Cincinnati's Union Terminal My take on the thing that everyone from Cincinnati has photographed at some point. this is the famous Union Terminal and now has new life as a museum. It was deemed a National Historic Landmark in 1977, and is also on the National Register of Historic Places.
Future home of the Music City Star (seen in 2006) In a few months (hopefully) this will terminal be the destination for many aboard the Music City Star passenger train in Downtown Nashville. As you can tell, it is currently a work in progress. The Cumberland River is on the right. Riverfront Park is at the top. First Ave. and the Hard Rock Cafe are on the left. This picture is taken from the Shelby St. Bridge.
Newbern, TN IC Depot There are two Amtrak stops in Tennessee. One is in Memphis and the other is in the tiny West Tennessee town of Newbern. The brick passenger station was built by Illinois Central in 1920 as part of the "City of New Orleans" route. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Illinois Central passenger train service to the depot ceased in 1965. The building was then used for storage until 1990, when it was acquired by the city of Newbern. It was subsequently restored based on the original architectural drawings. The building now houses the Amtrak stop and a small museum of railroad history that exhibits old photos, railroad tools, uniforms, schedules, and other memorabilia, along with model trains and art work. The depot is a central feature of Newbern's "Depot Days" Festival, held annually in September.
IC Machine Shop - Fulton, KY located at the IC yard in Fulton KY, where there also used to be a turntable and roundhouse. Today, the yard is owned by CN.
Jackson, TN NCSTL Depot The brick building in Jackson was built in 1907 and is now open as a museum.
Calhoun, GA train depot. The Calhoun, GA train depot dates back to 1854 and was built by Western & Atlantic railroad and was one of the sites of the Civil War's Great Locomotive Chase. Over the years, the interior has been completely rebuilt and it now serves as a community center.
Kingsport, TN Freight Depot The Historic Clinchfield Passenger Station is one of the highlighted buildings in town, but don't overlook its neighbor next door. Today the building serves as the local Chamber of Commerce
Dalton, GA 1854 W&A Depot (From nearby parking garage) One of the oldest surviving train stations in Georgia, the Western & Atlantic train depot was completed in 1854. It was one of the sites along the Civil War's Great Locomotive Chase. The tracks are still in use, but the historic building is no longer used by the railroads. The city of Dalton took possession of the building in 1976. Since then, it has been restored to original architectural design and is now a restaurant known as The Dalton Depot. Their website gives a more detailed history: www.thedaltondepot.net/history.html
New home of Carthage Junction, TN Depot As the Tennessee Central was working on it's rail line to Knoxville, in Smith County a branch split off to reach the industry of Carthage. The spot where the spur split from the main line was about 8 miles southeast of Carthage at a location known as Carthage Junction. 100 years ago, this depot was located there, close to where Preston Rd. meets highway TN141. After passenger rail traffic ceased, the depot was vacant for many years. Eventually, it was purchased and relocated a couple of miles away along TN56 at the Interstate 40 exit. The depot served as the office for Gordonsville Motor Company. More recently, preservationists have looked to save this station. The first step was to relocate this depot three miles up the road to South Carthage on Oct. 23, 2014. At this new location, the property has been flattened and now overlooks a park along the bank of the Caney Fork River. The tracks used to run right next to this spot, but now the tracks are torn up and across the street has become the endpoint of a rails-to-trails path. There is still much work to do, such as rebuilding the roof and restoring the interior. Then, they will improve the grounds around the station. You can follow their progress on their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/CarthageJunctionDepot
Tuscumbia Railway Depot This brick railroad depot in Tuscumbia, Al was built in 1888 by the Memphis & Charleston Railroad which became a part of Southern Railway. Memphis is 145.4 miles away and Chattanooga is 164.6 miles away. Known as the Fifth Street Station, Southern eventually abandoned this passenger station a few miles away to accommodate the entire Shoals area. The depot is now being restored to its original condition and has become a museum.
Dalton, GA 1854 W&A Depot (From ground level) One of the oldest surviving train stations in Georgia, the Western & Atlantic train depot was completed in 1854. It was one of the sites along the Civil War's Great Locomotive Chase. The tracks are still in use, but the historic building is no longer used by the railroads. The city of Dalton took possession of the building in 1976. Since then, it has been restored to original architectural design and is now a restaurant known as The Dalton Depot. Their website gives a more detailed history: www.thedaltondepot.net/history.html
Baxter, TN Replica Train Station Baxter is a small town in Putnam County and is named after the founder of Tennessee Central railroad Jere Baxter. The old TC tracks go through the middle of town. The city built a replica train depot to be used as a visitors center and museum.
Mobile & Ohio Passenger Depot - Trenton, TN The rail line through Trenton, TN was built in 1861 by Mobile & Ohio (M&O) which eventually became GM&O and the Illinois Central in 1972. Today the tracks are part of short line West Tennessee Railroad. This area also had some Civil War history as seen by this historic marker: seemidtn.com/gallery3/index.php?album=historical-markers/...
Knoxville's L&N Station (Street View) From Wikipedia: The L&N Station is a former rail passenger station in Knoxville, TN, located in the downtown area at the northern end of the World's Fair Park. Built in 1905 by the Louisville and Nashville Railroad, the station was renovated for use in the 1982 World's Fair, and is currently home to the Knox County STEM Academy. In 1982, the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places for its architecture and role in Knoxville's transportation history. For the full story: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/L%26N_Station_%28Knoxville%29
Chattanooga Choo-Choo Hello to anyone who found this here: www.radiojazzclub.com/?p=47 On a story about Harry Warren who wrote teh song Chattanooga Choo Choo That link has been updated: www.radiovideojazz.com/harry-warren/
Ocean Springs, MS Passenger Station Originally built by L&N in 1887, the tracks are now CSX.
Smyrna, TN Passenger Depot at Christmastime Here is the railroad station of the town I call home. The city of Smyrna has its roots to when a station was built here in 1851 and the town sprung up around it. (The line that ran from Nashville to Chattanooga placed a depot every 8 or so miles along the route.) This brick depot was built in 1873. The historic building had lied vacant for many years, but it is starting to see a little bit of activity. Most of the town festivals are held at the depot and along Front St. Within the last 5 years, the town has worked on revitalizing the area with landscaping and a roundabout at the intersection in front of the depot. The green flag in the picture is the city's logo. See the historical marker here: seemidtn.com/gallery3/index.php?album=historical-markers/...
Dickson, TN Train Station at dusk This train station was originally built by L&N and along tracks belonging now to CSX. Across the street is the historic railroad hotel, Hotel Halbrook which is now operated as the Frank Clement museum.
L&N Passenger Station and Express Building - Pensacola, FL From Wikipedia: The Louisville and Nashville Passenger Station and Express Building is a historic Louisville and Nashville Railroad depot in Pensacola, Florida. The building was constructed between 1912 and 1913 with elements of Prairie School, Spanish Mission, and Italianate architectural styles. On June 11, 1979, it was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. In 1984, the depot was refurbished and incorporated into the Pensacola Grand Hotel (now the Crowne Plaza Pensacola Grand Hotel) that was built just behind it. The renovation of the depot was a painstaking process that used as much of the original material as possible. The building houses the lobby, shops, restaurant and meeting rooms of the hotel.
1849 Ringgold, GA Train Depot Back in 1849, Ringgold was the largest city in the area, even larger than nearby Chattanooga. The depot is made of stone which was common in the area at the time. In 1862, the Ringgold Depot was one of the places to be a part of the Civil War's famous Great Locomotive Chase. Travelling north along the Western and Atlantic tracks, Andrew's Raiders would abandon The General steam locomotive about two miles north of here. The depot is situated on a bit of an incline from the road below. The main road through town, which used to be the Dixie Highway and is now US41 runs between this vantage point and the station. The road passes under the tracks. The main part of town is to the left. Today, the building has been restored and the town of Ringgold uses it as a community meeting hall. Originally W&A, the tracks later became part of NCStL and are now CSX. The depot is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
1849 Ringgold, GA Train Depot Back in 1849, Ringgold was the largest city in the area, even larger than nearby Chattanooga. The depot is made of stone which was common in the area at the time. In 1862, the Ringgold Depot was one of the places to be a part of the Civil War's famous Great Locomotive Chase. Travelling north along the Western and Atlantic tracks, Andrew's Raiders would abandon The General steam locomotive about two miles north of here. The depot is situated on a bit of an incline from the road below. The main road through town, which used to be the Dixie Highway and is now US41 runs between this vantage point and the station. The road passes under the tracks. The main part of town is to the left. Today, the building has been restored and the town of Ringgold uses it as a community meeting hall. Originally W&A, the tracks later became part of NCStL and are now CSX.
East Florence, AL L&N Freight Depot This photo was taken in 2012, so I don't know if the property is still for sale or if the windows are still boarded up. I can't get a year for when this depot was built.
L&N Passenger Station - Corbin, KY The 1921 L&N Passenger Station in Corbin, KY has been restored and is now used by the city for conference & community rooms. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Union Station (View from Demonbreun Viaduct) en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Union_Station_(Nashville) The depot was built in 1900 in a castle-like late-Victorian Romanesque Revival style. The clock on the tower was one of the earliest digital clocks, but is now a traditional clock. Atop the tower used to be a 3D statue of the Roman god Mercury, but was knocked off in a windstorm in the 50s. In the mid-90s, a flat Mercury was put in its place. That one was knocked off in the 98 tornado, but was replaced again. The station became vacant in 1979 after train service was discontinued. It opened as a luxury hotel in March of 1990, and is now a Marriott hotel. An architecturally significant train shed used to be located right next to the station, but it's deteriorating condition, plus lack of any conceivable use led to it being demolished a few years ago, which caused Union Station to lose its status as a National Historic Landmark.
Collierville, TN Train Station The train station in Collierville, TN was originally built by Southern Railway for the town of LaGrange, TN. Then, in the 1940's it was moved to Collierville. In 1976, Southern realized there would be no more passenger service and the depot was given to the city and moved to its present location. Now it is on the town square and off of the quite active NS main line. now is open as a train museum, which is under the oversight of the Memphis Transportation Museum. There are still some tracks that lead up to this station where the museum has some rolling stock on display. You can read more about the museum here: www.commercialappeal.com/entertainment/museum-on-a-roll
Collierville, TN Train Station at night The train station in Collierville, TN was originally built by Southern Railway for the town of LaGrange, TN. Then, in the 1940's it was moved to Collierville. In 1976, Southern realized there would be no more passenger service and the depot was given to the city and moved to its present location. Now it is on the town square and off of the quite active NS main line. now is open as a train museum, which is under the oversight of the Memphis Transportation Museum. There are still some tracks that lead up to this station where the museum has some rolling stock on display. You can read more about the museum here: www.commercialappeal.com/entertainment/museum-on-a-roll
Murfreesboro, TN Depot Built in 1887
The Abandoned Smyrna, TN Train Station (2006) I would guess that this depot hasn't been for train passengers form 35 years. Its stop is along the same CSX line that runs from Chattanooga to the Radnor Yard in Nashville, as well as right by my house. It's located in the old city center of Smyrna, with torn up concrete and front street on the right, and the tracks then US 41/70S on the left. This was before the Front St. Revitalization and before I lived in the area. This depot was built in 1873 Historical marker: seemidtn.com/gallery3/index.php?album=historical-markers/...
Lebanon, TN Train freight depot Tennessee Central
Thompson's Station, TN Depot This depot was built in 1993 to replicate the original depot that was built in 1866. Thompson's station was named after Elijah Thompson who donated the land for the town. Thompson's Station was known as the German Millet Capital of the world because of the large amount of grain grown in the area. The small town is located south of Franklin, TN in Williamson County and is just off of U.S. 31 Here is a picture of the marker: seemidtn.com/gallery3/index.php?album=historical-markers/...
Tullahoma, TN Depot With a CSX engine
Union Station's broadway window Downtown Nashville, TN
Grand Junction, TN Train Station The city of Grand Junction had been on my Tennessee To Do list for a long time because of the area's prominence in Tennessee's railroad history. Unfortunately, the historic station at the junction had seen better days. The town of Grand Junction dates back to 1854 when the major East-West Southern Railroad and North-South Illinois Central railroad lines intersected here. Today, the East-West line is part of a very important Norfolk Southern corridor and sees much traffic. However, the North-South tracks do not cross at the junction anymore. (I don't know if those tracks are abandoned, or just act like a spur these days. There were some hoppers parked not too far away. The depot itself dates back to the 1920s. Since it has been vacant for a long time, it needs a lot of work, but at least the work has been started. As you can tell, all the windows are covered. The roof collapsed around 2000 and fortunately it appears to have been recently replaced.
Hartsville TN Depot L&N reached Hartsville in 1892 and the depot was built at about that time. The building is now used as a county history museum and chamber of commerce. For a vintage picture of this station, look here: www.hartsvilletrousdale.com/hp.html
L&N building, Knoxville Interesting building I know nothing about... close to downtown Knoxville...will need to research...
Victoria, TN train depot Victoria is a small town in Marion County along the Valley View highway (old TN28). Queen Victoria donated a bell to the local Bethel Church and the locals showed their gratitude by naming the town after her. This brick building was originally a Combination freight and passenger train depot for the Sequatchie Valley Railroad (and eventually NC&StL) likely dating back to the late 1860s. If you look closely, you can see the Victoria name plate above the door. Although partially obscured by a tree, there is also a hand-painted sign for Ketner's Feed Mill - "Definite Feeds for Definite needs" - Master Mix Feeds - Custom Grinding, Mixing - Molasses. I don't know if this building was once a store, or if it was simple an advertisement for the nearby Ketner's Mill. Today, the building is a private residence.
