Burlington and Missouri River Railroad Passenger Station facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Burlington and Missouri River Railroad Passenger Station
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 Location in Iowa
Location in the United States
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| Location | 237 S. 4th St. Burlington, Iowa |
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| Built | 1856 |
| Architectural style | Italianate |
| NRHP reference No. | 76000761 |
| Added to NRHP | August 25, 1988 |
The Burlington and Missouri River Railroad Passenger Station is a really old and important building in Burlington, Iowa, United States. It was built way back in 1856 by the Burlington and Missouri River Railroad. This building is special because it's the oldest train depot still standing in the upper Midwest, west of the Mississippi River.
A Busy Start for the Station
This station was a busy place for passengers until 1868. At that time, a new railroad bridge was finished over the Mississippi River. Because of this, a bigger train station was needed in Burlington. Before the bridge, a special ferry boat called the President would carry train cars and people across the river when the weather was warm. In winter, passengers even had to walk across the frozen river ice!
Moving Day for the Station
The railroad continued to use the building for office space until 1884. In that year, the building had to be moved. It was a wooden building built in the Italianate style. It was moved from its original spot at Main and Market Streets. This move was necessary so the railroad could make its tracks wider.
After the railroad stopped using it, the building became a home. The house right next door to it today was actually the old baggage building. It was also moved at the same time and turned into a residence.
A Historic Landmark
This historic building was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. This means it's recognized as an important part of history!
