Davenport is a city located in eastern Iowa, along the Mississippi River. It is the third largest city in the state and is part of the Quad Cities metropolitan area, which also includes the cities of Bettendorf, Iowa, and Rock Island and Moline in Illinois. Davenport was founded in 1836 and quickly grew as a major trading hub due to its location on the river. In the late 19th century, the city became a center for the lumber industry, with many sawmills and factories being established along the riverfront.

One of the key factors that contributed to Davenport's growth and prosperity was its role in freight transportation. The city became an important transportation hub, with railroads and steamboats connecting it to other parts of the country. The Mississippi River served as a major artery for transporting goods, and Davenport's location made it a key stop along the river. The city's riverfront was lined with warehouses and docks, where goods were unloaded from steamboats and transferred onto trains for further distribution. Today, Davenport remains an important transportation hub, with a modern port facility that handles a variety of cargoes, including agricultural products, steel, and machinery.

Carol Stream is a vibrant suburb located in DuPage County, Illinois. It was named after the founder's daughter, Carol Stream, and was incorporated as a village in 1959. The village has a rich history in freight transportation, as it is home to the Carol Stream Rail Yard. This rail yard, operated by the Canadian National Railway, serves as a major hub for transporting goods and materials throughout the region. It plays a crucial role in facilitating the movement of freight between different parts of the country, making Carol Stream an important logistics and transportation hub.

In addition to its role in freight transportation, Carol Stream is also known for its strong industrial sector. The village is home to numerous manufacturing and distribution companies, which benefit from its strategic location near major highways and rail lines. This accessibility to transportation infrastructure has attracted businesses to the area, contributing to the village's economic growth and prosperity.