Illinois Railway Museum Blog

Some research work has been done and thanks to the generosity of several owners of vintage images we are able to share them here with you.

Don Vaughn Collection Photo

I really like this photo, and it is an early color image, shown here in Clarion, Iowa about 1950.  I THINK this represents the second paint scheme our plow wore, still in the scheme with the classy Corn Belt Logo, but with air horns revised and wedge and wings painted black. Lettering and logo in white.

Don Vaughn Collection Photo

As close to a builders photo as you will likely find, this is our plow as delivered to the CGW at Oelwein, Iowa in 1936.  The headlight is covered for transit, and there is the temporary ladder at the plow end, an AAR requirement to allow crews to climb to the roof from either end.

Don Vaughn Collection Photo

Don Vaughn Collection Photo

And these photos are true Builders Photos, but of the X 37, identical and one number lower than our X 38.  Both images taken at the Russell Plow Works in Ridgway, PA in 1936

Rex Beach Photo, Joe Pierson Collection

Finally here is great image of our plow in Oelwein, Iowa wearing what I believe is the fourth paint scheme in the many colors it wore.  In this case almost everything was dipped in a bright safety orange color.  Black numbering, no herald.

I hope you all enjoyed this picture essay, we will have more coming.  In the meantime, we have not covered all the acquisition costs, not accumulated money for materials to make repairs and restorations of various parts of the plow.  The fund has been set up using its original service number, fund R X 38, but do not be confused, it is the same piece of equipment.  Thanks