Early April 2011., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo during a recent visit, to The Oak Park Society Of Model Engineers H.O Scale Model Railroad Club, in west suburban Oak Park Illinois USA.

I can't physically bring back the 1960's in real life, and those so called "Time Machines" that are featured in so many science fiction movies, have not been invented yet.

Thanks to the many models that are available in H.O and other modeling scales, Myself and My fellow model railroaders at the club, are able to somewhat "Recreate" this or most any other historical era in miniature.

Seen here, is My 1960's era Atchinson, Topeka & Santa Fe Railroad freight train approaching a bridge.

I could recall seeing many of the Santa Fe's trains like this growing up on the near southwest side of Chicago Illinois during the late 1960's and early 70's era.

The locomotive, is an Athearn model of an EMD model GP 35 roadswitcher locomotive from approximately 1964, while the orange car, is a 50 foot mechanical refridgerator car introduced by the Santa Fe during the 1960's.

The Santa Fe used this blue with yellow ends color scheme, from 1960 until 1972.

Silent digital video: A westbound two unit Indiana Harbor Belt RR light engine movement entering Argo Yard in Summit Illinois. June 2007.

Silent digital video: A westbound two unit Indiana Harbor Belt RR light engine movement entering Argo Yard in Summit Illinois. June 2007. a video by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I photographed this silent digital video with My old digital camera, one hot Summer morning back in June of 2007.

Two Indiana Harbor Belt Railroad EMD roadswitcher locomotives are viewed running light, and entering the IHB Argo Yard in southwest suburban Summit Illinois USA.

A BNSF Railway one car transfer train on a hold order. Corwith Yard. Chicago Illinois. January 2007.

A BNSF Railway one car transfer train on a hold order. Corwith Yard. Chicago Illinois. January 2007., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

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

We are on location at South Lawndale Avenue at what would approximately be West 49th Street facing east, in Chicago's Archer Heights neighborhood.

Seen here is a BNSF Railway one car special movement or "Extra", waiting for the dispatcher to give clearance to depart from the nearby former A,T & S, F Corwith Yard.

I attended nearby Curie High School just a few city blocks west of here from 1977 to 1981, and spent much of My off time hanging around at this location.

Once clearance is given, this train will proceed westbound over the single track Belt Railway of Chicago branchline.

Coming this Saturday to the Eisenhower Public Library! 4613 N Oketo Avenue in Harwood Heights Illinois! "The Chicago Railfan Photo Slideshow!" 1-3 PM! Hosted by Eddie K from Eddie's Railfan Page! http://eddiesrailroad.blogspot.com

Manufactuers Junction Railroad interchange local. Hawthorne Junction. Chicago Illinois USA. January 2007., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

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

Please....Mark Your Calendars!
This Saturday, April 23rd 2011 from 1:00 until 3:00 PM, I will be hosting "The Chicago Railfan Photo Slideshow", at the Eisenhower Public Library.

The library is located at 4613 North Oketo Avenue in near northwest suburban Harwood Heights Illinois.

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

All -A - Booooaaard!

Thanks.
Eddie K.

The Oak Park IL Society Of Model Engineers H.O Model Railroad Club.

I photographed this digital live sound video recently, at The Oak Park Society Of Model Engineers H.O Scale Model Railroad Club, located in west suburban Oak Park Illinois.

The steam era was alive and well on this visit, as fellow club member Rich, was operating His Bachman Spectrum Series Atchinson, Topeka & Santa Fe Railroad 3700 class 4-8-4 Northern # 3768 on the club layout.

Although I was born too late to experience the "Steam Era" firsthand in Chicago, it is great just being able to see what it was like in miniature. The Santa Fe operated steam in to the mid 1950's, and luckilly set aside several steam locomotives for display at the end of the steam era.

Atchionson, Topeka & Santa Fe 4-8-4 Northern # 2903 formerly displayed outdoors in the backyard of the Chicago Museum of Science and Industry, is now located at The Illinois Railway Museum in the town of Union Illinois. www.irm.org

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

This photo was taken near northwest suburban Park Ridge Illinois, at sometime during the year of 1946.

A westbound Chicago & NorthWestern Railroad commuter train enroute to Harvard Illinois, is viewed behind pulled by a high stepping 4-4-2 Atlantic type passenger service steam locomotive.

The 4-4-2 Atlantic type steam locomotives with their 4 lead truck wheels for stability, 4 tall driving wheels for speed, and two trailing truck wheels underneath the firebox for support, proved themselves as fast and dependable passenger motive power when introduced during the late 1800's.

Passenger trains eventually became longer and heavier, and wooden passenger cars gave way to steel designs during the teens in the early 20th Century. Atlantic types were eventually underpowered from the popular railroad flagship or "Name" trains, and soon found more suitable assignments puling short local, connecting passenger trains, and in the upcoming years, would prove themselves as the right tool for the right job pulling commuter trains in many North American citties.

