July 26, 2024 - CSX has unveiled its 17th heritage locomotive, paying tribute to the historic Chicago and Eastern Illinois Railroad (C&EI). This locomotive is part of CSX's ongoing series celebrating the rich legacy of America's railroads.

The C&EI was established in 1877, initially serving as a regional line connecting Chicago with southern Illinois, St. Louis, Mo. and Evansville, Ind. Over time, it expanded its reach, becoming an important link between the Midwest and the southern United States. The C&EI played a vital role in transporting coal, agricultural products, and manufactured goods, significantly contributing to the region's economic development.

In 1967, the C&EI was absorbed by the Missouri Pacific Railroad and the Louisville and Nashville Railroad. In the 1980s, as CSX expanded its network, it acquired various lines and assets from other railroads, including parts of former C&EI lines that had been integrated into the Missouri Pacific. This indirect acquisition process allowed CSX to incorporate the historic routes and legacy of the C&EI into its expansive system.

The C&EI heritage unit stands out with its unique design elements. Jeromy Hutchison, a carman painter involved in the project, highlighted the intricacies of the paint job: “The handrails on the C&E unit are a different color than the rest of the locomotive, making this particular paint job a bit difficult. It takes an additional day or two just to paint and uncover that section of the unit.” This attention to detail underscores the dedication and craftsmanship that goes into each heritage unit.

The unveiling of this locomotive is a testament to the teamwork and expertise of the CSX workforce. Tim Music, another carman painter, emphasized the collaborative effort required for these projects: “It takes an entire team to create these units – not just the painters, but boilermakers, machinists, and electricians. We are ONE CSX.” 

As CSX continues to honor the heritage of historic railroads through its series of commemorative locomotives, the spirit of the Chicago and Eastern Illinois Railroad lives on, reminding us of the enduring impact of railroads on America's growth and prosperity.
 

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