Peaceful Snows on a Transcon


Before taking leave from the Midwest and pursuing the abandoned transcon of the Milwaukee Road, I knew the Santa Fe's own road west quiet well.  Well, to be completely accurate, I knew the BNSF Transcon through Illinois quite well.  A decade ago there were still quiet a few traces of ATSF to be found, however.  Warbonnets were found with some regularity, some even "unpatched" and wearing their original Santa Fe numbers and heralds.

Edelstein Hill was a favorite spot of mine to watch trains roll out on the high iron.  This grade up out of the Illinois River Valley was harsh, and steepest on the line anywhere east of the western mountains.  The surrounding Midwestern landscape was typical but beautiful.  Fields of corn in the summer gave way to winter browns and then white winter snows as temperatures plummeted.  These pictures are just a few taken one winter afternoon during an Illinois snowfall. 


One of the most striking things about fresh snow fall is how quiet everything is.  Cars that pass seem to roll by with nothing but a "whoosh" sound.  Even the trains on Edelstein Hill felt more subdued that afternoon.  As I reflect on the Midwestern snows, I'm reminded of their silence and pristine beauty.  The silence of falling snow is breathtaking and often a welcome respite from the noise that surrounds us most of the time.  As we roll quickly into a new year, I hope you find times of Peace and silence to enjoy.  

 


Comments

Robert in Port Townsend said…
Great post, Leland. You paint a very accurate description of trainspotting in the snow! Burrr!
12/30/2011 12:07:00 PM
LinesWest said…
Thanks Robert - sorry about the 'toasters' though. Best I could do.

-Leland
12/30/2011 12:14:00 PM
oamundsen said…
A wonderful way to close out a year, thank you very much. Best wishes for a year of good health, miles of great shots and plenty of joy!
12/30/2011 05:46:00 PM
SDP45 said…
I'm not sure I would have even taken a photo. I do appreciate the feel of the locale, and prefer to just observe.

Dan
12/30/2011 06:58:00 PM
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