Chessie Steam Specials, 1977 & 1978

Return to urbanindiana.com Index

All photos © 2009 by Robert E Pence

In 1977 and 1978, a group of us drove from Fort Wayne to the B&O Chicago Terminal (BOCT) Yard to board a Chessie Steam Special excursion train and ride back to Garrett, Indiana, within 25 miles of home. Then, we rode the train back to Chicago and drove home late at night.

1977

Ready for boarding.

Departure on a drizzly morning.

Photo run-by somewhere in Northwest Indiana.

Star Roman, Alan Toy, Rex Ware.

At speed. Someone measured our pace at 76mph at one point along the route.

Upon arrival in Garrett, the engine was serviced and turned and coupled to the opposite end of the train for the return to Chicago.

1978

The railroad originally had planned to run only one season of excursions, but the turnout was enthusiastic and according to rumor, the excursion series turned an unexpected profit. The equipment was still in good condition and another season could be run without a large capital outlay, so they did.

We definitely had nicer weather for our second ride.

Greg Robbins & Craig Zimmerman.

Return to urbanindiana.com Index