Railroad Depot Restoration Project

Depot Restoration

The City Begins Preparations to Restore its Historic Railroad Depot

In a cooperative effort between the City of Clare and Mid Michigan Community Action, committee meetings directed at moving and restoring Clare’s historic railroad depot have begun. The depot, which was built by the Ann Arbor and Pere Marquette railroad companies in 1898, is a historical Queen Anne style unit that includes a rare and functional turret. Drafted plans for the historic building have been obtained and City Officials are working on tying up some loose ends before proceeding with the project. Clare looks forward to the restored depot as it promises to add a new and interesting flavor to the downtown scene, serving the community in a multi-use capacity.

The Clare County Arts Council made a $5,000.00 donation and the Clare Irish Festival Committee made a $500.00 donation toward the renovation project. Citizens and railroad enthusiasts are encouraged to get behind the project and show their support for its historic preservation. The City has had great success in the past with community involvement and expects a strong effort toward the project.

Tax deductable donations can be made to the “Clare Depot Project” at Mid Michigan Community Action – P.O. Box 768, Farwell, MI 48622. A link on MMCAA’s website, www.mmcaa.org, will be up and running within the next 30 days so that donations can be made online. We will send notification when that link is available.

Alternatively, you may also donate to this project, or purchase a brick in support of the depot restoration using these links.

The railroad depot restoration project is expected to gain momentum over the next couple years. A lot of the project is still in the planning stage so more information will become available as time permits.

For updates and additional information, please contact Clare City Clerk, Diane Schmidt, (989) 386-7541 or MMCAA Communications Coordinator, Mark Polega (989) 386-3805.

There are numerous opportunities for interested community members to get involved in making this project happen. For example, you can donate time, money, or materials, sponsor a bench, donate historic items or photos related to the depot, become a member of the Depot Committee or offer ideas for fundraising opportunities. If you'd like to get involved, please fill out the form below. A City staff member will respond to your submission.

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How would you like to support the Clare Depot restoration project?

e.g. donate time, provide photos, join the committee, etc.