BEGINNING OF OPERATIONS

It is impossible to definitely state the time that construction work was started, however, it is assumed that the actual construction of the line was started as provided by ordinance. The construction of this line was, when compared with the construction of today, of a very flimsy character; the rails were of iron, crescent shaped and about three eighths of an inch in thickness; they were spiked to pine stringers which were held in place by cross ties of the same class of timber.

The line was completed and in operation inside of two years. Cars were small and the motive power was furnished by a single horse, driven by a man who acted both as driver and conductor. In winter the passenger buried his feet in about a foot of straw, which was placed on the floor of the car. Imagination leads us to believe that very little pleasure riding was indulged in on winter days by the younger and pleasure seeking sets. The fare charged was five cents within the limits of each municipality. Ten cents was charged for passage between the two towns. The length of the line was about four miles.

Historical Encyclopedia of Illinois

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Illinois Ancestors

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