Today we met at the depot at 2 pm to discuss with a contractor what materials might be needed for a first step in restoring the depot. The first step is to find someone who can jack the building up and put new pillars and bracing underneath. Over the years the landscape has changed in such a way that water collects and stands under the depot (see water standing in picture below) which will require attention as well. This being the case, it was discussed if it would be possible to move the depot once jacked up to a few feet over right where the tracks once were for a more solid foundation. Special timber would need to be cut since these boards are not standard run. It is not uncommon for a passerby to stop and roll down his car window for a picture which just so happened as we met there this afternoon. We went out to his car and told him about the plans for restoring this depot and he gave us a donation right out of his wallet right there. We told him we hope that one day he will ride by and see how his donation has helped restore this historic building. Many years ago, Showcase Miniatures produced an N Scale model kit of this Depot and it is still available on their site today. Showcase Miniatures, a model railroad manufacturing business is owned and operated by Walter and Debbie Vail. If you would like to make a tax deductible donation towards restoring this old depot we would appreciate it. You may donate here at the Fort Davis Alabama Historical Society page.
We will keep you up to date as to the progress of this restoration program. We have received funds for about 60% of what it will take to jack the depot up and firm up the foundation.
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Debbie Vail is the author of this blog post. Archives
February 2024
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