Classic Trains in the Land of Lincoln: Dick Neumiller’s Central Illinois Photography

Bon French, chairman of the Center’s board of directors, presents some of the finest color railroad images from Dick Neumiller’s collection—beginning with Peoria railroading during the 1950s and 1960s, followed by classic Chicago, Burlington & Quincy trains during the same era. Bon and Dick were longtime friends and traveling partners, and you’ll marvel at crisp images that have never been published, and rarely seen until recent years.

Born in Peoria, Ill., in 1931, Dick Neumiller was a lifelong resident until his passing in 2015 at age 83. Dick loved color photography and began shooting Kodachrome slides in 1950. He had excellent equipment including Leicas and other fine cameras and lenses. He belonged to the Peoria Camera Club and often won awards for his work, which included many subjects beyond trains. Unlike some fans, Dick's excitement for rail photography increased as the steam engine faded, since diesel locomotives and post-WWII streamliners wore brilliant new color schemes. He attempted to photograph every streamlined train in America, from lesser-known railroads to the “big names.” We’re excited to share an evening of amazing midcentury rail photography!