Galesburg, Illionis and Clinton, Iowa

[AlcoRS11Nut]

I am about to go railfaning in Galesburg, Illionis and Clinton, Iowa for the first time and I would just like to know what to expect and what other people thought about railfanning in those to cities. Thanks

[kschmidt]

Greetings,

Well I have been to Galesburg on numerous occasions. There is almost always a train moving somewhere in Galesburg. Whistles can be heard coming from all directions. A couple of suggestions, to see Amtrak and the old BN line action just hang out at the depot. Both the Chief and the Zephyr stop there. Also check out the Therwell Street bridge. This bridge goes over the yards in Galesburg. It was built extra so people can park cars and safely watch action in the yard. To see the action on the ex-Santa Fe line, which is usually heavier than the old BN hang out at the old ATSF depot. It is located near the Ramada Inn in Galesburg. Another spot to check out the action on the old ATSF is in East Galesburg.

Clinton, IA does also boast alot of action. Especially when the river bridge has to stay open for a while. There is an old CNW depot near the river also. There is a small yard and engine facility there also. Alot of trains do move through Clinton.

Enjoy your trip.

Keith Schmidt

[dknelson]

I agree with my railfan buddy Keith. Get good maps that show details and street names. The Steampowered Video map is useful too as it shows where the trains are coming from/headed to in a clear way.
If you go during Railroad Days (this weekend June 27-29) there will be railfans everywhere to talk to and ask about good photo spots. And don't forget the big swap meet at Carl Sandburg College north and west of town.
I would also advise west of town is Cameron where the former Santa Fe and former CBQ lines cross (not at grade). Good photo ops.
The line from Galesburg to Peoria does not see tons of traffic but it very interesting and historic and well worth railfanning.
There is so much good public access in Galesburg that there is no real need to trespass so take care and be safe and buy lots of film.
Dave Nelson

[eolafan]

I just spoke last weekend to a guy who had parked recently on the Therwell St. bridge and was told to leave by the police in the area, so watch out.

[dknelson]

Really! that would be a massive change and very sad turn of events. Even in times other than Railroad Days that bridge would be a prime place for railfans to gather.
Having said that you are just feet above cars filled with fuel, there are military movements that go through the yard, and I can see the logic in controlling things in a time of national emergency. But it is very very sad -- I wonder if they feel one way about ONE railfan on the bridge versus the three or four dozen you'd see during Railroad Days.
Dave Nelson