The City of Savanna

Savanna IL. has a rich history as a transportation hub beginning with paddle boat steamers in the early 1800's and then the booming railroads which came through the area in the late 1850's.  Rail lines with names like the Northern Illinois Railroad company, the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy, the Milwaukee Road, Burlington Northern & Santa Fe & Canadian Pacific.

While some of these lines are defunct, many are still going strong either on their own or through mergers with other lines. Even today Savanna serves as a major trans-shipment hub for the midwest. Trains can be seen and heard moving through town at all hours of the day and night.  And while modern trains are still bustling along there are reminders of past glories as well. 

Located in the town of Savanna is the City of Savanna. This may sound confusing until you realize that the City of Savanna is a restored vintage rail car that now serves as a train museum. Open seasonally and staffed by volunteers, the museum is chock full of railroad artifacts and memorabilia. Located just off main street, the car is under a protective awning and easily visible from the road.

Just behind the museum is another reminder of Savanna's glory days, a retired Milwaukee Road caboose #991933 now serving as the park office. And just down the road from That is a unique wooden sculpture commissioned by a local funeral home a few years ago to commemorate Savanna's rich railroad history.

So if you ever have a chance to take a drive, consider going up to Savanna and checking out all the unique treasure just waiting to be discovered.