Events & News

Past Events and Annual Meetings

The Chicago & Eastern Illinois Railroad Historical Society regularly hosts a variety of events that bring together members, railfans, and modelers to celebrate and explore the rich history of the C&EI Railroad. Below are highlights from some of our past events:

• 2024 Annual Meeting at Monticello Railway Museum (April 13, 2024): Members gathered at the Monticello Railway Museum in Monticello, IL, to discuss society updates and enjoy a day of presentations and tours.
• St. Louis Railway Prototype Modelers Meeting (July 20, 2023): Held at the Collinsville Convention Center, this event featured model displays, workshops, and networking opportunities for prototype modelers.
• 2023 Annual Meeting with TP&W Historical Society (April 15, 2023): This joint meeting at the Watseka Union Depot was a day filled with presentations, historical discussions, and a collaborative exchange between the C&EI and TP&W societies.
• 2022 Annual Meeting (April 9, 2022): The Altamont, IL gathering included society business updates, historical presentations, and a social dinner.
• 2021 Annual Meeting – 40th Anniversary Celebration (April 17, 2021): Celebrating 40 years of the society’s dedication to preserving the C&EI legacy, this event at Watseka Union Depot featured special presentations and a commemorative dinner.
• Scale Trains Road Show (August 28, 2021): Held at the Rossville Depot Railroad Museum, this event showcased the latest in model railroading with live demonstrations and exhibits.
• 2020 Annual Meeting (October 17, 2020): Despite the challenges of the year, the society held its annual meeting at Watseka Union Depot, focusing on society updates and future plans.
• Annual Meeting in Princeton, IN (April 27, 2019): This event brought members together in Princeton, IN, for a day of historical presentations and society business.

Join Us at Our Next Event

Members are encouraged to participate in our upcoming events to connect with fellow rail enthusiasts, share knowledge, and contribute to preserving the legacy of the C&EI Railroad. Keep an eye on our Events page for updates on future meetings, shows, and special gatherings.

Upcoming meetings:

Board Meeting: November 16, 2024 10 AM Vermilion County Museum

Annual Meeting: April 12, 2025 – Vermilion County Museum, 114 N. Gilbert St. Danville, Illinois 9 AM to 6:00 PM Program TBA