Cumberland Furnace, TN Depot color Cumberland Furnace is north of Charlotte, TN in Dickson County. Part of me feels this photo absolutely should have been done as a black and white. Any thoughts? I did post an alternate version as a b/w.
Cumberland Furnace Depot front Cumberland Furnace is north of Charlotte, TN in Dickson County.
Cumberland Furnace, TN Depot b&w Cumberland Furnace is north of Charlotte, TN in Dickson County. This photo now appears in print as part of the TN Trails and Byways brochure "Screaming Eagle Trail" which you can see here: www.flickr.com/photos/brent_nashville/9522319352/
Greenback, TN L&N Station The tracks are long gone but the L&N passenger & freight station from 1914 still remains. It is right in the middle of town along highway TN95 and is now used as a Farmers Market.
B&O Passenger Station - Winchester, VA The B&O Passenger Train Station in Winchester, VA was built of stone in 1893. Apparently, today it is owned by the shortline Winchester & Western.
Nashville & Decatur Railroad Erected 1868 J.W. Sloss President James R. Willett Architect I have *no* idea what this is other than it's a stone wall covered with vines and the railroad marker. Since I like railroad stuff, I was happy to find this. There are some tracks not too far behind this wall. It's on 4th Ave. S (U.S 31A/41A) when you are driving away from downtown Nashville - I've driven past this many tmes over the years, but never noticed it until I was driving on Chesnut past 4th when going to a Sounds game.
Rock Island, TN Depot (2008) Train Tracks are still present (I'm practically on them to take this picture) but I'm not sure if trains run these tracks anymore. According to the owner of the antique store in the background, this small depot has been converted into a small apartment. Located on TN287. Here's an old photo of the depot before it was repainted. This photo was posted to flickr by Kenton Dickerson. www.flickr.com/photos/27742813@N03/2631009632/
Decatur, AL Passenger Depot (Pedestrian bridge view) From Wikipedia: The Southern Railway Depot is a historic building in Decatur, Alabama. The depot was built in 1904–05 along the Southern Railway line. Decatur had become a transportation hub of North Alabama by the 1870s, with its connections to the Tennessee River, the east-west Tuscumbia, Courtland and Decatur Railroad (later operated by the Memphis and Charleston Railroad and the Southern Railway), and the north-south Louisville and Nashville Railroad. It functioned as a passenger station until 1979, when Amtrak cancelled its Floridian service. The station is built of brick painted white, with quoins on the corners. The building has a rectangular central section with narrower wings stretching along the tracks. The central section has a hipped roof, while the wings have gable roofs; both have deep eaves with decorative brackets. The main entrance is covered by a porte-cochère with arched openings. The depot was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980.
Guntersville, AL Train Depot This train depot was built by NCStL in 1909 and is well preserved.
Decatur, AL Passenger Depot From Wikipedia: The Southern Railway Depot is a historic building in Decatur, Alabama. The depot was built in 1904–05 along the Southern Railway line. Decatur had become a transportation hub of North Alabama by the 1870s, with its connections to the Tennessee River, the east-west Tuscumbia, Courtland and Decatur Railroad (later operated by the Memphis and Charleston Railroad and the Southern Railway), and the north-south Louisville and Nashville Railroad. It functioned as a passenger station until 1979, when Amtrak cancelled its Floridian service. The station is built of brick painted white, with quoins on the corners. The building has a rectangular central section with narrower wings stretching along the tracks. The central section has a hipped roof, while the wings have gable roofs; both have deep eaves with decorative brackets. The main entrance is covered by a porte-cochère with arched openings. The depot was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980.
Johnny Cash's personal train station - Amqui, TN Located in Madison, TN, L&N Railroad built this passenger station in 1910. Although the town was Madison, L&N named this station Amqui. Nobody remembers where the name Amqui came from but one popular theory is it's an Indian word that nobody remembers. The other theory is Amqui is short-hand for really fast, but they took the 'd' off the front and the 'ck' off the end. Decades later, like most depots, Passenger service was discontinued at Amqui. Nearby resident Johnny Cash would see his local station and it inspired his song "The L&N Don't Stop Here Anymore." Cash purchased the station in 1979 and relocated it closer to his home in Hendersonville where he used it to hold his train memorabilia. Eventually, June Carter Cash also also used it as an antique store. Upon Johnny Cash's death in 2003, he donated the depot back to the city of Madison. Three years later, they relocated it to some donated land a mile south of the original location. Locals spent several years refurbishing the building, creating a museum and building the adjoining pavilion. As of 2010, the Amqui station is again available for all to enjoy. For the full story: www.amquistation.org/
Summerville, GA Passenger Depot The Passenger train station in Summerville, GA was built by Central of Georgia Railroad in 1918. Today, the depot is a museum for the Chattoga County Historical Society.
Hohenwald, TN Train Depot Hohenwald was settled by German immigrants. The name translates to "High Forest." The original 1896 NC&StL Hohenwald Depot has been restored to its original appearance. As one of the first buildings constructed in the town, the Depot welcomed the new settlers. Later, it witnessed visits from Thomas Edison (coming to the region to find Cobalt) and William Wrigley, as well as served as a work site for German prisoners of war from Rommel’s African Corps during WWII. This Depot was moved several times over the years but returned to its original location and restored in 1985.
Pegram, TN train depot in the tiny heart of Pegram, along highway U.S. 70. Built in 1898, at the time, the city was known as Pegram Station.
Cowan TN typical brochure view The sign reads: COWAN, TENNESSEE Named in honor of Major John Cowan, early pioneer settler Major William Russel first settled here in 1800, his home serving as the first Court House 1807-1814 1848-1854: N&C Railroad constructed th4e world's longest tunnel and steepest grade railroad 1855: 9 mi. spur line to Sewanee Mountain completed by Sewanee Mining Company. 1863-1864: Confederate and Federal Armies camped in Cowan. Failure of Confederate Forces to destroy the tunnel provided General Sherman with a direct line of supply for his march through Georgia. Erected 1974
Cowan, TN Depot (now a Railroad Museum) 2008 The Cowan Depot is wood frame and built in 1904 for the NC&StL railway. When in use, it was originally on the other side of the still-in-use-by-CSX tracks but moved further away to its current location in 1976. It's built in a railroad gothic style architecture and has been repainted to the original green and yellow colors. The building is in the process of renovation. It is on the National Register of Historic Places. Every year, the town has a Summer Weekend festival called Cowan Depot Days with the goal of raising money to further restore the station. Cowan is located on the historic line that runs from Nashville to Chattanooga and is perhaps best known by railfans as the last stop before ascending Cumberland Mountain and the picturesque but almost inaccessible Cumberland Mountain Tunnel entrance. CSX keeps pusher cars on hand to help trains make the incline to the top. I tried to visit the museum twice in 2008. The first time, I got there minutes after it closed for the day (usually at 4pm). The second time, I got there a week after it closed for the season. cowanrailroadmuseum.org/
Cowan Railroad Museum: Engine & Depot Steam Locomotive #1 has been the highlight of the Cowan Railroad Museum for many years. It's a Columbia Type 2-4-2. It was built by Porter in 1920 as a tenderless Tank style locomotive and converted with a small homemade tender and had the saddle tank removed. The cab used to contain a small coal bunker. The Engine was functional around Charleston, SC until 1964 when it was sold to the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. Then, was sold to the Cowan museum in 1979.
Grinder's Switch Depot Grinder's Switch is a real place made famous as the hometown of fictional character Minnie Pearl. Instead of being an actual town, it was just a railroad switch. There was a depot at this switch, part of the NCStL line, and an employee there was the father of Sarah Colley Carter, the real life person behind Minnie Pearl. That original depot is long gone, but some people in Centerville want to take advantage of the Minnie Pearl heritage (just like Loretta Lynn has done in Hurricane Mills). In the 1980's, these people planned a park, and needed another depot, so they purchased this L&N depot from the tiny Dickson County town of Slayden. Additionally, they put some vintage farm equipment here, but that park never fully materialized. However, they built a nearby Ag Expo. The train tracks are right behind me here. Update: The train station here is now gone.
Belfast, TN depot Belfast is a tiny community southeast on Lewisburg in Marshall County (Along U.S.431) The depot at Belfast is considered the best surviving example of the Duck River Valley Narrow Gauge Railroad buildings. The small Victorian rail station is an excellent board and batten structure. It was built before the 1870's. The tracks have long since been removed. Now, is on the National Register of Historic Places.
Dickson, TN Depot Originally a L&N Station
NCStL Train Depot - Lebanon, TN The NCStL Train Station located one block south of the Lebanon town square along highway US231 is stop #2 on the Historic Lebanon Driving tour. Here is the text from that brochure: The Nashville, Chattanooga and St. Louis Railroad Depot was built in 1916. Lebanon’s first depot was built in 1869 for the Tennessee & Pacific Railroad one mile south of the present site. The Nashville, Chattanooga and St. Louis Railroad acquired the line in 1877. The old depot was abandoned and a new depot built closer to the Square. This depot was used until the last passenger train pulled out of Lebanon in the 1930s. Passenger Rail Service did not return until 2006 with the Music City Star. Today, the old station is used as offices for Shenandoah Mills. On their website, they say: Our home is the original Lebanon Train Depot, constructed in the early 1900′s. We have completely renovated the facility to preserve and restore it’s integrity as well as to keep our equipment fresh and innovative. In 1996, we were awarded the William Baird Beautification Award and the Lebanon-Wilson County Chamber of Commerce Cedar Tree award. shenandoahmills.com/about/
Leeville, TN Train Station This old NCStL train depot is along Division St. in the small Wilson County town of Leeville. The tracks are all gone, and it has been relocated to use as someone's personal storage.
Cleveland, TN Passenger Depot This old passenger train station was built by Southern Railway in 1908. The older freight depot is seen in the background on the right. Passenger railroad service stopped in the 1970s. However, the building is now used for passenger bus service.
Union Station Most views of Union station tend to look from the front across the street (broadway). This is a fuller view of the building from the side, taken from the Broadway viaduct. The depot was built in 1900 in a castle-like late-Victorian Romanesque Revival style. The clock on the tower was one of the earliest digital clocks, but is now a traditional clock. Atop the tower used to be a 3D statue of the Roman god Mercury, but was knocked off in a windstorm in the 50s. In the mid-90s, a flat Mercury was put in its place. That one was knocked off in the 98 tornado, but was replaced again. The station became vacant in 1979 after train service was discontinued. It opened as a luxury hotel in March of 1990, and is now a Wyndham hotel. An architecturally significant train shed used to be located right next to the station, but it's deteriorating condition, plus lack of any conceivable use led to it being demolished a few years ago, which caused Union Station to lose its status as a National Historic Landmark.
Last Train to Here The Clarksville in the Monkees song was the Clarksville in Tennessee. The last train to Clarksville was in 1968, a couple of years after the song was a hit. L&N built this train depot in 1901 but continuous service ceased in 1966. From 1970 to 95, the station remained unused until the Montgomery County Historical Society restored it. An engine (seen) and caboose are outside. A small indoor museum is open on Tue, Thur and Sat from 9am to 1pm, as well as a Farmer's Market. And the song's writer's really didn't have this depot in mind when they wrote it, opting for a generic city title, but we can pretend, can't we?
Huntsville Depot Built in 1860, the Huntsville train depot is the oldest in Alabama. During the Civil War, the depot was used as a prison for Confederate Soldiers, when Huntsville was occupied by the Union in 1862. (Some of their graffiti has been preserved on the walls.) The Depot served as division headquarters and passenger station on the Memphis and Charleston Railroad. The line is now part of Norfolk Southern Railroad. The last passenger train came in on March 30, 1968. The depot is listed ont eh National Register of Historic Places, and looks to be an impressive museum (although I was unable to see the inside.) It is part of the EarlyWorks system, along with Constitution Village.
Crossville TN Depot Tennessee Central Railroad first came to Crossville in 1900. After the first depot burned, this depot was built in 1926 and served until the early 80's After becoming a hero in WWI, Sgt. Alvin York returned home via this depot. With that in mind, this depot was used for a scene about that in the 1941 Gary Cooper movie Seargent York. Although the tracks are long gone, this depot is well maintained and is used as a gift shop where, anong other things, you can purchase a DVD of Seargent York. www.crossvilleonline.com/Businesses/GiftShops/Depot/index...
Bowling Green's L&N Station Built in 1923, this building is now a train museum and is on the National Register of Historic Places. www.historicrailpark.com/index.html
Southern Railway Freight Depot (street side) - Knoxville, TN Southern Railway was formed in the 1890s at the merging of two railroad companies. In 1902, Southern hired architect Frank Pierce Milburn to design new train stations at several of their major terminals. Two years later, the Southern Terminal opened in Knoxville. Many warehouses and factories surrounded this area because of its important shipping routes. The station looks today much the same as it did in 1904, except a large clock tower was removed in 1945 wen deemed structurally unsafe. The last passenger train came through in 1970. Today, the building is on the National Register of Historic Places as the integral part of The Southern Terminal and Warehouse District, an area which is today known as Old City. This passenger station and the freight depot next door are designed in a similar style with Classical Revival influence. Most notable is the corbel-stepped gabled roof. On the track side of the building is a collection of rolling stock known as the Old Smoky Railway Museum.
