400 Main - Santa Fe Depot

Santa Fe Depot, 1929-30

Architect E.H. Harrison, Santa Fe Railroad

Building: M.R. Stauffer, Newton.

National Register, Kansas Register

The Santa Fe Depot, serving the Atchison, Topeka, & Santa Fe Railroad is located at the intersection of the rails and Main street and is the heart of Newton.

The amount of time drivers spend waiting on trains at this intersection has given rise to the saying, "Waiting on Trains since 1872."

The current depot is Newton's fourth depot, replacing three earlier structures. When the depot was in full use, it housed the ticket office, waiting rooms, railroad offices, and the renowned Harvey House restaurant.

From 1871 -1879 and 1897-1950s, Newton served as railroad division headquarters.

The current depot building was completed in 1930 in the Tudor Revival style, constructed of brick with deep slate roof and patches of half-timbering. The interior has medieval touches of heavy beamed ceilings and half timbered walls.

Earlier Depots

1875-1880s - a wood framed building built along a typical pattern for AT&SF depots in Kansas. (Photo 2)

1880s-1899 - Three story with mansard roof with brick and stone masonry. (Photo 3)

In 1898-99 - The new AT&SF and Arcade Hotel was opened in 1899. The Switchman's tower is also visible in the fourth photo. This grand building served as depot, hotel, and related businesses until 1929. (Photo 4)

Today, the depot serves Amtrak as well as providing office space.

(Kristine Schmucker)