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Chicago & Northwestern Coaling Tower: A Relic of the Steam Era

A towering concrete relic from the steam locomotive era, offering a glimpse into DeKalb's rich railway history.

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The Chicago & Northwestern (C&NW) Coaling Tower in DeKalb, Illinois, stands as a reminder of the steam locomotive era. This concrete structure, once vital for refueling steam engines, is a unique historical landmark and a testament to the region's rich railway heritage.

A brief summary to Chicago and Northwestern Coaling Tower

  • DeKalb, Illinois, 60115, US

Local tips

  • Visit Rotary Park next to the coaling tower for the best views and photo opportunities.
  • Take your time to appreciate the sheer scale and unique design of this historic structure.
  • Combine your visit with a walk or bike ride along the nearby Kishwaukee River Trail.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Chicago & Northwestern Coaling Tower is located next to Rotary Park in DeKalb. From downtown DeKalb, head east on Lincoln Highway, then turn right onto 1st Street. Continue south, cross the railroad tracks, and you'll see the coaling tower and Rotary Park on your left. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes. There are no costs associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    DeKalb Public Transit operates several routes throughout the city. Check the DeKalb Public Transit website or app for the most up-to-date route information and schedules. Several bus routes have stops near the vicinity of the Coaling Tower. From the nearest bus stop, it's a short walk to the tower. A single ride on DeKalb Public Transit costs $0.50 for adults.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in DeKalb. A taxi ride from downtown DeKalb to the Chicago & Northwestern Coaling Tower will cost approximately $14, depending on traffic and the specific company. Parking is available near Rotary Park.

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Discover more about Chicago and Northwestern Coaling Tower

The Chicago & Northwestern Coaling Tower in DeKalb, Illinois, is a towering concrete structure that evokes the age of steam locomotives. Built to provide coal for the locomotives of the Chicago & Northwestern Railway, the tower is a relic from a time when coal was king. Coaling towers like this one were essential for efficient railway operations. They allowed trains to quickly replenish their coal supply, minimizing downtime and keeping the flow of goods and passengers moving. The DeKalb tower served as a key point along the C&NW's main line from Chicago to Clinton, Iowa. While the tracks that once ran beneath the tower are still active, the tower itself no longer serves its original purpose. Steam engines were replaced by diesel and electric locomotives, rendering coaling towers obsolete. Today, the DeKalb coaling tower stands as a monument to a bygone era, a reminder of the region's industrial past and the vital role that railroads played in the development of the American Midwest. The tower is located next to Rotary Park, offering easy access and a place to view this historic structure. Although the tower is on private property, it can be viewed from public areas.

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