French Creek Valley
Railroad Historical Society
Meadville Railroad
Depot & Museum
Our Mission
The French Creek Valley Railroad Historical Society is recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation. It was organized for educational and public service purposes in 1996. Its goals include (a) the collection and preservation of historical artifacts; (b) the education of members and the general public about the history of the northwestern Pennsylvania railroad lines; (c) the sponsoring and support of programs and exhibitions which complement the educational purposes; (d) the promotion of awareness and friendly relations among the public towards railroad development in Crawford County and (e) the acquisition of property suitable for a museum.
The Museum Building
In 1880 construction was begun for the Meadville Railway Company’s Meadville Railroad Depot at its current location at 136 Mead Ave. It was ultimately sold to the Bessemer and Lake Erie Railroad who operated trains from its north south main line located west of Meadville to the Meadville Railroad Depot until the early 1970’s. After several ownership changes, the French Creek Valley Railroad Historical Society was able to purchase the building. Closing on the sale occurred the first week of 2019 and the Railroad Historical Society has been working on this new home ever since.
Meadville Railroad Depot
Museum Displays & Exhibits
The depot will be open Saturdays 1 – 4 PM on September 14, 21, and 28 – last regular days this year. Open for special events after that.
We will be open November 29 – Black Friday – 1 – 4 PM for Christmas displays and train sales.
- Full size display equipment
- Model railroad layout
- Maps & drawings
- Library
- Hand tools and railroad appliances
- Video oral histories of former employees
- Merchandise for sale
- Pictures and paintings
- Model collections
- Collectible artifacts
- Signs
- Research files and materials
The museum is free to the public. Donations are appreciated.
Book an Event
Are you looking for a historical space to host a meeting, party or reception? Interested in scheduling a private group tour of the Museum? Book an Event today!
Become a Member
Your membership will help to expedite the development and promotion of our project located along PA Route 6. Join Today!
- November 4 - November 30
Palmiero Toyota Give Back Voting
- November 21 @ 10:00 am - 10:00 pm
Tees of Christmas Reception – Private Party
- November 23 @ 12:00 pm - 11:30 pm
Train Show Setup
