People often ask, “What is Depot Day”?
The Troy Historical Society along with The Cheshire Railroad Depot started Depot Day in 2022 to “Remember the Railroad” and celebrate the history of our beloved Depot.
Whenever people visit the Depot, the first 2 words always seem to be “I remember”. Whether it’s a story about a loved one, an experience they have had or just missing the trains in general, the conversation always starts with those 2 words. I remember riding the train to Keene, I remember picking blueberries with my grandmother and putting them on the train to Boston, I remember hearing the horn and so many more.
If we don’t capture these stories or share them with others, they become lost in time, like the trains and tracks that once ran outside our Depot. One way we could capture them and give people a place to share those cherished memories was to hold an open house and let them all come together to reminisce. Depot Day was just that, come and share.
The event turned out to be so much more. It highlighted not only our 175-year-old Depot in all its glory, but it also became an annual event. When planning for the first Depot Day I reached out to two people to see if they would come and speak about the railroad, one of whom is an engineer for Amtrack. Almost simultaneously they both messaged back asking if we could get a train car to display at the Depot would we be interested. Well, honestly “what girl doesn’t love a train.” Of course, we said yes and well as they say in story books…. the rest is history. One year later we purchased the train and are getting her ready to move to Troy on our newly built tracks, thanks to so many amazing supports and volunteers.
Depot Day 2023 occurred on Saturday October 14th and this year we have joined together with the Fitzwilliam Historical Society to hold events at both our Depots. With a run from Fitzwilliam to Troy along the rail trail “Running the rails” to events, food, raffles and more. It was a day to showcase the Depot’s, what they meant to the towns, the region and what they brought to the communities. Share the stories, the memories and show that for 176 years these Depots have been so much more than just a building. They are a legacy for all to enjoy, treasure, and preserve for years to come.
So, on behalf of the Troy NH Historical Society, Cheshire Railroad Depot-Troy NH and the Fitzwilliam Historical Society I would like to personally thank all the people that came to our first annual Troy/Fitzwilliam Depot Day. As always, events like this would not be possible without the Troy/Fitzwilliam Fire, EMS, and Police Depts generous support and always assuring our community’s safety. Special recognition goes out to the walkers and runners of our First Annual “Running the Rails” Fun Run.
We also want to thank the Troy Recreation Dept for not only providing great food but for your incredible donation. A special shout out to the Monadnock Sno-Moles, Monadnock Regional Rail Trail Collaborative, Finnish Mama, Smithriversmithy, the Caron Family and all the other vendors for helping make this event not only special but extremely successful.
No event like this would be possible without the dedicated volunteers who graciously give their time and energy to making community events like this a success. And finally, while our BUDD Car wasn’t here for Depot Day, please rest assured we are diligent working to bring her home to Troy!
