Having grown up in Eldon, Iowa, I watched the KD from across the Des Moines River while at my dad's (Robert Hemm) cabin. Augie Baayen never missed blowing the horn when we waived. I'd like to acquire memorabilia from the KD from before the CRI&P took it over in about 1902. I have two stock certs. but that's all I,ve found. I am also very interested in old Eldon, Ia. photos or postcards of the railroad prior to 1960. Dad worked between Eldon and Silvis. My childhood saw good times at Dad's cabin curling up under a Pullman blanket, or using his RR lantern to hunt nightcrawlers. We lugged track splices, bolts, and a half-knuckle around a few times to make up his trot-line in the river. But oh the catfish were good. Dad and his brother-in-law, George Noel, were very adept at adapting railroad equipment to fishing. Those were the best times of my life.
Hi Jerry- Although I have heard the RR name previously, I can't recall having ever seen items from this RR. It might be a bit of a tough quest to locate "KD" memorabilia. But could be an interesting pursuit! I'm a train order collector. It took me some time to find just a clearance card from the RI at Keokuk. Have yet to locate an order itself. I'd love to find a "KD" example for my colelction. Sounds like this company went into the RI about the same time as the BCR&N was swallowed up. Boxcab E50
Jerry- Thanks for the note. I have indeed in past years been in touch with Conley. But he was not able to help. Boxcab E50
