Join the C&EI Historical Society

Join the Chicago & Eastern Illinois Railroad Historical Society: Preserve, Connect, and Explore the Legacy of the C&EI Railroad

Become a Member

Become a member of CEIHS and help preserve an essential part of American railroad history and heritage for future generations.

Connect and collaborate with a community of like-minded individuals who share a passion for railroading history.

Enjoy a shared wealth of historical documents, photographs, and artifacts from researchers, modelers, and enthusiasts.

Enjoy our magazine-style publication filled with rich historical content and news related to the C&EI Railroad.

Engage with our publications and join events and activities to enhance your knowledge of the railroad’s influence.

Membership Benefits and How to Get Involved

  • Preservation of History: Help keep the legacy of the C&EI Railroad alive for future generations.
  • Exclusive Access to Resources: Gain access to rare historical documents, photos, and artifacts.
  • Community and Networking: Connect with fellow rail enthusiasts and participate in events and meetings.
  • Engagement in Activities: Get involved in historical research, model railroading, and more.
  • Educational Opportunities: Expand your knowledge of railroading through our publications and events.


Membership levels are kept affordable, and the benefits significantly outweigh the cost, making it an excellent opportunity for those interested in railroading history.


Meetings

The Chicago & Eastern Illinois Railroad Historical Society holds an Annual Meeting, inviting all members and friends of the C&EI Railroad to participate. This gathering is a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow members, share knowledge, and engage in discussions about the railroad’s history.


Society Officers

The Chicago & Eastern Illinois Railroad Historical Society was founded in 1982 by a group of fifty fans and former employees. The society’s purpose is to preserve and share the history of the C&EI Railroad, including its subsidiaries, corporate predecessors, and successors.

Current Officers:

  • President: Robert Gibson Jr, Princeton, Indiana
  • Vice President: Dan Nevills, Lansing, Illinois
  • Secretary: David Forbes, Marshall, Illinois (Contact: ceihs.secretary@gmail.com)
  • Treasurer & Membership Chairman: Richard Schroeder, Savoy, Illinois
  • Directors: Ross Abbott, Troy, Illinois; Justin Pippin, Downs, Illinois

The officers are committed to responding to members’ requests and inquiries. However, members are encouraged to contact the appropriate officer to ensure their queries are directed correctly.

Membership Application

To join the society, individuals must fill out the membership application. Members receive all the publications produced during their membership year, including two issues of the C&EI Flyer, a calendar, and any newsletters. Additionally, members have full voting rights and can participate in all society meetings.

Membership Options:

  • Sustaining Membership: $45.00 per year. New sustaining members receive a hardbound copy of “The History and Romance of Danville Junction.”
  • Regular Membership: $30.00 per year.

Download Our Membership Form

Applications should be printed and mailed to: C&EI Historical Society Membership PO Box 138 Bucklin, MO 64631