Construction of a replica 1915 train depot in Mattoon continues with money still being raised to fund the project spearheaded by the Mattoon Area Historical Society.
“We started in June, and we are waiting for the cement to be poured for the foundation,” said Laurel Collins, vice president of the historical society. “We will have an Amish group put up the building this fall, and the siding and roofing. The inside work can be done over the winter.”
Collins said the historical society hopes to have the replica depot ready for an open house in the spring or summer of 2027.
The village once had a line that carried railroad cars filled with freight every day until 1950. Then, the depot building was mostly abandoned, later to be purchased by a resident and used as the second story of his garage.
Members of the historical society thought about either a restoration or replication of the depot, similar to the one at Heritage Park in Shawano.
Collins said the cost to buy the original depot and fix it proved too costly. Also, by building a replica, it could be done with modern materials.
“This will be more maintenance-free,” she said.
The village donated the site for the replica, just down the street from the historical museum. The depot will measure 16 feet by 50 feet, the same as the original.
The replica depot will be furnished with artifacts and memorabilia. It will serve as a learning tool for students as well as a place for small parties and receptions.
“We will also have a small gift shop inside,” Collins said. “It will be made to look like the old-time general store.”
More than $100,000 has been raised for the project, but more is needed. The goal is to raise $150,000.
As a regular fundraiser, coffee, doughnuts and pies are sold from 9-11 a.m. the first two weekends of each month now through October at the museum, 611 Fourth St., Mattoon.
Museum tours are also available Saturdays.
“That is really going well,” Collins said of the fundraisers. “When people get their coffee and doughnuts, they go through the museum, too, and see what’s all inside.
Those looking to donate in support of the project can send checks made payable to the Mattoon Historical Society to P.O. Box 23, Mattoon, WI 54550.
kpasson@newmedia-wi.com
