Illinois Terminal, the Electric Years

Fascinating history of the Illinois Traction System which maintained an electric interurban system into the 1950s. The author traces the line from its earliest days to the end, discussing its famed passenger service (with sleeping cars!) as well as the freight service, steam service, and the rail bus. With chapters on suburban service, the Valley Division, the Alton Line, the Illinois Terminal Railroad, the Belt Lines and freight service, accidents, stations, shops and car barns and even the recreation of a trip over the line. The chapter on the locomotives and rolling stock provides detailed rosters and photographs of 16 different kinds of equipment. Illustrated throughout with excellent black and white photos as well as a 16 page color section. With system map, ITS railroading, and bibliography. 263 pages with index.