GALION — In a joint effort to raise awareness of passenger rail and the restoration of the Galion Big Four Train Depot, The Galion Depot, Inc, and the Friends of the Big Four Depot have joined forces to offer a coach bus trip from the depot to National Train Day activities in Toledo, followed by a tour of the opening day of the Bellevue Nickel Plate and Mad River Railroad Museum.
“The intent is to have fun and enjoy the day—not to raise money directly for the depot,” said Jim Gerstenslager, president of Galion Depot, Inc. whose mission is to plan the future use and restoration of the 119-year-old Queen Anne style building. “At one time there, were more than 25 passenger trains a day traveling through Galion, and that many freight trains as well. We need to celebrate and remember the way things were long ago.”
The bus will depart Galion’s depot at 8 a.m. and will include lunch on the bus, museum fees and afternoon snacks. An on-board video will also be shown showcasing the history of the “Big Four Depot” which served the Cleveland, Cincinnati, Chicago and St. Louis Railroad, or the CCC&St. L. The bus will return by 6 p.m.
Persons interested may call 419-569-4504 or visit the Friends of the Big Four Depot’s Facebook page.
The coach is limited to 45 passengers, so the coach will fill up fast. Reservations are required along with the $45 fee per person before April 1.
Checks may be sent to P.O. Box 865, Galion or dropped off at the Galion-Crestline Chamber of Commerce, 138 Harding Way West, Galion.