A Tribute to Robert Heinlein

Robert Heinlein volunteered at the Illinois Railway Museum for many years.

Robert Heinlein volunteered at the Illinois Railway Museum for many years.

Robert Heinlein, one of the giants in the railfan community, passed away on April 30, 2023, at the age of 84. You can read his obituary here.

Bob Heinlein was very knowledgeable, always cheerful, and continually went out of his way to share what he had learned to help others. He will be sorely missed.

Mr. Heinlein was a contributor to Central Electric Railfans’ Association Bulletin B-146, Chicago Streetcar Pictorial: The PCC Car Era, 1936-1958, of which I was a co-author. Unfortunately, he was not properly credited for several of his photographs, which were mistakenly attributed to the late Charles L. Tauscher (who was also an excellent photographer).

My co-author, the late Jeff Wien used twelve duplicate slides he had obtained in 1959 for the book, including the image on the cover. He was under the impression he had gotten these from Tauscher, but they were actually photos taken by Bob Heinlein. After the book was published, Bob informed Jeff of the error and loaned him the original slides, which I scanned. These images appeared in our previous post Loose Ends (February 2, 2021) with proper attribution.

Some of Mr. Heinlein’s images also appeared in my book The North Shore Line, which appeared earlier this year. Fortunately, he did see the book and I am told he enjoyed it.

The last time I met Mr. Heinlein was about a year ago, when I happened to run into him and his family by chance at the East Troy Railroad Museum. He was enjoying a ride on one of their restored trolley cars, and remarked how it would have been even more fun if they were running on the “L” twenty feet off the ground. That is how I would like to remember him.

He was an excellent photographer, going back to the early 1950s. In this post, we are sharing some of his own work, and other pictures from his vast collection, as a way of offering our condolences to his family, and as a tribute to the memory of a life well lived. We thank his son Kevin Heinlein for sharing these pictures with our readers.

I also would like to thank everyone who attended our recent program for my book The North Shore Line at Union Station on May 19th for the Railroad and Shortlines Club of Chicago.

Keep those cards and letters coming in, folks.

-David Sadowski

PS- You might also like our Trolley Dodger Facebook auxiliary, a private group that now has 1,205 members.

Our friend Kenneth Gear has a Facebook group for the Railroad Record Club. If you enjoy listening to audio recordings of classic railroad trains, whether steam, electric, or diesel, you might consider joining.

FYI, the Hoosier Traction Facebook Group celebrates electric transit in Indiana and the Midwest. It also supports the activities of the annual Hoosier Traction Meet (although not affiliated with the North American Transit Historical Society, which organizes that event).

On June 21, 1958, the Chicago Transit Authority offered free rides between Halsted Street and Cicero Avenue on its new rapid transit line in the median of the Congress (now Eisenhower) expressway. Robert Heinlein, then 20 years old, was working in the Public Information department and helps pass out literature. The new line opened the next day, replacing the Garfield Park "L". This picture appeared in the July 1958 issue of the CTA Transit News, an employee publication.

On June 21, 1958, the Chicago Transit Authority offered free rides between Halsted Street and Cicero Avenue on its new rapid transit line in the median of the Congress (now Eisenhower) expressway. Robert Heinlein, then 20 years old, was working in the Public Information department and helps pass out literature. The new line opened the next day, replacing the Garfield Park “L”. This picture appeared in the July 1958 issue of the CTA Transit News, an employee publication.

CTA 7163 is southbound at Clark, Halsted, and Barry in July 1957. A version of this photo, taken from a duplicate slide, appears on page 170 of B-146, mistakenly credited to Charles L. Tauscher. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7163 is southbound at Clark, Halsted, and Barry in July 1957. A version of this photo, taken from a duplicate slide, appears on page 170 of B-146, mistakenly credited to Charles L. Tauscher. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7162 is southbound on Clark Street at LaSalle Drive in September 1957. A version of this photo, taken from a duplicate slide, appears on page 177 of B-146, mistakenly credited to Charles L. Tauscher. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7162 is southbound on Clark Street at LaSalle Drive in September 1957. A version of this photo, taken from a duplicate slide, appears on page 177 of B-146, mistakenly credited to Charles L. Tauscher. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7171 is northbound on Clark Street, passing Wrigley Field. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7171 is northbound on Clark Street, passing Wrigley Field. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7138 at Schreiber and Ravenswood, near Devon Station. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7138 at Schreiber and Ravenswood, near Devon Station. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7192 at Kinzie and Dearborn in 1957. The yellow car behind the PCC, while commonly considered a Packard, is technically a 1956 Clipper Constellation hardtop, made by the Studebaker-Packard Corporation. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7192 at Kinzie and Dearborn in 1957. The yellow car behind the PCC, while commonly considered a Packard, is technically a 1956 Clipper Constellation hardtop, made by the Studebaker-Packard Corporation. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7193 is northbound on Clark, just north of Ridge, at around 5961 N. Clark in July 1957. A version of this image, taken from a duplicate slide, was incorrectly credited to Charles L. Tauscher on page 158 of B-146. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7193 is northbound on Clark, just north of Ridge, at around 5961 N. Clark in July 1957. A version of this image, taken from a duplicate slide, was incorrectly credited to Charles L. Tauscher on page 158 of B-146. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7151 is southbound at Clark Street and Chicago Avenue, passing by what is now the former Cosmopolitan Bank Building, designed by the firm of Schmidt, Garden & Martin and built in 1920. The northern portion of the building was a 1930 addition, and was redone in 1995, in a style matching the original portion. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7151 is southbound at Clark Street and Chicago Avenue, passing by what is now the former Cosmopolitan Bank Building, designed by the firm of Schmidt, Garden & Martin and built in 1920. The northern portion of the building was a 1930 addition, and was redone in 1995, in a style matching the original portion. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7180 is southbound on Clark Street, passing by the coal company that was once located next to Wrigley Field. You get a good view of the Milwaukee Road freight tracks, since abandoned, that headed north of here. This was once part of a line that offered commuter rail service on the north side. The portion north of Wilson Avenue was taken over by the "L" in the early 1900s. Originally known as the Evanston Extension, it was gradually elevated as well. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7180 is southbound on Clark Street, passing by the coal company that was once located next to Wrigley Field. You get a good view of the Milwaukee Road freight tracks, since abandoned, that headed north of here. This was once part of a line that offered commuter rail service on the north side. The portion north of Wilson Avenue was taken over by the “L” in the early 1900s. Originally known as the Evanston Extension, it was gradually elevated as well. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7214 heads south on Route 22 - Clark-Wentworth. Since the Cubs were in the middle of a home stand, the date may very well have been September 4, 1957. The Cubbies would lose two of their three next games to the Cincinnati Redlegs ("Reds" was apparently too sensitive a name politically then) on their way to finishing the season with a record of 62 wins, 92 losses, and 2 ties. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7214 heads south on Route 22 – Clark-Wentworth. Since the Cubs were in the middle of a home stand, the date may very well have been September 4, 1957. The Cubbies would lose two of their three next games to the Cincinnati Redlegs (“Reds” was apparently too sensitive a name politically then) on their way to finishing the season with a record of 62 wins, 92 losses, and 2 ties. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7191 passing by Wrigley Field. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7191 passing by Wrigley Field. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7189 is southbound on Clark Street just south of Irving Park Road in July 1957. The Wunders Cemetery is at right. A version of this image, taken from a duplicate slide, appears on page 165 of B-146, where it is incorrectly attributed to Charles L. Tauscher. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7189 is southbound on Clark Street just south of Irving Park Road in July 1957. The Wunders Cemetery is at right. A version of this image, taken from a duplicate slide, appears on page 165 of B-146, where it is incorrectly attributed to Charles L. Tauscher. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7190 at Clark and Seminary by Wrigley Field in July 1957. The "coke" advertised here wasn't Coca-Cola, but coal, used for heating homes and businesses then, but phased out soon afterwards. A version of this image, taken from a duplicate slide, appears on page 167 of B-146, incorrectly attributed to Charles L. Tauscher. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7190 at Clark and Seminary by Wrigley Field in July 1957. The “coke” advertised here wasn’t Coca-Cola, but coal, used for heating homes and businesses then, but phased out soon afterwards. A version of this image, taken from a duplicate slide, appears on page 167 of B-146, incorrectly attributed to Charles L. Tauscher. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7178 heads south on Clark Street near Wrigley Field in September 1957. The Milwaukee Road railroad tracks running by the ballpark were used for freight and connected with the CTA "L" just north of Irving Park Road. A version of this image, taken from a duplicate slide, appears on page 166 of B-146, where it is incorrectly attributed to Charles L. Tauscher. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7178 heads south on Clark Street near Wrigley Field in September 1957. The Milwaukee Road railroad tracks running by the ballpark were used for freight and connected with the CTA “L” just north of Irving Park Road. A version of this image, taken from a duplicate slide, appears on page 166 of B-146, where it is incorrectly attributed to Charles L. Tauscher. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7190 heads south on State Street, crossing the Chicago River. Work on the new Chicago Sun-Times building is well underway. It opened in 1958. The following years, Field Enterprises bought the Daily News, and this building became its headquarters as well. It is now the site of the Trump International Hotel and Tower. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7190 heads south on State Street, crossing the Chicago River. Work on the new Chicago Sun-Times building is well underway. It opened in 1958. The following years, Field Enterprises bought the Daily News, and this building became its headquarters as well. It is now the site of the Trump International Hotel and Tower. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7200 is turning south from Devon onto Broadway in 1957. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7200 is turning south from Devon onto Broadway in 1957. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

In September 1957, CTA PCCs 7220 and 7211 pass each other on Clark Street at Delaware near the Newberry Library and Washington Square Park, also known locally as "Bughouse Square." A version of this image, taken from a duplicate slide, appears on page 181 of B-146, mistakenly attributed to Charles L. Tauscher. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

