SAGINAW Built in 1881, the Potter Street Depot has been vacant for decades. Now, a local
preservation group wants that to change.
Keith Winzer of Saginaw says 130 years ago, the Potter Street Depot was
considered the Ellis Island of Saginaw.
"It would have been the first thing they saw when they came in to Saginaw,"
Winzer said.
From the outside, perhaps it looks like any other old building would, but walk
inside, the look and feel instantly takes you back generations.
"Being that it was built in 1881, it is a strong part of Saginaw history. There
are many beautiful aspects. It's Victorian in nature," Winzer said.
Winzer is a member of the Saginaw Depot Preservation Corporation, which is the
team trying to restore the old train station. "My grandfather went off to war
here. This was the place he would have kissed my grandmother goodbye. It means a
great deal to me and my family," he said.
The last train came through in the 1950s. It also served as office space until
the '80s. It was set on fire in 1991. Steven West wants to see the Potter Street
Station breath new life.
"I'm not a big train guy, but I love old buildings. I think saving it respects
pass generations," West said.
The preservation group has begun to clean the inside and refinish doors and
windows. However, there's still plenty of work to be done. Future goals include
a museum, a community theatre and a small restaurant.
"Little people can do big things if they ban together. It would be worth giving
it our best shot," West said.
The preservation group has four open houses planned this summer. They are July
15 and 29, and August 12 and 19.
