12 Days of West Chicago Artifacts: Trains
12 Days of West Chicago Artifacts
As part of our 12 Days of WeGo History series, we’re celebrating the stories behind some of the most meaningful pieces in our collection. With nearly 40,000 artifacts to choose from, we couldn’t possibly pick just 12, so each day we are sharing a themed group that helps tell the story of West Chicago.
This year’s series is also in conjunction with our preparation for the 250th anniversary of the United States by highlighting local history in a national context.
Railroads didn’t just pass through West Chicago, they made West Chicago.
Our city was born at the intersection of three major rail lines, and the influence of railroads is deeply woven into the fabric of our history. The trains brought jobs, industry, people, and change. Rail lines continue to shape our identity today.
On this 250th anniversary of the United States, we reflect on how railroads powered the nation’s expansion, and how West Chicago became a symbol of that movement. These artifacts celebrate the sights, sounds, and stories of a true railroad town.
Our museum collection contains many photographs that show the ways trains have shaped our town. This photograph shows the freight platforms that used to exist along what is now Turner Court.
Chicago & NorthWestern Railway Freight Conductor Badge, for wearing on one's cap. Up until the 1940s at least 40% of West Chicago’s working population worked for the railroad.
Lease to T. B. Hawkes, W. Chicago." Addressed to E. A. Howard, from F. M. Patterson, dated August 1, 1906. Just one of over a thousand documents that relate to the railroads in West Chicago in the City Museum’s collection.
Bar strainer, C&NW silver; marks: "Reed & Barton" & C&NW Ry." Highlighting the days when train travel included high-end dining.
EJ&E ceramic pencil holder, one of the many merchandise items from the many rail lines that have run through West Chicago over the past 176 years.
Want to explore more West Chicago artifacts on your own? Check out our online artifact database where we upload recently digitized items every month!
