Rock Island Depot and Freight House - Peoria, Illinois
Posted by: 
BruceS
N 40° 41.309 W 089° 35.372
16T E 281183 N 4507401
Historic former railroad depot in Peoria, Illinois.
Waymark Code: WMBNPN
Location: Illinois, United States
Date Posted: 06/06/2011
Views: 4
"The Rock Island Depot is a landmark in Peoria because it is the last remaining structure signifying the importance of the railroad in Peoria's history. The Depot is further significant because its eclectic character epitomizes the spirit and rebirth of the trade-based economy at the end of the nineteenth century.
The opening of the Rock Island Depot in 1900 was attended by "throngs of populous." Peoria had been a true rail transportation center rivaled only by Chicago in the Midwest previous to the 1880's depression. Railroads touched the lives of most Peoria citizenry as it was the only transportation line of consequence until expressways and air travel were established after World War II.
The Rock Island Depot is a building of contrasts and vitality. Familiar classical details were assembled to create a form identifiable as a Midwestern train station, using the classical arched windows below an Italianate bracketed overhang and the long, low profile predates the Prairie Style of architecture...
The Rock Island Depot is a good example of Peoria architecture at the turn of the century. Its location on the waterfront and its architectural character established in brick, mortar and stone, the robust commercial nature of this community's past" - National Register Nomination form
The depot originally had a clock tower with a height of 118 feet. The upper two-thirds of the tower was removed in 1939. The building now has been converted to a restaurant and bar.