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Railroads are dangerous places, and there are rules which help to protect both the crews and members of the general public. Unseen to most eyes are the countless hours spent maintaining track and equipment to prevent accidents. But, in spite of best efforts, accidents still happen. And accidents can have far reaching implications. It was, after all, a grade crossing collision which precipitated the sale of the Galeburg & Great Eastern in the 1930's.
Here, No. 1 sits helpless, probably near "Alert" station. Track damage is evident in the foreground, and even though the train was probably moving at ten miles per hour, the effects of uncontrolled tons of equipment are extensive. It is possible that crews were able to rerail No. 1 with jacks and wood blocks, but the railroad may have "borrowed" a crane from the friendly Burlington Railroad to right the engine.
Photo courtesy Ron Hatch Collection, by Kenneth C. Ziegler.
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