The two-story Rock Island Railroad Depot is a historic stop that's sure to impress. 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.
