Hendersonville Train Depot

Hendersonville Train Depot

Hendersonville Train Depot

650 Maple Avenue
HendersonvilleNC  28792
(828) 890-8246

Hours: 
Wednesday 1:00p - 3:00p
Saturday 10:00a - 2:00p

Admission: Free

The first steam engine puffed up the Saluda Grade to the Hendersonville Depot in 1879. The Saluda Mountain Grade is the steepest main-line standard gauge railroad in the United States. Therefore, the steam engine needed additional help getting up the grade by using an engine attached to the rear. The engine is attached at Melrose for additional power to push the train up the Saluda Mountain. This section of track is still claimed to be the steepest Class #1 railroad in the United States at the 600’ elevation in less than 3 miles between Saluda and Melrose.

The Hendersonville Train Depot was built in 1902. It was 87 feet long and consisted of two waiting rooms, Agents Office, indoor plumbing and a freight or Railway Express Office. The total cost of the construction was $2613.00. In 1906 15 feet were added to each end of the station to provide a Ladies waiting room and more baggage handling space. A pavilion was added a few years later. The last passenger service ended in 1968. At the peak six passenger trains a day stopped in Hendersonville. Freight trains continue to travel to Hendersonville station until 2002.

In 1992 the Apple Valley Model Railroad Club's scale model railroad received permission to move to the station.The club's scale model railroad extends 100 feet along the length of the Depot and has over 2,000 feet of track, with over 250 switches and several turnouts. The layout is highly detailed. There are also many historical artifacts including a Southern Railway caboose that visitors can tour.

For additional information or special visit arrangements call (828) 890-8246.