Railroad siding of Boise Train Depot
A report by the Idaho Statesman on August 18, 2009, stated that Amtrak was looking into the possibility of returning train service back to Boise.
The one drawback is, that Idaho may be asked to subsidize the return. The old Boise Train Depot was site of the news conference.
The towering clock tower, & Spanish-style architecture, of the Boise Train Depot, are familiar landmarks for anyone driving up Capital Blvd., towards Vista Ave.
Originally constructed in 1925, it was beautifully restored by MK-Morrison Knudsen Co. in 1992. Boise City purchased the depot in 1996. Terraced Platt Gardens-built in 1927, contains a park and stone pathways which meander around a series of waterfalls, ending up in a large pond with oversize koi.
One of the best features of the depot is the “Great Hall,” which covers 3,542 square feet. Massive circular chandeliers dangle precariously, from heavily timbered roof beams, covered from above with Terra cotta tiles. The large expanse of floor, is inlaid with mosaic tile. Large arched windows, adorned with ornamental bronze grills, fill the huge space with natural light.
Neatly tucked underneath a double stairway, which leads to an anteroom above, is the Barkalow Brothers newsstand. Ornately constructed of wood, one could envision long lines of passengers, standing in line to purchase a newspaper or magazine, before heading out on their steam train adventure.
The first steam train to stop at the new depot, was transcontinental train #26, greeted by many speeches and fanfare, in 1925.
Great Hall Atrium
Today, a new feature is “Big Mike”-a 1920 2-8-2 Mikado type steam engine moved from Julia Davis Park in 2007, to a site on the east side of the depot. A plaza with an interactive interpretive kiosk is great for adults and kids alike.
Credits/Copyrights: Idaho may be asked to subsidize passenger train BY BETHANN STEWART - bstewart@idahostatesman.com
Copyright: © 2009 Idaho Statesman
Published: 08/11/09 Historic Depot Photographs: City of Boise.org Recent Images of Train Depot Copyright © 2007-2009, RH Vincent
YouTube Video
SP 4499 @Harve, Mt. Copyright © Skip Weythman
"Big Mike" Steam Engine
More Info: Directions/Hours of Operation/ Reservations Short history and restoration
Please see slideshow, below!
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