The De Forest Depot

The DeForest Depot was built in 1871 during construction of the railroad line connecting Madison and Portage. Isaac DeForest donated the land for the depot, and local residents provided funds for the building because they recognized the importance of rail service to the community's growth. Knute Knudtson, a local tradesman, constructed it using a post and beam technique common to area barns, and its original exterior had vertical boards and battens. In the 1920s the depot was remodeled with wainscoting, horizontal siding, and new windows. It closed in 1971 and was later purchased by the Chase Lumber Company of DeForest for storage. In 2001 Fred and Helen Chase deeded the land and building to the DeForest Area Historical Society. Its restored exterior reflects its appearance in the 1930s, when The Milwaukee Road train passed through town several times each day.

DeForest, Wisconsin · United States