Between 1880 and 1890, the Illinois Central purchased a total of 18 Forneys with a 2-4-4T wheel arrangement for suburban service in Chicago. These were made up of two classes that only differed in details and weight. These were six class 213 locomotives built by Rogers in 1880 and twelve class 223 locomotives built directly by the Illinois Central in the Paducah Shops beginning in 1885.

Since the class 223 was heavier than the class 213, the older locomotives were rebuilt in a similar manner. The suburban lines were electrified between 1926 and 1932, which led to the locomotives being transferred to switching service. However, it only took until 1935 for all to be retired. Preserved at the Illinois Railway Museum is 201, originally numbered 213 and participating in the 1893 Columbian Exposition.