I noticed the Flimsies article that IRM is going to re-enact the abandonment of the Chicago Aurora and Elgin Railway for the 50th anniversary. Does that mean you are going to take passengers to the end of the line, let them off and then tell them they have to figure out their own way back?

Sorry, I couldn't resist.

I belive the "stranded" passengers will be picked up by IRM's C&NW bi-level commuter train. This is how many CA&E commuters found their way home after being stranded downtown on July 3, 1957.

The reenactment should be interesting.

Yes, that is exactly what it means. Fortunately though a C&NW train of period high-level commuter cars will come to the rescue eventually.

Let's hope that angry commuters don't rip out benches and other fixtures and throw them on the rails as happened 50 years ago.

Remembering the 'Ror'n' Elgin: http://www.railroadglorydays.com/cae/

I don't think the reenactment is going to go as far as rioting passengers, but I do believe reproduction cash-fare receipts will be issued to the passengers boarding at "Wheaton" (East Union). The Conductor will be charging the cash fare rate for a Wheaton to Forest Part/Desplaines Ave., and issuing a reciept. I also believe the train crews will be authentically dressed, and at least one conductor will have an authentic uniform right down to the CA&E buttons.

It should be an interesting event.