Rockdale Historical Society
Rockdale, Tx
Depot Museum
The Rockdale TX Historical Society preserves the history of our city, Milam County and central Texas railroads. We are located in the Rockdale Depot Museum, whose renovation was completed in 2008. It is beautiful! The I&GN Depot is listed in the National Historic Register & is a Texas Historic Landmark.
So, step back in time with us. Experience Rockdale, Texas, as it was in the early 1900's. Many Texas towns owe their creation and growth to the trains that roll by on the rails. We are a prime example of railroad inspired community growth in Texas.
Our historic train depot museum offers a renovated train depot, caboose, dining car and model railroad layout. Plus lots of fun historical information on Rockdale, TX! It is a local Milam County visitor attraction that you don't want to miss.
Depot Museum
HOURS OF OPERATION
Sat: 10am - 4pm
Sun: 1pm - 4pm
Contact us to make special arrangements
Restored Rail Cars
Explore Missouri Pacific Caboose #12263. Built in 1948 at the MoPac Sedalia shop and acquired by the Historical Society in the early 2000's. Restored and decorated with artifacts that might have been in daily use during its era.
And don't miss our Missouri Pacific dining car, named the "Cheyenne Mountain". It is a beautifully restored dining/lounge car and is available for private events. Built in 1942 by the Budd Company of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It was operated on the Colorado Eagle line - St. Louis to Denver.
Model Train Display
The centerpiece of the baggage room is an "N" scale model railroad. The setting is a rendition of the Rockdale TX 1920’s era downtown. The layout was originally constructed by local resident, Nolan Bland. Updates have been done by the Milam County Model Railroad Club.
We also have an "O" gauge model train circuiting the room. AND a live steam style whistle which always seems to attract kids . . . . young and old!
Blacksmith Shop
We have a working replica of a blacksmith shop that would have been found in the area around the turn of the 20th century. Constructed with antique board and batten siding by members and volunteers in 2009.
We have periodic live demonstrations by a local blacksmith throughout the year. You can watch him work iron while learning about his craft. Our blacksmith shop is always a favorite attraction!