Our Next Program:

Chicago Rapid Transit in the 1950s and 60s by Ken Spengler

Although the rapid transit system has seen continual changes from its start in 1892 until the present, the ’40s through the ’60s brought about many interesting developments – the subways, the modern cars, several abandonments, center reservations in expressways, etc. Longtime MCERA Ken Spengler will offer up a slice of history that our older members will remember and the younger ones should find interesting.

Ken will concentrate on both the lines and route changes. We will see a lot of material on the Lake Street elevation and the changeover from Garfield Park to Congress. Come join us for what promises to be a very informative and enjoyable program.

Admission is free for current CERA members. There will be a $5.00 Admission charge for non-members.

Friday, April 25, 2014
1900 hrs / 7:00pm
University Center
525 S State St
Chicago, IL 60605

The old meets the new at Kimball on a late 1950s CERA wood car fantrip. (Ken Spengler Photo)

A two-car train of wooden “L” cars at Francisco on the Ravenswood (today’s Brown Line) in the 1950s. The historic 1907 clapboard station house was preserved in the 2006-2007 station renovation. (Ken Spengler Photo)

A single wooden “L” car on the Stock Yards branch was typical in the 1950s, when this picture was taken by Jim Windmeier.

A rare night shot of a North Shore “Silverliner” in Chicago’s Loop. (Ken Spengler Photo)

A classic view of the North Shore Line downtown terminal at 223 S. Wabash in the late 1950s. A two-tone blue 1957 Buick Century drives into the Peerless parking garage. Nearby, Dario Toffenetti’s restaurant offered a simple menu of food prepared well, at affordable prices. (Ken Spengler Photo)