610 ILCS 25/2

Such consolidation shall take effect upon the filing and recording of such articles of consolidation in the office of the Secretary of State of the State of Illinois, and a certified copy thereof in the office of the recorder of the various counties in which said railroad is situated. A certified copy of such articles of consolidation, under seal of the Secretary of State, shall be deemed and taken to be prima facie evidence of the existence of such consolidated corporation.