Clemson Train Depot

History

Built in 1916 by the Southern Railway Co., the Clemson Train Depot served the University and town of Clemson as a passenger service. In its early usage the train was used daily by students as they traveled to school. Even with the rise of the automobile, the train station stayed in full use. The railway was turned over to Norfolk Southern Railway (on which Amtrak runs) in 1979 and Clemson became a part of its Crescent Line, which runs from New Orleans to New York.

One of the most memorable moments for the train depot was when the train carrying Franklin D. Roosevelt's body passed through town. A picture of the cadets and the townsfolk at the procession can be seen below.

Renovation

In 2000 the Clemson City Council voted to preserve this landmark with the coordination of the Norfolk Southern Railway. The city attained $350,000 through grants and bought the station from the railway for $100,000. The Clemson Chamber of Commerce won the bid for the proposal for tenants.

DP3 Architects provided the design for the station while Trehel Co. was responsible for the construction. To adhere to boarding platform regulations provided by Norfolk Southern, the building had to be moved. The original wood siding was restored to give the exterior the appearance it had at the turn of the 20th century. The interior was renovated to accompany the new tenants, the Chamber of Commerce. The baggage area was completely removed, the waiting area was moved to a more central location, and room was made for a tourist welcome area.