Photo Provided The historic Barnesville depot will host a meeting on Aug. 27 as area residents revive efforts to preserve and promote the structure.

BARNESVILLE — A pair of local residents want the public to help them preserve and promote the historic train depot in Barnesville.

For several years following the community’s purchase of the depot and grounds in 1991, the building and its railroad history displays were actively used for special events and as a starting point for tourists.

The depot and farmers market pavilion were also “a beehive of activity” during the annual Barnesville Pumpkin Festival each September.

As time went on, though, active members of the group that spearheaded those activities declined as folks moved away or died. Activity at the depot dropped off markedly during the years it was used as a drivers’ training facility and transportation agency hub.

Also during these years, much-needed repairs to the historic red tile roof were deferred.

Thanks to efforts by state Sen. Brian Chavez, R-Athens, and state Rep. Donald Jones, R-Freeport, $75,000 was included in the state budget for Fiscal Year 2025, earmarked to help cover the costs for this work.

The public is now invited to “get on board” by attending a meeting and touring the building with Aaron Wildman and Bruce Yarnall, meeting coordinators. Attendees are encouraged to help explore ways to revive the Depot Committee and get the “depot back on track.”

The Barnesville Depot Committee informational/organization meeting is set for 6 p.m. Aug. 27 at the depot.

According to the village of Barnesville’s website, the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad structure is the last remaining train station in Belmont County. It features depot/train station memorabilia, a B&O caboose. It is situated just down the path from the railroad tunnel that passes beneath Main Street. The depot’s address is 300 E. Church St., Barnesville.

For more information, contact Yarnall by email at bruce.yarnall@outlook.com or send him a text at 202-236-5633.