The Wilmington Railroad Museum. Wilmington North Carolina USA. April 1995.

The Wilmington Railroad Museum. Wilmington North Carolina USA. April 1995., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

Hi everyone!

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

This mid 1990's era classic vintage photograph of Me from my "Thinner Waistline Days", was takn during an April 1995 springtime vacation to the city of Wilmington North Carolina.

Here I am posing in the cab of preserved Atlantic Coast Line Railroad 4-6-0 steam locomotive # 250, at the Wilmington Railroad Museum.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

Two trains meet at Galewood depot. Chicago IL. May 2010.

Underdog Opening.

I spotted this little "Happy Memory" from my own childhood on You Tube this morning.

I was born in Chicago during 1962, and one of my favorite Saturday morning cartoon shows I had grown up watching on TV back then, was none other than "Underdog". Underdog made it's cartoon debut in 1964, and was popular for many years after the fact in syndicated reruns.

Westbound Canadian Pacific freight train with former Soo Line railroad locomotives arriving in Franklin Park Illinois. May 2008.

Westbound Canadian Pacific freight train with former Soo Line railroad locomotives arriving in Franklin Park Illinois. May 2008., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

Late 1960's era Santa Fe freight rounds the curve.

Veolia Waste Services Mack garbage truck. Niles Illinois. Thursday, June 26th, 2012.

Veolia Waste Services Mack garbage truck. Niles Illinois. Thursday, June 26th, 2012., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this quick photograph on my way back to work at the end of my lunch break yesterday.

Seen here heading northbound on Harlem Avenue in Niles Illinois, is a Mack garbage truck from Veolia Waste Services.

Santa Fe freight train passes with a red caboose on the rear.

Santa Fe freight train passes with a red caboose on the rear., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photograph this Wednsday night, at the Oak Park Society of Model Engineers,H.O Scale Model Railroad Club.

For many years going as far back as my own childhood, I have always been a big fan of the former Atchinson, Topeka & Santa Fe Railroad.

Seen here bringing up the rear of the freight train that I was operating, is my recently purchased Athearn Santa Fe cupola caboose wearing the familiar bright vermillion red paint scheme with the yellow markings.

This image brings back happy memories for me, as I used to see a number of Santa Fe transfer trains going to and from nearby Corwith Yard, when I was attending Curie High School in Chicago from 1977 to 1981. The Santa Fe transfer trains, traveled right behind Curie High School, over a single tracked and heavilly ballasted branchline that was owned by the Belt Railway of Chicago.

These cabooses were an everyday sight on the rear of those A,T & S,F transfer runs during the 1970's and 80's.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

Tastee Freeze on West 26th Street. Berwyn Illinois. June 2008.

Tastee Freeze on West 26th Street. Berwyn Illinois. June 2008., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

Coming soon to the Downers Grove Illinois Public Library! "When Chicago Ride The Streetcars!" Saturday, September 15th from 2:00 until 3:15 PM! Hosted by Eddie K from the internet site "Eddie's Railfan Page!" http://eddiesrailroad.blogspot.com

Chicago Surface Lines car # 144 built in 1908. The Illinois Railway Museum. Union Illinois. August 2006., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

The Downers Grove Public Library located at 1050 Curtis Street in west suburban Downers Grove Illinois, welcomes local Chicago historian, photographer and multi media producer Edward Kwiatkowski to the library on Saturday afternoon, September 15th from 2:00 until 3:15 PM.

Eddie will be hosting a multi media slideshow and lecture presentation about the history of public transportation in the city of Chicago Illinois.

Many vintage photographs of the electric streetcars that once operated on various transit routes on Chicago's city streets from the Chicago Surface Lines Company, to todays Chicago Transit Authority begining in 1947, will be shown at this presentation.

Come to the Downers Grove Public Library, and step aboard a transit ride down memory lane. This will be a fun and nostalgic event, and We hope to see you there.

Admission is free.

Thank You.

Penn Central EMD GP 40 # 3152 at Camden New Jersey. March 12th, 1972.

I found this classic early 1970's era black and white photograph from the former Penn Central Railroad at My Link page Fallen Flags.Org, which is located to the right of your computer screen at http://www.rr-fallenflags.org/

Railfan photographer M.S Zak, photographed Penn Central EMD GP 40 # 3152 at Camden New Jersey on March 12th, 1972.

The Penn Central was one of the many railroads I remember growing up with in Chicago during the late 1960's and in to the mid 1970's.

Illinois Central freight train enters the tunnel.

I photographed this digital live sound video last week Wednsday night, at the Oak Park Society of Model Engineers,H.O Scale Model Railroad Club.

This Illinois Central freight train being led by an orange Indiana Harbor Belt Railroad EMD roadswitcher, is viewed entering the tunnel with many freight cars in tow.

