CERA's 2nd Friday, June 13, 2025 Zoom Presentation: John Nicholson, The Illini Trail

CERA’s June Programs

Friday, June 13, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. CT

Zoom Presentation

https://tinyurl.com/CERAthe2ndFriday

Easy Link to Zoom

Meeting Number 814 9251 7167  Passcode  880028

John Nicholson

The Illini Trail

To coincide with the publication of CERA’s latest book, Bulletin 153, The Illini Trail, tonight’s program will explore the history and operations of this long-abandoned, but fascinating line. Operating under various corporate names—Illinois Valley Traction, Illinois Valley Railway, Chicago Ottawa & Peoria, Illinois Valley Division of the Illinois Traction System, Chicago & Illinois Valley—the line was built in increments along the Valley. It eventually stretched from Joliet to Princeton, making it one of the longest interurban routes in the state.

Operating under the aegis of William McKinley and his Illinois Traction System, the line was never able to build a substantial freight traffic base and never achieved the level of prosperity of the parent company. Over the years the line saw traditional heavyweight arch-window interurban cars playing the route, later supplanted by more economical lightweight equipment.

We’ll review the passenger and freight operations  and recount the interurban’s struggle for survival from the competition of the automobile, bus, and truck transport that ultimately won out. Join us tonight for a trip into the past.

We will also have a short newscast preceding the regular program.

This program is open to all CERA members and guests. Mark this date on your calendar!