Cheyenne's original train depots were simple wooden structures, nothing to excite passengers, but that changed in 1886 when the Union Pacific began construction of what was to become the most magnificent depot west of Omaha.
Built in what is called the Richardsonian Romanesque style, it features two colors of sandstone from quarries in Colorado. The actual construction of what is now a National Historic Landmark had its share of difficulties, including a labor strike, but when it was completed, the building vied with the capitol for the distinction of being the most beautiful building in the city.
I had so much fun, incorporating a real place and real events in my very fictional story, "The Depot Bride," which is part of the Rails to Love Romance Collection. (Yes, this is shameless self-promotion. Rails to Love has an official release date of October 1 and will be available in both print and ebook format. You can find more details on my web page https://www.sff.net/people/amanda.cabot/index_files/more-depot.htm).
When passenger trains were discontinued on the route through Cheyenne, the Union Pacific donated the depot to the city. (Remember what I said about the Union Pacific being an important part of Cheyenne? This is another example of the relationship between the railroad and the city.)
The building has been renovated and now houses offices and a museum. As if that weren't enough, the plaza in front of the depot is the site of everything from farmers' markets to summer concerts.
Come visit it! It's worth the trip.
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