Carlsbad Santa Fe Depot
Still located on its original site, the Carlsbad Santa Fe Depot was built in 1887, replacing the original 1881 open shed country station. The depot was designed by Santa Fe Railroad architect Fred R. Perris in a Folk Victorian/Carpenter Gothic style. Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway used the depot for passenger service until 1957 and freight service until it was closed in 1960. It was also Carlsbad’s first commercial and public building, serving as a telegraph office, post office, Wells Fargo Express office and general store. After closing, the Model Railroad Club occupied the building for three years. It was donated to the City in early 1964 and underwent a full restoration in 1987. The building now serves as the Visitor Information Center operated by the Carlsbad Convention and Visitors Bureau. The depot is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Carlsbad, San Diego County
Images by John Bare