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Terrebonne Depot History

Constructed in 1911 as a nexus for the burgeoning Oregon Trunk Railroad, the Oregon Trunk Passenger Depot was originally a one-story edifice that welcomed passengers and freight from the east side of the railroad tracks directly opposite its present location.

For over four decades the depot played a critical role in Central Oregon's growth, and provided a vital supply link for the tiny town of Terrebonne. Between 1938 and 1941 the depot was hauled to the west side of the tracks and a second story was added for the storage of freight. This addition can be identified by the contrasting siding patterns along Terrebonne Depot's exterior.

For much of the latter half of the 20th century, the depot sat abandoned. In 2005, current owners Ian and Kristin Yurdin initiated the historic structure's meticulous renovation.

In doing so, the Yurdin's found that the original structure building was not fastened to a solid foundation, but was in fact perched on 8-inch by 8-inch old- growth fir pier blocks. To accommodate a new poured-concrete footing, the entire building had to be hauled 36 feet west. This was done by slowly sliding the entire edifice atop makeshift rails-a fitting journey for a former train station.

Due to decades of neglect and decay when the depot lay dormant, most of the interior of the relocated building had to be removed. Wooden crossbeams were also added to act as wind girders and bolster support for the second story. Wherever possible, materials from the original structure were reused, including the floor joists and roof trusses. Finally local artisans were commissioned to handcraft the restaurant's substantial yet elegant bar and table tops-carved from from the original old-growth fir blocks that once supported the depot's floor.

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Photo by Bob Woodward