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450 S Michigan Ave, AUD 540
Chicago IL 60605
United States

312-341-2247

Illinois Labor History Society

Labor History Society offering tours during Pullman Railroad Days, May 20-21.

Calendar

Labor History Society offering tours during Pullman Railroad Days, May 20-21.

ILHS

Historic Pullman Foundation (HPF) will host its second annual Pullman Railroad Days: People, Progress & Innovation on Saturday, May 20 and Sunday, May 21 at Pullman National Historical Park.  The Illinois Labor History Society will be offering tours both days.  Railroad Days tickets are available at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/pullman-railroad-days-2023-registration-470604138647

In partnership with Metra, and the American Association of Private Railroad Car Owners, visitors will have access to historic Pullman rail cars from different eras at the 111th Street/Pullman Metra Electric station. Included are the 1923 New York Central 3, the 1950 Royal Street Observation, and the 1949 Pennsylvania Railroad Colonial Crafts.  These cars reflect Pullman workers’ craft skills.

“We are again excited to be part of this annual event and to host these historic railroad cars at our 111th Street/Pullman Station,” said Metra CEO/Executive Director Jim Derwinski. “Our Metra Electric Line is still the fastest, most convenient and most affordable option to get to this event and to visit Pullman National Historical Park.”  The Metra Electric Line is operated by union members.

A new exhibit opening in the HPF’s Exhibit Hall will highlight the organization’s 50th anniversary and neighborhood revitalization and renovation.  “The exhibit speaks to the power of an engaged community,” said Historic Pullman Foundation President Joseph C. Szabo. “So many have toiled for so long, and it serves as a great example of how people in action can make a difference.”    

Through a virtual reality experience, hosted by Norfolk Southern, visitors will be able to pop on a pair of VR goggles and see how advanced technology fuels America’s freight railroads. Plus, using a locomotive simulator, learn what skills it takes to operate a railroad locomotive.

With guided tours of the Pullman National Historical Park grounds, activity booths, and food and entertainment, there will be something for everyone at Pullman Railroad Days. Stay up to date with added programming via www.pullmanil.org and the HPF Facebook page.

“We look forward to Pullman Railroad Days in May,” said Pullman National Historical Park Superintendent Teri Gage. “It’s such a great opportunity to explore Pullman National Historical Park, learn about the Pullman Company’s role in railroad history, and experience actual luxury Pullman cars! A family-friendly weekend of fun and learning in Chicago’s first national park. Pullman Railroad Days is quickly becoming the signature event of Historic Pullman Foundation and for train enthusiasts around the nation.”

The weekend-long event will be a mix of free events and a single-ticket entry for others. Historic Pullman Foundation Members get a 10% discount on ticket sales. Advance purchase tickets receive a 20% discount and special early access each morning from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. to the historic Pullman Railcar display.  Lines tend to get long in the afternoon.

Save by purchasing advance tickets by May 14. Day-of admission will be $30. 

Historic Pullman Foundation is the official nonprofit ‘Friends Group’ of Pullman National Historical Park. For decades, we have created opportunities for all people to experience and understand the continuing American story that is Pullman