Pullman Metra Station Will be Painted with Historical Significance

CHICAGO, IL - Those who stop at Metra's 111th Street/Pullman station will be in for a blast from the past once a painting project is completed this fall.

Metra will paint the rehabilitated warming house at the station in colors reminiscent of the Gertrude Emma, a Pullman Palace Car Company railcar. The Gertrude Emma was used on the Pennsylvania Limited line between Chicago and New York in the late 19th century and early 20th century.

The Pullman neighborhood has forever ties to its founder George Pullman and the sleeping railcar company, and the Gertrude Emma is among the most visible aspects of that history.

Once completed, the warming station will don old-time green and red colors, with the word "Pullaman" printed on the side.

“We are pleased to add character to this station that will honor a unique Chicago neighborhood and enhance the gateway to the Pullman National Monument,” said Metra Executive Director/CEO Don Orseno. “As a member of the steering committee for the Pullman Transportation Plan, we want to encourage tourism to this historic site.”

The renovation and painting of the warming house is one of a number of improvements Metra plans at the Pullman station this year, There will also be a replacement of the platform deck boards and removal of the unused portion of the platform, as well as a replacement of the stairway to the platform and repair or replacement of the roof over the stairway.

Painting will begin in early September.

Photo: Metra