I am looking for some information on some bridges on the Big Four/New York Central Railroad through Coles County, Illinois. Particularly, the stone arch bridges over Riley Creek and Cassel Creek. The bridges were built circa 1860-1890. Coles County is wanting to put them on the county list of historical sites. I would be interested in any information on structures in Coles County if available. The bridges can be seen at this site. Area Photo Galleries Does anyone know where I can find information like, year built, design engineer, contractor, etc.? Thanks, Chris Rankin
Hi Chris, welcome to the Trainboard, we're happy to have you aboard. As far as your quest, I'm afraid I can't help you. I'm more familiar with the Central's Harlem and Hudson Divisions in eastern New York. However, there are a few Big Four folks on board who, if they can't answer directly, can hopefully direct you in the right direction. Good Luck.
Chris, welcome to Trainboard and to the New York Central forum. Like Hytec, my experience with the Central was in upstate New York, along the Mohawk Division. We have some members here who I am sure can help you. LEW, our retired NYCS engineer, cannot access the site due to some problem with his ISP, but he will most likely see this thread and send an answer to one of us to post here. :tb-biggrin:
Big Four over Riley Creek - 1863 Big Four over Cassel Creek - 1894 These are the bridges I am looking for information on. The Riley Creek bridge is the oldest standing bridge in Coles County. It is odd that the historical society has ignored these structures. The current members were completely unaware of their existence.
I usually don't bump threads, but have a meeting on this tonite. I wanted to make sure it didn't get missed by someone who knows anything. Thanks, Chris
Chris, I live in Clark County, but not going to be much help either since all I know is when the line thru Coles County was built around 1855 by the Terre Haute & Alton RR, and some oter history of that sort. I figure you’ve tried the local historical society there. The libraries at EIU, U of I, and the state library are other places. The US library of congress is also one thought. Your local library can help you with those. The Mattoon Journal Gazette might also be of some help with their archives. You might try searching the records the county courthouse. Sometimes the amount information on old records can surprise you. The NYC historical society could also provide some of the information your wanting. New York Central Historical Society, Inc. - WELCOME You might also ask your question of the Yahoo NYC group. There could be some help there too. NYC-Railroad : The New York Central System .. One of the great railways of the 20th Century. Home of the Great Steel Fleet of passenger train Sorry I couldn’t be much help, but maybe the ideas I gave will point you in the right direction. Please keep us informed on what you find out as it sounds like an interesting project. inch
