Rock Island Funeral at Silvis

[Anonymous]

Just back from a trip to Rock Island and took a railfan trip to see the old Silvis works (Silvis, IL). Felt like I had been to a funeral for an old friend. The Rock Island caboose was wonderfully restored but looking at all the old locos being salvaged for parts in what was once a bustling rail shop was somber. I felt very sorry for all the employs that must have had to find other employment when the Rock Island went bankrupt.

I remember my first time at the Joliet, IL platform and being wowed by the Rock Island trains flying by.

Cottage Grove grainger.

[SSW9389]

Rock Island's demise and funeral was brought on by its unionized employees. Feel sorry for them if you will, but to me it looks more like a suicide.

[route_rock]

Henry Crown, Carter,BRAC but not ALL union employees sorry but the BLE never struck nor did any other unions but the BRAC and UTU.
Glad you like the caboose welcome to my neck of the woods!! Come back this year they are doing a big deal for the first bridge across the river and rumor has it 261 will be here!!