Some railroads like the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy, and the Illinois Central, would eventually utilize former passenger 4-4-2 Atlantic type steam locomotives on local branchline freight trains.

Unfortunately, not very many 4-4-2 Atlantic type steam locomotives were set aside for preservation at the end of the steam era. Most were cut up for scrap.

The Pennsylvania State Railroad museum in Strasburg Pennsylvania, has two former Pennsylvania Railroad 4-4-2's in it's collection on display. The National Museum of Transport in Kirkwood Missouri, has a former Chicago & NorthWestern Railroad 4-4-2 like the one shown here on display. The Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn Michigan, has a former New York Central 4-4-2 on display. The B & O Railroad Museum in Baltimore Maryland, has a former Central Railroad of New Jersey 4-4-2 Camelback Atlantic type steam locomotive on display, and Travel Town located at Griffith Park in Los Angeles California, has a Southern Pacific Railroad 4-4-2 on display as well.

I found this photo at My Link page Fallen Flags.Org, located to the right of Your computer screen.

A popular railroad in the southeastern United States for many years, was the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad.

This photo was taken at Dunn North Carolina, on the date of July 11th, 1965.
Leading this freight train, is an EMD model F 7 cab unit diesel from the 1950's era. The ACL in the early years of their dieselization, had painted many of their diesel locomotives in a unique silver and purple color scheme. This was a unique and very colorful livery, that was too expensive and difficult to maintain in the extreme hot sunshine conditions found in the States of Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and many parts of America's southern region. The ACL had began to use a basic black and yellow color scheme by the early 1960's.

By the 1960's, the first generation diesel locomotives from the 1940's and 50's era, were still in service on many North American railroads, but were begining to show their age mechanically, and sometimes physically in the case of the locomotive on the head end of this freight train.

The ACL and several other southern and southeastern railroads would eventually merge begining in the late 1960's and in to the mid 1980's. The former ACL, is now today part of CSX Transportation Company.

Chicago's Brookfield Zoo. Brookfield Illinois USA. September 2010.

Chicago's Brookfield Zoo. Brookfield Illinois USA. September 2010., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo, during a September 2010 visit to Chicago's Brookfield Zoo.

With a large piece of property and plenty of walking to be done, the members of the zoo's own Safety and Security staff...utilize this golf cart to easilly get to various locations around the zoo on any given workday.

Meter guage 0-4-0 T from Czechloslovakia and 14" guage 4-4-0 from America side by side at the depot. The Hesston Steam Museum. Hesston Indiana USA. September 1993 Labor Day steam show weekend.

Meter guage 0-4-0 T from Czechloslovakia and 14" guage 4-4-0 from America side by side at the depot. The Hesston Steam Museum. Hesston Indiana USA. September 1993 Labor Day steam show weekend., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo, during the September 1993 Labor Day weekend Steam Show, at The Hesston Steam Museum in northwest Indiana.

The Hesston Steam Museum, is a very unique, friendly and family oriented tourist railroad museum operation.

Seen here to the left, is the arriving two foot gauge steam train at the Hesston Junction Depot. To the right is a miniature 14 inch track guage live steam train simmering away in the depot between runs.

For more information about the Hesston Steam Museum, log on to www.hesston.org

I found this historic photo from Chicago's Elsdon neighborhood at My Link page Fallen Flags.Org.

This photograph, was taken in October of 1977, at the Grand Trunk Western Railroad's Elsdon locomotive terminal at West 49th Street just west of South Kedzie Avenue in the city of Chicago Illinois USA.

The old steam era GTW Elsdon Yard with it's 1914 built roundhouse on Kedzie Avenue, and it's 1888 built two story wooden passenger train station on West 51st Street east of South Lawndale Avenue, was a wonderful place to hang out if You were a local railfan like Myself, and several others.

When I attended nearby Curie High School from 1977 until I graduated in 1981, I used to hang out here in My off time, and explore the GTW Elsdon property. As long as You were responsible and respectful...Heck! The GTW staff didn't seem to mind one bit.
I witnessed these EMD SW 1200's like the one shown here, blocking West 51st and West 55th Streets, with long cuts of freight cars in tow, and several back and forth moves.

The GTW Elsdon Yard closed in October of 1983, and several of the buildings on the property were eventually demolished. The Elsdon locomotive terminal and roundhouse site today, is the site of a medium sized outdoor retail strip mall. The Elsdon Yard area around West 51st Street, is partially used by succesor Canadian National Railroad, as a materials storage depot. The former Elsdon Yard property in general, is gradually being redeveloped for housing and real estate.

The GTW Elsdon Yard, was a happy place for this teenage railfan back in the 70's and early 80's.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

Northbound Metra double header. Morton Grove Il. April 2009.

I photographed this digital live sound video after work one day, back in April of 2009.

A northbound Metra rush hour commuter train enroute to Fox Lake Illinois over the former Milwaukee Road north line, passes the Beckwith Road railroad crossing in north suburban Morton Grove Illinois behind two locomotives.

