The Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad, often abbreviated as the Rock Island, was established in the mid-19th century and became a vital part of the American transportation system. It provided critical services across the Midwest, connecting cities and facilitating the movement of goods and passengers. However, by the late 1970s, the railroad industry faced tremendous challenges due to rising operational costs, decreased ridership, and increased competition from the trucking and airline industries. These pressures culminated in significant financial distress for the Rock Island.

In the wake of bankruptcy and mounting debts to creditors, federal courts ordered the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific to liquidate its assets. This decision was not made lightly, as the railroad had a storied past involving various innovations and expansions throughout the decades. The final train operated by the Rock Island symbolized the end of an era, as it had been providing service to communities for over a century. After this final journey, operations ceased entirely, leading to the closure of stations and the loss of jobs for many employees.

The last train's route included the once-bustling segments of Chicago, Illinois, to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, which had been integral in shaping local economies. As the Rock Island faded into obscurity, its legacy left a lasting imprint on the history of rail transportation in America. The financial collapse sparked broader discussions about the future of rail transport and the necessity of reform within the industry to address its structural challenges.