The College Station Depot
Dedication 9/22/01 - Benjamin, Margaret Rudder, and TX Governor Perry
The College Station Depot
A Landmark of Texas History, Art, and Vision
Dedicated on September 22, 2001 by Texas Governor Rick Perry, Margaret Rudder, and Benjamin Knox, the rebuilt College Station Depot is more than just a gallery — it's a living tribute to the roots of Texas A&M University, the city of College Station, and the transformative power of art and architecture.
A Vision Reborn
The Benjamin Knox Gallery and Art Center stands today as a faithful reconstruction of the original 1900 College Station train depot — a building designed by Benjamin Knox himself after six years of research and dedication. Inspired by the depot’s deep connection to Texas A&M and College Station, Knox combined historical accuracy with colorful train depot style and authentic Texas vernacular design. The surrounding grounds feature:
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Majestic, mature oak trees
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Antique railroad memorabilia
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A 1905 antique caboose relocated from Bergamot Station, Santa Monica, CA
Where It All Began
In 1876, Texas A&M University was founded largely because of the train access provided by the Houston and Texas Central Railroad. The College Station depot — the original gateway to campus — became synonymous with the community itself. The name “College Station” appeared on maps as early as the 1880s, before the city was incorporated in 1938, using the depot’s name to define its identity.
“All out for the College—College Station!” — the conductor’s call, echoing through time.
Originally a small Victorian depot in 1883, the structure was upgraded by Southern Pacific in 1900. Though it was tragically demolished in 1966 due to road expansion, its legacy now lives on in Benjamin Knox’s visionary recreation — a centerpiece of culture and memory.
A Place of Art, Culture, and Legacy
Opened to the public in 2001, the rebuilt depot was dedicated by a distinguished group of Texas leaders:
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Governor Rick Perry
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Texas A&M President Ray Bowen
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Mayor Lynn McIlhaney
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Margaret Rudder
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And many others who saw the importance of preserving this piece of Texas heritage.
Today, the College Station Depot is home to the Benjamin Knox Gallery, Wine Bar, and Event Spaces, serving as a hub of creativity and celebration in the heart of Aggieland.
