| Saranac is on the former Grand Trunk line between Grand
Rapids and Durand. The line was built by the Detroit, Grand Haven and Milwaukee
RR and operated for many years by the Grand Trunk. In 1987 the line was sold
to the Central Michigan RR. They operated the line for a few years, then
sold parts of the route to other shortlines. Tracks were still in use in
the summer of 1988.
The depot shown on this page replaced an earlier depot,
built in 1869. It burned on July 12, 1906. The fire was believed to have
started when a spark from a passing engine ignited oil stored in the baggage
room. The fire must have spread rapidly, as all freight and baggage in the
depot was destroyed.
The rounded end of the depot with its "witch's hat" roof
was a fairly common feature of Grand Trunk stations, not only in Michigan,
but also in New England. Michigan has at least three such stations; Saranac,
Fowler, and South Lyon.
The Saranac depot was moved a short distance from its original
location, slightly west to a nice spot between the tracks and the Grand River.
It was placed on the opposite side of the tracks, with the round end still
to the west, so that the original track side is now the street side. The
Historical Society which appears to be responsible for relocating and restoring
the depot also has a nicely restored Grand Trunk
caboose, on the property. |