Jamestown, TN Depot This depot was built by the Oneida & Western Railroad decided to extend their line another 7 miles past their previous end of East Jamestown in 1930. O&W was started by the Tennessee Stave and Lumber Company, but their railroad soon started losing money after extending to Jamestown. Passengers could board a train here and take the 37 mile trip to Oneida and from there connect to Southern Railway. In 1942, O&W was sold to Crown-Healy Company of Illinois on news that TVA was planning to build a dam on Wolf Creek near Jamestown. WWII delayed building that dam until 1946, and by then, another building company had won the bid for the dam project. Then, Jewel Ridge Coal Corporation bought the line when coal mines were proposed in the area, but this did not amount to enough business. The last train left this station on March 2, 1954. Later, this depot was sold and used as a business, hence the Nutrena sign on the front. Today, the building is vacant.
Southern Railway Passenger Depot (street side) - Knoxville, TN Southern Railway was formed in the 1890s at the merging of two railroad companies. In 1902, Southern hired architect Frank Pierce Milburn to design new train stations at several of their major terminals. Two years later, the Southern Terminal opened in Knoxville. Many warehouses and factories surrounded this area because of its important shipping routes. The station looks today much the same as it did in 1904, except a large clock tower was removed in 1945 wen deemed structurally unsafe. The last passenger train came through in 1970. Today, the building is on the National Register of Historic Places as the integral part of The Southern Terminal and Warehouse District, an area which is today known as Old City. This passenger station and the freight depot next door are designed in a similar style with Classical Revival influence. Most notable is the corbel-stepped gabled roof. On the track side of the building is a collection of rolling stock known as the Old Smoky Railway Museum. Gay St. Viaduct view: flic.kr/p/9dxGfY
Cumberland Valley Railroad depot - Martinsburg, WV The Cumberland Valley Railroad build this passenger depot in Martinsburg, WV along King St. in 1889. At the time, CVRR was mostly controlled by Pennsylvania Railroad. Today, the building has been restored and is used as offices. My favorite feature is the semi-circle windows.
Collinwood, TN L&N Depot This well maintained former L&N (and Tennessee Western) Depot is in the town of Collinwood, in southern Wayne County. The Railroad first came to Collinwood in 1913, and this depot was built in 1916, and expanded in 1918. Railroad operations here ceased in 1939 and the tracks were removed over the next two years. Over the next two decades, the building was used as a house, a warehouse and a grist mill. It served as city hall for 15 years and then a senior citizens center afterwards. The Depot was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1988 and the grounds went through and extensive renovation in 2001. On the day of my visit, there was a sign by the entrance that they were opened. Today, the depot serves as a library, and you won't find anything train related on the inside. For a more thorough history and some vintage photos, check the page on Collinwood's website: www.cityofcollinwood.org/collinwood_train_depot.asp
B&O Shops - Martinsburg, WV From Wikipedia: Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Martinsburg Shops is a historic industrial district in Martinsburg, West Virginia. It is significant both for its railroading architecture by Albert Fink and John Rudolph Niernsee and for its role in the Great Railroad Strike of 1877. It consists of three contributing buildings. The presence of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Company in Martinsburg dates back to the late 1840s, when the first engine and machine shops were erected for the expanding company. The shops were designated a National Historic Landmark and placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2003. The Baltimore and Ohio Railroad (B&O) was founded on February 28, 1827. On May 21, 1842, the first steam locomotive arrived in Martinsburg and, later that same year, November 10, the first passenger train. The first roundhouse complex was constructed from 1848-1850. When Virginia seceded from the Union in 1861, the region's social and government institutions were thrown in turmoil. The Civil War decimated both the region and Martinsburg, specifically because of the railroad yards. On May 22, 1861, Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson’s troops stopped all trains going East at Martinsburg and Point of Rocks during the Great Train Raid of 1861. Once he determined that all of the trains that could be caught were in his trap, he blew up the bridges to the West and blew down the rocks on the tracks to the East, and pirating of the B&O equipment began. In total, 42 locomotives and 386 cars were stolen and destroyed. 36-½ miles of track, 17 bridges, 102 miles of telegraph wire, the “Colonnade” Bridge and the B&O roundhouse and machine shops were destroyed. On October 19, 1862, the roundhouse complex was burned by Confederate troops under Colonel Jackson. In 1866, the B&O began reconstruction of the site. From 1866 to 1872, the present roundhouse complex was re-built. Other major buildings that were built at this time were the West Roundhouse, East Roundhouse, Bridge & Machine Shop, and the Frog & Switch Shop. On July 16, 1877, the first nationwide strike, the Great Railroad Strike of 1877, began when rail workers at Martinsburg started an action to protest pay cuts. Their work and traffic stoppage soon spread across the country. The Martinsburg facilities were used until March 14, 1988, when all local operations were transferred to other locations. On May 14, 1990, vandals set fire to wooden pallets in the East Roundhouse, nearly destroying the building. The Berkeley County Commission purchased the roundhouse complex in 1999–2000, and transferred the property to the newly-created Berkeley County Roundhouse Authority. Restoration and renovation of the complex began at this time. On July 31, 2003, the B&O Roundhouse was designated a National Historic Landmark and was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Tennessee Central Depot - Lebanon, TN This train depot was built by Tennessee Central in Lebanon, TN. I'm not sure how old it is, but TC went out of business in 1968, so it's older than that. Today, it belongs to Nashville & Eastern railroad which has their sign on the side
B&O 1881 Freight Depot - Martinsburg, WV This is a block or two south of the main historic B&O property with roundhouses and freight shops.
Smithsburg, MD Train Station This train depot was built of stone in Smithsburg, MD by the Western Maryland Railway. Today, the building is used as a business office.
Sparta, TN NC&StL Depot Built in 1917 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Now is a business.
Hagerstown, MD Passenger Station The former passenger station in Hagerstown, MD was built by Western Maryland Railway. Today, it is used as a police station, so you can't park next to it. From Wikipedia: Western Maryland Railway Station is a historic railway station in Hagerstown, Washington County, Maryland. It was built in 1913 as a stop for the Western Maryland Railway. It is a 2 1⁄2-story hip roof brick building, reflecting the influence of the Commercial Style of the early 20th century. The building features overscaled Classical detailing, a stone foundation, and a massive, modillioned cornice with stone disks defining each bay. The building is also encircled by a one-story porch that has a cantilevered roof on three sides. The Western Maryland Railway ended passenger train service to the Hagerstown station in June 1957. The station was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. The building is now used as the headquarters of the Hagerstown Police Department.
Smyrna, TN 2017 Christmas Tree Located in Smyrna next to the historic train station
The Dome ceiling inside the Chattanooga Choo Choo This information was taken from the Chattanooga Choo Choo website: The Terminal Station was erected in 1908, with its centerpiece - a magnificent dome - that rose majestically over the concourse. Built of steel and concrete and buttressed by huge brick arches, the dome rested on four steel supports 75 feet apart. Suspended from the ceiling were four brass chandeliers, each with 40 lights circling an 18-inch opal globe. From an architectural standpoint, this dome over the entire 68 x 82 foot general waiting rooms was the most attractive design feature of its time. It was on the underside of this dome, the part in view above the waiting room, that the only attempt to decorate in colors was made -- artistic plaster embellishments of heraldic emblems, which are now fully restored. The dome was truly lavish and beautiful in its different prismatic colors, especially when lighted at night. www.choochoo.com/thetrainstation.php?dest=62 This photo was taken near dusk on a clear night. Train service stopped in 1970, and the depot was converted to a Hotel. The main room with the dome is now the hotel lobby
Newport, TN Train Depot
New Johnsonville TN Train Depot Johnsonville was a small town along where the important train line crossed the Tennessee River. That town was flooded by the creation of Kentucky Lake, so the city of New Johnsonville was built nearby. This train depot was apparently relocated to New Johnsonville from the old Johnsonville, and is right next to highway US70.
Bridgeport, AL Depot & lights Built in 1917, this is the NCStL depot in the important railroad town of Bridgeport soon before trains cross the Tennessee River. The Sequatchie Valley Railroad also came through here. Today it is CSX along the tracks with some Norfolk Southern and Union Pacific coming through. The architecture here is an unusual design for this part of the country, a Spanish Mission style that you would more likely see in St. Augustine or San Antonio. Today, the depot is a museum operated by the Bridgepoort Area Historic Association (BAHA). my.att.net/p/s/community.dll?ep=16&groupid=137159&...
Bridgeport, AL Depot & cart Built in 1917, this is the NCStL depot in the important railroad town of Bridgeport soon before trains cross the Tennessee River. The Sequatchie Valley Railroad also came through here. Today it is CSX along the tracks with some Norfolk Southern and Union Pacific coming through. The architecture here is an unusual design for this part of the country, a Spanish Mission style that you would more likely see in St. Augustine or San Antonio. Today, the depot is a museum operated by the Bridgepoort Area Historic Association (BAHA). my.att.net/p/s/community.dll?ep=16&groupid=137159&...
Bridgeport, AL Depot b/w trackside view Built in 1917, this is the NCStL depot in the important railroad town of Bridgeport soon before trains cross the Tennessee River. The Sequatchie Valley Railroad also came through here. Today it is CSX along the tracks with some Norfolk Southern and Union Pacific coming through. The architecture here is an unusual design for this part of the country, a Spanish Mission style that you would more likely see in St. Augustine or San Antonio. Today, the depot is a museum operated by the Bridgepoort Area Historic Association (BAHA). my.att.net/p/s/community.dll?ep=16&groupid=137159&...
Bridgeport, AL Depot full view Built in 1917, this is the NCStL depot in the important railroad town of Bridgeport soon before trains cross the Tennessee River. The Sequatchie Valley Railroad also came through here. Today it is CSX along the tracks with some Norfolk Southern and Union Pacific coming through. The architecture here is an unusual design for this part of the country, a Spanish Mission style that you would more likely see in St. Augustine or San Antonio. Today, the depot is a museum operated by the Bridgepoort Area Historic Association (BAHA). my.att.net/p/s/community.dll?ep=16&groupid=137159&...
McKnight Station, TN depot These days, when I seek out old train stations, I frequent DepotMaps.com. However, this station isn't on DepotMaps or any of the other depot web resources I use. I had never heard of it until today. Just recently, The Tennessee Dept. of Tourism has started a new website which will provide auto trails for many of the off-the-beaten-path and hidden gems. This depot is on the first trail to be published, Old Tennessee Settlers to Soldiers Trail as stop #26. This depot was part of the Middle Tennessee Railroad which operated from 1909-27 along Liepers Creek Valley. One feature I like if you look closely at the top at the front was apparently a clock where the hour markers were carved into the wood.
Franklin, TN Train freight Depot I find it amazing...everything in Franklin and Williamson County of historic significance seems to be well preserved and cared for - except the train depot. It's not that the depot is in disrepair, or anything. It's made of concrete and built to last. But look at how much grief the tribulations of the Franklin Cinema has caused. Yet, the depot doesn't get much love. It's old. It's historic. Hovever, it's not opulant. Built in 1858, the brick depot is one of only two antebellum railroad buildings left in Tennessee. It is eligible for the National Register of Historic Places but not listed yet. During the Civil War, in 1862, Federal forces seized the roadbed, but the rolling stock was held by the Confederates and vanished. Reorganized in 1866 as the Nashville and Decatur Railroad. It was leased to and then purchased by L&N and has remained in continuous operation since then (and is now CSX). With the end of passenger service, the passenger depot was torn down in 1959. Here is a picture of the historical marker: seemidtn.com/gallery3/index.php?album=historical-markers/...
Clarksville TC Freight Depot In addition to the L&N Trains station in Clarksville, TN, there are two Tennessee Central Depots. The two brick depots are located next to each other on Spring St., just a block behind the old public square. The Tennessee Central tracks are long gone, although a train bridge converted to a pedestrian bridge is just down the street. Today, both buildings are used for city offices.
Clarksville TC Passenger Depot In addition to the L&N Trains station in Clarksville, TN, there are two Tennessee Central Depots. The two brick depots are located next to each other on Spring St., just a block behind the old public square. The Tennessee Central tracks are long gone, although a train bridge converted to a pedestrian bridge is just down the street. Today, both buildings are used for city offices.
Kelso, TN Train Depot Kelso is a small town along OLD Fayetteville Road (Now bypassed by the more modern US64) on the Eastern side of Lincoln County
Kelso, TN Train Depot Kelso is a small town along Old Fayetteville Road (Now bypassed by the more modern US64) on the Eastern side of Lincoln County
Paris, KY Passenger train depot The old passenger train station is on the National Register of historic places. About five years ago, the place was in serious need of repair, which it received. Today it is a restaurant.
Richmond, TX Train Station The Passenger station in Richmond, TX was built by Southern Pacific but is now vacant.
Maplesville, AL train depot The train station in Maplesville was built by Southern Railway. Today it is used as a museum and Senior center.
