The American Freedom Train in Rockford, Illinois
August 8-10, 1975

The train's 23rd display city.

Derek Powell visited the train in Rockford and shared these photos and memories:

I believe the spot was called "Camp Grant", an old military training camp adjacent to the Greater Rockford Airport. 

I recall my dad telling me about the train coming to town, and that he had tickets for all of us.  Being 9 at the time and a model train kid, I was thrilled! 

The photo showing the long line waiting to tour the train and its cars is proof that my dad loved to get places early to "beat the crowd". 

It was a typical hot and muggy day, but I didn't care.  I had a blast!.

My sister and I are in a couple of the photos (most notably in the locomotive wheels closeup).  Boy did we love plaid pants back then! 

Images: Derek T. Powell collection

Leaving town...

Details of the AFT movement from Rockford to Aurora, IL.

Image: Bob Skillman collection.