Illinois Railway Museum Blog

                   Here is the second installment of pictures taken by Robert Banke.  They were taken in and around the Chicago area in the late seventies. Please notice the condition of the yards, facilities and the equipment.                                           

          We could easily portray the next  scenes by restoring our last coach RI 2524 to active service.  How would you like to volunteer?            On the above picture, the next track over, is the end  of a bilevel.   Is that one of  the 2700 series bilevels?              I believe the RI 630 has survived the scrappers torch and is in existence today.      Years ago, Irm had a chance to buy this engine.   Instead,  we own the last RI steamer to run in commuter service, the # 938.                 Here is some  thought and a challenge to someone who is goal oriented and wants to see the 938 again in steam operation.   Formulate and submit a plan to raise money for the future operation and maintenance of this locomotive.   Then  present your plan before the Board of Directors of IRM and, with approval, begin raising  money to restore the 938 to operational  status.   In the meantime,  send your donations to RI 2612 coach fund and the RI 938 steam fund.                     Thanks   Roger