Cincinnati Union Terminal From Wikipedia: Cincinnati Union Terminal is an intercity train station and museum center in the Queensgate neighborhood of Cincinnati, Ohio. The terminal is served by Amtrak's Cardinal line, passing through Cincinnati three times weekly. The building's largest tenants are the Cincinnati Museum Center, a group of three museums, a library, and a theater, as well as the Holocaust & Humanity Center. Union Terminal's distinctive architecture, interior design, and history have earned it several landmark designations, including as a National Historic Landmark. Its Art Deco design incorporates several contemporaneous works of art, including two of the Winold Reiss industrial murals, a set of sixteen mosaic murals depicting Cincinnati industry commissioned for the terminal in 1931. Cincinnati's union terminal was developed throughout the 1920s as a solution for Cincinnati's five train stations serving seven railroads. Construction took place from 1928 to 1933, including creation of viaducts, mail and express buildings, and utility structures: a power plant, water treatment facility, and roundhouse. The station was underutilized at its opening, though it saw peak traffic during World War II. In the next four decades, passenger traffic decreased significantly, spurring the terminal to hold several attractions to provide income, offsetting declined transit use. Train service fully stopped in 1972, and Amtrak moved service to a smaller station nearby. The terminal was largely dormant from 1972 to 1980; during this time, its platforms and train concourse were demolished. In 1980, the Land of Oz shopping mall was constructed within the interior. Its last tenant left in 1985, and two Cincinnati museums decided to merge and utilize the terminal, creating the Cincinnati Museum Center. The museum center renovated the terminal in the late 1980s, opening in 1990. Amtrak returned to the terminal in 1991, resuming its role as an intercity train station. A two-year, $228 million renovation restored the building, completed in 2018. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cincinnati_Union_Terminal
Jimmie Rodgers Museum - Meridian, MS I was inspired to upload this photo after watching some of the Ken Burns Country Music documentary. Since Jimmie Rodgers had an early railroad career, someone thought it fitting to put his museum inside a vintage train station which I assume was moved here. This museum is located inside Meridian's Highland Park. Text of the historic marker: Birthplace of Jimmie Rodgers Born Sept. 8, 1897, at Meridian, Miss. Known as the “Singing Brakeman,” Rodger's recordings of Southern blues and ballads greatly contributed to the world-wide popularity of a distinctly American musical form.
Scottsburg, IN Train Station en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scottsburg_station Scottsburg is a historic railroad depot located at Scottsburg, Scott County, Indiana. It was built in 1872 by the Jeffersonville, Madison and Indianapolis Railroad, costing almost $1,492. It is a one-story, Stick Style frame building with board and batten siding and a projecting agent's window. Its presence influenced the location of Scottsburg in 1874, as the town was named for the railroad's General Superintendent, Horace Scott. It was built specifically for both passenger and freight cargo. Inside there was separate waiting rooms for men and women. It is one of the last structures of its kind still standing in Indiana. It was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1991 as the Scottsburg Depot, but was moved one block north to its present location to help preserve it. With federal transportation funds, it was restored. In 1996 it became the Scottsburg Heritage Station
Shelbyville, TN Depot in a way, it looks to nice and well maintained to be an old train depot. Today, it is used as an adult education center. The tracks are long gone, but if you look closely, you can see the Shelbyville sign on the front of the depot. It is located on Depot St. (TN64)
Alvin, TX Santa Fe depot
Johnson City, TN Train Depot Hello to anyone who found this here: www.onlyinyourstate.com/tennessee/poorest-cities-tn/ or here: www.onlyinyourstate.com/tennessee/charming-tn-town/ This Charming Tennessee Town Is Picture Perfect For An Autumn Day Trip or here: www.onlyinyourstate.com/tennessee/underrated-tn-towns/ 12 Underrated Tennessee Towns That Deserve A Second Look
Greeneville TN Train Depot This depot was built by Southern Railway and is now owned by Norfolk Southern. One of the main roads into town goes under the tracks here, but if you drive to a nearby street, you are back at track level. I got out of my car and walked a short distance to get this picture. It's the only time so far a cop asked me what I was doing, but when I said I was sightseeing, the cop was cool about it.
Kingston Springs, TN Depot This depot was built by NCStL. It may have been moved a couple of times of the years, but today it is not far from where it started. The tracks are in the foreground, so the depot has at least been repositioned 90 degrees. Today the depot is privately owned and used for storage.
Erwin, TN Train Depot This depot in Erwin was a passanger station and offices for the Clinchfield Railroad. Today, it is a public library. It is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Bristol, VA Train Depot This depot was built in 1902 and is located on the Virginia side of State Street. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as "Bristol Railroad Station" www.thebristoltrainstation.org/
Tybee Depot At one time, the Savannah & Tybee Railroad connected the island to the mainland. This was their train station on Tybee Island built in 1877. A few decades later, service stopped and the tracks were removed in 1933. Today, the depot has been relocated to Old Fort Jackson National Historic Landmark in Savannah. The depot is in use as a ticket booth and gift shop.
Orme, TN Train Depot There's no reason imaginable that anyone would want to see Orme unless you like looking for old train stations. To get to here, I started in South Pittsburg, TN and followed highway 156 as it winded up the mountain. From there, I turned onto Orme Mountain Rd. which was a gravel road that winded down the mountain. I later learned that if I drove from the other way, it's flat the entire drive and passes by Russell Cave in Alabama. The tracks are long gone and it looks as someone has turned this station which probably looked very nice in it's day into a personal residence. At one time, Orme was a huge coal mining town and had a population of thousands, but the 2000 census reports 124 in the city today. In 1902, the Sequatchie Valley Railroad built this depot and a 10 mile branch, known as the Orme Branch. The spur was completed in 1904 and connected Orme to Bridgeport, which was a major railroad hub. The tracks were removed in 1942.
Arlington, TN Replica train depot Arlington, TN is a suburb of Memphis. This replica train station is located in the historic district.
Winchester, TN Passenger station The tracks are long gone from this NCStL passenger station. Today, the building is used as a local TDOT office.
Southern Pacific Depot - Orange, TX From the Texas Historical Commission Marker: From 1908 to 1974, the Orange train depot served Southern Pacific Rail company cars passing through Orange. prior to this time, transportation by road and on water was unreliable and unsafe, which inhibited the growth of Orange. However, the late 1850s timber boom in southeast Texas contributed to the need for a train depot to export Orange's raw materials to other parts of the country. The Orange station was just one of the many stops on the through line between San Francisco and New Orleans. As racial segregation was still in effect at the time of the depot's construction, arrangements were made for two ticket windows, two waiting rooms and two restrooms for white and black passengers. In the early 1960s, a large wall dividing the black waiting room and the baggage/freight area was removed. After the train depot's closure in the 1970s, various entities intermittently used the building until a fire in 1990 damaged the roof and interior, but the brick walls and interior walls were undamaged. the train depot remained abandoned until 2013, when a local non—profit group raised the funds to restore the building to its original condition. Work crews built a new roof on the structure, exposed the cross—hatched windows on the second story and returned the building to its original brick color and green trim. The restoration efforts allow the historic train depot to be enjoyed by Orange-area citizens and visitors alike. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 2018
Abandoned L&N Depot - Clanton, AL
Smyrna, TN Depot at Christmas (2020)
Christmas at the Smyrna Train Depot
Three Notch Museum and Depot - Andalusia, AL en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Three_Notch_Museum In the late 1890s, business leaders in Andalusia posted a $5000 prize for the first rail line to pass through the town. The Central of Georgia Railway claimed the prize, completing the track in September 1899, and built a depot on land donated by residents. The town flourished with the new rail connection; population rose from 551 in 1900 to 2,480 in 1910. The last Norfolk Southern train, successor to the Central of Georgia, departed Andalusia on March 31, 1983. The wooden depot is similar in design to other small-town stations along the Central of Georgia line. The one-story, gable-roofed structure is clad with board and batten siding. Two front rooms with separate entrances were used as passenger waiting rooms. At the opposite end of the station is a large freight room. The agent's office spans the width of the building between the two, and features a gabled bay window. The building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1984. The building was re-opened as a history museum in 1987;named after the Three Notch Trail of which two streets (East Three Notch Street and South Three Notch Street) in Andalusia are also named. Operated by the Covington Historical Society, the museum focuses on County history and area railroad history. Displays include many photographs, a bottle collection, historic cameras and accessories, tools and military artifacts. Other buildings in the museum include a restored post office with a period schoolroom in back, a pioneer log cabin and a country store. There are also two cabooses and a CSX motor car with a model railway layout outside the depot building.
Hawesville, KY train depot From the marker: Rails of Louisville, St. Louis, and Texas Railroad laid here June 9, 1888. First passenger train ran between Owensboro and Stephensport Oct. 7, 1888. Service between Evansville and Louisville began in April 1889. Rail line later became Louisville, Henderson, St. Louis R.R. and then part of L&N system in 1929. Present station constructed 1902; additions made ca. 1919. During heyday, six L&N trains stopped here daily. Embarkation point for Army troops during World War I. Pres. Harry S. Truman spoke here during an election campaign whistlestop, Sept. 30, 1948. Local passenger service ended in the late 1950s.
Damaged Memphis & Charleston Railroad Depot - Huntsville The historic Memphis and Charleston Freight Depot in Memphis was damaged by a fire in March 2004. It was built in 1856, which would make it the oldest train station at least partially standing in Alabama. When paired with the 1860 passenger station (now a museum) on the other side of the tracks., it would be the only antebellum depot complex left in the U.S. Read more about it here: www.alabamaheritage.com/places-in-peril/memphis-and-charl...
Union Station (modern) - Meridian, MS This Union Station is a stop for Amtrak along the rails and Greyhound for the roads. It was built in 1997 and is next door to an older depot which is now users as a museum.
Train Station - Austin, IN The passenger station in Austin, IN was built by Pennsylvania Railroad in 1934. Today, the building is owned by the local Lion's Club and they have a PRR caboose on the property.
Chase, AL passenger station Today, this historic train station in the Huntsville suburbs is home to the North Alabama Railroad Museum. The 1937 depot served multiple railroads, and when in service, it was believed to be the smallest union station in America. Today, the museum hosts excursion trains, such as this day in April 2018. The area was run by the Chase family who thought the convergence of two railroads would make a good place for shipping. They located their tree nursery business here and ultimately built a passenger station as well. This is the second station at the location. northalabamarailroadmuseum.com/
Laurel, MS train station Currently served by Amtrak's Crescent passenger train, the station was originally built in 1913 by the New Orleans and Northeastern Railroad, which was acquired in 1916 by the Southern Railway. The station has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since October 31, 1995.
Bartlett, TN L&N train station I don't have much info on this depot, but the owners have remembered the past by placing a caboose out back. Today the building is used as a Mexican Restaurant. On the other side of the tracks where I am standing, there is a small historic park.
Indianapolis Union Station en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indianapolis_Union_Station The Indianapolis Union Station is an intercity train station in the Wholesale District of Indianapolis, Indiana. The terminal is served by Amtrak's Cardinal line, passing through Indianapolis three times weekly. Indianapolis was the first city in the world to devise a union station, in 1848. The station building opened on September 20, 1853, at 39 Jackson Place, operated by the Indianapolis Union Railway. A much larger Richardsonian Romanesque station was designed by Pittsburgh architect Thomas Rodd and constructed at the same location beginning in November 1886 and opening in September 1888. The head house (main waiting area and office) and clock tower of this second station still stand today. The three-story Union Station is built of granite and brick trimmed with Hummelstown brownstone, with a battered water table and massive brick arches characteristic of the Romanesque. It features an enormous rose window, slate roof, bartizans at section corners, and a soaring 185-foot clock tower.
Meridian, MS Union Station The Passenger station in Meridian was completed in 1906 and served Amtrak passengers until recently. Not long ago, a new station opened next door. On my visit here in 2019, it looked like they were turning this building into a museum. There is already some rolling stock behind it.
Loudon, TN Train Depot This used to be the passenger station built by Southern Railway. Railroad first came to town in 1855 when a bridge spanned the Tennessee River near here and the small town was known as Blair's Ferry. After the depot was established, the town's name changed to Loudon and became the most important city in Loudon County. Today, the building houses the local chamber of commerce.
Greenville, AL Train Depot The train station in Greenville, AL was built by L&N. Today, these are CSX tracks and the building is for municipal use.
Hattiesburg, MS Train Station The passenger and freight depot in Hattiesburg, MS was built by Southern Railroad in 1910. Today, it is still a stop for Amtrak. There is also a Steam Train on permanent display which you can see here: flic.kr/p/2jnyr5T
MK&T Depot - Galena, KS This train Combo passenger and freight depot serving the Katy Railroad was relocated along Route 66 on the west side of town and is now a museum.
Union Station (2022) - Nashville, TN en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Union_Station_(Nashville)
Union Station and Nashville's Gulch en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Union_Station_(Nashville)
Union Station - Gulch Greenway View 2022 - Nashville, TN This is the view of Union Station from the recently completed Gulch Greenway. This greenway connects Broadway to Frankie Pierce Park. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Union_Station_(Nashville)
Old Depot Museum - Selma, AL selmamuseum.org/our-history Highlights from their website: A tour of the Old Museum runs the gamut from the Civil War to Civil Rights. The building is a contributing property to Selma’s “Water Avenue Historic District” that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and documented in select photographs in the Historic American Buildings’ Survey. The red brick, stone trimmed building in the Romanesque Revival style was built ca. 1890. Thanks to its design, it is one of twelve railroad depots in the Southeast designated by Southern Living to be of architectural and historical importance.
Cumberland Gap, TN Train Depot This passenger train station originally built by L&N has been relocated about 500 feet from the tracks. Today, the building is used as a gift shop known as Gertie's Commissary. Cumberland Gap is a nice town to spend a day looking at the local train history. The main line has an 1889 tunnel through the mountains: flic.kr/p/2ju4ALp a couple of years later, a spur line was created to Harrogate, but has since been abandoned. This has been converted to a walking trail which includes two old bridges getting converted to covered bridges, plus a tunnel which is part of the trail: flic.kr/p/2hVaAMe
Town of Smyrna Christmas Tree 2022 I was setting up my shot when conveniently CSX #548 sped down the tracks for me. Every year, the town of Smyrna places Christmas decorations at the historic train station in the middle of town. This year, they have a large Christmas tree without ornaments except for the tall star on top. This year, as a great photo op they have an oversized ornament with several chairs inside. The depot itself has been adorned with wreaths and the street lights have been adorned with large snowflake lights.
CCC&StL Depot - Greencastle, IN The passenger station of Greencastle, IN is located on the north side of town. The tracks are now CSX and they appear to use the building for storage.
