Built in 1873.
The Logan Freight Depot is the oldest rail-related building in Logan and the Cache Valley.
It is the only surviving example of the numerous frame buildings that served the Logan Railyard.
ARRIVING AT 150 YEARS OF HISTORY.
The depot not only served passengers and freight but was also the location of the valley's telegraph office and early telephone service, serving as a communication hub with information flowing both on the tracks and through the lines. Today, the depot stands as a historical monument to the many residents of Cache Valley who worked tirelessly to expand their link throughout Utah and beyond.
Building the railroad was a community effort, with many local residents anticipating the construction of the rail line. The coming of the railroad to Cache Valley opened up new markets for the valley’s superior agricultural products, including mining camps in Montana during the late nineteenth century.
The Logan Freight Depot is a reminder of the significance of the rail industry between the early 1880s and the late 1950s. This sturdy wooden structure spans the history and corresponding struggles of the railroad, from its establishment through the peak of rail activity. The historic building fell into decline as the rail industry diminished in Logan and Cache Valley.
preserving history
In 2006, Andrea McCulloch purchased the freight depot from the Weston Family in Cache Valley. The building underwent significant renovations to preserve its history and give it new life.
During the renovation, many artifacts were found and saved, including bottles, food wrappers, shoes, carpentry tools, nails and hardware, oil applicator cans, newspapers, books, and signage. These artifacts are now on display at the Depot.
Other unique features that were preserved include the large barn doors at each freight entrance and the original scale. This scale still functions and is capable of measuring weights up to 3,000 lbs. After renovations, the building opened for business as the Logan Depot in 2008. Today, the building houses the interior design offices of Milieu Design and serves as a bespoke location for events at the Logan Depot.
IF THESE WALLS COULD TALK…
Many names and dates were graffitied on the original plank walls of the building. These planks were repurposed as interior doors and the names can still be seen today. Research continues to discover the histories behind the signatures; many are from individuals who lived in Cache Valley and were employed with the railroad. Visit Architecture for Lives to learn more about these individuals and to share your own stories.
