Trains, a Hold-up and Hooch

If you’re traveling in Lake County, Illinois on Route 176 just east of I-94 and Lambs Farm, blink and you’ll miss a historical marker. This event has stood the test of time as being the largest train robbery in U.S. history – known as The Great Rondout Train Robbery.

Morning - include a trip to Wandering Tree Estate (summertime and on group tour days only) or Volo Museum to see the train from the 1999 movie, Wild Wild West and other historical vehicles.

Lunch can be at Chessie’s Restaurant in the train car or Whistle Stop Café.

After lunch, immerse yourself in the era of Prohibition at North Shore Distillery (Illinois’ first craft distillery since Prohibition). Enjoy a presentation by the Lake Bluff Historical Society about the night of June 12, 1924 in Rondout, Illinois. The $3 million caper equal to $53,192,947 in 2024(!) was the work of the Newton Gang, a group of brothers who robbed at least 87 banks and 8 trains in 10 states during their short criminal career. This story inspired the 1998 movie “The Newton Boys” starring Matthew McConaughey and Ethan Hawke. Currently available for streaming, you might want to show the movie after your visit for review and discussion.

This 90-minute talk includes time to enjoy a cocktail or mocktail with some clever names: Fahy's Folly, Rondout Rendezvous, Poor Doc Newton, Alternate Route or Leisure Thyme depending on ingredient availability. 

We think this itinerary might pique the interest of your history lovers, men’s groups, learning in retirement, movie buffs and more. Jayne would be happy to schedule this tour for you at no cost to you.

Note, due to the size of the distillery, groups of 10-30 people are perfect for this tour. So, brush up on your Charleston and head on over to Lake County, Illinois soon, Elliot Ness might be hovering nearby!