Andalusia, AL Depot This depot was originally built by L&N. Today, it is used by the short-line Alabama & Florida Railway. There is a second L&N depot in town which is today used as the Three Notch Museum.
Niota, TN Train Depot The Niota Depot is the oldest surviving train depot in Tennessee. It was constructed in 1854 as part of the East Tennessee & Georgia Railroad. At the time, Niota was known as Mouse Creek. Today, the depot serves as the Niota city hall. The Depot still has the original gun ports used by both the Union and Confederate Armies during the Civil War. Niota is located in McMinn County, just north of Athens. Back when the town was named Mouse Creek, there was another city on the other side of Knoxville known as Mossy Creek. With the similar town names, it wasn't uncommon for mail to get delivered to the wrong town. In 1897, there was a prominent wedding in town where the families had ordered a lot of ice cream for the guests, but was delivered to the wrong town. This was the last straw and both towns changed their name. Niota was the name of an Indian chief. (Mossy Creek became Jefferson City.) 2015 Update from the Tennessee Preservation Trust: The building was listed on the Tennessee Preservation Trust’s 2009 “Ten in Tenn” list, after which it received the attention and repairs to consider the property saved. Then in July of 2015, a collapse of one of the chimneys caused a partial ceiling collapse and the building was subsequently condemned. Home to Niota City Hall, the City of Niota currently does not have the necessary funds to repair the damage. If the building is not reoccupied by the city, it will be forfeited back to the railroad and likely torn down.
Catoosa, OK Train Station This replica train depot, with a Frisco caboose and a replica post office make the Catoosa Historical Museum. The actual tracks are less that 1000ft. away and I heard trains going by while I was here. This museum is also located along the Cherokee St. alignment of Route 66.
Thomson, GA train station Built in 1860, the train station is the featured structure in the Thomson Commercial Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places.
Stevenson, AL Train Depot (version B) This is an alternate view of this depot, take from the other side. I had to walk around a fence to get here. One of the older and busier train stations in the area, this historic depot was built in 1872 and has active train tracks on either side. Originally, a one story depot was constructed here in 1853 when tracks first came into town. When that building burned, it was replaced by this brick one in 1872. During the Civil War, Stevenson was a hub of activity. Troops skirmished here and the town changed sides several times, although it was mostly under Union control. Troops occupied the town and a large refugee camp sprang up between here and Ft. Harker a quarter mile away. Tens of thousands of soldiers, horses, wagons, prisoners of war, refugees, wounded and others passed through the city during the summer and fall of 1863 around the time of the Battles of Chattanooga and Chickamauga. Harpers Weekly noting the juncture of East-West and North-South rail lines here called Steveson one of the seven most important cities of the South. After the war, the Dept and the brick hotel built next door, also between the tracks continued as the center of life in Stevenson. Trains stopped here at mealtimes and passengers are in the hotel dining rooms. Other passengers spent the night here. It was said that the hotel is so close to the tracks that the trains opened the hotel windows and pulled the covers off the beds. The Depot and Hotel were added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. However, the depot still needed to be saved. A group of citizens save the depot from deconstruction during the 1976 bicentennial when the last railroad office closed. In June of 1982, a community museum opened here after renovation.
Stevenson, Al Depot architectural detail
Stevenson, AL Train Depot from the front An old enging and an L&N Caboose are out in front of the Depot, the old hotel is seen in the back. One of the older and busier train stations in the area, this historic depot was built in 1872 and has active train tracks on either side. Originally, a one story depot was constructed here in 1853 when tracks first came into town. When that building burned, it was replaced by this brick one in 1872. During the Civil War, Stevenson was a hub of activity. Troops skirmished here and the town changed sides several times, although it was mostly under Union control. Troops occupied the town and a large refugee camp sprang up between here and Ft. Harker a quarter mile away. Tens of thousands of soldiers, horses, wagons, prisoners of war, refugees, wounded and others passed through the city during the summer and fall of 1863 around the time of the Battles of Chattanooga and Chickamauga. Harpers Weekly noting the juncture of East-West and North-South rail lines here called Steveson one of the seven most important cities of the South. After the war, the Dept and the brick hotel built next door, also between the tracks continued as the center of life in Stevenson. Trains stopped here at mealtimes and passenegrs are in the hotel dining rooms. Other passengers spent the night here. It was said that the hotel is so close to the tracks that the trains opened the hotel windows and pulled the covers off the beds. The Depot and Hotel were added to teh National Register of Historic Places in 1974. However, the depot still needed to be saved. A group of citizens save the depot from deconstruction during the 1976 bicentennial when the last railroad office closed. In June of 1982, a community museum opened here after renovation.
Stevenson, AL Train Depot (Version A) One of the older and busier train stations in the area, this historic depot was built in 1872 and has active train tracks on either side. Originally, a one story depot was constructed here in 1853 when tracks first came into town. When that building burned, it was replaced by this brick one in 1872. During the Civil War, Stevenson was a hub of activity. Troops skirmished here and the town changed sides several times, although it was mostly under Union control. Troops occupied the town and a large refugee camp sprang up between here and Ft. Harker a quarter mile away. Tens of thousands of soldiers, horses, wagons, prisoners of war, refugees, wounded and others passed through the city during the summer and fall of 1863 around the time of the Battles of Chattanooga and Chickamauga. Harpers Weekly noting the juncture of East-West and North-South rail lines here called Steveson one of the seven most important cities of the South. After the war, the Dept and the brick hotel built next door, also between the tracks continued as the center of life in Stevenson. Trains stopped here at mealtimes and passenegrs are in the hotel dining rooms. Other passengers spent the night here. It was said that the hotel is so close to the tracks that the trains opened the hotel windows and pulled the covers off the beds. The Depot and Hotel were added to teh National Register of Historic Places in 1974. However, the depot still needed to be saved. A group of citizens save the depot from deconstruction during the 1976 bicentennial when the last railroad office closed. In June of 1982, a community museum opened here after renovation. If you choose to visit the museum, there's plenty of parking, but you do have to cross live tracks. I consider this the standard view of the depot, from the parking side.
La Grange, KY L&N Train Station This is the former L&N ca. 1910 passenger Train Depot of La Grange, KY. Today it is a museum with rolling stock out front. La Grange is a great city for train watching. This is one of the few towns where trains still go down the middle of Main St. a few times every day. This depot is also along Main St., but the tracks curve to the left by the time it gets here. Not far is an observation platform great for viewing the trains.
Crawford, GA Train Depot From Wikipedia: Crawford Depot is a historic train station in Crawford, Oglethorpe County, Georgia. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places on May 27, 1977. The depot is located on U.S. 78; it dates from ca. 1848 and is used to house the Oglethorpe County Chamber of Commerce. According to local history, the building was constructed from Lithonia granite crossties which had been used by the Georgia Railroad. It's a rare example of a stone depot built by the Georgia Railroad. It is a one-story granite building approximately 41 feet (12 m) by 91 feet (28 m) in dimension. It is the only surviving stone depot building of the Georgia Railroad
Naples, FL Railroad Depot en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naples_station The Naples Seaboard Air Line Railway Station (also known as the Naples Railroad Depot or Seaboard Coast Line Railroad Depot) is a historic Seaboard Air Line Railway depot in Naples, Florida. It is located at 1051 5th Avenue, South. The depot was constructed in 1927, when the Seaboard Air Line Railroad (via its Seaboard-All Florida Railway subsidiary) constructed its line to Naples. It was designed in the same Mediterranean Revival style the Seaboard Air Line used with its stations in Delray Beach, Deerfield Beach, Hialeah, and Homestead on the southeast coast of Florida (which were built around the same time), and is virtually identical to the Hialeah depot. The station only briefly saw Seaboard Air Line passenger service in the late 1920s before the railroad reduced its line to Naples to freight service only in 1933. Seaboard ended freight service in the 1940s. During World War II, the depot was also home to USO shows for troops stationed at the nearby Naples airfield. By 1944, the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad bought both the depot and the Seaboard tracks to Naples after Seaboard discontinued service. The Atlantic Coast Line connected the former Seaboard track to their Fort Myers Southern Branch near Vanderbilt Beach, and resumed passenger service to the depot after an eleven-year absence. This makes it only one of the few railroad depots to have been operated by both the Atlantic Coast Line and the Seaboard Air Line independently prior to their merger. The Atlantic Coast Line's previous depot in Naples was located at the northeast corner of Radio Road and Airport-Pulling Road near Naples Airport, which was then closed and eventually demolished in the 1970s. Ironically, the Seaboard brand returned to the depot in 1967 when the Atlantic Coast Line merged with the Seaboard Air Line which became the Seaboard Coast Line Railroad. Passenger service ended in 1971 when national passenger rail was taken over by Amtrak. On September 10, 1974, the depot was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. Freight service was halted for good in the late 1970s, and the adjacent tracks were removed in 1980 (the remaining line from this point north is still in place and is now owned by Seminole Gulf Railway). The station has since been fully restored by the Collier County Museums, and is now operated as the Naples Depot Museum. Exhibits focus on the history of transportation and trade in Southwest Florida. Displays include railroads, Seminole dugout canoes, a mule wagon and an antique swamp buggy. Vintage railcars are also on display outside of the building. In another part of the building is a Lionel Train Museum which is dedicated to model trains. A miniature railway also runs around the perimeter of the property.
Naples, FL Railroad Depot with Rolling Stock en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naples_station The Naples Seaboard Air Line Railway Station (also known as the Naples Railroad Depot or Seaboard Coast Line Railroad Depot) is a historic Seaboard Air Line Railway depot in Naples, Florida. It is located at 1051 5th Avenue, South. The depot was constructed in 1927, when the Seaboard Air Line Railroad (via its Seaboard-All Florida Railway subsidiary) constructed its line to Naples. It was designed in the same Mediterranean Revival style the Seaboard Air Line used with its stations in Delray Beach, Deerfield Beach, Hialeah, and Homestead on the southeast coast of Florida (which were built around the same time), and is virtually identical to the Hialeah depot. The station only briefly saw Seaboard Air Line passenger service in the late 1920s before the railroad reduced its line to Naples to freight service only in 1933. Seaboard ended freight service in the 1940s. During World War II, the depot was also home to USO shows for troops stationed at the nearby Naples airfield. By 1944, the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad bought both the depot and the Seaboard tracks to Naples after Seaboard discontinued service. The Atlantic Coast Line connected the former Seaboard track to their Fort Myers Southern Branch near Vanderbilt Beach, and resumed passenger service to the depot after an eleven-year absence. This makes it only one of the few railroad depots to have been operated by both the Atlantic Coast Line and the Seaboard Air Line independently prior to their merger. The Atlantic Coast Line's previous depot in Naples was located at the northeast corner of Radio Road and Airport-Pulling Road near Naples Airport, which was then closed and eventually demolished in the 1970s. Ironically, the Seaboard brand returned to the depot in 1967 when the Atlantic Coast Line merged with the Seaboard Air Line which became the Seaboard Coast Line Railroad. Passenger service ended in 1971 when national passenger rail was taken over by Amtrak. On September 10, 1974, the depot was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. Freight service was halted for good in the late 1970s, and the adjacent tracks were removed in 1980 (the remaining line from this point north is still in place and is now owned by Seminole Gulf Railway). The station has since been fully restored by the Collier County Museums, and is now operated as the Naples Depot Museum. Exhibits focus on the history of transportation and trade in Southwest Florida. Displays include railroads, Seminole dugout canoes, a mule wagon and an antique swamp buggy. Vintage railcars are also on display outside of the building. In another part of the building is a Lionel Train Museum which is dedicated to model trains. A miniature railway also runs around the perimeter of the property.
Train Station - Grand Saline, TX The passenger depot built by Texas & Pacific is now used as a Library. The greenish color is new as the primary color was yellow decade ago.
Oliver Springs Depot Text from the Oliver Springs Historical Society: oshistorical.com/southern-railroad-depot Built c. 1893, the Oliver Springs Depot was one of the busiest of the Coster Division. Its popularity grew along with the nationally known Oliver Springs Resort Hotel and nearby coal production. This building is a small-frame style, one story structure. Original interior wood has writing still visible from 123 years ago. It features gabbles and large overhangs. The last passenger train pulled through the depot in 1968. In 1983 Southern Railway planned to demolish the structure. The town rallied for saving this historic remnant and eventually struck a deal with Southern Railway, provided it would be removed from the site and relocated elsewhere. In 1986, the citizens of Oliver Springs were able to have the building moved across the street with the help of TVA. The depot is currently home to the Oliver Springs Library and Museum operated by the Oliver Springs Historical Society. The outside paint is lead-based and needs containment and new paint. Roof repairs and water drainage are also issues. The town has little funding to make repairs and it is the only library and source for internet connection for many citizens. Time is of the essence. The town is applying for a TDOT Enhancement Grant to help make repairs. Repairs need to be made to ensure the structure has a future in the community. The depot has been on the East Tennessee Preservation Alliance Endangered 8 List since 2016. It's our wish that it can be removed in 2018.
Chuckey, TN Train Depot Chuckey is a small unincorporated community in Greene County, TN. This depot was built in 1906 for use by Southern Railway. There was an AP story written in the last month that some preservationists in nearby Jonesborough are looking to either partner with the residents of Chuckey to restore the depot or move it to Jonesborough.
Dalton, GA Freight Train Depot There are two old restored train depots in Dalton. This one which used to be part of Southern Railway is now a visitors center and on this day must have had some event going on. (The other one is now a Restaurant.)
