In the late 1800s and early 1900s, trains were popular ways to travel. Now, most people get from here to there by driving the highways, city streets, and back roads. But there is still something nostalgic about hopping aboard a train and taking a trip. Traveling through the Ocean State there are only a few operational train stations left. Today’s spotlight shines on the Westerly Train Station, a unique piece of Rhode Island’s history.
Is it any surprise that Rhode Island, the smallest state, is also home to the fewest rail miles in the continental United States? What may come as a shock is that the Ocean State has the most 150-mph sections of railroads in the country. Out of Rhode Island's 87 miles of tracks, 16.2 miles are these high-speed sections.
The three remaining stations serving these high-speed tracks are located in Providence, West Kingston, and Westerly. The Westerly station sees approximately 13 daily trains roll through. There are no ticket counters or kiosks, so passengers must plan ahead and book trips online.
Built in 1912, the station was constructed in the Spanish Revival style. This type of architecture became very popular during that time because both Arizona and New Mexico were admitted into the United States and each state has strong ties to Spanish culture. The uniqueness of the Mexican hacienda look to the Westerly Station makes it stand out brightly in the Rhode Island landscape.
The building is constructed of red textured brick. The brick surfaces are covered in stucco to keep with the Spanish Revival style. The roofing is curved red brick tiles also adding to the overall look.
The main building has a center block and two wings with a covered arcade that runs across the front sheltering travelers from the elements. On the opposite side of the tracks is a smaller stuccoed structure mimicking the main building that is the wait station for passengers traveling in the opposite direction.
The two buildings are connected by an underground tunnel with stairs on either end. The tunnel passes under the tracks allowing passengers access to either side of the station.
Although this hacienda type building with its arcades and Spanish tiled roof may seem a bit out of place, the station is a beautiful piece of architecture. On the inside, there is an art gallery in the passenger waiting area of the very unique Westerly Train Station.
Have you ever visited the Westerly Train Station? Travel enthusiasts will also enjoy checking out two of Rhode Island’s unique opportunities to ride the rails. You can take this murder mystery dinner train for a night of intrigue or take a scenic journey on these incredible rail bikes.
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