Don’t you just love it when abandoned places in Missouri are simultaneously creepy and fascinating? That’s how we feel about the abandoned Cotton Belt freight factory in St. Louis. This abandoned freight depot in Missouri is situated right along the Mississippi river and comes with a ton of history. Today, the abandoned factory is covered by a giant, colorful mural, making it a coveted spot to grab a photograph. But when the sun goes down, this area is tinged with a level of creepiness that only an abandoned slice of history can offer.

Upon first glance, the old Cotton Belt Freight Depot in Missouri doesn’t look abandoned, nor very creepy. Thanks to the bright, colorful “Migrate” mural that was part of the revitalization project of the area, this building looks quite welcoming during the daytime.
Google Local/P L M
However, there is still a feeling from the dilapidation inside, the boarded windows, and the vacant exterior that can be a bit off-putting. Creepy, one might say.
Google Local/ P L M
This abandoned building clocks in at five stories tall, but the length and narrowness of the building make it unique. The concrete building measures a total of 750 feet in length.
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Taking center stage in the aged and decrepit factory buildings of the area, this building is a testament to the industrial history that St. Louis prides itself on.
Google Local/P L M

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Once a key component to the cotton trade routes in the midwest and south, this building started serving the industry in 1913 and continued to do so for decades.
Google Local/P L M
Eventually, the site shuttered in 1959, leaving the building abandoned. While there are plans for redevelopment, including talks of a sports stadium, the building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, so there is limited protection from being demolished.
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Visitors can catch a glimpse of this building along the bike trail or stop and take a photo while in the area.
Google Local/Dave Adams
The mural itself has really lent itself to adding a bit of color to an abandoned factory, which still holds an element of unease once the color fades into nighttime.
Google Local/P L M

What do you think about this abandoned freight depot in Missouri? Have you ever seen it in person? We’d love to hear from you! Make sure to share your thoughts in the comments section. If you want to know more about abandoned history within the state, make sure to check out this road trip to 6 abandoned places in Missouri.

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Cotton Belt Freight Depot, 1400 N 1st St, St. Louis, MO 63102, USA