***Antique train rides in Sheffield June 9, 2024- [Photo credit: Lisa Aber and Jan Rodgers]
The response to the announcement by Sheffield that after a decade hiatus, the Sheffield Historical Society and the Sheffield Fire Department were working together to bring back antique train rides was overwhelming. In about a day of announcing the return on The Kewanee Voice, all three train rides were sold out and excited crowds arrived that day to await boarding.
The diesel engine and 1920s passenger cars arrive.
Train enthusiasts, young and old alike, were all smiles. Out of state guests came from Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, and Missouri to ride the train.
Volunteers with the Sheffield Fire Department provided a cookout. Sheffield Historical Society volunteers assisted passengers boarding the train, while the Sheffield Mineral Rescue rode the trains to ensure passenger safety.
The passenger cars were comfortable and the low windows afforded a great view of the scenery to Tiskilwa – the train was rerouted from its original destination of Geneseo due to work being conducted on the tracks in that direction.
A brief view of the Hennepin Canal locktender’s house, as well as a view of the green farmland, provided a change of scenery for passengers. Most of the train trip provided a scenic tree-lined view .
The train ride ended with happy, smiling faces.
