Posted 13 years ago
gailggg
(1 item)
Folklore is that these hung as advertising for the "City of New Orleans" train route in the 12th Street railroad station in Chicago. The train was operated by the Illinois Central Railroad. One of the paintings is signed by Phil Austin. The other is not signed, but obviously the same watercolor on large board. They were said to have been in the basement when the station was remodeled. There were six paintings, someone else bought the others. I am originally from Chicago, so I love having part of the early history. I grew up with an IC station in our village.
I was about ready to throw out 4 prints that came from the Illinois Central Railroad which I have from my Grandfather and Father who both worked at the IC. Both have passed on and I thought I would check any history first. I was really surprised to see both of these watercolors on line. I have prints of these 2 and 2 other Phil Austin New Orleans prints. Where are the orginals now? Both the above prints I have, have Phil Austin signatures. I grew up near one of the IC stations as well. Interested in any history as well.
i have four painting of phil austin . main street of old french city