The Peoria Rocket

**Photo by Alex Mayes

Rock Island's "Peoria Rocket" approaches La Salle Street Station in Chicago on a snowy day in November 1978 after completing the run from Peoria, Illinois. This intercity train, along with Rock Island's "Quad Cities Rocket", was required to continue operating after 1971 since the Rock Island did not join Amtrak. Both of Rock Island's intercity trains were initially equipped with diners and lounge cars, but after the 1975 bankrupcy they were reduced to just two coaches and one or two E8s. The "Peoria Rocket" was nearing its final days when this photo was taken, as it and the "Quad Cities Rocket" were discontinued on December 31, 1978. The lead E8, No. 652, was painted into this spectacular bicentennial paint scheme by the 20th Century Railroad Club.