Civilians and Soldiers in History Day

Join us for our annual Civilians and Soldiers in History Day. A wide range of displays dating all the way to the Civil War and up to near modern day will be on display. Jeeps, cannons, half tracks, encampment displays, reenactors in period clothing, and much more await our visitors.

Some of our visiting reenactors will be onboard the train during each excursion and may interact with passengers while the train excursion is underway. Additional displays and reenactors will also be located on board the train in Monon Business Car #2 and will only be accessible by those with first class tickets during the ride. Business Car #2 will be open for visitors between runs for viewing of the additional displays. All visitors are ENCOURAGED to dress to match their favorite era.

Special Friday Evening Ride
We will offer a single train ride on Friday evening, leaving North Judson at 6:00 pm (Central Time). This is a diesel-powered excursion. Choose from coach, open-air, or first class accommodations.

Steam Returns on Saturday
Bock Lumber Company No. 1 returns to service on Saturday! The little steamer will make its 2025 debut during the Civilians and Soldiers in History Day. Don't miss the first chance to ride behind this unique piece of history. Choose from open-air or caboose seating (subject to availability when you arrive).

Diesel Excursions All Day Saturday
We will be operating a series of diesel-powered excursions throughout the day on Saturday with coach, open-air, or first class seats available. This is one of our most popular events, so purchase your tickets ahead of time.

• Ticket Prices

  Open-Air or Coach Seating
  Adults (Ages 16+) - $20.00
  Children (Ages 3-15) - $14.00
  Toddlers (Ages 0-2) - FREE

  First Class Seating
  Lounge Seats (all ages) - $30.00
  Private Room (all ages, seats 3) - $100.00

  Steam Open-Air/Caboose Seating
  Adults (Ages 16+) - $14.00
  Children (Ages 3-15) - $10.00
  Toddlers (Ages 0-2) - FREE

  Infants and toddlers may ride the train for free but must ride on a parent's or guardian's lap. Tickets purchased online will be charged a booking fee. Please read our refund policy.

• Event Details

  Admission to this event is free, but we do charge for train rides.

• Excursion Dates

  Friday, July 18, 2025 (limited)
  Saturday, July 19, 2025

• Train Times

  Friday, July 18, 2025
  6:00 pm

  Saturday, July 19, 2025
  Diesel Excursions - 10:00 am, 12:00 pm, 2:00 pm, 5:00 pm, and 8:00 pm (Twilight Train)
  Steam Excursions - 11:00 am, 1:00 pm, 3:00 pm

  All times are Central (Chicago) Time.

• Seating Options

  Open-air, coach, and first class lounge seating is available for diesel excursions. Open-air and caboose seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis for steam excursions.

• More Info

  • Trains run rain or shine.
  • No smoking, alcohol or pets allowed on the train.
  • There are no working restrooms on the train.
  • All trains operate on CENTRAL TIME (Chicago time).
  • Train times are approximate and we are not responsible for delays.
  • Please arrive at least 30 minutes early, as late boarding is not permitted.
  • We reserve the right to cancel trips and substitute equipment.

Buy Tickets Online

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