The Oak Park Society Of Model Engineers H.O Scale Model Railroad Club. Oak Park Illinois USA. Early April 2011.

The Oak Park Society Of Model Engineers H.O Scale Model Railroad Club. Oak Park Illinois USA. Early April 2011., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I could remeber seeing these orange Atchinson, Topeka & Santa Fe reefer cars in Chicago during the late 1960's and early 1970's.

When I found this model of one of them, I just had to have it. Now it travels aboard My 1960's era Santa Fe train at the Oak Park Society of Model Engineers H.O Scale Model Railroad Club layout, when I visit during the operating sessions.

Coming this Springto the Franklin Park Public Library. 10311 West Grand Avenue in Franklin Park Illinois. Saturday, May 14th from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM. "Kiddieland Memories!" Hosted by Eddie K from Eddie's Railfan Page! http://eddiesrailroad.blogspot.com

The Kiddieland Amusement Park train at night. Kiddieland Amusement Park. Melrose Park Illinois USA. September 2006., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

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

On Saturday, May 14th 2011 from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM, I will be hosting a photo slideshow at the Franklin Park Public Library in the Community Room.

The main theme of My presentation, wil be a photo and video tribute, to Chicago's Kiddieland Amusement Park, wich operated from 1928 until the park closed for good in 2009 in nearby Melrose Park Illinois.

If You have an old home movie of Kiddieland transfered to DVD, some photos of the place, or even a memory or two to share, then You will enjoy this fun and locally historic presentation.

If You were a former Kiddieland Amusement Park employee, or just someone who enjoyed visiting the place with family or friends, then please come ouit and enjoy the fun on Saturday, May 14th from 11 AM until 1:00 PM in the library's Community Room.

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

Thanks.
Eddie K.

Northbound Chicago & NorthWestern RR freight train passing Argo Tower. (gone) December 1990.

Northbound Chicago & NorthWestern RR freight train passing Argo Tower. (gone) December 1990., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo way back in December of 1990.

Traveling northbound over the Indiana Harbor Belt Railroad, is a Chicago & NorthWestern Railroad transfer freight train. The train is passing through the crosstracks at Argo Junction, in southwest suburban Summit Illinois.

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

Eastbound Pace bus on Central Avenue. Wilmette Illinois. August 2010., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

Chicago Entertainment Tours motorcoach. Chicago Illinois USA. 2003.

Chicago Entertainment Tours motorcoach. Chicago Illinois USA. 2003., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took thid photo back in 2003.

Seen here in the parking lot at "The Hall" shopping mall at West Diversy and North kilpatrick Avenues in Chicago's Cragin neighborhood, is a motorcoach bus from Chicago Entertainment Tours.

This company, transports passengers to the gambling casinos in nearby Hammond and East Chicago Indiana.

First Transit 2008 Ford paratransit bus # 5157. Riverwoods Illinois USA. Tuesday, February 1st, 2011.

First Transit 2008 Ford paratransit bus # 5157. Riverwoods Illinois USA. Tuesday, February 1st, 2011., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photo on Tuesday, February 1st, 2011. This was that notorious day, when the Chicago blizzard of 2011 had struck the entire Chicago area, and left a record 20.9 inches of heavy lake effect snow in it's wake.

I am pursuing a career as a Paratransit driver. Seen here at a passenger drop off location in far north suburban Riverwoods Illinois, is First Transit 2008 Ford Paratransit bus # 5157.

I took this photo a few hours before the snow would begin falling.

Chicago's Brookfield Zoo. Brookfield Illinois USA. September 2010.

Chicago's Brookfield Zoo. Brookfield Illinois USA. September 2010., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

A popular and unusual form of bus, is the compressed natural gas powered Motor safari shuttle tram ride at Chicago's Brookfield Zoo.

These open air vechicles, provide convenient and narrated tours around the Brookfield Zoo all year long. There is even an enclosed heated motor safari Ford bus, used during the Wintertime temperature extremes. It is always warm and welcome during the zoo's annual nightime Holiday Zoo in December.

I found this photo at My Link page Tom's Trolleybus Pictures located to the right of Your computer screen.

I grew up in the city of Chicago Illinois, during the 1960's and 70's.

One of My favoriye meories frm that period, was actually having the opportunity to see and ride aboard the Chicago Transit Authority's electric trolleybuses during their last decade of service.

This photo was taken during the mid 1960's, at the popular Chicago intersection known as "Six Corners" on the northside of Chicago. Six Corners, is located at the intersection of West Irving Park Road, North Milwaukee Avenue, and North Cicero Avenue. In this photo, a 1948 era CTA Pulman Standard electric trolleybus, is viewed heading eastbound on West Irving Park Road.

Six Corners, is still a very heavilly trafficked intersection in Chicago's Portage Park neighborhood. CTA electric trolleybus operations ended in March of 1973.