Note: This replaces a cache that was less than a block away.
About SideTracked Caches
This cache belongs to the SideTracked series. It is not designed to take you to a magical place with a breathtaking view. Its a distraction for the weary traveler, but anyone else can find it too. More Information can be found at the SideTracked Website
This cache also qualifies for the Disappearing RR Blues bonus cache. This series highlights railways of NW Oregon
About Albany Oregon Electric Station(s)
This cache complements my disappearing RR Blues multi-cache that is very close to here. At the time I placed the multi, I could not place a traditional due to proximity to another cache. This former OE station is a treasure and deserves some extra recognition, IMHO, plus there is an interesting spot at GZ that most folks will miss.
The Oregon Electric Railway was an electric interurban railway. It opened between Portland and Salem in 1908. On July 4th, 1912, the extension south from Salem to Eugene was opened. This was when the depot here was first opened. Electric Passenger trains would stop right here at 5th and Lyons in Albany. The Albany Streetcar line on Lyons crossed the Interurban here at grade. The OE station was/is much closer to downtown Albany than the Southern Pacific Railroad station, plus electric trains were quieter and cleaner. The last passenger trains stopped here in 1933 as the automobile and Hwy 99 proved to be too much competition.
Thankfully, the OE station here survived. The building is listed on the historic register. The building is still very much in use. Except for the addition towards Lyons St., the building retains most of its original look both outside and inside.
Here is the bonus with this cache: look at the street pavement at the curb in front of the building. You will notice brickwork and a rail exposed at the cracked pavement. Follow the rail/pavement towards Baker St. There is a track also exposed on Baker St, as there was probably a Wye track to turn some trains around. Along the curb close to the restaurant on 5th St, there is evidence that this was a siding track, with the main track running in the middle of 5th Street. Oh, to see what it was like back in the day...