This train is owned and operated by fellow club member Mitch.

Thanks.

Eddie K.

The CTA South Boulevard Purple line station. Evanston Illinois USA. Thursday, February 3rd, 2011.

The CTA South Boulevard Purple line station. Evanston Illinois USA. Thursday, February 3rd, 2011., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photograph in north suburban Evanston Illinois, back in early February of 2011.

This photograph was taken two days after the infamous Tuesday, February 1st, Chicago Blizzard snowstorm of 2011, which left a huge snowfall accumulation of 20.9 inches on the entire Chicago area.

After several days and weeks of high temperatures in the upper 90's and sometimes over 100 Degrees farenheight in Chicago this summer, I thought that it would be time to perhaps change the season photographically.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

Kiddieland Amusement Park. (Gone.) Melrose Park Illinois USA. June 2007.

Kiddieland Amusement Park. (Gone.) Melrose Park Illinois USA. June 2007., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photograph during an evening visit to the former Kiddieland Amusement Park site in Melrose Park Illinois, back in June of 2007.

I was always fascinated by the miniature operating railroad crossing signals, on the park's Miniature Railroad ride. This one shown here, was located along the north curve in the east parking lot alongside 1st Avenue.

During the final months of operation, this crossing signal was not working and needed repair.

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

Thanks.
Eddie K.

Digital Luve Sound Video: A westbound Metra express and a Canadian Pacific local freight. River Grove Illinois USA. Tueday, April 12th, 2011.

Digital Luve Sound Video: A westbound Metra express and a Canadian Pacific local freight. River Grove Illinois USA. Tueday, April 12th, 2011. a video by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

Night time at the Grand Trunk Western Elsdon depot on West 51st Street. ( Gone.) Chicago Illinois USA. April 1983.

Night time at the Grand Trunk Western Elsdon depot on West 51st Street. ( Gone.) Chicago Illinois USA. April 1983., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photograph way back in April of 1983.

Seen here is the 1888 built Grand Trunk Western Railroad, Elsdon passenger train depot in a quiet night time scene from the early Spring of 1983.

This classic 1800's era two story wooden passenger train station, was a yard office at the GTW Elsdon Yard during it's final years of operation along West 51st Street in Chicago's Elsdon neighborhood.

Elsdon Yard, the station shown here, and the 1914 built steam era roundhouse at West 49th Street and South Kedzie Avenue, were in their final months of service. The Grand Trunk Western would close Elsdon Yard in October of 1983, and this depot was demolished in November of 1983.

This gives one an idea of how Elsdon Yard was like at night back in the day.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

Beautiful Sunflower plants. Elmwood Park Illinois. July 2012.

Beautiful Sunflower plants. Elmwood Park Illinois. July 2012., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

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

Even if you are not a train or transportation enthusiast, I am sure that you may actually find something that you will enjoy viewing at my blogsite.

Like this beautiful tall sunflower plant that I had photographed recently in Elmwood Park Illinois. Many readers here, are actually non railfans as well.

Variety really is the spice of life.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

S B Early morning Metra. Morton Grove IL. Aug 2011.

I photographed this digital live sound video one morning around sunrise, back in August of 2011.

A southbound Metra early morning local commuter train enroute to Chicago Union Station from Fox Lake Illinois, passes alongside Lehigh Avenue near Beckwith Road, in north suburban Morton Grove Illinois.

Orange IHB EMD roadswitchers at Argo Yard. Summit Illinois. September 2008.

Orange IHB EMD roadswitchers at Argo Yard. Summit Illinois. September 2008., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photograph around sunset, back in early September of 2008.

Two Indiana Harbor Belt Railroad EMD roadswitchers wearing the 2005 orange paint scheme, are viewed idling between switching assignments near the IHB's Argo Yard yar office building.

Northbound CP freight train. Bannockburn Il. Sept 2009.

Westbound Metra comuter local arriving at the Metra Brookfield commuter rail station. Brookfield Illinois. July 2008.

Westbound Metra comuter local arriving at the Metra Brookfield commuter rail station. Brookfield Illinois. July 2008., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photograph one summer evening, back in July of 2008.

A westbound Metra local commuter train enroute to Aurora Illinois, is viewed arriving at the Brookfield Illinois Metra commuter rail station just east of Prairie Avenue.

Illinois Central freight train rounds the curve.

This video was photographed at the Oak Park Society of Model Engineers,H.O Scale Model Railroad Club.

Eastbound Union Pacific transfer train. Hayford Junction. Chicago Illinois. March 1985.

Eastbound Union Pacific transfer train. Hayford Junction. Chicago Illinois. March 1985., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photograph way back in March of 1985.

