seaboardm2 posted:mark s posted:Rock Island was always one of my favorites. Very handsome 4-8-4's, as a start. In my high school days, would go "downtown" to Chicago's Loop, and spend time in the 7 or so passenger stations. LaSalle Street was a regular stop, and would see Rock Island Alco RS3's on commuter runs. Then had a most enjoyable couple of days pacing Southern Ry 2-8-2 #4501 running on the Rock Island, to Bureau Junction, IL (1973). Talked with the engineer who was retiring after the run; he likened #4501 to "our 2300's" (USRA light Mikes).
Was at the Blue Island Burr Oak roundhouse in the mid-70's, seeking #630, the last of the E6's. Was kicked out by the Roundhouse Foreman! Think some of the roundhouse roof had collapsed, indicative of the creeping decrepitude of the Rock Island.
Being a traditionalist, never warmed to "The Rock" marketing campaign. But admired, from a business perspective, the gutsy final attempt at salvation.
Didn't they have a large number of 4-8-4s?
The Rock Island had the largest fleet of 4-8-4's in the United Stated. Only Canadian National had more.
Stuart
