The Middlesex train depot burned to the ground on this day in 1917.

It had been built in the late 1840s, and was an important stop on the Central Vermont Railroad’s line from Windsor to Burlington. It served the public for well over 60 years before being lost to fire on this day.

A new depot was built the following year to replace the one that burned. It was constructed close to where the original had stood, but was located on the opposite side of the tracks.

This 1918 depot still stands on Route 2 in Middlesex village today, but it is in serious need of repair. There have been local efforts to tackle its restoration.

Historic image courtesy Vermont Historical Society.