Phase 1 renovations were completed in 2022. They included a new roof for the structure, a new concrete cap on the top of the walls, new roof trusses, additional gable vents, a reinforced sill plate, and replaced six ground-level windows. All of this work focused on getting the structure weatherproof. Planning and fundraising for Phase II renovations will begin soon.
The Old Depot to Become Murphysboro Main Street
Headquarters and Welcome Center
MURPHYSBORO – Murphysboro Main Street has acquired the historic property located at 1701 Walnut Street, locally known as the Old Depot.Alison and Steve Carter of Southern Illinois generously gifted the property to Murphysboro Main Street.“I’m so excited to see this group take the project and restore the building to its previous prominence,” said Carter. “I am a believer that you must restore things to support the future. This should have a significant impact on the City of Murphysboro. I’m confident that the building is in great hands.” After extensive restoration, the building will become a central welcome center for the city and house a Murphysboro Main Street office. Built in 1888, the depot is the former Mobile and Ohio Railroad station, the largest on the Mobile and Ohio line between St. Louis, Missouri, and Cairo, Illinois. After 90 years of continuous operation, the depot closed in December 1977 when the railway became part of the Illinois Central system. The depot was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1984.“This generous gift will allow us to restore and preserve the character of the depot thoughtfully. Our goal is to pay homage to the history of the railroad in Murphysboro while looking forward as we breathe new life into the building and transform it into a central welcoming point in our town,” said Jamie Green, chair of Murphysboro Main Street. “We’re deeply grateful to the Carters for entrusting us with the stewardship of the depot.”Murphysboro Main Street is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit, community-funded volunteer group working to promote the historical preservation, protection, and use of Murphysboro's commercial, civic, and religious enterprises and residences along the historic main thoroughfare. Their goal is further to develop and promote culture, architecture, and public use of Murphysboro's traditional downtown corridor.Local philanthropist and business owner Paula Maloney will serve as chair of the Old Depot Restoration project.“The restored depot will become a crown jewel on Walnut Street,” said Maloney. "We’re honored to accept this gracious gift, and we’re up to the challenge of raising the funds necessary for the building’s transformation.”Fundraising efforts will kick off in March. The committee is writing grant proposals and requesting support from the private and corporate sectors. To donate online, click here PayPal.me/MainStreet62966 or send a check, payable to Murphysboro Main Street, to Murphysboro Main Street, PO Box 1623, Murphysboro, IL 62966.
