Final Blades To Fall…
With news of the pending demise of the south end of the Monon between Bedford and Louisville, the final blades on the Monon’s north end are scheduled to fall by the end of 2010.

A major signal upgrade between Lafayette and Linden took out a large number of sempahores last year – being replaced with rather utilitarian Safetran hooded signal lights.

In March 2010, work began southward from Linden to Crawfordsville to replace the old “upside down” signal lights which have their aspects reversed from “normal” position.  Even the old L&N-style searchlight at South Linden is being replaced as well, truly changing the route to CSX.

With this project, the dwarf blades of North Crawfordsville and the one adjacent to the Ben Huhr museum will see their last trains soon.  The only ones to remain along the line will be museum pieces being restored at Linden.  That’s progress!  – Chris Dees

Cliff Downey’s new book, “Kentucky and the Illinois Central,” is now on sale at the Paducah Railroad Museum Gift Shop. The price is $ 23.25, including tax. This is a great book with many rare pictures. The museum is open on Friday 1:00 to 4:00 and Saturday 10:00-4:00. or by
appointment by calling 270 559-5253. You do not have to tour the museum to buy the book, but we hope you will want to.  Bob Johnston.  – submitted by Chuck Hinrichs.