An eastbound Union Pacific Railroad transfer freight train, has just departed from the nearby Belt Railway of Chicago Clearing Yard facility in Bedford Park Illinois. This train is now approaching the Grand Trunk Western Railroad crosstracks at Hayford Junction, located at West 75th Street and South Central Park Avenue in Chicago's Ashburn neighborhood.

Eastbound CTA Pink line train. Chicago Illinois. April 2007.

Eastbound CTA Pink line train. Chicago Illinois. April 2007., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photograph after work one afternoon, back in April of 2007.

An eastbound Chicago Transit Authority pink line rapid transit train enroute to downtown Chicago, passes the railroad crossing at South Kilbourn Avenue, just east of the Chicago city limits border near west suburban Cicero Illinois.

Many years ago, this was the CTA's Douglas Park Elevated line.

Chicago Fire Department Ford C Cab pumper truck. Chicago Illinois USA. June 1984.

Chicago Fire Department Ford C Cab pumper truck. Chicago Illinois USA. June 1984., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photograph, way back in June of 1984.

A classic Ford Custom Cab fire engine from the Chicago Fire Department, is slowly heading westbound on West 48th Street just west of South Kedzie Avenue, in an industrial park located in Chicago's Elsdon neighborhood.

Notice that the Chicago Fire Department vehicles did not have that reflective white horizonatl stripe on the sides of their equipment back then.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

Northbound CSX unit coal train. Glenview Illinois. Thursday, June 28th, 2012.

Northbound CSX unit coal train. Glenview Illinois. Thursday, June 28th, 2012., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photograph one morning during my lunch break, back in late June of this year.

A northbound CSX Transportation Company empty unit coal train ( possibly Coke) is viewed passing the West Lake Avenue railroad crossing on the Union Pacific railroad line, in north suburban Glenview Illinois.

Niles Public Services Company Elgin street sweeper vehicle at work. Niles Illinois. July 2012.

Niles Public Services Company Elgin street sweeper vehicle at work. Niles Illinois. July 2012., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photograph recently, in north suburban Niles Illinois.

A newer model of the popular Elgin Pelican street sweeper from the Niles Public Services company, is viewed turning south on to Harlem Avenue at the intersection of Oakton Street.

The Belt Railway of Chicago in H.O scale.

The Belt Railway of Chicago in H.O scale., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

There is nothing like seeing one of your personal happy railfan memories from the past in H.O Scale.

During the 1980's, I had spent much time lineside railfanning with a camera in hand, at a place known as Hayford Junction in Chicago's Ashburn neighborhood.

I can fondly remember seeing the Belt Railway of Chicago's mid 1960's era Alco C 425 roadswitchers on transfer trains, heading to and from the nearby BRC Clearing Yard facility.

I took thi photograph last week Wednsday night, at the Oak Park Society of Model Engineers,H.O Scale Model Railroad Club.

Fellow club member Henry Kranz, owns and operates this model of one of those Belt Railway of Chicago heavy Alco roadswitchers, which the BRC had retired from their roster of locomotives in 1999.

Upper leval diorama display.

Upper leval diorama display., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photograph last week Wednsday night, at the Oak Park Society of Model Engineers,H.O Scale Model Railroad Club.

One of my favorite areas of the club I enjoying viewing and photographing occasionally, is this non operating diorama display.

I guess that there is something magic about old American small town train stations and steam locomotives.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

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

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

I found this color photograph from Chicago's long gone Riverview Park on the internet recently
(Unfortunately...I do not remember what website it was on.).

Chicago's Riverview Park, was the ultimate destination for amusement park patrons to visit in Chicago. This huge 74 acre park, featured numerous roller coasters, exciting rides, game arcades, and plenty of happy memories for those who were fortunate enough to visit the place.

One of the most popular rides on the midway at Riverview Park, was "The Bobs" roller coaster shown here in this photograph.

During the 1950's and 60's, this was the fastest roller coaster ride in North America.
The Roman style collums at the ride's entrance, definately added a touch of class.

Riverview Park had closed for good, at the end of Labor Day weekend in early September of 1967.

When I host my occasional public speaking presentations at the various local Chicago area suburban libraries...believe it or not, many of the people who attend are former Riverview Park patrons with stories to share. Some of them went there as children, while others took their children there.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

Amtrak 40th anniversary General Electric P40 Genesis locomotive # 156. Glenview Illinois USA. Tuesday, May 8th, 2012.

Amtrak 40th anniversary General Electric P40 Genesis locomotive # 156. Glenview Illinois USA. Tuesday, May 8th, 2012., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this quick snap shot at the Glenview Illinois Metra commuter rail station after work one afternoon, back in early May of this year.

Amtrak's 40th anniversary commemorative locomotive # 156, is viewed at the station, on the rear end of the southbound Hiawatha from Milwaukee Wisconsin.