In September 1957, CTA PCCs 7220 and 7211 pass each other on Clark Street at Delaware near the Newberry Library and Washington Square Park, also known locally as “Bughouse Square.” A version of this image, taken from a duplicate slide, appears on page 181 of B-146, mistakenly attributed to Charles L. Tauscher. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7156 heads south on Broadway at Lawrence in Uptown on February 15, 1957, the last day of streetcar service on Broadway. The film Giant, starring James Dean, Rock Hudson, and Elizabeth Taylor, opened in the US on November 24, 1956, and was playing at the Uptown. You can see the Green Mill lounge a bit south of the Uptown. The Riviera Theater would be just out of view to the left here. A version of this image, taken from a duplicate slide, appears on page 244 of B-146, mistakenly credited to Charles L. Tauscher. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7156 heads south on Broadway at Lawrence in Uptown on February 15, 1957, the last day of streetcar service on Broadway. The film Giant, starring James Dean, Rock Hudson, and Elizabeth Taylor, opened in the US on November 24, 1956, and was playing at the Uptown. You can see the Green Mill lounge a bit south of the Uptown. The Riviera Theater would be just out of view to the left here. A version of this image, taken from a duplicate slide, appears on page 244 of B-146, mistakenly credited to Charles L. Tauscher. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7164 is northbound on Clark at Addison in July 1957, crossing the Milwaukee Road tracks near Wrigley Field. A version of this photo, taken from a duplicate slide, appears on page 166 of B-146, incorrectly attributed to Charles L. Tauscher. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7164 is northbound on Clark at Addison in July 1957, crossing the Milwaukee Road tracks near Wrigley Field. A version of this photo, taken from a duplicate slide, appears on page 166 of B-146, incorrectly attributed to Charles L. Tauscher. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7222 by Wrigley Field (Clark and Addison) in July 1957. This picture appears twice in CERA B-146, on the cover and on pages 134 and 167, taken from a duplicate slide. On page 167, it is incorrectly attributed to Charles L. Tauscher. This is the original Red Border Kodachrome. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7222 by Wrigley Field (Clark and Addison) in July 1957. This picture appears twice in CERA B-146, on the cover and on pages 134 and 167, taken from a duplicate slide. On page 167, it is incorrectly attributed to Charles L. Tauscher. This is the original Red Border Kodachrome. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7149, signed for Clark and Schreiber (Devon Station). Note that the route number is 22 with a red slash through it. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7149, signed for Clark and Schreiber (Devon Station). Note that the route number is 22 with a red slash through it. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7211, still in its original paint scheme, heads south at Clark Street and Irving Park Road in September 1957, near the entrance to Graceland Cemetery. A version of this image, taken from a duplicate slide, appears on page 164 of B-146, where it was incorrectly attributed to Charles L. Tauscher. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

CTA 7211, still in its original paint scheme, heads south at Clark Street and Irving Park Road in September 1957, near the entrance to Graceland Cemetery. A version of this image, taken from a duplicate slide, appears on page 164 of B-146, where it was incorrectly attributed to Charles L. Tauscher. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

In September 1957, CTA 7160 passes by the Rainbo building at left, located in the 4800 block of north Clark Street. A skating rink opened there that year. To the right, you see St. Boniface Catholic Cemetery. We are looking north. A version of this image, taken from a duplicate slide, appears on page 162 of B-146, where it was incorrectly credited to Charles L. Tauscher. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

In September 1957, CTA 7160 passes by the Rainbo building at left, located in the 4800 block of north Clark Street. A skating rink opened there that year. To the right, you see St. Boniface Catholic Cemetery. We are looking north. A version of this image, taken from a duplicate slide, appears on page 162 of B-146, where it was incorrectly credited to Charles L. Tauscher. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

Although signed for the south portion of Route 36, which was replaced by buses in December 1955, PCC 4406 is actually on Clark and 16th Streets. Since 4406 was used (along with red car 225) on a fantrip on October 21, 1956, my guess is this picture was taken on that day. It was common practice to put incorrect signs up on trips, although on most of the pictures I have seen from that trip, it says "Chartered." (Robert Heinlein Photo)

Although signed for the south portion of Route 36, which was replaced by buses in December 1955, PCC 4406 is actually on Clark and 16th Streets. Since 4406 was used (along with red car 225) on a fantrip on October 21, 1956, my guess is this picture was taken on that day. It was common practice to put incorrect signs up on trips, although on most of the pictures I have seen from that trip, it says “Chartered.” (Robert Heinlein Photo)

Wouldn't you just know it? Without even realizing it I am sure, someone walked right into Bob Heinlein's shot in this September 1957 view of CTA PCC 4390 (which would end up being one of the last cars used in June 1958). What to do, but wait for another car to come along, and take another picture (see Heinlein008).

Wouldn’t you just know it? Without even realizing it I am sure, someone walked right into Bob Heinlein’s shot in this September 1957 view of CTA PCC 4390 (which would end up being one of the last cars used in June 1958). What to do, but wait for another car to come along, and take another picture (see Heinlein008).

Chicago Aurora and Elgin cars 413 and 453 are looping at the DesPlaines Avenue Terminal, sometime between 1953 and 1957. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

Chicago Aurora and Elgin cars 413 and 453 are looping at the DesPlaines Avenue Terminal, sometime between 1953 and 1957. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

We are looking west from the Wells Street Terminal towards the dual bridges over the Chicago River. (Robert Heinlein Collection)

We are looking west from the Wells Street Terminal towards the dual bridges over the Chicago River. (Robert Heinlein Collection)

Trackwork near the Met bridge was somewhat complex. Tracks to the right fanned out, leading to the Wells Street Terminal. The tracks at left connected to the Loop "L" via Van Buren Street. (Robert Heinlein Collection)

Trackwork near the Met bridge was somewhat complex. Tracks to the right fanned out, leading to the Wells Street Terminal. The tracks at left connected to the Loop “L” via Van Buren Street. (Robert Heinlein Collection)

This is the only photo I have seen that shows the interior of the Met bridge interlocking tower. (Robert Heinlein Collection)

This is the only photo I have seen that shows the interior of the Met bridge interlocking tower. (Robert Heinlein Collection)

This was scanned from an original North Shore Line 8x10" nitrate negative, taken circa 1930. Determining the location presented many challenges, yet this has now been determined with the aid of other fans. The car is 714, and it is signed as a Chicago Local on the Shore Line Route. Since the North Shore tracks are not adjacent to the Chicago and North Western, we must be north of North Chicago Junction. We cannot be south of Highland Park, as there is freight present here. A sign on the high-level platform indicates that freight trains have to come to a stop, most likely to make sure part of the platform gets flipped up for the sake of clearances. A similar arrangement existed at high-level stations of the Chicago Aurora and Elgin. As all the Shore Line tracks in Waukegan ran on the street, that pretty much narrows it down to North Chicago. The Thomas J. Killian Plumbing Supply company building at left clinches it, and the location is between 16th and 17th Streets, looking north. The Chicago and North Western's tracks were a short distance east of here, to the right out of view of this photo. (Robert Heinlein Collection)

This was scanned from an original North Shore Line 8×10″ nitrate negative, taken circa 1930. Determining the location presented many challenges, yet this has now been determined with the aid of other fans. The car is 714, and it is signed as a Chicago Local on the Shore Line Route. Since the North Shore tracks are not adjacent to the Chicago and North Western, we must be north of North Chicago Junction. We cannot be south of Highland Park, as there is freight present here. A sign on the high-level platform indicates that freight trains have to come to a stop, most likely to make sure part of the platform gets flipped up for the sake of clearances. A similar arrangement existed at high-level stations of the Chicago Aurora and Elgin. As all the Shore Line tracks in Waukegan ran on the street, that pretty much narrows it down to North Chicago. The Thomas J. Killian Plumbing Supply company building at left clinches it, and the location is between 16th and 17th Streets, looking north. The Chicago and North Western’s tracks were a short distance east of here, to the right out of view of this photo. (Robert Heinlein Collection)

This was also scanned from an original North Shore Line 8x10" nitrate negative, taken at the same time as the previous photo and shows a slightly different view of the same scene. (Robert Heinlein Collection)

This was also scanned from an original North Shore Line 8×10″ nitrate negative, taken at the same time as the previous photo and shows a slightly different view of the same scene. (Robert Heinlein Collection)

The North Shore Line grade crossing at Taylor Avenue in Racine, WI on December 16, 1931. You can see the shadow of the photographer, his view camera, and an assistant. This was scanned from the original 8x10" negative. (NSL Photo, Robert D. Heinlein Collection)

The North Shore Line grade crossing at Taylor Avenue in Racine, WI on December 16, 1931. You can see the shadow of the photographer, his view camera, and an assistant. This was scanned from the original 8×10″ negative. (NSL Photo, Robert D. Heinlein Collection)

The view of the North Shore Line tracks, looking south towards 21st Street in Racine, WI on March 11, 1930. Scanned from the original 8x10" negative. (NSL Photo, Robert D. Heinlein Collection)

The view of the North Shore Line tracks, looking south towards 21st Street in Racine, WI on March 11, 1930. Scanned from the original 8×10″ negative. (NSL Photo, Robert D. Heinlein Collection)

A view of the North Shore Line tracks looking north along the Skokie Valley Route near 16th Street in North Chicago on March 22, 1934. Scanned from the original 8x10" negative. (NSL Photo, Robert D. Heinlein Collection)

A view of the North Shore Line tracks looking north along the Skokie Valley Route near 16th Street in North Chicago on March 22, 1934. Scanned from the original 8×10″ negative. (NSL Photo, Robert D. Heinlein Collection)

