North Shore & Western Railway

Owned by the discerning members of the Glen View Club in Golf, Illinois, the North Shore & Western Railway was more than just a railway. It was a testament to convenience and exclusivity. The North Shore & Western wasn’t designed for the masses. It catered specifically to the members of the golf club. Imagine a private trolley, at your beck and call, whisking you away from the greens to the vibrant streets of Evanston. This was the reality for the privileged few. The railway, affectionately nicknamed the “Toonerville Trolley,” boasted a modest fleet. One streetcar and a snow plow were the workhorses of this exclusive line. Two dedicated employees, a motorman and a conductor, ensured the smooth operation of the North Shore & Western. Their hours were dictated by the leisure of the club members. The route of the North Shore & Western Railway painted a picturesque scene. Starting from the verdant grounds of the Glen View Club, it meandered through the tranquil Harms Woods. The trolley crossed the North Branch of the Chicago River, a shimmering ribbon winding through the trees. The line then stretched eastward along present-day Old Orchard Road, leading to Evanston, where the street transforms into Harrison Street. The journey offered a blend of natural beauty and urban charm. The reign of the Toonerville Trolley, however, wasn’t destined to last. The members eventually grew weary of the responsibilities of railway ownership. They sold the line to the Evanston Railway Company, marking the end of an era of private transport. A tangible piece of this bygone era remains. A section of the North Shore & Western’s rail now rests at the Skokie Historical Society, a silent testament to the railway’s unique history.