Fort Kent station facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Fort Kent Railroad Station
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 Location in Maine
Location in the United States
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| Location | Jct. Main and Market Sts., Fort Kent, Maine |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1902 |
| Architectural style | B&A RR Station |
| NRHP reference No. | 89000249 |
| Added to NRHP | April 21, 1989 |
The Fort Kent Railroad Station is a special old train station located where Main and Market Streets meet in Fort Kent, Maine. It was built way back in 1902 for the Fish River Railroad. This train line was used for many years, until 1979. Today, the station is a fun museum run by the Fort Kent Historical Society. It teaches visitors all about the local history of trains and how they changed the area. Because it's so important, the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places on April 21, 1989.
Contents
Discovering the Fort Kent Train Station
Where is the Station?
The Fort Kent Railroad Station sits at the corner of Main and Market Streets. These are also known as United States Route 1 and Maine State Route 161. You can find it between Market Street on the west side and the train tracks on the east side.
What Does It Look Like?
This station is a long, rectangular building with just one floor. It's made of wood and has a special roof shape called a gable-on-hip roof. The outside walls are covered with clapboard siding. The building sits on a strong concrete foundation. On the east side of the station, there's a small section that sticks out. This was for the telegraph operator. You can also see big doors for baggage and windows for the ticket area and waiting room.
A Journey Through Time: Station History
Building the Station in 1902
The Fort Kent Railroad Station first opened its doors in 1902. It was built by the Fish River Railroad company. Later on, this railroad became part of the larger Bangor and Aroostook Railroad.
How Trains Changed Fort Kent
When the railroad arrived, it made a huge difference for the economy of the region. Trains made it possible to send local products to faraway places. The main things shipped were lumber and potatoes. This helped Fort Kent and the surrounding areas grow and connect with other markets.
From Busy Station to Museum
By the 1970s, fewer trains were running, and the railroad business started to slow down. In 1979, the Fort Kent Historical Society was given the station. This station is one of the best-kept old train stations from that time. The inside of the building has been changed into a museum. It shows the history of trains in the area. The museum is usually open during the summer months.
See also
