American Express Building-Carroll facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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American Express Building-Carroll
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The depot (left) and American Express building (right) in 1995
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 Location in Iowa
Location in the United States
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| Location | Junction of N. West and W. 5th Sts., Carroll, Iowa |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1896 |
| Architect | Charles Sumner Frost |
| Architectural style | Late 19th and Early 20th Century Revivals |
| MPS | Advent & Development of Railroads in Iowa MPS |
| NRHP reference No. | 90001299 |
| Added to NRHP | September 6, 1990 |
The American Express Building-Carroll is a historic building in Carroll, Iowa, United States. It's also known as the Carroll Express Building. This building is a great example of a new station built during the "Golden Age of Steam Railroading." This was a time when trains were super important for travel and shipping.
This building replaced an older wooden one built between 1888 and 1893. The Chicago and North Western Railway (CNW) had expanded its train lines from Carroll in 1877 and 1880. This growth meant they needed a bigger, better building to handle all the business.
A famous architect from Chicago, Charles Sumner Frost, designed this building. He also designed the Chicago & Northwestern Passenger Depot right across the street. Both buildings look similar and were finished in 1896. The American Express Building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1990.
What Was the American Express Building?
The American Express Building was used by American Express. Back then, American Express was one of many companies that helped ship goods and packages. These "express companies" would rent space from railroad companies like CNW. They would also pay the railroads to carry their special express cars on the trains.
Why Was This Building Important?
These express companies played a big role in moving smaller packages. Railroads usually focused on large shipments, which were more profitable for them. But express companies made it easy to send smaller items quickly. This service was very helpful for both businesses and people. It allowed goods to travel across the country efficiently.
Who Built It?
The building was designed by Charles Sumner Frost. He was a well-known architect from Chicago. He designed many buildings, especially for railroads. His design for the American Express Building and the nearby train depot shows a classic style from the late 1800s. Both buildings were completed in 1896.
