The Guild is pleased to announce its $200,000 "All Aboard" pledge to restore L Car No. 1. In 1892, the first elevated (“L”) train was put into service and by 1893, riders were being transported from the Loop to Jackson Park to experience the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition. Today, the original L car, on long-term loan from the CTA, resides at the entrance of the Museum’s Chicago: Crossroads of America exhibition. Since its installation in 2006, tens of thousands of visitors have hopped on board to enjoy this iconic piece of Chicago history.

We’ve heard some inspirational stories of school kids examining the car’s mechanisms, adult tour groups singing aboard the train, and even a case of writer’s block being cured by visiting the L car. This historic artifact is one of the Museum’s most popular features, so it is not surprising that it has suffered wear and tear throughout the years. With your support, we will be able to remediate damage that has occurred to the car and help restore it to its original beauty.

Levels of Support

Up to $250

$250–$499

$500–$999

$1,000–$2,499 | Includes permanent recognition outside the L car

$2,500 | Includes recognition and a special thank-you gift

$5,000+ | Includes recognition, thank-you gift, and lunch with CHM President and CEO Donald Lassere

*Supporters of $1,000 or more will receive recognition and benefits above. This includes one-time gifts of $1,000+ or pledges of $1,000+ paid over two years. Recognition is based on cumulative giving between now and June 30, 2024.

The Guild All Aboard Restoring L Car No. 1 Supporting the Chicago History Museum

The Guild All Aboard Restoring L Car No. 1

The Guild All Aboard Restoring L Car No. 1 Supporting the Chicago History Museum