Jack Delano had visited the Chicago and North Western’s Proviso Yard earlier in the winter of 1942-43 before his journey out West. But he’s back and busy documenting railroaders at work in C&NW’s huge yard near Chicago. It’s April of 1943, the snow is gone, but there is still a chill in the air. A switchman is seen lining a switch in the never-ending task of sorting freight cars.
Considering this is the middle of WWII and the burden placed on the railroads during that time, the yard is surprisingly empty. Perhaps though it’s a reflection on the efficiency of the crews as they labor to keep the trains rolling.
Many of the rails appear to have a yellowish cast to them. I doubt it’s rust as zooming in on the original hi-rez image doesn’t suggest that. And I’ve noticed this same coloration in several other photos taken of Proviso Yard. But I’ve never seen an explanation of what this is. Anyone care to venture a guess (or perhaps, the actual reason)?
Hello Jack,
Since my family would stay with kin up around that area during times father was away serving in U.S. Army (27yrs.). That could be pollen from local on top of dew wet rails that is wind blown. seen it my self. Have lived in many states in my life time.
Lived in four different towns in Florida, liked Pensacola the best.
Seen flowers bloom also up in those parts also March-April too.
Let me hear what you think it is!
later from Okie Homy
Boudreaux, President B. C. E. R.R.
Hi Boudreaux – Yesterday a BNSF engineer told me that was rust. I really didn’t think that because I don’t recall rust looking such a bright yellow, but he says it is. I suppose he’s seen a lot more rail than I have since he rides it every day!
-Jack