Photos:

Illinois Central E8A 4021 leads New York Central train 415, the Booth Tarkington, westbound near the NYC/CI crossing, which is behind the photographer out of view. The train is running at an easy 20mph due to the speed restriction through town and is preparing to make a stop at the station less than a mile ahead. September 22, 1957. (Ben Planck Photo)

A New York Central Fairbanks Morse Erie-Built leads an Alco PB2 with the eastbound train number 416, the Booth Tarkington. Notice the tilting target signal above the lead engine protecting the NYC/CI crossing. September 22, 1957. (Ben Planck Photo)

A Budd stainless steel observation car brings up the rear of train 416, the Booth Tarkington. The train has just finished crossing the CI and is heading for a scheduled 2:35pm arrival at Indianapolis Union Station. September 22, 1957. (Ben Planck Photo)

Looking west down the CI tracks. The line crossing overhead is the PRR from Indianapolis through Frankfort and on to Logansport. By this time the CI track did not go much farther west past the PRR. Today only the PRR tracks remain through Lebanon. September 22, 1957. (Ben Planck Photo)

We’re looking westbound down the CI at the crossing with the New York Central. Notice the tilting target protecting the crossing. The vertical position indicated it was clear for NYC trains to pass without stopping. A horizontal target indicated clearance for CI trains to proceed. The derail on the CI appears to be connected to the target signal. September 22, 1957. (Ben Planck Photo)

The depot at Lebanon. Date Unknown. (Ron Stuckey Photo, John Fuller Collection)