One man's treasure is coming to life in Monticello after 21 years of work


Reviving History: Discover the 21-Year Journey to Restore Monticello’s Hidden Treasures

MONTICELLO, Ill. — After years of dedication, one man’s passion project in Central Illinois has finally come to fruition.

John Downing has devoted his life to restoring a historic train engine at the Monticello Railway Museum, and his efforts have paid off as the locomotive moves under its own power for the first time since he began the restoration.

You May Also Like

Brevard Deputy Clocked at 111 MPH, No Super Speeder Arrest

BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. – Brevard County’s 2025 Deputy of the Year was…

Telescope Spots Milky Way’s Fastest Star Racing Around a Black Hole

NEW YORK – Astronomers have spotted the fastest star yet detected in…

Parramore Cheer and Dance Program Works to Prevent Heat-Related Fainting Among Young Girls

ORLANDO, Fla. – In Orlando’s Parramore neighborhood, Pure Pressure Cheer and Dance…

Longtime Stars and Stripes Publisher to Retire Amid Pentagon Rift

The longtime publisher of Stars and Stripes is stepping down, closing out…