August 1st presentation about Chicago's Amusement Parks at the Clearing library cancelled! Sorry.

The Kiddieland Amusement Park train. Melrose Park Illinois. 1961., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

Hi everyone!

This is Eddie K, your host and photographer here at Eddie's Railfan Page.

Due to an eror in scheduling, My next upcoming presentation for Wednsday night, August 1st for 6:00 PM at the Clearing branch of the Chicago Public Library 6423 West 63rd Place...has been cancelled.

The adult program director is in the process of rectifying this unfortunate situation.

A new date for a Saturday engagement for late August is curently in the works at this time.

Please stay tuned for details as they become available, as I will announce the new booking date for "Chicago's Amusement Parks Of The Past" when it becomes available.

Sorry for the inconvenience.

Thank You.
Eddie K.

Chicago's Brookfield Zoo. Sept 2010.

I photographed this unique digital live sound video, during a September 2010 visit to Chicago's Brookfield Zoo.

I captured on video, a portion of the Dolphin Show, at the zoo's Seven Seas Dolphin Show Arena. The narator was telling everyone about the history of the Brookfield Zoo's Dolphin Show and how it began during the 1960's.

What better way to illustrate that point, then by playing the Young Rascal's 1966 hit song "God Lovin"?

Chicago's Brookfield Zoo, is easilly reached by public transportation via either Pace buses, or Metra commuter rail trains.

Thanks.

Eddie K.

Hesston Indiana Oct 1991 last day.

Hesston Indiana Oct 1991 last day., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photograph way back in late October of 1991.

This was the last day of the operating season at the Hesston Steam Museum in northwest Indiana. www.hesston.org

It was a very cold, damp and rainy day with outside temperatures in the low to mid 40's.
Icy cold rain and all, several visiting railfans wearing warm jackets, are viewed riding in the open coaches despite the bone chilling cold rain.

I had a wonderful time that day.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

Chicago Transit Authority, Purple line sign at the entrance to the Linden Avenue terminal. Wilmette Illinois. Wednsday, August 4th, 2010.

Chicago Transit Authority, Purple line sign at the entrance to the Linden Avenue terminal. Wilmette Illinois. Wednsday, August 4th, 2010., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photograph back in August of 2010.

This sign from the Chicago Transit Authority, was photographed at the Linden Avenue terminal in Wilmette Illinois.

This CTA rapid transit station, services the purple line to and from downtown Chicago Illinois 14 miles to the south of here.

Digital Live Sound Video: Northbound Metra local arriving at Deerfield station. Deerfield Illinois USA. Tuesday Night, October 19th, 2010.

Digital Live Sound Video: Northbound Metra local arriving at Deerfield station. Deerfield Illinois USA. Tuesday Night, October 19th, 2010. a video by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

Bob O's Hot Dogs at 8258 West Irving Park Road. Chicago Illinois USA. March 2011.

Bob O's Hot Dogs at 8258 West Irving Park Road. Chicago Illinois USA. March 2011., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

One of my personal favorites amongst the many local fast food eateries in Chicago, is a place located on West Irving Park Road in Chicago's Accacia Park neighborhood known as "Bob O's Hot Dogs".

The food is very good here, the prices are reasonable, and the french fries are home cut.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

Wabash freight train crossing the swing bridge.

I photographed this digital live sound video last week Wednsday night, at the Oak Park Society of Model Engineers,H.O Scale Model Railroad Club.

Fellow club member Henry Kranz, was operating his Wabash Railroad freight train, headed up by two classic Alco F.A 1 freight service cab unit diesel locomotives.

Henry's train is viewed crossing the swing bridge on the club layout.

The Grand Trunk Western Railroad Elsdon Yard locomotive terminal. (Gone.) Chicago Illinois USA. October 1983.

The Grand Trunk Western Railroad Elsdon Yard locomotive terminal. (Gone.) Chicago Illinois USA. October 1983., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

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

Seen here are three locomotives from the former Grand Trunk Western Railroad, one of them a former Detroit, Toledo & Ironton acquired through merger by the GTW in 1981.

These locomotives are viewed idling on the ready tracks, at the Grand Trunk Western Railroad's 1914 built Elsdon roundhouse facility at West 49th Street and South Kedzie Avenue in Chicago's Elsdon neighborhood.

This photograph was taken during the final week of operation at the GTW Elsdon yard and locomotive terminal. One week later, this place was abandoned and looked like a ghost town.

Today, this is the site of an outdoor retail strip mall. Part of the area behind these locomotives in the photograph, is now the right of way for the Chicago Transit Authority's orange line rapid transit to Midway Airport.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

Metra M.O.W track work. Glenview Illinois USA. October 2011.

Metra M.O.W track work. Glenview Illinois USA. October 2011., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photograph back in October of 2011.

