The Snoqualmie Depot, a treasured landmark of our community and the crown jewel of the Northwest Railway Museum, urgently requires our support for a new roof.
Erected in 1890, this 134-year-old landmark isn’t just a building; it’s a pivotal piece of the region’s history, currently listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It now seeks community assistance to preserve its legacy for future generations.
The Depot, a beacon of our community, welcomes nearly 200,000 visitors annually to the City of Snoqualmie. It’s not just a testament to time but an active contributor to our community, serving as the primary station stop for the Museum’s railway excursions.
Inside, it offers a glimpse into the past, with exhibits that narrate its integral role in shaping Snoqualmie into the modern city it is today. Its historic ticket window, operational since July 1890, continues to serve weekend visitors, linking the present to the past in a tangible way.
However, significant work is required to preserve this connection and ensure the Depot remains a vibrant part of our community. The roof renovation demands 90,000 cedar shingles and new gutters, with the total cost estimated at $300,000. The Railway Museum is reaching out to the community for donations.
Your generous gift of $10 can cover the cost of three shingles, directly contributing to the preservation of our heritage. In a heartwarming testament to our community spirit, a group of private donors will match gifts of $50 or more dollar for dollar, amplifying the impact of your contribution.
Did you know that the Snoqualmie Depot is the oldest continuously operating depot in Washington State? And not just that—it’s the oldest existing building in the upper Snoqualmie Valley. Constructed by The Seattle, Lake Shore and Eastern Railway, the Depot’s architecture was designed for practicality and to serve as a beacon of pride and advertisement for the company.
Its unique design, featuring lavish decorations, was intended to welcome vacationers from Seattle with open arms, offering them a gateway to the region’s natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
The Depot’s architecture is a testament to its historical significance. It has a large frame structure, a bay window housing the telegrapher’s office, and decorative elements highlighting its beauty and historical importance. The depot stands as a symbol of a bygone era when architecture served as both a functional and promotional tool, enhancing travelers’ experience and contributing to the company’s identity.[1]
As we look towards the future, preserving the Snoqualmie Depot is not just about maintaining a building; it’s about keeping the stories, history, and community spirit alive for generations. This call to action is not merely a request for donations; it’s an invitation to be part of a larger story where every individual can contribute to preserving a piece of our shared history.
Let’s climb aboard this effort together and ensure that the Snoqualmie Depot continues to welcome visitors with its rich history and architectural beauty for many more years. To participate in this vital preservation effort, please visit Give Big and contribute today
[1] Northwest Railway Museum – Wikipedia
Comments
I have such great memories of the Historic Snoqualmie Depot. My grandmother was good friends of the lady who worked there in the 1960’s. Her name was Louise Mickey, and she would show and tell me about the trains that would stop to load or unload things at the station. The Historic Snoqualmie Depot needs to be maintained for as long as possible.