Update: December 2009

I wanted to take some time to set the record straight, on the status of the Historic Train Station.  Everyone has real concerns about the current condition of the Train Station.  I've heard many rumors; most are pure speculation.  Everyone needs to know what's true.

This past summer, the WLPA's attorney was contacted by Amtrak representatives.  They requested the WLPA obtain a letter from the Town of Windsor Locks, regarding their intent and pledging their support of the WLPA project.

The meeting was held September 2009 and was attended by the WLPA's attorney, the Town's attorney and economic development consultant, as well as the Board of Selectmen and members of the WLPA.

At that time, the Town leadership was given information regarding the content of the letter that Amtrak requires for the WLPA to proceed.  The letter would need to state the Town's full support of the WLPA project as well as it would preclude any future plans the town may have for the Historic Train Station site.

The Town has been in the process of obtaining studies for the area located at and around the Historic Train Station.  We were told, in September, the preliminary reports would take approximately 90 days.  The Board of Selectmen will not agree to give a letter to the Preservation Association, until their studies are complete, as they felt they were "signing away their rights" to future use of that area.

We wanted everyone to understand that without this letter, Amtrak will not continue the processes necessary to transfer ownership of the Station and site to the WLPA.

At this time, we currently await word from the Town of Windsor Locks with regard to their preliminary report.  When new updates are available, they will be posted on this site.

We hope everyone has a safe and Happy Holiday season!

Barbara Schley
Chairman
Let's Save the Train Station committee

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Historic Photo Donated:

The photograph below was given as a gift to the Windsor Locks Preservation Association by Barbara Chain of Suffield, and is the oldest known photo of the Historic Train Station.

The photo is believed to be of the CT Governor's Foot Guard (62 men) leading the parade for the dedication of the Soldier's Memorial Hall in Windsor Locks.  The photo is believed to have been taken on June 10, 1891. 

The parade began and ended at the train station.  The streets were decorated by professional decorators with bunting.  Dignitaries included - district / local public figures, Civil War veterans, and fraternal / civic organizations.  The grandest day in Windsor Locks history - it was reported "The day was made to order"!

Thank you, Barbara!!

Click the photo to enlarge the image.

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Photo Op:

Members of the Windsor Locks Preservation Association met at the Historic Train Station on Monday, August 31,at 4:30 pm for a group photograph to be submitted to the National Trust for Historic Preservation. 

The Trust is running a campaign featuring photographs from around the country in front of Historic places that "matter".  The photos of "This Place Matters" are posted on the Trust's website to draw attention to many places that are endangered and many that have been saved.  This Historic Windsor Locks Train Station matters!

Pictured are (Click the photo to enlarge.): Kneeling - Jean DeSousa, Martha Jarvis and Joe Gronda. Standing - Barbara Schley (co-founder), Trudie Barnard, Barbara Tarbell, Pat Plamondon, Maria G, and Mickey Danyluk (co-founder).

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