The Rock Island ceased operation 40 years ago today; less than two years earlier, the Peoria Rocket waits for its return trip to Chicago.

Rock Island commuter train waiting to depart Joliet Union Station

Making its Blue Island stop

The first of two, early morning, Chicago bound, Rock Island Rockets passing the station at Ottawa, Illinois, without making a stop.

Rock Island's train #11, "The Peoria Rocket," departs Chicago on the Bicentennial in 1976. Rock Island was one of a handful of railroads that did not join Amtrak in 1971, forcing them to continue... (more)