The Chicago and Eastern Illinois Railroad (C&EI) was a regional railroad in the United States that operated primarily in the state of Illinois. Established in the late 19th century, it connected major cities like Chicago and Evansville, Indiana, facilitating the transport of goods and passengers across the region. The railroad played a significant role in the economic development of the areas it served. In 1964, the C&EI was acquired by the Southern Railway, which later became part of the Norfolk Southern Railway. The railroad's legacy continues to influence freight transportation in the Midwest, as its routes have been integrated into larger rail networks.