This Old Depot Station Is Now A Museum Of Illinois' Most Unique History
By Elizabeth Crozier|Published October 24, 2018
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Elizabeth Crozier
Author
An Illinois transplant who grew up and went to school in Indiana for 22 years, Elizabeth holds a BFA in creative writing and has enjoyed traveling across the country and parts of Europe. She has visited half of the states, as well as parts of Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean, and regularly travels home to the Hoosier State to see friends and family. With more than five years of writing experience, Elizabeth’s articles have been featured on several websites, and her poetry and short stories have been published in multiple literary journals.
There’s an old depot station in Batavia, Illinois that contains a little-known museum that’s full of interesting history. Featuring rare items and an abundance of historical railroad artifacts, this excellent collection of the state’s past is definitely worth a visit. Check it out:
The Batavia Depot Museum in Northern Illinois is set in an old railroad station built in 1854. It served the Chicago, Burlington, and Quincy Railroad line and is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Mainly focusing on railroad history, this museum encapsulates Batavia's past. Guests will find artifacts from local industries and old companies, such as the Newton Wagon Company, the Batavia Body Company, and Batavia Bank.
One of the first things you'll see stepping into the exhibits is the statue of an Early Woodland Indian. The museum tells the story of Illinois' statehood and recognizes the four Native American tribes that were still residing here at the time.
A popular exhibit at this old depot station museum is the Lincoln Room which tells the tale of Mary Todd Lincoln's woes after her husband was killed. She was confined to Bellevue Place, a mental ward, for a few months in 1875, and her bed and dresser from this time are on display.
In addition to famous Illinoisans, the museum also introduces guests to famous Batavians, such as Christopher Payne who was the first settler in the town. In addition to Lincoln, you'll also learn about the VanNortwick Family and the various companies they began as well as the wealth and influence they gained.
Available to the public since 1994, there is also an old caboose on display that was built in 1907 in Aurora. It was retired in 1973 and was moved to the museum the following year. There is also an old gazebo that was donated in 1988. It used to be perched on North Batavia Avenue overlooking the Fox River.
Guests will also find Coffin Bank just north of the grounds and learn all about the interesting history of this important business.
The best time to visit this old depot station is during an event. Past activities have included quilt shows, vintage craft markets, and festivals. The next event will be November 25, 2018 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.. It is called Light Up The Gazebo and includes an assortment of holiday-themed activities.
Admission to this fabulous depot museum is free, though a $1 donation is suggested. Guests can stop by weekends, as well as Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