The number 4391, in railfan circles, is most widely known as that of the only surviving postwar Chicago PCC streetcar. But this is a different 4391, namely a Chicago Rapid Transit Company "L" car, built circa 1923-24. We see the interior, complete with ads for Kellogg's Corn Flakes and Bayer Aspirin, as it looked on May 27, 1937. Scanned from the original 8x10" negative. (CRT Photo, Robert D. Heinlein Collection)

The number 4391, in railfan circles, is most widely known as that of the only surviving postwar Chicago PCC streetcar. But this is a different 4391, namely a Chicago Rapid Transit Company “L” car, built circa 1923-24. We see the interior, complete with ads for Kellogg’s Corn Flakes and Bayer Aspirin, as it looked on May 27, 1937. Scanned from the original 8×10″ negative. (CRT Photo, Robert D. Heinlein Collection)

The view looking northeast along Lawrence Avenue (4800 N.) at Kimball Avenue (3400 W.) on January 28, 1929, in the Albany Park neighborhood. The Chicago Rapid Transit Company's Ravenswood "L" Terminal is at right. The Terminal Theater, seen in the distance, was located at 3315 W. Lawrence, and had 2,389 seats. Presumably it took its name from the nearby "L" terminal. It was built by the Ascher Brothers chain and opened on January 7, 1926. It eventually became part of the Balaban and Katz chain, and closed on April 18, 1963. It was also known as the New Terminal, as it had replaced a smaller Terminal Theater nearby, built in 1915. Scanned from the original 8x10" negative. (CRT Photo, Robert D. Heinlein collection)

The view looking northeast along Lawrence Avenue (4800 N.) at Kimball Avenue (3400 W.) on January 28, 1929, in the Albany Park neighborhood. The Chicago Rapid Transit Company’s Ravenswood “L” Terminal is at right. The Terminal Theater, seen in the distance, was located at 3315 W. Lawrence, and had 2,389 seats. Presumably it took its name from the nearby “L” terminal. It was built by the Ascher Brothers chain and opened on January 7, 1926. It eventually became part of the Balaban and Katz chain, and closed on April 18, 1963. It was also known as the New Terminal, as it had replaced a smaller Terminal Theater nearby, built in 1915. Scanned from the original 8×10″ negative. (CRT Photo, Robert D. Heinlein collection)

It's not clear exactly where this early 1900s photo was taken, but Greenwood, Franklin, Edinburgh, Columbus, and Seymour are all Indiana communities, located south of Indianapolis. Presumably the interurban shown was the Indiana Public Service, a predecessor of the Indiana Railroad, formed by Samuel Insull in 1930, combining five electric railways. (Robert D. Heinlein Collection)

It’s not clear exactly where this early 1900s photo was taken, but Greenwood, Franklin, Edinburgh, Columbus, and Seymour are all Indiana communities, located south of Indianapolis. Presumably the interurban shown was the Indiana Public Service, a predecessor of the Indiana Railroad, formed by Samuel Insull in 1930, combining five electric railways. (Robert D. Heinlein Collection)

North Shore Line coach 178 at the Highwood Shops in the mid-1950s. (Robert D. Heinlein Photo)

North Shore Line coach 178 at the Highwood Shops in the mid-1950s. (Robert D. Heinlein Photo)

North Shore Line car 169 is northbound at the Wilmette station in the early-to-mid 1950s. This is now the site of a Panera parking lot. (Robert D. Heinlein Photo)

North Shore Line car 169 is northbound at the Wilmette station in the early-to-mid 1950s. This is now the site of a Panera parking lot. (Robert D. Heinlein Photo)

North Shore Line cars 154, 190, and 155 are stopped by the Lake Forest station on July 24, 1955. This was a Central Electric Railfans' Association fantrip just prior to the abandonment of the Shore Line Route. (Robert D. Heinlein Photo)

North Shore Line cars 154, 190, and 155 are stopped by the Lake Forest station on July 24, 1955. This was a Central Electric Railfans’ Association fantrip just prior to the abandonment of the Shore Line Route. (Robert D. Heinlein Photo)

This, and the following photo, were taken at the Mundelein Terminal in December 1960, showing different views of a two-car Skokie Valley Route train with 701 and 719. (Robert D. Heinlein Collection)

This, and the following photo, were taken at the Mundelein Terminal in December 1960, showing different views of a two-car Skokie Valley Route train with 701 and 719. (Robert D. Heinlein Collection)

A northbound two-car North Shore Line train at Kenosha, WI in December 1960. (Robert D. Heinlein Collection)

A northbound two-car North Shore Line train at Kenosha, WI in December 1960. (Robert D. Heinlein Collection)

North Shore Line 724 heads up a two-car train at 5th Street and Harrison Avenue in Milwaukee on September 24, 1961. (Robert D. Heinlein Photo)

North Shore Line 724 heads up a two-car train at 5th Street and Harrison Avenue in Milwaukee on September 24, 1961. (Robert D. Heinlein Photo)

North Shore Line 772 is a southbound Chicago Express on June 9, 1955, on a short stretch of street running in Highland Park. Service on the Shore Line Route would end about six weeks later. (Robert D. Heinlein Photo)

North Shore Line 772 is a southbound Chicago Express on June 9, 1955, on a short stretch of street running in Highland Park. Service on the Shore Line Route would end about six weeks later. (Robert D. Heinlein Photo)

On July 10, 1955, North Shore Line car 409 is at the north end of the Shore Line Route, on the border between North Chicago and Waukegan. This car is now at the Illinois Railway Museum. Service on the Shore Line Route ended about two weeks after this picture was taken. (Robert D. Heinlein Photo)

On July 10, 1955, North Shore Line car 409 is at the north end of the Shore Line Route, on the border between North Chicago and Waukegan. This car is now at the Illinois Railway Museum. Service on the Shore Line Route ended about two weeks after this picture was taken. (Robert D. Heinlein Photo)

Family was very important to Robert Heinlein, and often accompanied him on his railroad excursions. Here, his young daughter Donna poses for him on a North Shore coach at the Mundelein Terminal on December 1, 1962.

Family was very important to Robert Heinlein, and often accompanied him on his railroad excursions. Here, his young daughter Donna poses for him on a North Shore coach at the Mundelein Terminal on December 1, 1962.

Although this photo has motion blur, it does help identify the location of the next picture, taken right after it. North Shore car 163 is at the front of a two-car train in Kenilworth, about a block north of the historic fountain designed by George W. Maher. It is leaving street running and entering private right-of-way where it will run parallel to the Chicago and North Western. (Robert D. Heinlein Photos)

Although this photo has motion blur, it does help identify the location of the next picture, taken right after it. North Shore car 163 is at the front of a two-car train in Kenilworth, about a block north of the historic fountain designed by George W. Maher. It is leaving street running and entering private right-of-way where it will run parallel to the Chicago and North Western. (Robert D. Heinlein Photos)

North Shore Line Silverliner 756 is on the Skokie Valley Route, but where? The Kutten Oil Company was located at 3510 Wilmette Avenue in Wilmette, near Glenview. Robert D. Heinlein took this picture on September 1, 1958.

North Shore Line Silverliner 756 is on the Skokie Valley Route, but where? The Kutten Oil Company was located at 3510 Wilmette Avenue in Wilmette, near Glenview. Robert D. Heinlein took this picture on September 1, 1958.

Knollwood was a stop along the Libertyville-Mundelein branch, named for a nearby farm. This is in an unincorporated area of Lake County, just west of Lake Bluff, at the intersection of Waukegan Road and Rockland Road. The train, which includes car 712, is heading east. The popular Silo restaurant is not too far east of here in Lake Bluff. Photographer Robert D. Heinlein captured this view on June 17, 1962.

Knollwood was a stop along the Libertyville-Mundelein branch, named for a nearby farm. This is in an unincorporated area of Lake County, just west of Lake Bluff, at the intersection of Waukegan Road and Rockland Road. The train, which includes car 712, is heading east. The popular Silo restaurant is not too far east of here in Lake Bluff. Photographer Robert D. Heinlein captured this view on June 17, 1962.

The same location today.

The same location today.

This slide was taken early in the morning, and had to be lightened considerably. It was dated January 21, 1963 on the mount, but may actually have been taken on the 20th (the film was not processed until the following month). As such it was one of the final opportunities to shoot an Electroliner at the Milwaukee Terminal, which prompted one fan to jump into the inspection pit for his shot. (Robert D. Heinlein Photo)

This slide was taken early in the morning, and had to be lightened considerably. It was dated January 21, 1963 on the mount, but may actually have been taken on the 20th (the film was not processed until the following month). As such it was one of the final opportunities to shoot an Electroliner at the Milwaukee Terminal, which prompted one fan to jump into the inspection pit for his shot. (Robert D. Heinlein Photo)

This slide, showing a southbound North Shore Line Electroliner at speed, was marked as having been taken January 21, 1963 at Washington Street in Waukegan. That would place it after the abandonment the night before, but it seems likely to have been taken on the last full day prior to the shutdown, January 20th. Research shows the two Electroliners were moved back to the Highwood Shops one last time at night. Since this roll of film was not developed until the following month, the date was stamped on the slide mount some time after the fact. (Robert D. Heinlein Photo)

This slide, showing a southbound North Shore Line Electroliner at speed, was marked as having been taken January 21, 1963 at Washington Street in Waukegan. That would place it after the abandonment the night before, but it seems likely to have been taken on the last full day prior to the shutdown, January 20th. Research shows the two Electroliners were moved back to the Highwood Shops one last time at night. Since this roll of film was not developed until the following month, the date was stamped on the slide mount some time after the fact. (Robert D. Heinlein Photo)

North Shore Line 747 is at the head of a train at Lake Bluff, signed as a Skokie Valley Route Chicago Limited. This slide was marked January 21, 1963, but is more likely to have been taken the day before. (Robert D. Heinlein Photo)

