Something to remember, as we enter a new year: Yesterday's history, Tomorrow is a mystery and Today is a gift, that's why it is called "the present". [Via]

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

Weclome Aboard II--Train Station Events


The Central Station Development featuring Pacific Cannery Lofts, Zephyr Gate, Ironhorse Apartments and the historic 16th Street Train Station continues to thrive with excitement!

The weekend the historic 16th Street Train Station, located at 16th and Wood Street will open its doors for touring while hosting music by The Blues Society; food from sustainable Oakland food trucks; and Kids activities organized by Rock, Paper and Scissors on Sunday, on November 13 from 1 to 4 p.m. (Weather permitting). Come share your memories, any old pictures…

For more information and to follow the historic 16th Street Train Station and its events on Facebook facebook.com/16thStreetStation and Twitter @16thStStation and check out video www.indiegogo.com/16thStreetStation 

Also: Amtrak is celebrating 40 Years as America’s Railroad
EXCERPT--The present Amtrak station, a modern facility completed in 1994, sits at the eastern corner of the square. It was built after a 1989 earthquake damaged the old 16th Street Station (now called Central Station) designed by well-known Chicago architect Jarvis Hunt.

Opened in 1912, it originally had served as the principal facility of the Southern Pacific Railroad.

In 1868, the Central Pacific Railroad (CP) constructed the Oakland Long Wharf at Oakland Point, the site of today's port. The Long Wharf served as both the terminus of the Transcontinental Railroad and of the local CP commuter trains. At West Oakland, the railroad established one of its largest rail yards and servicing facilities, and it later operated under the successor Southern Pacific Railroad.

Transformed into an economic powerhouse during the early 20th century, Oakland boasted industries including metals, canneries, bakeries, automobiles, and shipbuilding. [More]