A work crew from Chicago's Metra commuter rail agency, is viewed replacing pre fabricated sections of panel track along the Metra / Milwaukee District northline tracks, in north suburban Glenview Illinois.

The crew was photographed at work just north of the Chestnut Avenue railroad crossing.

Belt Railway of Chicago steam switcher locomotive # 88 at the Belt Railway of Chicago Clearing Yard facility. Bedford Park Illinois. 1932.

I found this rare old photograph from the Belt Railway of Chicago at my link page Yesteryear Depot.Com, located to the right of your computer screen at www.yesteryeardepot.com

No photographers name is listed for this photograph. It could have been from an employee.

Belt Railway of Chicago Alco 0-6-0 switcher steam locomotive # 88, is viewed alongside the original
Belt Railway of Chicago roundhouse at Clearing Yard in Bedford Park Illinois. The original facility had burned to the ground I believe by the early 1950's, and was replaced by todays huge enginehouse near
South Central Avenue on the BRC property.

Believe it or not, the old turntable pit from the old roundhouse, is still standing to the east of the modern
BRC engine house today.

Steam locomotive # 88 shown here, was photographed in 1932.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

Another very unlikely two train meet.

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

I love model train clubs like this one where periods and prototypes are often mixed at any given session.
This leads to some rare lineside railfanning opportunities not possible in todays real world out there.

A very unlikely two train meet occured here on the club layout, when a long gone 1930's era
Milwaukee Road streamlined steam powered Hiawatha passenger train, passes a mid 1960's era
Belt Railway of Chicago Alco C425 roadswitcher on a freight train.

The Milwaukee Road had scrapped all of these steam powered Hiawatha service locomotives by the early
to mid 1950's, and the Belt Railway of Chicago retired these Alco roadswitchers in 1999.

May 1990 Central Electric Railfans association Chartered fantrip on the Metra ( ex Illinois Central) electric commuter lines. Chicago Illinois.

May 1990 Central Electric Railfans association Chartered fantrip on the Metra ( ex Illinois Central) electric commuter lines. Chicago Illinois., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photograph during a May 1990 chartered railfan excursion aboard the former Illinois Central Railroad electrified commuter rail lines on the south, southeast and far outlying south suburban outlying areas.

This trip was sponsored by the Central Electric Railfans Association of Chicago.

I seem to recall that this photograph was taken late in the day near the end of our excursion. I do not recall what station this was, but that it was one of several photo runby locations that we all enjoyed.

The late day sun and the crowd of people, give this photograph a lot of character.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

Westbound Canadian National heavy freight train. Elmwood Park Illinois. June 2008.

Westbound Canadian National heavy freight train. Elmwood Park Illinois. June 2008., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photograph one evening after work, back in June of 2008.

A westbound Canadian National freight train, is viewed at the 75th Avenue railroad crossing in Elmwood Park Illinois.

The newest in Canadian National diesel locomotive power from EMD is leading this train.

1920's era brick bungalow houses on West Addison Street in Chicago'sPortage Park neighborhood. Chicago Illinois USA. July 2012.

1920's era brick bungalow houses on West Addison Street in Chicago's Portage Park neighborhood. Chicago Illinois USA. July 2012., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

Hi everyone!

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

Although this is basically a transportation enthusiasts blogsite featuring many photographs of trains and buses, I also enjoy including those special interest photos of non transportation related subjects as well.

 My various photographs taken in Chicago's neighborhoods, has always been an appealing reason for the success of My blogsite, as I enjoy incorporating images of day to day life here in Chicago Illinois.

The north side of the city of Chicago, features many old neighborhoods and brick homes from the 1920's to the earlier 1800's era still standing in good condition in a number of locations today.

These 1920's era brick bungalow style houses, were photographed along the north side of West Addison Street just west of the intersection of North Major Avenue, in Chicago's Portage Park neighborhood.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

Coming in September to the Downers Grove Public Library! "When Chicago Rode The Streetcars!" Saturday, September 15th from 2:00 until 3:15 PM! Hosted by Eddie K from the internet site "Eddie's Railfan Page!" http://eddiesrailroad.blogspot.com

The Downers Grove Illinois Public Library located at 1050 Curtis Street, welcomes local Chicago historian, photographer and multi media producer Edward Kwiatkowski to the library on Saturday, September 15th from 2:00 until 3:00 PM.

Eddie will be hosting a multi media photo slideshow and lecture presentation about the history of public transportation in the city of Chicago Illinois. The very begining of public transportation in 1852 is covered, as is the horse drawn streetcar era, the cable car era, and the electric streetcar era in the windy city.

The begining of  todays Chicago Transit Authority in 1947 is covered, as is the end of the streetcar era in June of 1958. A mention is also given to the electric powered trolleybuses as well on Chicago's busy main streets.