North Shore Line 747 is at the head of a train at Lake Bluff, signed as a Skokie Valley Route Chicago Limited. This slide was marked January 21, 1963, but is more likely to have been taken the day before. (Robert D. Heinlein Photo)

Illinois Terminal car 285 is on the last trip at Champaign, IL on June 11, 1955. Don's Rail Photos (via Archive.org): "285 was built by St Louis Car in 1914. It was rebuilt as a parlor car in 1924 and restored as a coach in December 1928. It was air conditioned in August 1938 and (received) new seating in December 1952. It was sold for scrap to Hyman Michaels Co. on May 16, 1956." (John F. Humiston Photo, Robert D. Heinlein Collection)

Illinois Terminal car 285 is on the last trip at Champaign, IL on June 11, 1955. Don’s Rail Photos (via Archive.org): “285 was built by St Louis Car in 1914. It was rebuilt as a parlor car in 1924 and restored as a coach in December 1928. It was air conditioned in August 1938 and (received) new seating in December 1952. It was sold for scrap to Hyman Michaels Co. on May 16, 1956.” (John F. Humiston Photo, Robert D. Heinlein Collection)

Illinois Terminal 285 is at Cerro Gordo, IL on its last trip prior to abandonment of this interurban route on June 11, 1955. For the occasion, locals dressed up in turn-of-the-century costumes. Some of the riders may have been old enough to remember when interurban service began here. (John F. Humiston Photo, Robert Heinlein Collection)

Illinois Terminal 285 is at Cerro Gordo, IL on its last trip prior to abandonment of this interurban route on June 11, 1955. For the occasion, locals dressed up in turn-of-the-century costumes. Some of the riders may have been old enough to remember when interurban service began here. (John F. Humiston Photo, Robert Heinlein Collection)

Illinois Terminal 285 is at Champaign, IL on its last trip on June 11, 1955. (John F. Humiston Photo, Robert Heinlein Collection)

Illinois Terminal 285 is at Champaign, IL on its last trip on June 11, 1955. (John F. Humiston Photo, Robert Heinlein Collection)

This and the next picture: The Elgin and Belvidere Electric Company interurban operated from 1907 to 1930, connecting those two cities. It was extended to Rockford in 1927 but fell victim to the Great Depression and the rise of the automobile. When the Illinois Railway Museum (originally based in North Chicago) needed a new home in the early 1960s, they based their new main line on this former interurban right-of-way (and were able to purchase most, but not all of it by paying the back taxes). Amazingly, one of the original Elgin and Belvidere motormen lived long enough to operate a trolley at IRM. (Robert D. Heinlein Collection)

This and the next picture: The Elgin and Belvidere Electric Company interurban operated from 1907 to 1930, connecting those two cities. It was extended to Rockford in 1927 but fell victim to the Great Depression and the rise of the automobile. When the Illinois Railway Museum (originally based in North Chicago) needed a new home in the early 1960s, they based their new main line on this former interurban right-of-way (and were able to purchase most, but not all of it by paying the back taxes). Amazingly, one of the original Elgin and Belvidere motormen lived long enough to operate a trolley at IRM. (Robert D. Heinlein Collection)

Work is underway erecting trolley poles at the Illinois Railway Museum site in Union. The time frame here could date from the mid-1960s to the early 1970s. (Robert D. Heinlein Photo)

Work is underway erecting trolley poles at the Illinois Railway Museum site in Union. The time frame here could date from the mid-1960s to the early 1970s. (Robert D. Heinlein Photo)

Former North Shore Line line car 604 at work one wintry day at the Illinois Railway Museum. (Robert D. Heinlein Photo)

Former North Shore Line line car 604 at work one wintry day at the Illinois Railway Museum. (Robert D. Heinlein Photo)

Indiana Railroad high-speed lightweight interurban car 65 at the Illinois Railway Museum. (Robert D. Heinlein Photo)

Indiana Railroad high-speed lightweight interurban car 65 at the Illinois Railway Museum. (Robert D. Heinlein Photo)

Two trains running at the Illinois Railway Museum, circa 1971. At left, North Shore Line cars 160 and 714. The steam loco at right is labeled Tuskegee, but I am not sure if this is the Tuskegee Railroad 101 in the museum's collection. (Robert D. Heinlein Photo)

Two trains running at the Illinois Railway Museum, circa 1971. At left, North Shore Line cars 160 and 714. The steam loco at right is labeled Tuskegee, but I am not sure if this is the Tuskegee Railroad 101 in the museum’s collection. (Robert D. Heinlein Photo)

Bob Heinlein and his brother Don at East Troy in May 2022.

Bob Heinlein and his brother Don at East Troy in May 2022.

Our Latest Book, Now Available:

The North Shore Line

FYI, my new Arcadia Publishing book The North Shore Line is now available for immediate shipment. My publisher decided to expand it to 160 pages, instead of the usual 128. That’s a 25% increase, without any change to the $23.99 price. I am quite pleased with how this turned out.

From the back cover:

As late as 1963, it was possible to board high-speed electric trains on Chicago’s famous Loop “L” that ran 90 miles north to Milwaukee. This was the Chicago North Shore & Milwaukee Railroad, commonly known as the North Shore Line. It rose from humble origins in the 1890s as a local streetcar line in Waukegan to eventually become America’s fastest interurban under the visionary management of Midwest utilities tycoon Samuel Insull. The North Shore Line, under Insull, became a worthy competitor to the established steam railroads. Hobbled by the Great Depression, the road fought back in 1941 with two streamlined, air-conditioned, articulated trains called Electroliners, which included dining service. It regained its popularity during World War II, when gasoline and tires were rationed, but eventually, it fell victim to highways and the automobile. The North Shore Line had intercity rail, commuter rail, electric freight, city streetcars, and even buses. It has been gone for nearly 60 years, but it will always remain the Road of Service.

Each copy purchased here will be signed by the author, and you will also receive a bonus North Shore Line map.  Books will ship by USPS Media Mail.

Chapters:
01. Beginnings
02. The Milwaukee Division
03. The Shore Line Route
04. The Skokie Valley Route
05. The Mundelein Branch
06. On the “L”
07. City Streetcars
08. Trolley Freight
09. The Long Goodbye
10. The Legacy

Title The North Shore Line
Images of America
Author David Sadowski
Edition illustrated
Publisher Arcadia Publishing (SC), 2023
ISBN 1467108960, 978-1467108966
Length 160 pages

The price of $23.99 includes shipping within the United States.

For Shipping to US Addresses:

New Compact Disc, Now Available:

CTA-1
The Last Chicago Streetcars 1958
# of Discs – 1
Price: $15.99

Until now, it seemed as though audio recordings of Chicago streetcars were practically non-existent. For whatever reason, the late William A. Steventon does not appear to have made any for his Railroad Record Club, even though he did make other recordings in the Chicago area in 1956.

Now, audio recordings of the last runs of Chicago streetcars have been found, in the collections of the late Jeffrey L. Wien (who was one of the riders on that last car). We do not know who made these recordings, but this must have been done using a portable reel-to-reel machine.

These important recordings will finally fill a gap in transit history. The last Chicago Transit Authority streetcar finished its run in the early hours of June 21, 1958. Now you can experience these events just as Chicagoans did.

As a bonus, we have included Keeping Pace, a 1939 Chicago Surface Lines employee training program. This was digitally transferred from an original 16” transcription disc. These recordings were unheard for 80 years.

Total time – 74:38

Help Support The Trolley Dodger

This is our 299th post, and we are gradually creating a body of work and an online resource for the benefit of all railfans, everywhere. To date, we have received over 983,000 page views, for which we are very grateful.

You can help us continue our original transit research by checking out the fine products in our Online Store.
As we have said before, “If you buy here, we will be here.”

We thank you for your support.

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In order to continue giving you the kinds of historic railroad images that you have come to expect from The Trolley Dodger, we need your help and support. It costs money to maintain this website, and to do the sort of historic research that is our specialty.

Your financial contributions help make this web site better, and are greatly appreciated.


Back in Business

North Shore Line cars 155, 190, and 154 are stopped by the historic Kenilworth fountain on July 24, 1955. The occasion was a Central Electric Railfans' Association fantrip just prior to the abandonment of the Shore Line Route. A similar picture, taken by Ray DeGroote, is in my book The North Shore Line.

North Shore Line cars 155, 190, and 154 are stopped by the historic Kenilworth fountain on July 24, 1955. The occasion was a Central Electric Railfans’ Association fantrip just prior to the abandonment of the Shore Line Route. A similar picture, taken by Ray DeGroote, is in my book The North Shore Line.

While this is our first new post in nearly three months, we have been hard at work this entire time. Since January 21st we took delivery on our new book The North Shore Line (see below), and shipped out over 200 copies to our purchasers and contributors. The book has been very well received by our readers.

We also gave a presentation on March 8th at the Schaumburg Township Public Library for our 2021 book Chicago’s Lost “L”s.  This was a “hybrid” (in-person and on Zoom) program, but it was not recorded.

FYI, I will be giving a presentation on Monday, April 17th at the Libertyville Historical Society for my new book The North Shore Line. This is a “hybrid” program (both in person and on Zoom). More information here.

Three days later, on April 20th, I have another presentation scheduled (in Lake Forest) at the History Center Lake Forest-Lake Bluff. This one is in-person only. More information here.

Meanwhile, we have already begun doing research on our next book, which will be about the Chicago Aurora and Elgin interurban. This is a process that we expect will take the rest of this year. More than $2500 has been spent collecting materials for possible use.

Research does take both time and money, and the expenses are ongoing. If you support our efforts, we hope that you will consider making a donation. There are links to do just that in this post.  Any and all contributions are very much appreciated, and we are very thankful for all the help we get from our readers.  We can’t do it without you.

Keep those cards and letters coming in, folks.

