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San Leandro Historical Railway Society: A Journey Through Time

Explore railway history at the San Leandro Historical Railway Society, housed in a beautifully restored 1898 depot, featuring model trains and engaging exhibits for all ages.

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Step back in time at the San Leandro Historical Railway Society, a charming museum dedicated to preserving the rich railway heritage of the region. Housed in the meticulously restored 1898 Southern Pacific depot, the society offers a captivating glimpse into the golden age of rail travel. Explore fascinating exhibits, including intricate model railroad displays showcasing the Overland Route, and a delightful G&O Garden Railway perfect for children. With free admission and engaging programs for all ages, the San Leandro Historical Railway Society provides an enriching and educational experience for train enthusiasts and families alike. Located in Thrasher Park, a short walk from the San Leandro BART station, it's an easily accessible and worthwhile destination for anyone interested in local history and the magic of trains.

A brief summary to San Leandro Historical Railway Society

Local tips

  • Visit on a Saturday morning to see the model trains in full operation and chat with the knowledgeable volunteers.
  • Bring the kids to enjoy the interactive G&O Garden Railway, a delightful outdoor exhibit with operating model trains.
  • Check the SLHRS website or Facebook page for special events, such as model train shows and open houses.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The San Leandro Historical Railway Society is easily accessible via BART. From the San Leandro BART station, walk two blocks west on Davis Street, then turn left onto Orchard Avenue. The SLHRS is located towards the back of Thrasher Park. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. AC Transit lines 10, 1T, 28, 34, 35, and 801 also serve the San Leandro BART station. The San Leandro LINKS shuttle provides free service between the BART station and various points in San Leandro, including a stop near Thrasher Park (alert the driver you need to stop at Orchard & Davis). Check the San Leandro LINKS schedule for operating hours, as it primarily runs during peak commute times.

  • Driving

    If driving, exit I-880 at Davis Street heading east. Turn right onto Orchard Avenue. The parking lot for Thrasher Park and the Depot will be on your left. From CA-580 N: Exit Dutton Ave. Continue straight on MacArthur Blvd. to Estudillo Ave. Turn right onto Estudillo Ave. and continue to E. 14th St. Turn right onto E. 14th St. and make an immediate left onto Davis St. Continue on Davis St. to Orchard Ave. and turn left onto Orchard Ave. The parking lot of Thrasher Park and the Depot will be on your left. From CA-580 S: Exit Estudillo Ave. At the end of the tunnel, turn right onto MacArthur Blvd. Parking in Thrasher Park is free.

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The San Leandro Historical Railway Society (SLHRS) is a testament to the enduring allure of railroads and their impact on the development of the region. Nestled within the welcoming embrace of Thrasher Park, the SLHRS operates from the meticulously restored San Leandro depot, a tangible link to a bygone era of steam engines and cross-country journeys. The story of the SLHRS begins with the San Leandro depot, constructed in 1898 by the Southern Pacific Railroad. This depot replaced the original San Leandro depot, which was built by the Central Pacific Railroad. The depot played a vital role in the agricultural and industrial expansion of San Leandro and its surrounding areas. The San Leandro Plow Company and the Daniel Best Manufacturing Company, which later evolved into the Caterpillar Tractor Company, are examples of this. The cherry orchards, which are still celebrated today by San Leandro's annual Cherry Festival, also benefited from the railway. However, as passenger rail travel declined, the depot's importance diminished. By the second World War, the passenger agency was closed. The freight house was torn down in the early 1970s, and the depot was used as a break facility for switch crews. Recognizing the historical significance of the depot, the San Leandro Historical Railway Society was formed in 1988 with the goal of saving it from demolition. For only $1.00, the building was sold to the SLHRS in 1988. On December 11, 1988, the building was moved to its current site in Thrasher Park in San Leandro, and work was begun on restoration. In June 1989, the Museum and Depot was officially reopened to the public. At that time, the building was also designated a San Leandro Historical Site with a bronze plate on the front of the building. 1998 marked the 100th anniversary of the depot. The SLHRS has completely restored the building inside and out. Restoration included building a foundation, building a new floor, refinishing all the redwood walls, installing modern plumbing and wiring, painting the building, and replacing the roof. Today, the SLHRS serves as a vibrant community hub, offering visitors of all ages a chance to connect with the past and appreciate the legacy of railroading. The museum's exhibits showcase a variety of railway artifacts, photographs, and documents, providing insights into the daily operations of the depot and the lives of the people who worked there. A highlight for many visitors is the HO scale model railroad, a sprawling and intricate display that recreates the Overland Route from San Leandro, California, to Sparks, Nevada. With over 4,000 feet of track on three different levels, the model railroad is a testament to the dedication and craftsmanship of the SLHRS members. For younger visitors, the G&O Garden Railway offers an interactive and engaging experience. This outdoor display features model trains winding through a miniature landscape, complete with tunnels, bridges, and charming scenery. Children can operate some of the trains themselves, fostering a sense of wonder and excitement about the world of railroading. The SLHRS is more than just a museum; it's a living, breathing organization that actively engages with the community. The society hosts regular events, including open houses, model train shows, and educational programs for students. Members of the SLHRS also participate in community events, providing railroad safety lectures to local schools and sharing their passion for railroading with the wider public. The San Leandro Historical Railway Society is open to the general public every Saturday from 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM. Admission is free, and donations are always appreciated. Whether you're a seasoned train enthusiast or simply looking for a unique and educational experience, the SLHRS offers a memorable journey through time and a celebration of the enduring legacy of railroads.

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