Many vintage photographs taken in Chicago, mostly from the 1880's until the late 1950's will be shown.

If You were one of the many people who had grown up in Chicago prior to the end of CTA electric streetcar operations in June of 1958 or know someone who did, then you won't want to miss this nostalgic transit ride down memory lane, and see how Chicago one had looked like many years ago.

Admission is free!

Thank You.

ICG local derails on approach to swing bridge.

ICG local derails on approach to swing bridge., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I did not "Stage" this photograph this past Wednsday night at the Oak Park Society of Model Engineers,H.O Scale Model Railroad Club. This actually happened during the evening session.

My 1970's era Illinois Central Gulf switching local train, derailed at the north approach to the swing bridge.

Oops.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

W B double headed Metra. Elmwood Park IL. July 2012.

Interior of a soon to be retired 1920's era Southern Pacific Railroad round roof Harriman series commuter coach. San Francisco California. June 1978.

I found this unique interior photograph of a Southern Pacific Railroad 1920's era round roof commuter coach at my Link page Fallen Flags.Org, located to the right of your computer screen at http://www.rr-fallenflags.org/ ( A really wonderful website worth checking out today!)

Railfan photographer Richard Leonhardt took this photograph way back in June of 1978 in the city of San Francisco California.

For many years, the former Southern Pacific Railroad had utilized these vintage steam era round roof commuter coaches dating from the 1920's era, on their San Francisco to San Jose California Peninsula commuter train service.

These cars were already quute up in age by the time of this photograph, and their years of remaining service were soon numbered. New double deck Gallery commuter coaches like those used today on Chicago's Metra commuter rail service, were delivered many years ago to the Southern Pacific.

The old un air conditioned Harriman era commuter coaches, apparently were well built, as the Southern Pacific had pretty much got their moneys worth out of their solid construction. Several of these old coaches, are now used today on various western U.S tourist railroads. One of those being the Grand Canyon Railroad in Williams Arizona today.

Here in Chicago Illinois, the former Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad operated several simular 1920's era round roof cars in daily Chicago to oliet Illinois commuter train service until 1978. Several of these  foprmer Rock Island commuter cars have been preserved also at various U.S railroad museums and tourist train operations as well. The Illinois Railway Museum in Union Illinois has several former Rock Island commuter cars, and uses them on their operating demonstration steam and diesel powere trains. http://www.irm.org/

Thanks.

Eddie K.

"Now thats an unlikely two train meet."

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

Model railroad clubs are great! Where else can You see two train meets of different periods and prototypes operating together on the same mainline? Impossible in the real day to day world.

A circa 1935 steam powered Milwaukee Road Hiawatha passenger train being headed up by a streamlined Atlantic type steam locomotive, meets my 1970's era switching local from the former Illinois Central Gulf Railroad.

It was definately a fun session hanging out with the guys that night.

Thanks.

Eddie K.

Westbound Belt Railway of Chicago transfer train approaching the SouthKedzie Avenue overpass bridge. Chicago Ilinois. August 1987.

Westbound Belt Railway of Chicago transfer train approaching the South Kedzie Avenue overpass bridge. Chicago Ilinois. August 1987., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photograph way back in August of 1987.

A westbound Belt Railway of Chicago transfer freight train being led by two EMD switchers, is viewed looking east from on top of the South Kedzie Avenue overpass bridge in Chicago's Wrightwood neighborhood on the southwest side of Chicago.

Locomotive # 534, is still wearing it's American Bi Centenial special color scheme that was applied in 1976, to help celebrate America's 200th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia Pennsylvania on July 4th, 1776.

Former Illinois Central diesel locomotives on the head end of a Canadian National freight train. Crawford Yard. Chicago Illinois. June 2007.

Former Illinois Central diesel locomotives on the head end of a Canadian National freight train. Crawford Yard. Chicago Illinois. June 2007., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photograph after work one afternoon, back in June of 2007.

A westbound Canadian National freight train with former Illinois Central locomotives up front that were acquired through merger, wait for clearance to depart from the former Illinois Central Railroad's Crawford Yard in Chicago Illinois.

Several north and south transfer trains traveling over the nearby Belt Railway of Chicago tracks at Hawthorne Junction, had the crosstracks all tied up for a good lenght of time with several trains entering and leaving the BRC Clearing Yard near Midway Airport.

Soon this train would recieve clearance from the dispatcher, and head west over the former Illinois Central's Iowa Division Mainline.

In 2011, the Canadian National closed the former I.C Crawford Yard and removed the tracks.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

Penn Central caboose. Indianapolis Indiana. May 1975.

