Several Carbondale businesses recently partnered to help spruce up part of the city's downtown.
Sherwin Williams, Gracie Painting Company, and Weatherford Signs are giving paint supplies, decals and labor to refresh Carbondale's landmark caboose. The caboose had faded over several years of exposure to the elements, and leaders say the fresh paint and upgrades are a welcome sight.
The 1940's-era caboose illustrates Carbondale's history as a railroad town, and sits outside the old Illinois Central Depot downtown.
Leaders say the caboose is one of the many things drawing visitors and train enthusiasts to the downtown area. The old depot also serves as a museum, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
You can get more information about the Old Illinois Central Depot at its website, www.stationcarbondale.org.
