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The Big Dig

Discover the Story of Mattoon’s 1914 “Big Dig”

In 1914, Mattoon undertook one of the most ambitious construction projects in its history: lowering the Illinois Central Railroad tracks through the city. Known locally as “The Big Dig,” the project reshaped downtown and changed how the community moved and grew.

Explore Mattoon’s Landmark Railroad Project

In this richly illustrated book, local historian Chris Suerdieck chronicles the story behind the project—from the events that led up to it, to the massive excavation itself, and the many improvements that followed. Featuring more than 170 historic photographs—many previously unpublished— The Big Dig offers a fascinating look at one of the most significant infrastructure projects in Mattoon’s history.

Purchase Options

Buy at the Library

$38 (tax included)
Copies are available for purchase at Mattoon Public Library.
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Order by Mail

$50 (tax and shipping included)
Use the PayPal link below to order a copy to be shipped to you. Orders are processed weekly. Please allow up to two weeks for delivery after purchase.

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About the Author

Chris Suerdieck is a lifelong lover of history, both local and world history, with emphasis on Mattoon and World War II. For nearly 9 years, he’s been the volunteer curator of the Local History Center at the Mattoon Public Library. In that role, he’s researched, written, produced and displayed items for a more than 6-room history center that unfolds the city’s development beginning in 1855. The center is a premier, museum-style attraction visited by current residents, families of current or former residents and numerous others who find the community’s story compelling. He also authored an article on Mattoon’s original Burger King for the Illinois Heritage museum. As part of his volunteer role as history center curator, Suerdieck offers bicycle and walking tours in Mattoon.

In March 2026, Suerdieck was named Citizen of the Year by the Mattoon Chamber of Commerce.

 

Watch Chris’s Talk

Missed Chris’s presentation on December 11, 2025? Don’t worry! You can watch the full talk here. In this presentation, Chris Suerdieck shares the story behind Mattoon’s 1914 railroad track depression project—the research, historic photographs, and personal stories that also appear in his book, The Big Dig.