Nostalgia & History > Galesburg RR Days 2002

Back when the BNSF (more) actively participated in the annual Galesburg Railroad Days, it was always a treat to see what the event organizers would come up with next. In June of 2002, RR Days saw the Nebraska Zephyr, BN-1 and BN-2, GN 400, and MILW 261 even made an appearance with an excursion out of Chicago. The BNSF would also run trips for employees using the classic locomotives and a few business cars to Yates City and return. (In later years, they would utilize a pair of BNSF geeps). Now the BNSF supplies a GE, sometimes washed, for display next to the depot. Gone are the days of blocking Main 1 for equipment displays.

With Railroad Days coming up this weekend and the Nebraska Zephyr visiting Rock Island, IL in a month, I thought this was a fitting look back.

1. The Nebraska Zephyr is moved out of the yard for display on Main 1 next to the Amtrak depot by BNSF 6215, a former Santa Fe SD39. June 21, 2002.

2. BN-1 and BN-2 lead the employee special down the Peoria Sub to Yates City. GN 400 is on the other end and will pull it back to Galesburg. The cantilever still stands at Chambers Street in Galesburg, IL. June 22, 2002.

3. MILW 261 brings the RR Days excursion west through Buda, IL. June 22, 2002.


Erik

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Ah yes, Galesburg RR days were very fun railfanning times back then. Fond memories for sure, and tons of slides to boot. Thanks for the photos, especially the 261 at Buda. I was on that train, and the depot is now gone.