Southern Terminal - Knoxville This view of the depot was taken along Central St. Southern Railway was formed in the 1890s at the merging of two railroad companies. In 1902, Southern hired architect Frank Pierce Milburn to design new train stations at several of their major terminals. Two years later, the Southern Terminal opened in Knoxville. Many warehouses and factories surrounded this area because of its important shipping routes. The station looks today much the same as it did in 1904, except a large clock tower was removed in 1945 wen deemed structurally unsafe. The last passenger train came through in 1970. Today, the building is on the National Register of Historic Places as the integral part of The Southern Terminal and Warehouse District, an area which is today known as Old City. This passenger station and the freight depot next door are designed in a similar style with Classical Revival influence. Most notable is the corbel-stepped gabled roof.
Southern Terminal - Knoxville This view was taken from the 2006 Gay St. Viaduct. There are 11 tracks here at its widest point. Southern Railway was formed in the 1890s at the merging of two railroad companies. In 1902, Southern hired architect Frank Pierce Milburn to design new train stations at several of their major terminals. Two years later, the Southern Terminal opened in Knoxville. Many warehouses and factories surrounded this area because of its important shipping routes. The station looks today much the same as it did in 1904, except a large clock tower was removed in 1945 wen deemed structurally unsafe. The last passenger train came through in 1970. Today, the building is on the National Register of Historic Places as the integral part of The Southern Terminal and Warehouse District, an area which is today known as Old City. This passenger station and the freight depot next door are designed in a similar style with Classical Revival influence. Most notable is the corbel-stepped gabled roof.
Lyons, GA Passenger Depot This brick train station was built by Seaboard Air Line Railroad in 1930
Hohenwald Depot Hohenwald was settled by German immigrants. The name translates to "High Forest." The original 1896 NC&StL Hohenwald Depot has been restored to its original appearance. As one of the first buildings constructed in the town, the Depot welcomed the new settlers. Later, it witnessed visits from Thomas Edison (coming to the region to find Cobalt) and William Wrigley, as well as served as a work site for German prisoners of war from Rommel’s African Corps during WWII. This Depot was moved several times over the years but returned to its original location and restored in 1985.
Bemberg Train Station The American Bemberg Co. was a factory in Elizabethton to manufacture Rayon. The East Tennessee & Western North Carolina ("Tweetsie") Railroad built this depot to service the Bemberg plant. The name Bemberg was etched into the side of the building but is now covered by the awning.
Abingdon, VA Freight Depot This depot has survived and been transformed into a place to buy art. It is next door to the old town passenger depot which is now a museum.
Calhoun, GA 1853 Depot This depot was built by the Western & Atlantic Railroad, and later used by NCStL. Today the brick depot is used for municipal offices. I like the painted on flower at the real flower pots. It is one of 4 listing on the National Registry of Historic Places in Gordon County.
Tunnel Hil, GA Depot Built by Western & Atlantic in the 1850's, this Train Station made out of stone was the last stop before trains went through the Historic Tunnel. Later, this station was part of NCStL. Today, the depot is vacant with hopes of being restored soon.
Chattanooga Choo-Choo Originally known as Chattanooga's Terminal Station, this formerly important Passenger train depot now serves as a popular hotel. The station was built in 1908 and the centerpiece of the building was a large concourse. (Inside is a large dome. In 1970, train service stopped and a few years later it became the Chattanooga Choo-Choo hotel. The large concourse is today the main lobby. On top of the building is the famous sign. Here is the sign at night.
Marion, Va Train Station This Passenger Depot in Marion, VA was built by Norfolk & Western to serve Smyth County in 1904. Passenger service lasted until 1971. In the mid 90's a developer turned the building into retail space. The blue thing on the left is a shaved ice stand. Today, the Depot is on the National Register of Historic Places.
West Jefferson, NC train freight depot It may have been relocated within the city by a couple of blocks, but I'm not sure. Today it serves as a hardware store.
Cowan, TN Flag, Train Depot and Steam Locomotive The Cowan Depot is wood frame and built in 1904 for the NC&StL railway. When in use, it was originally on the other side of the still-in-use-by-CSX tracks but moved further away to its current location in 1976. It's built in a railroad gothic style architecture and has been repainted to the original green and yellow colors. The building is in the process of renovation. It is on the National Register of Historic Places. Every year, the town has a Summer Weekend festival called Cowan Depot Days with the goal of raising money to further restore the station. Cowan is located on the historic line that runs from Nashville to Chattanooga and is perhaps best known by railfans as the last stop before ascending Cumberland Mountain and the picturesque but almost inaccessible Cumberland Mountain Tunnel entrance. CSX keeps pusher cars on hand to help trains make the incline to the top. Steam Locomotive #1 has been the highlight of the Cowan Railroad Museum for many years. It's a Columbia Type 2-4-2. It was built by Porter in 1920 as a tenderless Tank style locomotive and converted with a small homemade tender and had the saddle tank removed. The cab used to contain a small coal bunker. The Engine was functional around Charleston, SC until 1964 when it was sold to the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. Then, was sold to the Cowan museum in 1979. To see my other photos from the Depot Museum, look here: www.flickr.com/photos/brent_nashville/tags/cowanrailroadm...
Cowan, TN Passenger Depot (2011) The Cowan Depot is wood frame and built in 1904 for the NC&StL railway. When in use, it was originally on the other side of the still-in-use-by-CSX tracks but moved further away to its current location in 1976. It's built in a railroad gothic style architecture and has been repainted to the original green and yellow colors. The building is in the process of renovation. It is on the National Register of Historic Places. Every year, the town has a Summer Weekend festival called Cowan Depot Days with the goal of raising money to further restore the station. Cowan is located on the historic line that runs from Nashville to Chattanooga and is perhaps best known by railfans as the last stop before ascending Cumberland Mountain and the picturesque but almost inaccessible Cumberland Mountain Tunnel entrance. CSX keeps pusher cars on hand to help trains make the incline to the top. Steam Locomotive #1 has been the highlight of the Cowan Railroad Museum for many years. It's a Columbia Type 2-4-2. It was built by Porter in 1920 as a tenderless Tank style locomotive and converted with a small homemade tender and had the saddle tank removed. The cab used to contain a small coal bunker. The Engine was functional around Charleston, SC until 1964 when it was sold to the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. Then, was sold to the Cowan museum in 1979. To see my other photos from the Depot Museum, look here: www.flickr.com/photos/brent_nashville/tags/cowanrailroadm...
Cowan, TN Train Depot and Steam Locomotive The Cowan Depot is wood frame and built in 1904 for the NC&StL railway. When in use, it was originally on the other side of the still-in-use-by-CSX tracks but moved further away to its current location in 1976. It's built in a railroad Gothic style architecture and has been repainted to the original green and yellow colors. The building is in the process of renovation. It is on the National Register of Historic Places. Every year, the town has a Summer Weekend festival called Cowan Depot Days with the goal of raising money to further restore the station. Cowan is located on the historic line that runs from Nashville to Chattanooga and is perhaps best known by railfans as the last stop before ascending Cumberland Mountain and the picturesque but almost inaccessible Cumberland Mountain Tunnel entrance. CSX keeps pusher cars on hand to help trains make the incline to the top. Steam Locomotive #1 has been the highlight of the Cowan Railroad Museum for many years. It's a Columbia Type 2-4-2. It was built by Porter in 1920 as a tenderless Tank style locomotive and converted with a small homemade tender and had the saddle tank removed. The cab used to contain a small coal bunker. The Engine was functional around Charleston, SC until 1964 when it was sold to the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. Then, was sold to the Cowan museum in 1979. To see my other photos from the Depot Museum, look here: www.flickr.com/photos/brent_nashville/tags/cowanrailroadm...
Cowan, TN Passenger Depot (2011) The Cowan Depot is wood frame and built in 1904 for the NC&StL railway. When in use, it was originally on the other side of the still-in-use-by-CSX tracks but moved further away to its current location in 1976. It's built in a railroad gothic style architecture and has been repainted to the original green and yellow colors. The building is in the process of renovation. It is on the National Register of Historic Places. Every year, the town has a Summer Weekend festival called Cowan Depot Days with the goal of raising money to further restore the station. Cowan is located on the historic line that runs from Nashville to Chattanooga and is perhaps best known by railfans as the last stop before ascending Cumberland Mountain and the picturesque but almost inaccessible Cumberland Mountain Tunnel entrance. CSX keeps pusher cars on hand to help trains make the incline to the top. To see my other photos from the Depot Museum, look here: www.flickr.com/photos/brent_nashville/tags/cowanrailroadm...
Cartersville, GA Depot This train depot is one of the few Western & Atlantic depots still in existence. I think the most notable feature is the pronounced foor overhang over where the passengers would stand. Today, the depot is home to the Cartersville & Bartow County convention bureau. I stopped inside and bought a couple of post cards. The fence is a relatively new addition in the area, as the central business district is still vibrant, and yet these are frequently used tracks. For the full history, look here: roadsidegeorgia.com/site/cvilledepot.html
Lynnville, TN Depot Museum & Locomotive Lynnville is a small town in Giles County where L&N operated a Passenger depot. That depot was torn down when passenger service stopped in town. However, a few decades later, a new replica was built to be operated as a museum. The highlighted locomotive at the museum is a 1927 Prairie type 2-6-2 Baldwin Steam Locomotive. It hauled freight for the St. Louis & O'Fallon railroad at first and was retired after 37 years in use. in 1997, the museum acquired it. Other trains cars at the museum include a 1923 Pullman Passenger Coach (which inside has a sub-museum honoring nearby Milky Way Farms), a 1950 wood deck flat car, and a 1971 caboose. To see all of the Lynnville Depot Museum pictures, Click here.
Lynnville, TN Depot Museum & Locomotive Lynnville is a small town in Giles County where L&N operated a Passenger depot. That depot was torn down when passenger service stopped in town. However, a few decades later, a new replica was built to be operated as a museum. The highlighted locomotive at the museum is a 1927 Prairie type 2-6-2 Baldwin Steam Locomotive. It hauled freight for the St. Louis & O'Fallon railroad at first and was retired after 37 years in use. in 1997, the museum acquired it. Other trains cars at the museum include a 1923 Pullman Passenger Coach (which inside has a sub-museum honoring nearby Milky Way Farms), a 1950 wood deck flat car, and a 1971 caboose. To see all of the Lynnville Depot Museum pictures, Click here. Hello to anyone who found this here: www.onlyinyourstate.com/tennessee/undeniable-tn-home/ 11 Undeniable Reasons Why Tennessee Will Always Be Home
Lynnville, TN Depot Museum & Steam Locomotive Lynnville is a small town in Giles County where L&N operated a Passenger depot. That depot was torn down when passenger service stopped in town. However, a few decades later, a new replica was built to be operated as a museum. The highlighted locomotive at the museum is a 1927 Prairie type 2-6-2 Baldwin Steam Locomotive. It hauled freight for the St. Louis & O'Fallon railroad at first and was retired after 37 years in use. in 1997, the museum acquired it. Other trains cars at the museum include a 1923 Pullman Passenger Coach (which inside has a sub-museum honoring nearby Milky Way Farms), a 1950 wood deck flat car, and a 1971 caboose. To see all of the Lynnville Depot Museum pictures, Click here.
Old Walland Train Depot Walland is a tiny community in Blount County. The Depot was moved up the road and preserved at the Little River Railroad Museum in Townsend, TN. According to the sign on the side of the building, this depot was built by the Little River Railroad in 1903.
Ringgold, GA Train Depot Built in 1849 out of stone. It probably is possible to get up to its level, but the street ducks below the tracks at this spot.
Buechel, KY Train Depot Buechel is a suburb of Louisville, and now the depot is the centerpiece of a town park. The Southern Railway depot was built in 1898 and moved to this location undergoing renovation in 2003.
Maryville, TN Train Depot This old passenger train depot built by Southern is well preserved, and now serves some small businesses, such as a dentist and a CPA. It appeared to me that when the tracks were in use, they stopped here. It also looked like the actual tracks had just recently been pulled up but where they had been is obvious, as the gravel bed on the other side remained.
Kennesaw, GA Train Depot (Front) It's been relocated a few feet from its original location and now is across the street from the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History, which houses the famous General. This depot was built by NC&StL in 1908 when the town was known as Big Shanty. Today, the building is also a town museum and civic center.
Southern Railway Freight Depot (Streetside) Chattanooga has a rich history with railroads, with Southern Railway as perhaps the most important train company in the area. While the Terminal Station at the Chattanooga Choo Choo is an important passenger station, this freight station just a couple of blocks down the road on Market St. served a similarly vital role in the town's history. The building originally started as an iron foundry in 1871. By 1894, the building was converted into a freight depot by the old Eastern Kentucky and Georgia Railroad, which became part of Southern in 1901. As the railroad industry went into decline, this depot fell into disuse. John's Railroad Salvage was located here in the 70s. In 1983, the Building was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. By the late 80s, Chattanooga decided to have urban revitalization here and at Warehouse Row next door, with the ultimate goal of having upscale stores at both places. Since then, historic renovation has been completed with modern additions removed, bringing back the 19th century facade.
Southern Railway Freight Depot (Trackside) Chattanooga has a rich history with railroads, with Southern Railway as perhaps the most important train company in the area. While the Terminal Station at the Chattanooga Choo Choo is an important passenger station, this freight station just a couple of blocks down the road on Market St. served a similarly vital role in the town's history. The building originally started as an iron foundry in 1871. By 1894, the building was converted into a freight depot by the old Eastern Kentucky and Georgia Railroad, which became part of Southern in 1901. As the railroad industry went into decline, this depot fell into disuse. John's Railroad Salvage was located here in the 70s. In 1983, the Building was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. By the late 80s, Chattanooga decided to have urban revitalization here and at Warehouse Row next door, with the ultimate goal of having upscale stores at both places. Since then, historic renovation has been completed with modern additions removed, bringing back the 19th century facade.
