Rockville Railroad Station In Rockville MD
Years ago, local rail travel meant roaring steam engines, a puff of smoke, and a noisy railway station. These days, the rail tracks are all commotion and almost no smoke. One of the busiest parts of the city of Rockville, MD, is now a silent spectator in its urban development.
Nevertheless, elderly locals still recall the golden period of Rockville Railroad Station. Many of them belong to families that moved to the picturesque town during the time. We shed light on this aspect of the city’s history for those eager to learn more about the area.
Blast from the Past
In 1873, E. Francis Baldwin designed and built the iconic Rockville Railroad Station. It was located between Washington’s Union Station and Point of Rocks at the intersection of the Metropolitan Branch Baltimore & Ohio Main Line of the railroad. It is one of the last survivors of approximately twenty-six vintage county stations located along the Metropolitan Branch of the B&O Railroad.
This historic station depicts Eastlake detailing weaved into its classic Victorian Gothic style exteriors. The woodwork at each gable and vibrant colored tile roof symbolizes the era of its conception.
That said there is more to this railroad station than aesthetics.
After opening the railroad, the city of Rockville, MD, saw a significant change in population growth and architectural development. They became from a family of 660 residents to 1500s within two decades. This railroad station’s presence boosted the city’s popularity amongst residents of Washington.
They used it as a pit stop for travelers and a vacation spot for residents from the neighboring cities. In the backdrop, the community thrived and prospered with the rise of real estate and commercial spaces.
The station continued to operate as an Amtrak station until 1981, seven years after it secured a place in the National Register of Historic Places (circa 1974).
Finding a New Purpose
The year 1981 marks the year when the 400-ton station was relocated around 50 meters to the south to give space to its descendent (aka the Rockville Metro Station). The city of Rockville, MD, was planning to demolish the site.
However, its registration in the National Register of Historic Places prevented this fate. The council modified the plan to establish a new railway system without letting go of the old one.
At present, Rockville Railroad Station serves as a historic site for Rockville, MD tours. It also functions as the main office for some law firms. This unusual association ensures that the old station still holds relevance to the community besides being a historical landmark.
In a Nutshell
In the end, Rockville Railroad Station is an essential part of the city’s history. If you've never visited Rockville Railroad Station, then do plan a visit to this picturesque place one of the next times you come into StarBrite Dental for a dental appointment. It will help you understand a lot about old school railway construction and Victorian architecture.
Best of all, it is right next to St. Mary’s Church, which means you can cover the Railroad Station and F. Scott Fitzgerald’s gravesite in one day.
Safe Travels.
