The line in question is known as the NIFA branch line. NIFA stands for Northern
Illinois Fair Association and was named as it served the area which would come
to be known as Aurora Downs. In early years this was a large amusement type
park and drew upon thousands of patrons from the Chicago area.
Your question of passenger trains was related to graduation ceromonies at
Mooseheart which is located between North Aurora and Batavia. Moose lodges,
from destinations unknown, chartered trains to attend the graduation ceremonies.
I grew up less than a half a block from the branch in North Aurora and remember
hearing the different horn of the train and run down to the tracks to the
Zephyrs slowly moving their way up and back to Mooseheart. Remember, there is
no where to turn a train at Mooseheart, so what drove up had to back out!
Line terminated near Geneva where it interchanged with the CNW. The line saw
alot of raw material such as coal for the power plant at Mooseheart.
Hope this helps.
Tom Whitt
----- Original Message -----
From: David E. Lotz
To: BRHSlist@yahoogroups.com
Cc: Mkemos3@a...
Sent: Thursday, February 07, 2002 11:10 PM
Subject: [BRHSlist] FW: C.B.& Q. Mooseheart,IL train
BRHSlisters,
This one is beyond the scope of my knowledge...any takers? If so remember
to include Dave's address in your replies.
Dave Lotz
-----Original Message-----
From: Mkemos3@a... [mailto:Mkemos3@a...]
Sent: Thursday, February 07, 2002 7:31 PM
To: brhs@n...
Subject: C.B.& Q. Mooseheart,IL train
Hi,
Can you direct me to some information about the C.B.&Q. R.R. in the 1950's -
early 1960's. I lived in Aurora, IL. We were on a rail line that delivered
freight to All Steel Equip., Barber Greene Equip., and several other
factories. Early it was powered by a steam engine and then by a "Way of the
Zephyrs" diesel engine. About twice a year a passenger train would travel
the line going to Mooseheart. It was always filled with passengers. Any
sources or information would be appreciated. Thanks, Dave
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