Adairsville, GA Depot This depot was built in 1847 about a mile from the center of Adairsville. The depot was so vital to the town that the entire town relocated to be closer to it. At one time, Adairsville was the home of a major repair facility for Western & Atlantic railroad. During the Civil War, the Greal Locomotive Chase came through Adairsville. Service stopped at the depot in the 1960s. In the Mid 90's, most of the historic area of Adairsville went though a restoration project and the entire area is on the National Register of Historic Places. Today the depot is open as the Adairsville Rail Depot Age of Steam Museum and as a welcome center.
Spring City, TN Depot The brick passenger train station in Spring City, TN was built by Queen and Crescent Railroad in 1908 along the line to connect Cincinnati and New Orleans. Later, this railway became a part of Southern Railway. A friend of mine lived in Spring City for a short while, and he remembers the building was used as a library then. Today, it is home to the local chamber of commerce in one half and a museum in the other side.
Spring City, TN Depot and Caboose The brick passenger train station in Spring City, TN was built by Queen and Crescent Railroad in 1908 along the line to connect Cincinnati and New Orleans. Later, this railway became a part of Southern Railway. A friend of mine lived in Spring City for a short while, and he remembers the building was used as a library then. Today, it is home to the local chamber of commerce in one half and a museum in the other side.
Spring City, TN Passenger Depot The brick passenger train station in Spring City, TN was built by Queen and Crescent Railroad in 1908 along the line to connect Cincinnati and New Orleans. Later, this railway became a part of Southern Railway. A friend of mine lived in Spring City for a short while, and he remembers the building was used as a library then. Today, it is home to the local chamber of commerce in one half and a museum in the other side.
Marietta, GA Train Depot This 1898 NCStL train station located in the heart of Marietta is now the city's welcome center.
Cambria, VA Passenger Depot Cambria is a city in Montgomery County that has now been swallowed up by Christiansburg, but with its old city center intact. This depot is significant for two reasons. 1) It's one of the oldest in the state and is one of two surviving depots in southwest Virginia that dates back to the Reconstruction period. 2) Architecturally, it was designed in a high style Victorian Tuscan Italianate style, with an imposing central tower, overhanging eaves and a deep bracketted frieze. After the original Virginia & Tennessee Railroad depot was burned in the Civil War, this depot was reopened in 1870. Passenger service stopped in 1960. Like many trian stations, it fell into disrepair for a couple of decades until 1983 when locals bought the historic building to restore it. In 1985, the depot was added to the National Register of Historic Places and the Virginia Historic Register. In 2007, one area opened as the Cambria Toy Station and in 2009 a museum opened.
Paris, TN Passenger Train Depot This Brick Passenger Station was originally built by NC&StL. The depot was built in 1896 and service ran until 1951. Today, the depot houses a tax business. The tracks run down Fentress Ave. Those tracks still get some use by Kentucky & West Tennessee Railway, a short line that connects to CSX. Originally, they were laid by Paducah, Tennessee & Alabama. When PT&A went bankrupt, the line was sold to L&N who leased it to NCStL.
Selmer, TN Depot In the late 19th century, McNairy County moved its county seat from Purdy to Selmer because of the upcoming prominence as a railroad town. Mobile and Ohio first laid the tracks through selmer in the late 1850s. This turn of the century station is one of the few Mobile and Ohio depots left in the area. At first, I wasn't convinced this was an old depot, despite the ticket window on the side, the location next to the tracks, and a platform which you can see in the back. This depot isn't listed in some of the guides that I rely on. I wasn't convinced until I saw a picture in the 1995 book Tennessee's Historic Landscapes by Carroll van West. In the 16 years since then, it's become a salon, a metal roof was added, and maybe new siding, too. I wonder if it was a restaurant at one time also as the words Pit Lounge are still on the salon sign.
Humboldt, TN Train Depot. This is the old passenger station built by GM&O. Recently, this has been a business but now there's a for rest sign out front.
Cookeville, TN Train Depot This depot was built in 1909 by Tennessee Central to replace an earlier depot in the middle of the Cream City district. TC only built three depots out of brick, and this was their "Jewel" with its notable pagoda style roof. Passenger service lasted until 1955 and TC used the building until they went out of business in 1968. Like most unused depots, it started to fall into disrepair until the Friends of the Depot and the City of Cookeville purchased it in 1975. In 1985, the depot was added to the National Register of Historic Places and also opened as a museum.
Cookeville, TN Train Depot This depot was built in 1909 by Tennessee Central to replace an earlier depot in the middle of the Cream City district. TC only built three depots out of brick, and this was their "Jewel" with its notable pagoda style roof. Passenger service lasted until 1955 and TC used the building until they went out of business in 1968. Like most unused depots, it started to fall into disrepair until the Friends of the Depot and the City of Cookeville purchased it in 1975. In 1985, the depot was added to the National Register of Historic Places and also opened as a museum. I have given the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy permission to use this photo here: www.railstotrails.org/news/recurringFeatures/trailMonth/a...
Grinder's Switch Depot Grinder's Switch is a real place made famous as the hometown of fictional character Minnie Pearl. Instead of being an actual town, it was just a railroad switch. There was a depot at this switch, part of the NCStL line, and an employee there was the father of Sarah Colley Carter, the real life person behind Minnie Pearl. That original depot is long gone, but some people in Centerville want to take advantage of the Minnie Pearl heritage (just like Loretta Lynn has done in Hurricane Mills). In the 1980's, these people planned a park, and needed another depot, so they purchased this L&N depot from the tiny Dickson County town of Slayden. Additionally, they put some vintage farm equipment here, but that park never fully materialized. However, they built a nearby Ag Expo. The train tracks are right behind me here. Update: This depot is now gone.
Limestone, TN Depot Here is a train station that has seen better days... The depot originally built by Southern is barely standing. The main part of the unincorporated town seems to be on a slope. The homes on the other side of the tracks from the depot (that are behind me) look down on the depot. All the mostly deserted storefronts look up at the depot.
Kingsport, TN Clinchfield Passenger Depot The Carolina, Clinchfield and Ohio Passenger train station along with the adjacent freight depot were built in 1916. The building's design was a product of new York architect Clinton McKenzie. Access to the railroad instantly gave Kingsport the potential to become an industrial community. Even though passenger service stopped in 1954, the area remained busy thoroughfare. Today, the building is used as a bank. Looking at Kingsport, I find it interesting how a planned community came to be, and what's changed over nearly 100 years. The city was laid out before construction of anything started. Main street connected this depot on one end and the 4 churches of Church Circle on the other end of the storefront lined street. The city hasn't aged well, but either end of the main street has retained it's significant architecture.
Kingsport, TN Clinchfield Passenger Depot The Carolina, Clinchfield and Ohio Passenger train station along with the adjacent freight depot were built in 1916. The building's design was a product of new York architect Clinton McKenzie. Access to the railroad instantly gave Kingsport the potential to become an industrial community. Even though passenger service stopped in 1954, the area remained busy thoroughfare. Today, the building is used as a bank. Looking at Kingsport, I find it interesting how a planned community came to be, and what's changed over neary 100 years. The city was laid out before contruction of anything started. Main street connected this depot on one end and the 4 churches of Church Circle on the other end of the storefront lined street. The city hasn't aged well, but either end of the main street has retianed it's significant architecture.
Kingsport, TN Clinchfield Passenger Depot The Carolina, Clinchfield and Ohio Passenger train station along with the adjacent freight depot were built in 1916. The building's design was a product of new York architect Clinton McKenzie. Access to the railroad instantly gave Kingsport the potential to become an industrial community. Even though passenger service stopped in 1954, the area remained busy thoroughfare. Today, the building is used as a bank and is located on the National register of Historic Places. Looking at Kingsport, I find it interesting how a planned community came to be, and what's changed over neary 100 years. The city was laid out before contruction of anything started. Main street connected this depot on one end and the 4 churches of Church Circle on the other end of the storefront lined street. The city hasn't aged well, but either end of the main street has retianed it's significant architecture.
Abingdon, VA Passenger Depot Built by Norfolk & Western in 1910. The building now houses the county Historical Society. It looks like there's almost a swiss look to the building. Next door is the old freight depot.
Tennessee Central Railway Museum Located at the site of the TC headquarters, most of the Tennessee Central Buildings are gone, but several still remain. The actual museum is held in the building seen here, which was used as the Master Mechanic's shop. Also inside are a small gift shop and a model train hobby shop. Today, the museum is best know for its excursion trains. From here, it's a short walk to the tracks to see their restored passenger cars as well as their other rolling stock. For more info: www.tcry.org/
Seven Mile Ford, VA train depot This colorful train station is now used as Seven Mile Ford Equipmant Company. The depot was originally built by Norfolk and Western. The tracks are to the left of the building and US11 is on the right. On the track side, but not visible here is the bayed ticket window, but all of the windows have been replaced with wall. Here's how it looked 35 years ago: spec.lib.vt.edu/imagebase/drake/full/DR026.JPG
Columbia, TN Union Station The old Union Station in Columbia was built in 1902 replacing an older, long demolished, building that had stood nearby. It served the community for both Louisville & Nashville, NCStL and Duck River Valley Narrow Gauge Railroad and was in use until the 1960s when passenger service was discontinued with cancelled freight and parcel service following. This building once served as one of the hubs of the community but is unused and neglected today despite its presence on the National Register of Historic Places.
Columbia, TN Union Station (b&w) The old Union Station in Columbia was built in 1902 replacing an older, long demolished, building that had stood nearby. It served the community for both Louisville & Nashville, NCStL and Duck River Valley Narrow Gauge Railroad and was in use until the 1960s when passenger service was discontinued with cancelled freight and parcel service following. This building once served as one of the hubs of the community but is unused and neglected today despite its presence on the National Register of Historic Places. Hello to anyone who found this here: www.onlyinyourstate.com/tennessee/tiny-town-columbia-tn/ You’ll Never Run Out Of Things To Do In This Tiny Tennessee Town
Dublin, VA Passenger Depot Built by Norfolk & Western. The look of this station reminds me of horse stables.
Fort Payne, AL Depot The Passenger train station in Fort Payne was built by Southern Railroad in 1891. Having the appearance of a fortress, the exterior, which was renovated in 1986, is of pink sandstone. A new roof was installed not too many years ago, topping the Richardsonian Romanesque style. Passenger service lasted until the early 60's. Today the building is a museum and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Union City, TN Train Depot The train station in Union city was built in 1922 by Gulf, Mobile & Ohio (GM&O) and also serviced NCStL. The design is a mixture of Mission/Spanish Revival and Bungalow/Craftsman. Today, the building is restored and serves as the Obion County Chamber of Commerce. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Union City, TN Depot and GT Locomotive The train station in Union city was built in 1922 by Gulf, Mobile & Ohio (GM&O) and also serviced NCStL. The design is a mixture of Mission/Spanish Revival and Bungalow/Craftsman. Today, the building is restored and serves as the Obion County Chamber of Commerce. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. On the day that I took this photo, I started by parking at the Depot, as I was walking to the <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/brent_nashville/6800628333/"Capitol Theater, I saw GT 5848 crossing the street. I went over to the town square and an hour after I had started, I was back where I started and the same locomotive was crossing at the depot where I started. GM&O eventually merged with Illinois Central, who along with Grand Trunk & Western are all owned today by CN.
Evergreen, AL L&N Depot Built in 1907. The downtown area of Evergreen seems like it has seen better days, but the old station looks in great shape. Evergreen is the county seat of Conecuh County and is along US31. Today the depot is on the National Register of Historic Places. Note: I revisited this depot in Sept. 2017 and the growing trees in front almost make it impossible to see any details of the front.
Jackson, MS Passenger Station This is the Passenger Depot at 300 W. Capitol St. in downtown Jackson, MS built by Illinois Central in 1927. Today, it serves as an Amtrak stop.
L&N Marine Terminal Building - Pensacola, FL The building was constructed in 1902 at the Commendencia Street Whar. It served as a major terminus for the Louisville & Nashville Railroad's lumber and coal export trade between the time of its construction and World War II and became the Port Authority office in 1959. In 1972, the building was disassembled by Theophalis May and moved to its current location on Main Street. On August 14 of the same year, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places for its significance to the transportation industry and to maritime history. The building was damaged by Hurrican Ivan in 2004 and then after extensive renovations in 2006, it reopened as the coordinating center of the Florida Public Archaeology Network.
L&N Marine Terminal Building - Pensacola, FL The building was constructed in 1902 at the Commendencia Street Whar. It served as a major terminus for the Louisville & Nashville Railroad's lumber and coal export trade between the time of its construction and World War II and became the Port Authority office in 1959. In 1972, the building was disassembled by Theophalis May and moved to its current location on Main Street. On August 14 of the same year, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places for its significance to the transportation industry and to maritime history. The building was damaged by Hurrican Ivan in 2004 and then after extensive renovations in 2006, it reopened as the coordinating center of the Florida Public Archaeology Network. Also seen in this picture is a three ton mooring anchor dating back to the 19th century and discovered by the Navy in 1965.
