In October of 1987 and 1988, Amtrak ran specials, known as "Rails to the River", from Chicago to Rock Island. These were organized by two Quad Citians to coincide with the fall foliage and to provide access to East Davenport and a river cruise. The first year had Amtrak F40s 409 and 353 as well as 5 Superliners, and arrived in Rock Island in the pouring rain. The second year went better, with perfect weather and a 10 car train. (Thanks to Harold Krewer for filling in many of these details!)
Amtrak 409 and 353 with a 5 car train at the Rock Island depot on a rainy day in 1987 By: NDHolmes
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Another look at 409 stopped by the old RI depot By: NDHolmes
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Passengers disembarking in the background, while some of the railfans look on By: NDHolmes
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Amtrak 409 and 353 with a 5 car train at the Rock Island depot on a rainy day in 1987
Another look at 409 stopped by the old RI depot
Passengers disembarking in the background, while some of the railfans look on