Just by the sound of the train's whistles blocks away, Janesville's old-timers often could predict the day's weather. A shrill pierce often indicated clear skies, while a muted whistle meant high humidity and the likelihood of rain. Regardless of the weather, the approaching sounds signaled residents of a much bigger happening that was becoming more and more common in Janesville. Wednesdays were particularly big days, as famous performers and their many trucks landed in Janesville for the start of new runs at the Myers Grand Opera House, which hosted a string of top-name performance from 1891 to 1924. As far as rail was concerned, Janesville was really a busy center as early as the 1850s.
Diaries tell of packed trains.
The only problem was that the expected engine failed to materialize on that day. Piloted by engineer John C. Fox, the locomotive finally arrived in Janesville five days later. And deservedly so, as historical accounts of the rail industry in Janesville indicate. The railroads helped put Janesville on the map. The railroads set the transportation mode for the state to be built, and that was certainly the case in Janesville.