The Valpo began in 1869 as the PRR Chicago–Valparaiso Accommodation, also known as the Valpo Local or The Dummy. It continued under PC then Conrail until 1979, when Amtrak took over. Amtrak added an addition train between Valparaiso and Chicago, named The Indiana Connection, but by 1990 Conrail decided to abandon its route through Valparaiso, forcing the discontinuance of Amtrak's Valpo trains. The last run of The Valpo was May 3, 1991. The bridge in the background is the ICG's Saint Charles Air Line.

May 17-18, 1980: Railfair 80 includes operation of special Vista-Dome Mississippi Zephyr Chicago/Dubuque, Iowa on Sunday. The Twentieth Century RR Club pays tribute to the disappearing dome with this special Amtrak train. Consist of E-units, Vista-Domes, Lounge car and coaches will feature all-reserved seats. Train leaves Chicago at 10:00 a.m. and returns about 9:00 p.m., operating via ICG. Photo stops and a stop in historic Galena. A special buffet dinner is available in Dubuque, only by advance resaervation. Send for your tickets now: Mississippi Zephyr $65; Sunday dinner in Dubuque $7.50.