CIVIC PRIDE

The Kirkwood station is a place for the community to come together. (Courtesy: Bill Burckhalter)

Many of today‘s railroad stations have been a part of their local communities for generations and citizens are proud to show off the rich history that they embody. The city of Kirkwood, Mo. has a great story to tell about how a community can band together to preserve a piece of their history and create a sense of civic pride.

Kirkwood was established in 1853 and was the first planned suburb west of the Mississippi. The train station was built in 1893 in a central location downtown that served as a hub for citizens to meet and socialize. When the station shut down in 2003 to cut costs, the city bought it and set up a “pioneer management program” made up of 199 local volunteers who turned out to keep the station open and to aid Amtrak passengers.

The Kirkwood station is run entirely by its volunteers and there are currently about 65 active volunteers who make sure the station opens and closes on time, stays neat and tidy and that visiting travelers are welcomed and know where they need to be and when.

Still in its central location within walking distance to shops, restaurant and an open-air farmers market, Kirkwood station is not only a community landmark, but also on the National Register of Historic Buildings. The station acts as a place for the community to come together for important events, city meetings, parties, weddings and even funerals.