The Missouri Alliance for Historic Preservation has named the former Burlington Northern Railway Depot in Bethany as one of 15 Places in Peril.
A news release from the alliance says the depot in Bethany was the last active depot in Harrison County. The first train arrived there on October 28th, 1880. The station employed a station agent, freight agent, and telegrapher prior to World War 1, and there were four daily passenger and freight trains.
The Missouri Alliance for Historic Preservation notes many riders came to the station on their way to the Northwest Missouri State Fair. Circus animals, as well as soldiers, were picked up at the station at different times in history as well.
The Burlington Northern Depot is now threatened due to neglect. Its floors are sagging and in need of shoring, and interior walls and ceilings are damaged. The building’s exterior also needs to be repaired and repainted.
The Missouri Alliance for Historic Preservation hopes that listing the depot on Missouri’s Places in Peril will bring awareness of its situation to anyone interested in preservation. The alliance also hopes a restored depot would contribute to a sense of pride in Bethany’s history and also house an events venue and farmers market in the summer.
The City of Bethany plans to designate a small portion of its 2019 budget for repairs at the depot, but the alliance notes the City’s funds will not be enough for a full renovation.