-David Sadowski

PS- You might also like our Trolley Dodger Facebook auxiliary, a private group that now has 1,117 members.

Our friend Kenneth Gear now has a Facebook group for the Railroad Record Club. If you enjoy listening to audio recordings of classic railroad trains, whether steam, electric, or diesel, you might consider joining.

FYI, the Hoosier Traction Facebook Group celebrates electric transit in Indiana and the Midwest. It also supports the activities of the annual Hoosier Traction Meet (although not affiliated with the North American Transit Historical Society, which organizes that event).

The Lake Street “L” in Transition

We recently scanned several original slides taken by the late William C. Hoffman, documenting the transition made by the Lake Street “L”. For more than 60 years, the line ran at ground level west of Laramie Avenue (5200 West). On October 28, 1962, it switched to a new alignment on the adjacent Chicago and North Western embankment, where it has remained for more than 60 years.

We previously ran some other pictures showing this transition in our post Elevation (December 5, 2022).

This September 1959 view looks west along South Boulevard in Oak Park, and shows the Marion Street station on the Lake Street "L", when it still ran at ground level west of Laramie Avenue. The "L" was relocated to the adjacent Chicago and North Western embankment in October 1962, and the buildings to the left are gone. The side street (Maple Avenue) shown in the picture has been truncated, and a large high-rise residential building occupies this space now.

This September 1959 view looks west along South Boulevard in Oak Park, and shows the Marion Street station on the Lake Street “L”, when it still ran at ground level west of Laramie Avenue. The “L” was relocated to the adjacent Chicago and North Western embankment in October 1962, and the buildings to the left are gone. The side street (Maple Avenue) shown in the picture has been truncated, and a large high-rise residential building occupies this space now.

The same location today.

The same location today.

William C. Hoffman took this picture from the back end of an "L" train on June 28, 1962 just west of the Laramie station. This offers a good view of the construction work underway at left, preparing the new embankment line which opened on October 28th. He referred to this as the "Laramie Avenue interchange."

William C. Hoffman took this picture from the back end of an “L” train on June 28, 1962 just west of the Laramie station. This offers a good view of the construction work underway at left, preparing the new embankment line which opened on October 28th. He referred to this as the “Laramie Avenue interchange.”

Here, we are looking east toward the Laramie Avenue station on the Lake Street "L" on June 28, 1962. According to photographer William C. Hoffman, the westbound track to the new embankment alignment was tied in on this date, and the first cars ran there.

Here, we are looking east toward the Laramie Avenue station on the Lake Street “L” on June 28, 1962. According to photographer William C. Hoffman, the westbound track to the new embankment alignment was tied in on this date, and the first cars ran there.

A CTA diesel crane and work gondola are on the new connecting track leading to the Chicago and North Western embankment on August 22, 1962. At this time, there was a connection between the "L" and the new alignment via the westbound track, but not the eastbound one. For a time, it was necessary to have connections leading to both the ground-level trackage as well as the embankment, until service was switched over on October 28th. I am not sure when the new connection was made with the eastbound track. (William C. Hoffman Photo)

A CTA diesel crane and work gondola are on the new connecting track leading to the Chicago and North Western embankment on August 22, 1962. At this time, there was a connection between the “L” and the new alignment via the westbound track, but not the eastbound one. For a time, it was necessary to have connections leading to both the ground-level trackage as well as the embankment, until service was switched over on October 28th. I am not sure when the new connection was made with the eastbound track. (William C. Hoffman Photo)

This photo by the late William C. Hoffman was taken on October 28, 1962 at the Central Avenue station on the Lake Street "L", and shows how the transition was made from the ground level operation to the new alignment on the C&NW embankment. Unlike the situation in 1958, when the new Congress rapid transit line and the old Garfield Park "L" both ran on the same day, that was not possible here, due to the tight clearances at the station entrances. The new entrances could not be finished until the old line was torn out. So on October 28, 1962, which was a Sunday, the ceremonies dedicating the new 2.5 mile "L" realignment were held in the morning, and then, until 6 pm, trains only ran as far as Laramie Avenue, where the steel "L" structure ended. While workers put wooden platforms over the old tracks, riders west of Laramie had to take shuttle buses on Lake Street, as the signs here indicate. Passengers still had to enter via the old station entrances for a time.

This photo by the late William C. Hoffman was taken on October 28, 1962 at the Central Avenue station on the Lake Street “L”, and shows how the transition was made from the ground level operation to the new alignment on the C&NW embankment. Unlike the situation in 1958, when the new Congress rapid transit line and the old Garfield Park “L” both ran on the same day, that was not possible here, due to the tight clearances at the station entrances. The new entrances could not be finished until the old line was torn out. So on October 28, 1962, which was a Sunday, the ceremonies dedicating the new 2.5 mile “L” realignment were held in the morning, and then, until 6 pm, trains only ran as far as Laramie Avenue, where the steel “L” structure ended. While workers put wooden platforms over the old tracks, riders west of Laramie had to take shuttle buses on Lake Street, as the signs here indicate. Passengers still had to enter via the old station entrances for a time.

A 6-car eastbound Lake Street "L" test train is on the new embankment on October 28, 1962, shortly before the new service began at 6 pm. Although the photographer did not indicate which station this was, I believe it is Ridgeland Avenue in Oak Park. (William C. Hoffman Photo)

A 6-car eastbound Lake Street “L” test train is on the new embankment on October 28, 1962, shortly before the new service began at 6 pm. Although the photographer did not indicate which station this was, I believe it is Ridgeland Avenue in Oak Park. (William C. Hoffman Photo)

The view looking east along the new Lake Street "L" embankment alignment at Marion Street on October 28, 1962, shortly before service began. A work train heads east. Photographer William C. Hoffman accessed this area via the Chicago and North Western Oak Park commuter train station, as the "L" station wasn't yet open until 6 pm.

The view looking east along the new Lake Street “L” embankment alignment at Marion Street on October 28, 1962, shortly before service began. A work train heads east. Photographer William C. Hoffman accessed this area via the Chicago and North Western Oak Park commuter train station, as the “L” station wasn’t yet open until 6 pm.

A 6-car train of CTA 4000-series "L" cars is heading eastbound near Ridgeland Avenue on the new embankment trackage on October 28, 1962, as the ground-level operation has finally been replaced. (William C. Hoffman Photo)

A 6-car train of CTA 4000-series “L” cars is heading eastbound near Ridgeland Avenue on the new embankment trackage on October 28, 1962, as the ground-level operation has finally been replaced. (William C. Hoffman Photo)

A westbound train of 4000s is on the new Lake Street "L" embankment alignment on November 11, 1962. A track welder's car is on the eastbound track. The photographer notes, "Bub Lindgren on "L" train." (William C. Hoffman Photo)

A westbound train of 4000s is on the new Lake Street “L” embankment alignment on November 11, 1962. A track welder’s car is on the eastbound track. The photographer notes, “Bub Lindgren on “L” train.” (William C. Hoffman Photo)

The view looking east along the old ground-level Lake Street "L" right-of-way at Menard Avenue on November 11, 1962. An eastbound two-car "L" train is on the new alignment on the embankment. (William C. Hoffman Photo)

The view looking east along the old ground-level Lake Street “L” right-of-way at Menard Avenue on November 11, 1962. An eastbound two-car “L” train is on the new alignment on the embankment. (William C. Hoffman Photo)

A 4000-series "L" train is stopped at the Harlem and Lake station on November 11, 1962. Note how there are some transparent portions of the station canopy, to let more light in. (William C. Hoffman Photo)

A 4000-series “L” train is stopped at the Harlem and Lake station on November 11, 1962. Note how there are some transparent portions of the station canopy, to let more light in. (William C. Hoffman Photo)

The view looking west/northwest at Lake and Central on November 11, 1962. Riders still entered the station via a temporary connection to the old ground-level station. (William C. Hoffman Photo)

The view looking west/northwest at Lake and Central on November 11, 1962. Riders still entered the station via a temporary connection to the old ground-level station. (William C. Hoffman Photo)

A westbound Lake Street "L" train has just left the Laramie Avenue station on November 11, 1962. This photo gives a good view of how the tracks were shifted over to connect with the nearby embankment. (William C. Hoffman Photo)

A westbound Lake Street “L” train has just left the Laramie Avenue station on November 11, 1962. This photo gives a good view of how the tracks were shifted over to connect with the nearby embankment. (William C. Hoffman Photo)

The view looking east/northeast along Lake Street (now Corcoran Place) at Austin Boulevard on August 12, 1963. The new station entrance has been finished. (William C. Hoffman Photo)

The view looking east/northeast along Lake Street (now Corcoran Place) at Austin Boulevard on August 12, 1963. The new station entrance has been finished. (William C. Hoffman Photo)

The view east along Mansfield Avenue at Lake Street on August 12, 1963. The old ground level tracks and ties have been removed, while a two-car train of 4000s is on the new embankment alignment. (William C. Hoffman Photo)

The view east along Mansfield Avenue at Lake Street on August 12, 1963. The old ground level tracks and ties have been removed, while a two-car train of 4000s is on the new embankment alignment. (William C. Hoffman Photo)

The view east at Lake and Parkside, showing the auxiliary entrance to the new Central Avenue "L" station on August 12, 1963. By now, the old ground-level tracks have been removed, except at street crossings. (William C. Hoffman Photo)

The view east at Lake and Parkside, showing the auxiliary entrance to the new Central Avenue “L” station on August 12, 1963. By now, the old ground-level tracks have been removed, except at street crossings. (William C. Hoffman Photo)

An eastbound two-car Lake Street "L" train heads east on November 24, 1963, after having left the terminal at Harlem Avenue. South Boulevard has been resurfaced, and parking spaces (with meters) added where the tracks used to be. (William C. Hoffman Photo)

An eastbound two-car Lake Street “L” train heads east on November 24, 1963, after having left the terminal at Harlem Avenue. South Boulevard has been resurfaced, and parking spaces (with meters) added where the tracks used to be. (William C. Hoffman Photo)

A southbound Western Avenue PCC car prepares to cross the Garfield Park "L" temporary trackage on September 24, 1953. The view looks west. (William C. Hoffman Photo)

A southbound Western Avenue PCC car prepares to cross the Garfield Park “L” temporary trackage on September 24, 1953. The view looks west. (William C. Hoffman Photo)

Several Chicago Aurora and Elgin interurban cars are visible at the entrance to the Wells Street "L" Terminal on April 6, 1953. The substation under the "L" is still there today and powers the Loop "L". This was the very first color slide my friend Ray DeGroote took (with an Argus C3 camera) on April 6, 1953. He was standing on the platform of the old Franklin Street "L" station.

