Thomson Depot Museum - Thomson, IL - Train Stations/Depots on Waymarking.com

Thomson’s history has always included railroads, so it is fitting that the restored wooden train depot now houses displays by the Thomson Historical Society. The town dates back to the mid-1800’s, and the Burlington Northern Railroad has been part of that history for the past century. One such tale goes back to the 1902 train robbery that took place not far away. The website tells the story:

“The train was heading north out of Savanna and was flagged down by a man with a lantern. When the conductor saw that the switch was partly opened, he realized the train was about to be robbed. Three masked men took the crew captive and blew open the safe. They escaped with the money and sent the train on its way so as to confuse the people who would be in pursuit. One of the robbers was injured in the fight and was killed (shot) by one of the other robbers because he was unable to travel. The other two men got in a boat and headed for Iowa where they hid the loot and went on. They were later captured and confessed.”

The town of Thomson was originally known as Sandville and grew quickly as iron became productive. Nearby villages became deserted because people found proximity to the railroad and river to be better suited to their businesses and lifestyle.

The museum is open from 1-4 p.m. on weekends.

Is the station/depot currently used for railroad purposes?: No Is the station/depot open to the public?: Yes If the station/depot is not being used for railroad purposes, what is it currently used for?: Museum Station/Depot Web Site: [Web Link] What rail lines does/did the station/depot serve?: Not listed

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