I grew up in Chicago during the 40s and 50s...so...
But the steam RR that was near my house that flattened the pennies I put on the track was the Chicago and Northwestern. Vivid memories.
Beginning in 1952, spent the first 16 years of my life in the KC KS/MO area. Was around 13 large railroads. However, my clearest memories are primarily centered around:
Frisco*
Missouri Pacific
Rock Island
Katy
Kansas City Terminal
Santa Fe
CB&Q
Wabash (then N&W)
Union Pacific
Kansas City Southern
I'm sure I also saw the CGW and the GM&O... but I have no clear memories of them.
* Of the above, my most influential line was the Frisco. Though the Frisco wasn't the first line on which I received a cab ride(s), it was the most prominent of them all, including lasting friendships with the former employees and being taught some of the skills needed with which I earn my living to this day.
Because of all the above, it should come as no surprise that the last of my three layout "starts" revolved around a KC lines theme, and continue into this, my third attempt to find euphoria modeling the KC area! 
Hopefully, this third one will be the successful one. 
