Felton Railroad Station: A Glimpse into Delaware's Rail History

The Felton Railroad Station, located in Felton, Delaware, is a tangible reminder of the golden age of rail travel in America. Constructed in 1868 by the Delaware Railroad Company, this Italianate-style building played a pivotal role in the economic development of the region following the Civil War. The Delaware Railroad, chartered in 1836, aimed to connect Delaware with northern markets, facilitating the rapid movement of passengers, goods, and produce. The Felton station served as a crucial whistle-stop along this line, encouraging planned growth in the surrounding area. Passenger rail service continued here until the early 1950s. The station's architecture reflects the design trends of the era, featuring a one-story brick structure with a low hipped roof, shallow eaves, round-headed doorways and windows, and a projecting bow-front window. In 1976, the station was restored to commemorate the nation's bicentennial, and in 1981, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. Today, the Felton Railroad Station stands as a preserved landmark, allowing visitors to appreciate its vintage charm and learn about the impact of railroads on the growth of American towns. Informative plaques recount stories of the past, including anecdotes about the trains that once connected communities and facilitated trade.