Welcome to Havana, Illinois, where history comes alive at the Chicago & Illinois Midland Depot. Established in 1888 by villagers from Pawnee, this historic rail line has been a vital part of central Illinoiss transportation system for over a century. As you stand near the Illinois River, opposite Havana, you can envision the first boat being loaded on July 1, 1933 – a monumental day for the C&M Railway.
The depot stretches across 61 miles from Havana to Galesburg, connecting the two cities with its rich rail history. One unique feature of this line is its branch line between Midland Junction and Decatur, covering a distance of 2.4 miles. As you continue on your tour, youll witness the legacy of Taylorville to Peoria – a cab ride footage that captures several trains in action, with their distinctive cabooses still in service today.
The Chicago & Illinois Midland Railway was once a small but significant rail line operating in central Illinois. With branches extending to Hammond, Indiana and other locations, this depot has played a vital role in the regions growth and development. Unfortunately, some information about the unique attributes of the Depot remains elusive; however, photographs capturing its historical background can be found online for those interested in delving deeper into its fascinating past.
As you walk along the tracks that have connected central Illinois for generations, imagine the stories these rails could tell – tales of bustling towns and thriving industries that were once a vital part of life here. The Chicago & Illinois Midland Depot stands as a testament to the power of human ingenuity and determination, reminding us all of the importance of preserving our rich rail heritage for future generations to appreciate.