I found this historic mid 1970's era photograph from the former Penn Central Railroad at my Link page Fallen Flags.Org, located to the right of your computer screen at http://www.rr-fallenflags.org/

I grew up on the near southwest side of Chicago Illinois during the 1960's and 70's era. One of the railroads I remember from that era that operated on the southside of Chicago, was the former Penn Central Railroad.

Although Penn Centrals locomotives were painted in a basic plain black "Dip Job" color scheme with white markings, for some odd reason or another...some of the freight cars and thier cabooses were painted in a nice jade green color scheme, like in the example shown here.

The Penn Central was created from the 1968 merger of the New York Central, and the Pennsylvania Railroads, who were both quite financially troubled by the 1960's. In the year of 1969, the former New York, New Haven and Hartford Railroad joined the Penn Central through merger.

By 1970, the Penn Central was bankrupt. This large northeastern United States railroad lived on borrowed time and borrowed funds, until the U.S Govorment under President Gerald R. Ford created Conrail in 1976, by bailing out six bankrupt northeastern U.S railroads.

This photograph was taken by railfan photographer Gary Stubben in May of 1975 at Indianapolis Indiana.

IRM Trolley Parade 2011

Let Eddie host your next public speaking event!

Let Eddie host your next public speaking event!, a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

Kiddieland Amusement Park. (Gone.) Melrose Park Illinois. 1969.

Kiddieland Amusement Park. (Gone.) Melrose Park Illinois. 1969., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

This photograph was E Mailed to Me recently by a Mr Mark Yurkiw who has attended a few of My photo slideshow /public speaking appearances at some of the Chicago area suburban public libraries recently.

This photograph was taken at the now closed and greatly missed Kiddieland Amusement Park in Melrose Park Illinois, way back in 1969.

A little girl is enjoying a ride aboard the amusement park's miniature gasoline powered tractor ride, along the south edge of the park's midway.

I visited Kiddieland for the first time when I was 9 years old back in 1971, and I vaguely remember riding this tractor ride. I believe that this ride may have been replaced at some point in time during the 1970's.

Kiddieland Amusement Park was a fun place to visit in the greater Chicagoland area, and sadly closed for good after 81 years of operation in September of 2009.

Today, this is the site of a large Costco wholesale warehouse club store.

Thank You Mark for the nice photograph.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

H.O Santa Fe freight crossing a tall trestle.

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

Seen here crossing the tall twin steel trestles in an area on the club layout representing the state of Iowa, is My 1960's and 70's era freight train from the former Atchinson, Topeka & Santa Fe Railroad.

Most of the cars on the train, the locomotive and caboose are Athearn models.

Canadian Pacific switching local with a former Soo Line locomotive. Bensenville Illinois. September 2007.

Canadian Pacific switching local with a former Soo Line locomotive. Bensenville Illinois. September 2007., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photograph back in early September of 2007.

A Canadian Pacific Railroad industrial switching local being powered by a former Soo Line EMD roadswitcher diesel electric locomotive, is viewed working the industrial sidings on a branchline west of the Wolf Road railroad crossing south of Green Street, in northwest suburban Bensenville Illinois.

7 and 1/2 " guage steam train rounding a curve in the woods. The Hesston Steam Museum. Hesston Indiana USA. June 1994.

7 and 1/2 " guage steam train rounding a curve in the woods. The Hesston Steam Museum. Hesston Indiana USA. June 1994., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photograph during a June 1994 visit to the Hesston Steam Museum in northwest Indiana.

One of the museum's popular little 7 and 1/2 inch track guage miniature live steam trains, is viewed passing through the woods along the museum's very lovely and scenic right of way.

This place is definately a fun and very family oriented attraction worth visiting in the Michigan City area.

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

Thanks.
Eddie K.

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

Southbound CTA Route # 22 Clark Street bus. Chicago Illinois. October 2006., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

Riding a CTA Optima Opus 30' bus on Route 85A

First Student school bus with advertising banner attatched. Glenview Illinois. July 2012.

First Student school bus with advertising banner attatched. Glenview Illinois. July 2012., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photograph one morning last week during my lunch break.

Question:
What do school bus companies do during the summer off season?

Answer:
Promote some of their other services.

I took this photograph at the First Student school bus company property located on Old Glenview Road in north suburban Glenview Illinois.

With an advertising banner attatched to the side of this parked First Student International school bus, the companies bus rental and charter service is advertised for all to see.

Tour bus arriving at the Bahai Temple. Wilmette IL. 5 11 -2012

I photographed this digital live sound video one morning in May of 2012.

A tour bus from the Cavallo bus company, is viewed arriving with a tour group to the Bahai Temple in north suburban Wilmette Illinois.

A side by side comparison of old and new Chicago Transit Authority buses. Chicago Illinois. April 1991.

