We are still moving ahead with our depot project as we persevere in our quest for depot signs. I must admit it is harder, as we have checked out most of the old depots and less of them are turning up. We have made some wonderful friends along the way and we have been amazed at their wealth of knowledge. At last, we have some on display. Primarily in the library on the upper level and in the towers and there are also some in the lower walk out level.

For those of you who are not familiar with this project this is what I am trying to do: I have been taking pictures of old depots in the upper Midwest and the Prairie Provinces of Canada and researching their history. Whenever possible, I will purchase the depot signs of depots no longer in use. We will then have the signs on display and try to show how the towns fit into the various main and branch lines. I will also do a brief history of the town and try to find someone to write an interesting antidote about the town, as well. Any help that you can give us as to location of depots, signs, depot photos, photo depot postcards or any interesting railroad memorabilia is always welcome.

“What does this have to do with Maplelag and its role as a destination cross country ski resort?” Absolutely nothing! But, I think it makes Maplelag a more exciting place to visit and it gives you a hands-on approach to history. The small depot and the subsequent rail service was often the birth and death of many a small town. I know it has been interesting to guests who have been here and once you have been here yourself, I think that you will capture a little of the “depot fever”.