Several Chicago Aurora and Elgin interurban cars are visible at the entrance to the Wells Street “L” Terminal on April 6, 1953. The substation under the “L” is still there today and powers the Loop “L”. This was the very first color slide my friend Ray DeGroote took (with an Argus C3 camera) on April 6, 1953. He was standing on the platform of the old Franklin Street “L” station.

This is how the northwest corner of 21st Street and 3rd Avenue looked in Manhattan on August 5, 1937. The Third Avenue El was abandoned in 1955 without replacement subway service. In the 68 years since, only a small portion of the Second Avenue Subway has been built.

This is how the northwest corner of 21st Street and 3rd Avenue looked in Manhattan on August 5, 1937. The Third Avenue El was abandoned in 1955 without replacement subway service. In the 68 years since, only a small portion of the Second Avenue Subway has been built.

Photographer Arthur H. Peterson captured this image of a southbound Evanston Express "L" train, including car 4409, near the Berwyn Avenue station on November 25, 1973. The 4000s were ending their more than 50 years of passenger service on the "L". Miles Beitler writes: "There is a third rail in photo aae109a, so why would the trolley pole be raised? The only reason I can think of is that it’s a fantrip, and the train might be on the gauntlet track (to access Buena Yard), but that is not apparent in the photo. Also, 4000s in Evanston Express service were usually at least four cars long." November 25, 1973 was a Sunday, and since the Evanston Express only runs on weekdays (then and now), this must be a fantrip. But there were two-car Evanston Express trains in mid-day service, when the EE ran until almost noon (which it no longer does). I rode on one myself. As for the overhead wire, they may have simply preferred operating the fantrip train using the overhead, as it was about to be eliminated in Evanston, and would no longer be needed south of Howard (as the last CTA freight train had operated several months prior). It's not entirely clear to me exactly when there was third rail available on the entire length of track 1, but the overhead was officially taken out of service in 1975. This left the Skokie Swift as the only CTA that continued to use any overhead wire, and even that was eliminated in the early 2000s.

Photographer Arthur H. Peterson captured this image of a southbound Evanston Express “L” train, including car 4409, near the Berwyn Avenue station on November 25, 1973. The 4000s were ending their more than 50 years of passenger service on the “L”. Miles Beitler writes: “There is a third rail in photo aae109a, so why would the trolley pole be raised? The only reason I can think of is that it’s a fantrip, and the train might be on the gauntlet track (to access Buena Yard), but that is not apparent in the photo. Also, 4000s in Evanston Express service were usually at least four cars long.” November 25, 1973 was a Sunday, and since the Evanston Express only runs on weekdays (then and now), this must be a fantrip. But there were two-car Evanston Express trains in mid-day service, when the EE ran until almost noon (which it no longer does). I rode on one myself. As for the overhead wire, they may have simply preferred operating the fantrip train using the overhead, as it was about to be eliminated in Evanston, and would no longer be needed south of Howard (as the last CTA freight train had operated several months prior). It’s not entirely clear to me exactly when there was third rail available on the entire length of track 1, but the overhead was officially taken out of service in 1975. This left the Skokie Swift as the only CTA that continued to use any overhead wire, and even that was eliminated in the early 2000s.

Although partially double exposed, this rare image shows Hammond Whiting and East Chicago car 79 in service and in color. These streetcars were nearly identical to the Chicago Pullmans. Chicago Surface Lines streetcars shared trackage with these cars, which also went into Chicago as far as 63rd Street until 1940. That is the latest date when this Kodachrome slide could have been taken. Andre Kristopans: "Calumet 79 is NB on Ewing at 95th."

Although partially double exposed, this rare image shows Hammond Whiting and East Chicago car 79 in service and in color. These streetcars were nearly identical to the Chicago Pullmans. Chicago Surface Lines streetcars shared trackage with these cars, which also went into Chicago as far as 63rd Street until 1940. That is the latest date when this Kodachrome slide could have been taken. Andre Kristopans: “Calumet 79 is NB on Ewing at 95th.”

Chicago Aurora and Elgin cars 455 ad 460 are looping at the DesPlaines Avenue Terminal in Forest Park on July 23, 1955. This view looks east.

Chicago Aurora and Elgin cars 455 ad 460 are looping at the DesPlaines Avenue Terminal in Forest Park on July 23, 1955. This view looks east.

Indiana Railroad lightweight high-speed car 58 is at Eaton on October 20, 1940 on a fantrip.

Indiana Railroad lightweight high-speed car 58 is at Eaton on October 20, 1940 on a fantrip.

Indiana Railroad car 50 is in Fort Wayne on April 16, 1939.

Indiana Railroad car 50 is in Fort Wayne on April 16, 1939.

Indiana Railroad car 71 is in New Castle. (Charles Able Photo)

Indiana Railroad car 71 is in New Castle. (Charles Able Photo)

Milwaukee Electric interurban car 1116, a West Junction car, is southbound on 6th Street in Milwaukee on October 10, 1948, passing by the North Shore Line Terminal.

Milwaukee Electric interurban car 1116, a West Junction car, is southbound on 6th Street in Milwaukee on October 10, 1948, passing by the North Shore Line Terminal.

Chicago Aurora and Elgin cars 413 and 453 are looping at the DesPlaines Avenue Terminal, sometime between 1953 and 1957. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

Chicago Aurora and Elgin cars 413 and 453 are looping at the DesPlaines Avenue Terminal, sometime between 1953 and 1957. (Robert Heinlein Photo)

An Electroliner leaves the North Shore Line's Edison Court station in Waukegan, probably in the late 1950s. (A. C. Kalmbach Photo)

An Electroliner leaves the North Shore Line’s Edison Court station in Waukegan, probably in the late 1950s. (A. C. Kalmbach Photo)

Here is how the abandoned Chicago Aurora and Elgin Terminal looked like in Aurora in March 1974, fifteen years after the interurban was abandoned. It has since been removed.

Here is how the abandoned Chicago Aurora and Elgin Terminal looked like in Aurora in March 1974, fifteen years after the interurban was abandoned. It has since been removed.

North Shore Line line car 606 is at Orchard and 5th in Milwaukee on October 20, 1951.

North Shore Line line car 606 is at Orchard and 5th in Milwaukee on October 20, 1951.

The Metropolitan West Side Elevated's Logan Square Terminal, as it appeared in the early 1900s. This station was open from 1895 until 1970, when it was replaced by a subway station. From a C. R. Childs real photo postcard.

The Metropolitan West Side Elevated’s Logan Square Terminal, as it appeared in the early 1900s. This station was open from 1895 until 1970, when it was replaced by a subway station. From a C. R. Childs real photo postcard.

Capital Transit (Washington D.C.) ordered 25 pre-PCC cars in 1935. Here is how cars 1002, 1010, 1006, 1009, and 1004 looked on May 13, 1958. By then, they were presumably in dead storage. Only car 1053 from this series was still in service by the time buses replaced streetcars in 1962. This image was shot on type 828 film, with an image size slightly larger than 35mm.

Capital Transit (Washington D.C.) ordered 25 pre-PCC cars in 1935. Here is how cars 1002, 1010, 1006, 1009, and 1004 looked on May 13, 1958. By then, they were presumably in dead storage. Only car 1053 from this series was still in service by the time buses replaced streetcars in 1962. This image was shot on type 828 film, with an image size slightly larger than 35mm.

The view looking east from Narragansett Avenue along 63rd Place on May 19, 1953. This was around the time that buses replaced streetcars on the CTA 63rd Street route, which ran here. The buses ran on 63rd Street west of Central Avenue. 63rd Place became a street after streetcars were abandoned, and there is now a fully developed residential neighborhood (known as Clearing) here. (William C. Hoffman Photo)

The view looking east from Narragansett Avenue along 63rd Place on May 19, 1953. This was around the time that buses replaced streetcars on the CTA 63rd Street route, which ran here. The buses ran on 63rd Street west of Central Avenue. 63rd Place became a street after streetcars were abandoned, and there is now a fully developed residential neighborhood (known as Clearing) here. (William C. Hoffman Photo)

CTA streetcar 6209 crosses the Nickel Plate railroad at 94th and Dorchester on July 2, 1949, operating on the 93-95 line. (William C. Hoffman Photo) Our resident South Side expert M.E. writes: "Your caption says the streetcar is crossing the Nickel Plate railroad. I had always thought these railroad tracks belonged to the Chicago and Western Indiana, which was basically a commuter line to towns near the Illinois / Indiana border. Fortunately I have a copy of the 1975 issue of "Train Watchers Guide to Chicago", by John Szwajkart. That book came with a terrific map of Chicago-area railroads and their owners. Right near the junction in your picture, the map lists the track thus: "C&WI (NKP)". So the C&WI owned it and the NKP used it. Also: Note in the picture there are two crewmen. Before the streetcar could cross the railroad track, the conductor had to get off the streetcar, walk to the railroad track, look both ways, and only then signal the streetcar to proceed across the tracks. So the motorman picked up the conductor right next to the track, and the conductor kept the motorman company for this short segment. Several streetcar lines that ran east/west on the far south side required two crewmen because those streetcars crossed railroad tracks at grade. Also: Note all the arms in the side windows. This route was busy because the eastern terminal was near the big steel mills in South Chicago. All those arms tell me it was time for a shift change."

