Nestled right here in the heart of Minnesota, Staples has long been a hub of railroad history, a legacy that continues to shape the town today. From its early days as a vital stop along the Northern Pacific Railway to its present-day connection to the BNSF Railway, Staples’ story is one of progress, industry, and a community built around the tracks.
Get to Know the History of a Railroad Town
Staples’ history is deeply intertwined with the expansion of the railroad in the late 19th century. In 1889, the Northern Pacific Railway established a division point in Staples, making it a key connection between St.Paul and Fargo. This lead to rapid growth in both population and commerce. The town quickly became an essential hub for train operations, with a bustling depot, roundhouse, and
repair facilities.
As workers and their families settled in the area, Staples flourished into a thriving railroad town. The presence of the railroad brought economic prosperity to Staples, attracting businesses, workers, and travelers alike. The town grew around the industry, with shops, hotels, and restaurants catering to rail employees and passengers.
Staples is still considered a hub in the railroading industry, handling between 40 to 50 trains each day. This train depot serves as the northernmost AMTRAK station in Minnesota with daily passenger rail service east (Chicago) and west (Seattle) via the Empire Builder.
Visit the Depot: A Symbol of Staples’ Past and Future
One of the most iconic landmarks in Staples is the historic Staples Depot. Originally built in 1909, this grand structure served as a vital center for passengers and freight. Today, it stands as a testament to the town’s railroad
heritage, restored and repurposed to serve the community in new ways. Visitors can explore its history through exhibits and educational programs that celebrate the impact of the railroad on Staples and its residents.
The Staples Historical Society (SHS) meets the third Thursday of each month.
Come Celebrate the Railroad Heritage
Staples takes pride in its railroad history, celebrating through annual events such as Railroad Days, which brings together locals and visitors for parades, food trucks, endless activities, and train-themed activities.
Staples shines bright during the weeklong celebration as participants enjoy the entertainment including the Little Red Caboose Variety Show, the historical reenactments on the streets of downtown Staples, the large and popular parade, and much more.
Experience the History Firsthand
For those looking to dive deeper into Staples’ railroad heritage, a visit to the Staples Train Depot is a must. With a collection of artifacts, photographs, and firsthand accounts, the museum preserves and shares the town’s storied past. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about the role of railroads in shaping small-town America, Staples offers a rich and immersive experience.
As the tracks continue to run through Staples, so does the spirit of its railroad heritage. From its early days as a frontier outpost to its ongoing connection to the modern rail industry, Staples remains a town where history is truly alive and well.
The first Staples Round House. This picture was taken May 20, 1889.