08/29/2026
Beacon Forum, November 10, 1982.
Letter to the Editor From a Railroader's Daughter--"Sitting here in Agency, Iowa, the constant rumble of huge trucks traveling on Rt. 34 in front of our home, a distant train whistle is heard. The tracks in the back, like so many memories in the back of my mind. It will soon be four years since my father hung up his white switchman's hat for the last time. "Once a railroader, always a railroader"....just ask one of them the time of day. The Book of Rules was our way of life. These dedicated men fought wars of their own--the weather, soot, cinders, burns, constant danger, the "Extra Board", the "bumping system", the meeting of deadlines, priorities, seven days or nights a week. No strikes allowed. My father suffered constant pain, one leg shorter than the other from jumping off cars. Diabetes was discovered when a burn from a fuzee didn't heal. Railroading was in his blood, a pedigree and breed all their own. Their overalls, blue shirts, red hankies, white hats, worn with as much pride as any four-star General. They were a very important part of American heritage. Returning here from living on the West Coast, I knew I was returning home as I saw my first, in a long time, railroad car marked "Rock Island Lines"--hearing again in the reflection of my mind, my father's reminder, "Respect the crossing signs--they are not only your bread and butter, they are your safety." I am very grateful that the job that my father loved so much didn't directly take his life. There is a piece of the "Rock" in each of us ever associated with the Rock Island Lines. As a child, hearing Dad speak of Eldon being the "end of the line" didn't mean what it does today. I'm interested in meeting people who feel as I do--Eldon isn't the end of the line. My dream is a living Memorial from those of us who care, for those who served the Rock Island Lines. I feel the Eldon depot needs to be restored into a Museum, a place to go and remember. A place to care and share, to keep the Old Rock alive. Those interested in doing something may contact me.
Ann Pentzer
Agency, Iowa"
It took a while but this project was taken up in 2001. The Rock Island depot in Eldon is celebrating their accomplishments today, August 29, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Come to Eldon and join the commemoration.