CTA streetcar 6209 crosses the Nickel Plate railroad at 94th and Dorchester on July 2, 1949, operating on the 93-95 line. (William C. Hoffman Photo) Our resident South Side expert M.E. writes: “Your caption says the streetcar is crossing the Nickel Plate railroad. I had always thought these railroad tracks belonged to the Chicago and Western Indiana, which was basically a commuter line to towns near the Illinois / Indiana border. Fortunately I have a copy of the 1975 issue of “Train Watchers Guide to Chicago”, by John Szwajkart. That book came with a terrific map of Chicago-area railroads and their owners. Right near the junction in your picture, the map lists the track thus: “C&WI (NKP)”. So the C&WI owned it and the NKP used it.
Also: Note in the picture there are two crewmen. Before the streetcar could cross the railroad track, the conductor had to get off the streetcar, walk to the railroad track, look both ways, and only then signal the streetcar to proceed across the tracks. So the motorman picked up the conductor right next to the track, and the conductor kept the motorman company for this short segment. Several streetcar lines that ran east/west on the far south side required two crewmen because those streetcars crossed railroad tracks at grade.
Also: Note all the arms in the side windows. This route was busy because the eastern terminal was near the big steel mills in South Chicago. All those arms tell me it was time for a shift change.”

The view looking east along 63rd Street from Prairie Avenue on June 18, 1953. This is where the Jackson Park branch of the "L" turned east. The tracks at right ramped down to ground level and the 63rd Street Lower Yard. (William C. Hoffman Photo)

The view looking east along 63rd Street from Prairie Avenue on June 18, 1953. This is where the Jackson Park branch of the “L” turned east. The tracks at right ramped down to ground level and the 63rd Street Lower Yard. (William C. Hoffman Photo)

Northbound CTA pre-war PCC streetcar 4015 crosses the Garfield Park "L" temporary tracks at Western And Van Buren on August 4, 1955. Streetcars last ran on Western Avenue in June 1956. (William C. Hoffman Photo)

Northbound CTA pre-war PCC streetcar 4015 crosses the Garfield Park “L” temporary tracks at Western And Van Buren on August 4, 1955. Streetcars last ran on Western Avenue in June 1956. (William C. Hoffman Photo)

Photographer William C. Hoffman described this as a segment of old Chicago Surface Lines track in Exchange Avenue and Indianapolis Boulevard in East Chicago, Indiana on May 30, 1956. Streetcars last ran here in 1940. Andre Kristopans: "Indianapolis & Exchange “y” was (at the) south end of Whiting line."

Photographer William C. Hoffman described this as a segment of old Chicago Surface Lines track in Exchange Avenue and Indianapolis Boulevard in East Chicago, Indiana on May 30, 1956. Streetcars last ran here in 1940. Andre Kristopans: “Indianapolis & Exchange “y” was (at the) south end of Whiting line.”

The late William C. Hoffman took pictures that no one else bothered to take. Here, he captured a danger sign at the northwest corner of Madison and Dearborn on June 6, 1954, warning motorists not to park where their cars would not clear turning Madison and Milwaukee streetcars.

The late William C. Hoffman took pictures that no one else bothered to take. Here, he captured a danger sign at the northwest corner of Madison and Dearborn on June 6, 1954, warning motorists not to park where their cars would not clear turning Madison and Milwaukee streetcars.

On November 11, 1956, CTA red Pullman car 225 is in 81st Street at Emerald Avenue, on an Illini Railroad Club fantrip. This car was soon purchased by the Seashore Trolley Museum in Kennebunkport, Maine, where it remains today in much the same condition as when it last ran in Chicago. (William C. Hoffman Photo)

On November 11, 1956, CTA red Pullman car 225 is in 81st Street at Emerald Avenue, on an Illini Railroad Club fantrip. This car was soon purchased by the Seashore Trolley Museum in Kennebunkport, Maine, where it remains today in much the same condition as when it last ran in Chicago. (William C. Hoffman Photo)

CTA "L" cars 4375 and 4376 are in the State Street Subway at Jackson Boulevard on an October 26, 1969 fantrip. (Ray DeGroote Photo)

CTA “L” cars 4375 and 4376 are in the State Street Subway at Jackson Boulevard on an October 26, 1969 fantrip. (Ray DeGroote Photo)

One of the original CTA entrances to the Dearborn Street Subway at Quincy on May 28, 1961. I assume the building at left is the old post office. (William C. Hoffman Photo) Chris Cole writes: "The Dearborn Subway entrance was on the west side of Dearborn between Adams and Jackson. The building on the left is the old federal courthouse. The Fair Store was at the NE Corner of Adams and Dearborn. They were later replaced by Montgomery Wards who re-skinned the building to make it look “modern”."

One of the original CTA entrances to the Dearborn Street Subway at Quincy on May 28, 1961. I assume the building at left is the old post office. (William C. Hoffman Photo) Chris Cole writes: “The Dearborn Subway entrance was on the west side of Dearborn between Adams and Jackson. The building on the left is the old federal courthouse. The Fair Store was at the NE Corner of Adams and Dearborn. They were later replaced by Montgomery Wards who re-skinned the building to make it look “modern”.”

This appears to be Post Street in San Francisco, circa 1915. Taken from a real photo postcard.

This appears to be Post Street in San Francisco, circa 1915. Taken from a real photo postcard.

A southbound Lake-Dan Ryan "L" train negotiate the curve at Wabash and Harrison in November 1969. The new Dan Ryan line had only recently opened in September, and was joined up with the Lake Street "L". It was eventually linked with the Howard line, which was a better match for ridership than Lake. The view looks north.

A southbound Lake-Dan Ryan “L” train negotiate the curve at Wabash and Harrison in November 1969. The new Dan Ryan line had only recently opened in September, and was joined up with the Lake Street “L”. It was eventually linked with the Howard line, which was a better match for ridership than Lake. The view looks north.

The new Kimball Subway opened on February 1, 1970, as an extension of the Logan Square "L", and connected to tracks in the Kennedy Expressway median. This picture was taken at the Logan Square station on January 29, one day prior to the dedication ceremony.

The new Kimball Subway opened on February 1, 1970, as an extension of the Logan Square “L”, and connected to tracks in the Kennedy Expressway median. This picture was taken at the Logan Square station on January 29, one day prior to the dedication ceremony.

West Penn Railways car 739 is on a fantrip at an unknown time. Interestingly, the car survives. After being used as a residence, after retirement in 1952, it ended up at the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum, where it is being restored. Larry Lovejoy adds: "The photo of West Penn Railways 739 is northbound at Mt. Pleasant, on Center Avenue, just about to cross West Main Street, the latter which is now Pennsylvania Route 31 but back then had a different highway number. The date is August 10, 1952 and this is an “after the last day” fantrip charter by the Pittsburgh Electric Railway Club. PERC was the direct corporate predecessor of Pennsylvania Trolley Museum. The car behind 739 is the 733. Sorry I can’t identify any of the recognizable faces."

West Penn Railways car 739 is on a fantrip at an unknown time. Interestingly, the car survives. After being used as a residence, after retirement in 1952, it ended up at the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum, where it is being restored. Larry Lovejoy adds: “The photo of West Penn Railways 739 is northbound at Mt. Pleasant, on Center Avenue, just about to cross West Main Street, the latter which is now Pennsylvania Route 31 but back then had a different highway number. The date is August 10, 1952 and this is an “after the last day” fantrip charter by the Pittsburgh Electric Railway Club. PERC was the direct corporate predecessor of Pennsylvania Trolley Museum. The car behind 739 is the 733. Sorry I can’t identify any of the recognizable faces.”

Milwaukee and Suburban Transport car 943 received a unique paint job as a "safety car," and is shown on February 20, 1955 at the National Avenue station. Ironically, this car was later damaged in an accident.

Milwaukee and Suburban Transport car 943 received a unique paint job as a “safety car,” and is shown on February 20, 1955 at the National Avenue station. Ironically, this car was later damaged in an accident.

North Shore Line loco 459 is northbound at Edison Court in Waukegan in May 1962. Also visible are a late 1950s Plymouth (left) and two Chevys. (E. R. Burke Photo) Fred Hilgenberg adds, "For dating verification purposes (and the photo caption appears accurate), the license plates on the cars are white lettering on red. Illinois used that scheme starting in 1961 (and I think 1962) as a nod to North Central College. It was changed to John Deere colors in 1963. The Plymouth appears to be a 1959 (possibly 1958). The two-tone Chevy is a 1956 Bel Air, the other Chevy is a 1961 Impala."

North Shore Line loco 459 is northbound at Edison Court in Waukegan in May 1962. Also visible are a late 1950s Plymouth (left) and two Chevys. (E. R. Burke Photo) Fred Hilgenberg adds, “For dating verification purposes (and the photo caption appears accurate), the license plates on the cars are white lettering on red. Illinois used that scheme starting in 1961 (and I think 1962) as a nod to North Central College. It was changed to John Deere colors in 1963. The Plymouth appears to be a 1959 (possibly 1958). The two-tone Chevy is a 1956 Bel Air, the other Chevy is a 1961 Impala.”

North Shore Line Silverliner 776 was the final conventional coach ordered by the interurban in 1930. Merchandise Despatch car 232 is at right in this November 19, 1960 view at the Harrison Street Shops.

North Shore Line Silverliner 776 was the final conventional coach ordered by the interurban in 1930. Merchandise Despatch car 232 is at right in this November 19, 1960 view at the Harrison Street Shops.

