For those of you who remember when the old feed and grain store on Main Street was a train station, t
his little red building may stir a few memories…
Built in 1881, it was most recently a feed and supply store. But that business closed in 2012.
Earlier this year, the former Wheeling & Lake Erie railroad depot was in danger of being torn down. Carter Lumber purchased the building in 2012 and offered it to the city of Kent.
But Kent didn’t want it. And the Kent Historical Society didn’t have the financial resources to take on another property.
That’s when local businessman Ted Klaassen, Jr., stepped forward to save the former train station.
At the end of July, the building was lifted off its foundation and moved to Klaassen’s property across the street. Eventually, the building will be rotated and placed on its permanent foundation so the side that faced the rails will continue to point towards them.
Newspaper reports indicate Klaassen plans to use the building for storage. I am just glad someone stepped forward to save this local landmark.
Well done, Mr. Klaassen!
See step-by-step pictures of the actual move and read more about the journey across the street.
And a big thanks to the Akron Railroad Club for posting all of these wonderful photos of the move on their blog!
Knapp Notes 