I found this photograph at My Link page Northern California Bus Fans.Com, located to the right of your computer screen at http://www.norcalbusfans.com/

This is a rare photograph that was taken at the north terminal loop for the Chicago Transit Authority's Rt # 90 N Harlem Avenue bus line, located at the southeast corner of West Touhy and North Overhill Avenue near north suburban Niles Illinois.

CTA bus # 301 to the left of the photograph, was built by General Motors in 1962, and is preserved today by the Chicago Transit Authority, and used for special occasions.

The bus to the left, is an early 1990's era General Motors model RTS transit bus, wearing the CTA's post 1989 color scheme.

This photograph from the Jim Husing collection, is listed as being taken in April of 1991. It is possible, that this could have been the first run of the GMC RTS bus to the right of the photograph, as they were new at this time.

Thanks.
Eddie K.

For many years, electric powered trolleybuses, were a popular and polution free way to travel by public transportation in many citties both in the United States and Canada.

I spotted this late 1960's era photograph from the Toronto Transit Commision of Canada at My Link page Tom's Trolleybus Pictures, located to the right of your computer screen at http://www.trolleybuses.net/.

Seen here at the Toronto Transit Commision's Lansdowne transit garage facility in the city of Toronto Ontario Canada, is a beautiful red and cream colored TTC 1948 Marmon Harrington trolley bus.
This photograph was taken on March 31st, 1969.

Notice the newer 1960's era TTC General Motors TDH Series new look fishbowl windshield transit buses parked at the transit facility in the background.

A preserved remnant of the Kiddieland Amusement Park sign on display at the Melrose Park Illinois Public Library building. July 2012.

A preserved remnant of the Kiddieland Amusement Park sign on display at the Melrose Park Illinois Public Library building. July 2012., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

This photograph was E Mailed to me by a Mr Mark Yurkiw, who attended My show Sunday at the Forest Park Public Library.

Seen here on display along one of the outside walls of the Melrose Park Public Library, is a salvaged portion of the Kiddieland Amusement Park sign, wich had closed after 81 years of operation in 2009.

This classic roadside neon sign featuring a little boy and girl, originally stood at the northwest corner of North and First Avenues in Melrose Park Illinois.

Thank You Mark.

Eddie K.

Northbound Norfolk Southern intermodal transfer train crossing South Archer Avenue near Chicago's Midway Airport.

Northbound Norfolk Southern intermodal transfer train crossing South Archer Avenue near Chicago's Midway Airport., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photograph after work one afternoon back in March of 2008.

A northbound Norfolk Southern Railroad intermodal transfer train traveling over the Belt Railway of Chicago tracks, crosses South Archer Avenue near Chicago's Midway Airport.

Wappin By Elmer Fudd

I thought that it would be fun to have a silly song added to todays posting of Eddie's Railfan Page.

I first heard this song during the 1980's on W.L.U.P Radio FM 98 in Chicago Illinois on a Sunday night program known as the Dr Demento Show.

This is how it would sound like if the Buggs Bunny cartoon character Elmer Fudd did a rap song.

Chicago,Burlington & Quincy RR steam locomotive # 3006. Galesburg Illinois USA. June 1985.

Chicago,Burlington & Quincy RR steam locomotive # 3006. Galesburg Illinois USA. June 1985., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

I took this photograph way back in June of 1985.

Seen here is preserved Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad 4-6-4 Hudson type steam locomotive # 3006. Built by the Baldwin Locomotive Works in 1930.

This old coal burning passenger steam locomotive, is on display in Galesburg Illinois.

Eddie K hosting at the Forest Park Public Library. Forest ParkIllinois. Sunday, July 15th, 2012.

Eddie K hosting at the Forest Park Public Library. Forest Park Illinois. Sunday, July 15th, 2012., a photo by Eddie from Chicago on Flickr.

Hi everyone!

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

Yesterday, I had the pleasure of hosting one of my public speaking presentations at the Forest Park Public Library.

The theme of my show, was "Kiddieland Memories", wich featured several photographs and video clips of the former Kiddieland Amusement Park in Melrose Park Illinois. ( 1928 - 2009). As an added bonus, I also presented a short series of multi media slideshows that featured several photos from Chicago's once many amusement parks of the past.

Although I only had a small 6 member audience, they were wonderful to have on board in the librarie's Austin Room downstairs. One of the audience members, was actually a former maintenance worker from the Kiddieland Amusement Park during the park's last two seasons of operation. He had many fascinating stories to share, and even spotted His "Boss" in My slideshow DVD.

 This photograph was taken of me, during an intermission break toward the end of the show. I was in the process of playing a promotional video I had made, for the Oak Park Society of Model Engineers,H.O Scale Model Railroad Club seen in the background on the screen.

It was a fun afternoon nonetheless, and I hope that I have the opportunity to present once again someday at the Forest Park Public Library.

Thanks.
Eddie K.