Rock Island Railroad Depot
The two-story Rock Island Railroad Depot is a historic stop that's
sure to impress. Located at 2nd and I streets in Fairbury, the
Rock Island Railroad Depot is one of two remaining brick Rock Island
Railroad Depots in Nebraska and is the largest depot still in existence
between Chicago and Denver.
Of the 36 Rock Island Depots built in Nebraska, the Fairbury Depot
is the only one that has been restored to it's historical integrity.
Fairbury's Depot, which housed the Western Division Headquarters
of the Rock Island Railroad, is now a Rock Island Railroad museum.
It houses Rock Island Railroad artifacts and displays memorabilla
donated by former railroad employees and their families. When you
visit the Fairbury Rock Island Railroad Depot, you'll see the restored
main lobby, ticket office, lounges, and baggage areas. A large
model train display is sure to delight visitors of all ages.
The second floor, which once housed the trainmaster's office, superintendent's office, telegrapher and dispatch rooms. These areas are a children's interpretive area, conference room, curator's office, model train room, and restored telegraph room. The beautiful gardens that once graced the front of the Rock Island Depot have been restored and highlight the Rock Island Railroad Memory Wall, constructed by Endicott Clay Products. The Rock Island Railroad Depot has meeting room space available for special programs and meetings, and also a gift shop specializing in train souvenirs.
Special all-day programs are held the first weekend in June and each December. Museum hours are Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays from 1-5 pm, with tours by appointment. Join us the first weekend in June for Rock Island Rail Days.
For more information call (402) 729-5131 or (402) 729-9907 or
contact us by mail. Rock Island Railroad Depot, 910 Second St.,
Fairbury, NE 68352. Email inquiries may be sent to fairburyridepot@windstream.net.
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Chamber
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