Chicago Trainspotting. Save the Sad Old GE 35 Ton Switcher at ADM Milling!

As everyone knows we're in the midst of -20 degree cold here in Chicago, so I'm digging into my pictures for a bit of Chicago trainspotting from a warmer time.

Early last fall I found this sad little switcher at the ADM Milling plant on Ogden Ave.  It appears to be a GE 35 Ton switcher.  It has a similar design but compared to the the ubiquitous GE 25 ton 2-axle switcher, this is a bit of a rarity. 

It's visible from the street looking east from the the corner of Ogden and Ada. Unfortunately it has been pushed into a pile of gravel and it appears it is being used as a bumper. 

Closer up view. I was able to walk right up to it on both sides of the fence that was open.  A truck driver did yell at me, but that's not unexpected.  No trains were operating while I was photographing. 

The engine is open, but doesn't look to be in bad shape.  Facing East and turning from South to North, Here's the structure the tracks are adjacent to and the tracks it is at the end of.

A weathered painted cement masterclass..

Bad news first.   The ADM Plant is scheduled to close this year and it is not unreasonable to assume that if not claimed this little switcher would be headed to the scrap heap.

Good news.  When I saw this immediately called the Illinois Railway Museum.  I don't know if it had any effect, but they took the information about the loco and it's location.  Never did call me back, but when I checked in a month later they said they are trying to acquire it.  Hopefully this loco will find a new home running at IRM or at least will give of it's parts to preserve and restore other vintage switchers.

As a bonus, here's the charming 1958 Chevrolet Viking bus that was parked across the street.

I've never eaten at  "The Madison, Bar and Kitchen" but kudos to them for preserving this classic bus.

That's all for now. 

Stay warm!

-Karl