Would anyone know specifics of the Burlington Route Cb&q during the steam era 20's/30's? Specifically what is now the metra line between Aurora and chicago? What would have ran during that time; Hudsons and Pacifics? Did they do commuter service like metra today or was it more long distance coming out of Chicago? Or would have commuter service between what is now the suburbs and Chicago been more on interurbans/trolleys?
"One difference between pessimists and optimists is that while pessimists are more often right, optimists have far more fun."
Hey Bear,
great ideas!!! I went to Trainfest today and that's what I did. The Burlington Route Historical Foundation was there and I joined. Thank you sir.
Not a CB&Q expert, but in general commuter trains on most railroads serving Chicago 'between the wars' would be using older, smaller passenger engines. They wouldn't use their most modern 4-6-2 or 4-6-4 on a three-car commuter run. I think you'd be more likely to see engines from the 1880s-90s, like 4-4-2s, 4-4-0s, 4-6-0s, etc.
Joining the BRHS is a great idea, but keep in mind that the volunteers who run a railroad historical society are primarly spending their time handling member renewals, planning the next convention, running the 'company store', preparing the society's quarterly magazine, etc. Answering member questions about the railroad's history is often a very low priority - although some society's magazine or newsletter may have a Q&A column.
If you're really interested in a railroad's history, buying a book (or books) on the railroad is usually the best place to find info.