This picture, taken on January 2, 1961, gives an excellent overview of the North Shore Line's Milwaukee Terminal. The view looks south.

This picture, taken on January 2, 1961, gives an excellent overview of the North Shore Line’s Milwaukee Terminal. The view looks south.

North Shore Line combine 250 has just left the Milwaukee Terminal in June 1962.

North Shore Line combine 250 has just left the Milwaukee Terminal in June 1962.

CTA "L" car number 1 in May 1963. Don's rail Photos: "1 was built by Jackson & Sharpe in 1892 as South Side Rapid Transit Co 1 as a steam trailer. It was rebuilt as a MU motor car in 1898. It became Chicago Elevated Railway 1 in 1913 and became CRT 1 in 1924. It was preserved by CTA in 1947 and donated to Chicago History Museum in 2005."

CTA “L” car number 1 in May 1963. Don’s rail Photos: “1 was built by Jackson & Sharpe in 1892 as South Side Rapid Transit Co 1 as a steam trailer. It was rebuilt as a MU motor car in 1898. It became Chicago Elevated Railway 1 in 1913 and became CRT 1 in 1924. It was preserved by CTA in 1947 and donated to Chicago History Museum in 2005.”

Philadelphia Suburban Transportation Company double-ended car 13 has just left the 69th Street Terminal and is signed for Westchester in this early 1950s view. The long Westchester line was replaced by buses in June 1954.

Philadelphia Suburban Transportation Company double-ended car 13 has just left the 69th Street Terminal and is signed for Westchester in this early 1950s view. The long Westchester line was replaced by buses in June 1954.

Three old Metropolitan "L" cars are at Indiana Avenue on September 2, 1955, and appear to be operating on the Stock Yards branch. Our resident South Side expert M.E. notes: "This time your caption is absolutely correct -- this is the Stock Yards line's terminal at Indiana Ave. on the southernmost platform. The other side of the platform was for southbound mainline trains to Jackson Park and Englewood."

Three old Metropolitan “L” cars are at Indiana Avenue on September 2, 1955, and appear to be operating on the Stock Yards branch. Our resident South Side expert M.E. notes: “This time your caption is absolutely correct — this is the Stock Yards line’s terminal at Indiana Ave. on the southernmost platform. The other side of the platform was for southbound mainline trains to Jackson Park and Englewood.”

This picture was taken on a North Shore Line fantrip using the Electroliner, but the time and place are not evident. Nick Jenkins: "Photo of Electroliner (aae053) is on the interchange track with the Milwaukee Road at Racine."

This picture was taken on a North Shore Line fantrip using the Electroliner, but the time and place are not evident. Nick Jenkins: “Photo of Electroliner (aae053) is on the interchange track with the Milwaukee Road at Racine.”

North Shore Line car 719 is part of a westbound two-car train on the Mundelein branch in November 1962. The Perpetual Adoration stop was an obvious fan favorite, as it expressed their thoughts about the legendary interurban.

North Shore Line car 719 is part of a westbound two-car train on the Mundelein branch in November 1962. The Perpetual Adoration stop was an obvious fan favorite, as it expressed their thoughts about the legendary interurban.

North Shore Line caboose 1003 is part of a freight train at an unknown location.

North Shore Line caboose 1003 is part of a freight train at an unknown location.

North Shore Line caboose 1003 is at the back end of a freight train on the Skokie Valley Route in June 1962.

North Shore Line caboose 1003 is at the back end of a freight train on the Skokie Valley Route in June 1962.

A two-car train of North Shore Line Silverliners is in North Chicago in January 1963.

A two-car train of North Shore Line Silverliners is in North Chicago in January 1963.

Although there was never a chance that Chicago would be subjected to a Blitz during World War II, part of our war preparedness involved a practice blackout on August 12, 1942. Both "L" and interurban service was suspended for 30 minutes.

Although there was never a chance that Chicago would be subjected to a Blitz during World War II, part of our war preparedness involved a practice blackout on August 12, 1942. Both “L” and interurban service was suspended for 30 minutes.

This rare poster (framed) recently sold for $338.34 on eBay. This was the CTA's attempt to help riders get around after the North Shore Line abandonment. But there wasn't much they really could do, since the NSL served many communities far beyond the reach of the CTA. In 1963, the CTA served Skokie with the #97 bus, but starting in April 1964, offered "L" service to Dempster Street via the new Skokie Swift (on the former NSL right-of-way).

This rare poster (framed) recently sold for $338.34 on eBay. This was the CTA’s attempt to help riders get around after the North Shore Line abandonment. But there wasn’t much they really could do, since the NSL served many communities far beyond the reach of the CTA. In 1963, the CTA served Skokie with the #97 bus, but starting in April 1964, offered “L” service to Dempster Street via the new Skokie Swift (on the former NSL right-of-way).

This is the North Shore Line on February 6, 1949, and the photographer was Charles A. Brown. The Briergate station was built in 1926 on the new Skokie Valley Route, in a style generally referred to as "Insull Spanish." There were nine such stations on the SVR and Briergate is the only one that still exists. There is a more recent picture of it in my new book The North Shore Line. Briergate station is in west Highland Park, IL and the car number is 157. (Courtesy of Larry Miller III)

This is the North Shore Line on February 6, 1949, and the photographer was Charles A. Brown. The Briergate station was built in 1926 on the new Skokie Valley Route, in a style generally referred to as “Insull Spanish.” There were nine such stations on the SVR and Briergate is the only one that still exists. There is a more recent picture of it in my new book The North Shore Line. Briergate station is in west Highland Park, IL and the car number is 157. (Courtesy of Larry Miller III)

North Shore Line electric loco 459 is an eastbound freight in Kenosha, Wisconsin on June 29, 1962.

North Shore Line electric loco 459 is an eastbound freight in Kenosha, Wisconsin on June 29, 1962.

The North Shore Line's Milwaukee Terminal as it appeared on June 29, 1962.

The North Shore Line’s Milwaukee Terminal as it appeared on June 29, 1962.

North Shore Line wooden coach 302. Don's Rail Photos: "300 thru 302 were built by Jewett in 1909 as mainline coaches. As the steel cars arrived, they were downgraded to local and school tripper service. In 1936 they became sleet cutters. In 1939 300 was turned over to the Central Electric Railfans Association as a private car. The ownership remained with the CNS&M, but the maintenance was taken over by CERA. During the war, with many members in service, CERA relinquished control, and the car was scrapped in 1947. 301 and 302 were retired in 1939 and scrapped in 1940."

North Shore Line wooden coach 302. Don’s Rail Photos: “300 thru 302 were built by Jewett in 1909 as mainline coaches. As the steel cars arrived, they were downgraded to local and school tripper service. In 1936 they became sleet cutters. In 1939 300 was turned over to the Central Electric Railfans Association as a private car. The ownership remained with the CNS&M, but the maintenance was taken over by CERA. During the war, with many members in service, CERA relinquished control, and the car was scrapped in 1947. 301 and 302 were retired in 1939 and scrapped in 1940.”

North Shore Line wooden coach 140. Don's Rail Photos: "138 thru 141 were built by American Car in 1910. They were rebuilt for Elevated compatibility in 1919. They were also leased to the CA&E in 1936, returned to the CNS&M in 1945, and sold to the CA&E in 1946."

North Shore Line wooden coach 140. Don’s Rail Photos: “138 thru 141 were built by American Car in 1910. They were rebuilt for Elevated compatibility in 1919. They were also leased to the CA&E in 1936, returned to the CNS&M in 1945, and sold to the CA&E in 1946.”

North Shore Line wooden coach 303. Don's Rail Photos: "303 thru 305 were built by American Car in 1910 and were almost identical. In 1939 they became sleet cutters and were retired and scrapped in 1940."

North Shore Line wooden coach 303. Don’s Rail Photos: “303 thru 305 were built by American Car in 1910 and were almost identical. In 1939 they became sleet cutters and were retired and scrapped in 1940.”

North Shore Line car 162. Don's Rail Photos: "162 was built by Brill in 1915, (job) #19605. It was acquired by American Museum of Electricity in 1963 and resold to Connecticut Trolley Museum in 1971." Car 162 is now at the East Troy Railroad Museum, where it is undergoing restoration. It is now the oldest surviving car in the fleet.

North Shore Line car 162. Don’s Rail Photos: “162 was built by Brill in 1915, (job) #19605. It was acquired by American Museum of Electricity in 1963 and resold to Connecticut Trolley Museum in 1971.” Car 162 is now at the East Troy Railroad Museum, where it is undergoing restoration. It is now the oldest surviving car in the fleet.

North Shore Line car 748 is part of a two-car train heading northbound at Adams and Wabash on September 4, 1961. The view looks south, and you can see CTA Tower 12 in the distance.

North Shore Line car 748 is part of a two-car train heading northbound at Adams and Wabash on September 4, 1961. The view looks south, and you can see CTA Tower 12 in the distance.

A North Shore Line Electroliner is at the Adams and Wabash station on the Loop "L" on September 4, 1961. The interurban had a station here that was connected directly to the "L".

A North Shore Line Electroliner is at the Adams and Wabash station on the Loop “L” on September 4, 1961. The interurban had a station here that was connected directly to the “L”.

Here is North Shore Line Merchandise Despatch car 228 as it appeared on Sunday afternoon, August 9, 1953, at the Highwood Shops. It is now undergoing restoration at the East Troy Railroad Museum in Wisconsin. (Bob Selle Photo on Ansco 616 film)

Here is North Shore Line Merchandise Despatch car 228 as it appeared on Sunday afternoon, August 9, 1953, at the Highwood Shops. It is now undergoing restoration at the East Troy Railroad Museum in Wisconsin. (Bob Selle Photo on Ansco 616 film)