Tuckers Gap Passenger Depot Tennessee & Pacific Railroad was chartered in 1866 with the intent of connecting Knoxville to Memphis so that coal from the East Tennessee mountains could be conveyed out to the western U.S. In 1969, consturction began on the first (and as it turned out, the only) segment of the rail line, a 29 mile stretch from Lebanon to Nashville. It began operation in 1971, so this passenegr station was built sometime during those two years. The depot was built on land owned by John Bell Tarver. His daughter Nancy Tarver Hagan was employed to be the depot's operator. To make money, she would sell poultry, livestock, eggs, flowers, etc. from the depot. According to family stories, when she would hear the train whistle, she'd quickly change into her "good clothes" and run down the hill from her house just in time to meet the approaching train. By 1877, Tennessee & Pacific ran out of money and the line was purchased by NCStL. The short line operated under the T&P name until 1988 when it was renamed the NCStL Lebanon Branch. The last run was made on July 13, 1935 when passenger service stopped. The depot sat vacant at the same spot for nearly seven decades when it was put up for auction. In August, 2005 the depot was reloacated to Fiddler's Grove, the collection of historic local buildings on the Wilson County Fairgrounds. One year later after extensive renovations it was dedicated. Today, fairgoers can walk inside and see train memorabilia as well as a model railroad display.
Maxwell, TN Passenger Train Depot Here is a long since forgotten train station! Tracks first came through the area with the formation of the Winchester & Alabama railroad in the 1850's. They never could get their line finished into Huntsville, AL as they made it to Elora, TN just north of the border and instead made a line to Fayetteville. After W&A went bankrupt, the line was purchased by NCStL who did complete the line to Huntsville. Much of the land through here was ownd by a man named William R. Jones, who sold some of his land to the railroad in the 1860's. The depot that was built here became knwon as Jones Station. Soon afterward a new stationmaster with the last name of Maxwell came in and from there the stop was known as Maxwell. I can't find any age on the date of the depot seen here. By the 1980's, the line was owned by Seaboard Systems who decided to stop running the line in 1985. All the tracks through here are gone, leaving this old depot in a seemingly unexpected place.
Pascagoula, MS Train Depot This station was originally built by L&N in 1904. More recently, it has seen service as an Amtrak station on their Sunset Limited, but that was suspended after Hurricane Katrina.. Today, the depot is on the National Register of Historic Places.
Hartselle, Al train station The Railroad was prominent in the beginning days of the town of Hartselle as the small town became a stop on the North and South Alabama Railroad. This depot was built several decades later in 1914 by L&N. Passenger service continued here until the 1960's when the depot stayed vacant until 1976. Today, the depot is home to the Chamber of Commerce. Every year, the city has a depot days festival in September, and this year it is on Sat. Sept. 15. On the day I took this photo, it was at the crack of dawn.
Salem, VA Passenger Depot For many years, thise depot served passengers of Norfolk & Western. Today, the building is used as a local Head Start office. The well maintained building was made in 1891 with a stone exterior.
Germantown, TN Train Depot at Night Tracks were first laid through Germantown by the Memphis & Charleston Railroad in the 1850's. This depot was built by Southern Railway as a replica in 1948 to recreate the depot that was here in 1868. On the front of the building is a plaque that reads "Restoration by Heritage Woman's Club 1986." Today, the building houses the offices for the Tennessee Shakespeare Company.
Williamsburg, KY Train Depot This used to be an L&N passenger depot and the tracks that run in front of it are today used by CSX.
Rogersville, TN Passenger Station This well maintained train depot was built by Southern ca. 1890 and was the end of the line from Bulls Gap. The tracks are long gone, but today the building holds the Rogersville Heritage Association and the Tennessee Newspaper and Printing Museum. Hello to anyone who found this photo here: www.onlyinyourstate.com/tennessee/charming-tn/ Here Are The 10 Most Beautiful, Charming Small Towns In Tennessee
Jasper, TN City Hall (old depot) To me, this looks like an old train depot, but I don't see any tracks. It is in the town square, across from the Marion County Courthouse. US41 / 64 / 72 runs past this, as the "Cummings Highway" to Chattanooga stops here.
Rural Retreat, VA I drove to see this old train station on the same day I visited the O. Winston Link museum in downtown Roanoke. There, I saw a picture he had taken of this same place, except his photo was taken at night, had a steam train ready to load passengers and was overall a more interesting picture. The wood building was built somewhere around 1870 and was used by Norfolk & Western.
Cincinnati From Above #1: Union Terminal For those of us that have a greater love of photography than a fear of heights, there is a popular observation deck in downtown Cincinnati. Carew Tower is a 49 story, 574-foot skyscraper that was the tallest in town until 2010. For a couple of dollars, visitors can take an elevator up to about the 47th floor, then walk to anotehr elevator which goes the last part of the way where you can walk around the roof. From here, on a clear day you can see for miles. This series of 20 photos was taken in 2007 back when my camera had a 10X optical zoom. The Union Terminal is architecturally one of my favorite Art Deco buildings I've seen. In opened in 1933 to serve seven railroads en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cincinnati_Museum_Center_at_Union_T...
Murphy, NC Train Station This wooden depot was built by L&N around 1890. The depot is located near the small river that runs through town but the bridge that used to carry the tracks is long gone with only the piers to remain. Today the building is used as a visitors center and the parking area hosts a farmer's market. To get here, the entrance is along Bus US19 near the heart of town.
Smyrna, TN Train Depot & CSX #989 Here is the railroad station of the town I call home. The city of Smyrna has its roots to when a station was built here in 1851 and the town sprung up around it. (The line that ran from Nashville to Chattanooga placed a depot every 8 or so miles along the route.) This brick depot was built in 1873. The historic building had lied vacant for many years, but it is starting to see a little bit of activity. Most of the town festivals are held at the depot and along Front St. Within the last 5 years, the town has worked on revitalizing the area with landscaping and a roundabout at the intersection in front of the depot. On the day of this photo in 2012, I caught CSX #989 passing by. See the historical marker here: seemidtn.com/gallery3/index.php?album=historical-markers/...
Smyrna, TN Train Depot Here is the railroad station of the town I call home. The city of Smyrna has its roots to when a station was built here in 1851 and the town sprung up around it. (The line that ran from Nashville to Chattanooga placed a depot every 8 or so miles along the route.) This brick depot was built in 1873. The historic building had lied vacant for many years, but it is starting to see a little bit of activity. Most of the town festivals are held at the depot and along Front St. Within the last 5 years, the town has worked on revitalizing the area with landscaping and a roundabout at the intersection in front of the depot. The green flag in the picture is the city's logo. See the historical marker here: seemidtn.com/gallery3/index.php?album=historical-markers/... This photo has been used without permission, violating the creative commons license here: backgroundchecks.org/25-safest-cities-in-tennessee-2016.html The Safest Cities in Tennessee 2016
Monterey Depot Museum at Dusk The Depot in Monterey, TN is a replica station which opened in Feb. 2012. The rail line here was originally part of the Tennessee Central and today they coordinate with the Tennessee Central museum in Nashville, with the furthest excursion train they run coming this far. The museum not only features rail artifacts but also the history of the people of the nearby Upper Cumberland region. www.montereydepot.com/
Rock Island, TN Train Depot Upon my last visit to the town of Rock Island in 2008, I saw how the old NCStL Train Depot was used as a private residence. Today, the depot has been converted into a small antique store. I suppose all of the new decorations to the depot make it visually more interesting. (Make sure you notice the Caboose mailbox on the left.)
Clinchfield Depot - Johnson City, TN It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as the "Carolina, Clinchfield & Ohio Railroad Station and Depot." The brick building was built in 1930. Hello to anyone who found this here: www.onlyinyourstate.com/tennessee/charming-tn-town/ This Charming Tennessee Town Is Picture Perfect For An Autumn Day Trip
Cowan, TN Passenger Depot (2013) The Cowan Depot is wood frame and built in 1904 for the NC&StL railway. When in use, it was originally on the other side of the still-in-use-by-CSX tracks but moved further away to its current location in 1976. It's built in a railroad Gothic style architecture and has been repainted to the original green and yellow colors. The building is in the process of renovation. It is on the National Register of Historic Places. Every year, the town has a Summer Weekend festival called Cowan Depot Days with the goal of raising money to further restore the station. Cowan is located on the historic line that runs from Nashville to Chattanooga and is perhaps best known by railfans as the last stop before ascending Cumberland Mountain and the picturesque but almost inaccessible Cumberland Mountain Tunnel entrance. CSX keeps pusher cars on hand to help trains make the incline to the top. Steam Locomotive #1 has been the highlight of the Cowan Railroad Museum for many years. It's a Columbia Type 2-4-2. It was built by Porter in 1920 as a tenderless Tank style locomotive and converted with a small homemade tender and had the saddle tank removed. The cab used to contain a small coal bunker. The Engine was functional around Charleston, SC until 1964 when it was sold to the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. Then, was sold to the Cowan museum in 1979. To see my other photos from the Depot Museum, look here: www.flickr.com/photos/brent_nashville/tags/cowanrailroadm...
Frankfort, KY Union Station This station was built by the Louisville & Nashville Railroad in 1908 to replace an earlier depot also located here which was built in the 1850's by the Lexington & Frankfort Railroad. This station was used by L&N, Chesapeake & Ohio, Frankfort & Cincinnati and Kentucky Highlands. The last scheduled passenger train was the C&O George Washington on April 30, 1971.
Etowah, TN L&N Depot In 1902, the Louisville & Nashville Railroad decided they needed a more direct route between Atlanta and Cincinnati. Along this proposed updated route, they found a spot in McMinn County, TN that was about halway between the two cities that would serve as a good terminal and crew stop. Thus, the city of Etowah, and it's important Station were born. The 15 room Victorian structure made of yellow pine seen here was soon finished at a cost of $13,000. Passenger service lasted until 1968 and the depot soon closed. However, since this is still a prime railroad location, CSX continues to many operations along the tracks. The railroad donated the building to the city and by 1981 the depot was open again as a museum after several years of restoration. The depot was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1977. Partnering with the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum out of Chattanooga, there is an excursion train which operates from here. Known as the Hiawasee Loop, the excursion follows along the tracks which parallel the Hiawasee River and then ascends to the famous spot on Bald Mountain where the tracks cross over themselves, forming a loop known as "The Eye." (These are the tracks that the new line through Etowah was designed to bypass.)
Etowah, TN L&N Depot In 1902, the Louisville & Nashville Railroad decided they needed a more direct route between Atlanta and Cincinnati. Along this proposed updated route, they found a spot in McMinn County, TN that was about halway between the two cities that would serve as a good terminal and crew stop. Thus, the city of Etowah, and it's important Station were born. The 15 room Victorian structure made of yellow pine seen here was soon finished at a cost of $13,000. Passenger service lasted until 1968 and the depot soon closed. However, since this is still a prime railroad location, CSX continues to many operations along the tracks. The railroad donated the building to the city and by 1981 the depot was open again as a museum after several years of restoration. The depot was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1977. Partnering with the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum out of Chattanooga, there is an excursion train which operates from here. Known as the Hiawasee Loop, the excursion follows along the tracks which parallel the Hiawasee River and then ascends to the famous spot on Bald Mountain where the tracks cross over themselves, forming a loop known as "The Eye." (These are the tracks that the new line through Etowah was designed to bypass.) Hello to anyone who found this here: www.onlyinyourstate.com/tennessee/small-town-tennessee/ 10 Small Towns In Tennessee Where Everyone Knows Your Name
Pulaski, VA Train Depot The train station in Pulaski, VA was built of stone ca. 1888 and used by Norfolk & Western. In 2008, a huge fire gutted the building. After a couple years of extensive restoration, it's as good as new, and is now home to a Bicycle Shop.
Norfolk and Western Railway Passenger Station - Roanoke, VA This prominent Passenger Station along the Norfolk and Western line still stands in downtown Roanoke. It was built in 1904-05 and remodeled in 1947-49. The building is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places as part of the Norfolk and Western Railway Company Historic District. Today there are a couple of interesting things inside the depot. First, is the Roanoke visitor's center. Also, there is the O. Winston Link museum, which is great for anyone who likes photos of steam trains. (be prepared to spend a lot of money in the gift shop.) Also preserved is the train schedule from June 19, 1955.
Monterey Depot Museum The Depot in Monterey, TN is a replica station which opened in Feb. 2012. The rail line here was originally part of the Tennessee Central and today they coordinate with the Tennessee Central museum in Nashville, with the furthest excursion train they run coming this far. The museum not only features rail artifacts but also the history of the people of the nearby Upper Cumberland region. www.montereydepot.com/
Jamestown, TN Oneida & Western Depot This photo has been Explored peaking at #84. I am always so humbled whenever this happens. It never happens on the pictures I expect. This depot was built by the Oneida & Western Railroad decided to extend their line another 7 miles past their previous end of East Jamestown in 1930. O&W was started by the Tennessee Stave and Lumber Company, but their railroad soon started losing money after extending to Jamestown. Passengers could board a train here and take the 37 mile trip to Oneida and from there connect to Southern Railway. In 1942, O&W was sold to Crown-Healy Company of Illinois on news that TVA was planning to build a dam on Wolf Creek near Jamestown. WWII delayed building that dam until 1946, and by then, another building company had won the bid for the dam project. Then, Jewel Ridge Coal Corporation bought the line when coal mines were proposed in the area, but this did not amount to enough business. The last train left this station on March 2, 1954. Later, this depot was sold and used as a business. Today, the building is vacant.
The Last Remaining NC&StL Roundhouse This long abandoned roundhouse is located at the end of the Bruceton Yard, which is now used by CSX. NC&StL originally built a wooden roundhouse here but it burned down a few years later. Then, this Roundhouse of brick and concrete with eight stalls was built in 1925. Bruceton is a town in eastern part of Carroll County, TN
Clinton, TN Train Depot This passenger train station was originally owner by Southern Railway. The tracks on the right are active and still in use by NS.
