Marion Union Station - Marion, Ohio - Active Rail Locations on Waymarking.com

The Marion Union Station was opened in the early 1900's under the direction of Warren G. Harding, who eventually became the 29th president of the United States. Marion was once known as "Little Chicago" as this was the largest stop between New York and Chicago. Passenger service ended at the station on April 30, 1971. Today the station serves as a railroad museum, and the Marion Model Railroad Club is on the premises as well.

For railfans it is a popular spot to come watch some trains, and they are more than welcomed by the area. There are a few picnic tables around the station, and a small restaurant within walking distance is pleased to serve quick meals to take with you to watch the trains pass. On site is a restored caboose, and a restored AC tower. Visitors are welcome to climb to the top landing for the purpose of getting an overhead view.

Most importantly is the traffic which passes the station. On a normal day around 50-100 trains will pass the station on the three lines directly bordering the station. Each line consists of 2 railways each. There is an east-west CSX line, a north-south CSX line, and a north-south Norfolk-Southern line. The station is situated between the north-south lines, and south of the east-west line which creates a unique feature here. Directly behind the station, within just feet of the viewing area are 4 sets of "double diamonds" where the rails intersect at roughly 90 degree angles.

Just west of the station is an active CSX yard, where you can see some traffic from the station.

I spent 2 hours here, from just after Noon until just after 2pm, and saw only 4 trains (2 east bound CSX trains, 1 southbound NS, and 1 northbound CSX). It was a light day, with 3 of the trains coming in during the last 20 minutes I was there. It being a Sunday, however, I didn't expect to see much out there.

This post by howeld on railroadforums.com gives some information if you want to listen in on your scanner.

What Best Describes This Location: Mainline If there is a fee how much?: 0.00 (listed in local currency) Is this rail location handicap accessible?: Yes, although the area is mostly brick, and a little rough in spots. Related website: [Web Link] Other Describe: Not listed

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