Centennial event for historic train depot

An important piece of Petaluma history, and its future, reaches a major milestone this month that’s cause for celebration.

The public is invited to attend the 100th anniversary for the Petaluma train depot from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 25, at 210 Lakeville St.

Built by local contractor H.P. Vogensen, the Petaluma train depot has served the community by acting as a center for travel and interstate commerce since its construction in 1914. At the original dedication to the railroad station, an Argus-Courier reporter described the event, featuring more than 600 patrons, as one where the people of Petaluma, “convinced the officials of the Northwestern Pacific Railroad Company that they are fully appreciative of the efforts of the company to give this city a model railroad and model depot.”

Now, 100 years later as completion of the SMART Train system approaches, Petalumans are offered another opportunity to show our appreciation for Petaluma and the historical roots that have helped to establish our wonderful community.

The centennial celebration will feature a proclamation from Mayor David Glass, a champagne (or sparkling cider) toast, Lagunitas beer and a cake-cutting ceremony.

There will also be historical photos on display, music by Petaluma Pete, a photographer taking free photos and the Petalumans of Yesteryear sharing local history.

This event will precede the Northwestern Pacific Railroad Golden Spike Centennial Celebration, which will be held just across the way at East Washington and Baylis Streets from noon to 4 p.m.

The NPR’s Golden Spike celebration will give guests the opportunity to ride a speeder down an isolated side track, climb into the cupola of a caboose, take a guided tour of rail cars being restored and chat with a railroad engineer.

There will also be a working model railroad exhibit operated by the Redwood Empire Garden Railway Society, a movie about the original Golden Spike ceremony, information on the SMART train and Petaluma Trolley Living History Railway Museum’s efforts to restore trolley service in Petaluma. Admission is free.

For more info about the Golden Spike Celebration, visit nwprrhs.org.

For more information on the train depot’s centennial event, visit online at visitpetaluma.com or call 769-0429.