Winifred, Montana, Milwaukee Depot is a captivating historical landmark nestled in the small town of Winifred in central Montana. Established as the terminus of a newly built branch line of the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Railroad (Milwaukee Road) in 1913, this depot was instrumental in the development of Winifred itself, which sprouted around the bustling railroad station that same year.
The depot is currently under the stewardship of the Central Montana Coop, after being acquired from Cenex States in the past. In 1995, the Geraldine Historical Committee bought the depot from the Central Montana Rail, demonstrating the importance and value that this historical building holds within the community. One glance at the exquisite craftsmanship displayed in the construction of the Milwaukee Depot is enough to impress even the most discerning eye; much of its original features still stand proudly today.
The depots unique location can be traced back to the Milwaukee Road railway companys rapid expansion across Montana from 1907 to 1910. During this period, a branch line extended northeast to Roy while another branched off northwards towards Winifred itself. The Harlowton Milwaukee Depot Museum, built in 1908, represents the Standard Class A Passenger Station – one of several standardized depot plans employed by the Milwaukee Road during this time.
The historical significance and unique attributes of Winifred Montana Milwaukee Depot make it an essential cornerstone for the towns history and identity. As you stand before the depot, visualize the bustling activity that once took place here – trains arriving and departing, eager passengers embarking on their journeys or awaiting their loved ones return. The Milwaukee Depot in Winifred truly transports its visitors to a bygone era when railroads played an integral role in the lives of Montanans and shaped the development of their towns and communities.