Recent Arrivals

 I recently acquired this photo, and to me it's a very interesting moment in early IRM history.

It's a little after 4 PM on Saturday, March 31, 1962, and three CA&E cars have just arrived at IRM's original home behind the Chicago Hardware Foundry in North Chicago.  The 431 was in the middle of the train, between the 309 and 321.  In this picture, the 309 has just been uncoupled from the train and is presumably being switched into its storage location somewhere behind us.  The 431 still has its adapter coupler in place.  Its trolley poles and third rail beams are stored inside the car.  Behind the 431 is the 321.  Because it was only three days ago that this car was chosen to make the trip, it alone still has its trolley poles on the roof.  (Ironically enough, the poles will soon be removed and never replaced.)  And all three cars have a lot of history ahead of them!

Bob Barth is the switchman standing on the steps of the 431; photo by Warren Cobb.