Ogle County Illinois USA - For Stateline train enthusiasts, a piece of history rolls through the region next year.
 
The CPKC railway company announces locomotive 2816 soon departs across North America.
 
Following this year's ceremonial final spike, completing its "continental connection", the railway company will continue to celebrate its history with the steam tour.
 
Steam locomotive 2816, "The Empress", will be the tour's star.
 
A refurbished 4-6-4 Hudson type originally built in 1930.
 
Constructed by Montreal Locomotive Works, the engine served as a roving, steam-powered, "ambassador" to CP throughout Canada and the U.S. before put into storage in 2012.
 
A decade since its storage-retirement, the locomotive returns with the "Final Spike Steam Tour."
 
The Empress takes off 14 Apr 2024 from Calgary.
 
Public stops include St. Paul, Minnesota, Franklin Park, Illinois, Kansas City, Mosourii, and more while venturing down to Mexico City.
 
And for Stateline residents, catch The Empress at railroads especially in Ogle County, the steam locomotive will pass communities such as Davis Junction, Stillman Valley, Byron, and Leaf River.
 
No specific dates are available on when the train will approach the Stateline, but considering the April tour start, expect a late-spring/summer arrival at the earliest.
 
Moreover, the railway states stops will share the opportunity to see the train up close and learn the rail's history.
 
However, individual rides will not be part of the experience.
 
A miniature version of the 2816, the Puffer Belly Express, will be ready to welcome guests for rides at planned public stops.
 
Nathan Langley.