Historic train station and museum honors railway system that helped put Plant City on nation's map

There's no record of Henry B. Plant, the town's namesake, ever spending a night in Plant City, Florida. Despite this, the railroad tycoon's influence on the area cannot be overstated. The rail system he developed, which ran through Plant City and included the Union Depot, had a lasting impact on the area's economy and profitable agricultural industry.

The Plant City Union Depot opened in 1909 and operated until 1971. It was built and shared by two competing rail companies, hence the name "Union Depot." Both companies, the Atlantic Coast Line and the Seaboard Air Line, had tracks that intersect with one another at the site of the station.

In fact, the Plant City Union Depot is one of the few places in the southeast where rail fans can see what is known as a "double diamond," or a junction where two sets of railroad tracks cross a third railroad track.

In the early 1900s, the station and railroad system were instrumental to Plant City's economic success, especially within its agricultural industry. Without the railroad and station in place, it would have been impossible to ship products directly and cheaply across country. Decades later, the trucking industry eventually brought the station's once bustling activity to a halt.

Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum

Today, the station is home to the Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum, named after a local train enthusiast who donated many items to the museum's collection. Highlights of the museum include a completely restored Seaboard Airline caboose, train engine, rail carts, model railroad, and several rooms displaying historic equipment and collectables.

The Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum has several rooms displaying historic equipment and railroad collectables, including a model railroad (pictured here).
The Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum has several rooms displaying historic equipment and railroad collectables, including a model railroad (pictured here).

An observation deck and a 14-foot tower for viewing trains are also part of the museum. If timed well, rail fans can watch the Tropicana Orange Juice train, CSX freight trains, and Amtrak Silver Star trains chug through Plant City.

The Plant City Union Depot was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1975.

Historical marker inscription

This property has been
placed on the
National Register
of Historic Places
by the United States
Department of the Interior

The Plant City Union Depot was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1975.
The Plant City Union Depot was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1975.

Marker location

The historical marker is outside the entrance to the Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum, located at 102 N. Palmer St., Plant City, FL 33563.

Top Image Caption: Highlights of the Plant City Union Depot, now known as the Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum, include a train engine and caboose.
Last Modified: 4/22/2024, 12:56:46 PM

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