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One hundred and thirty years ago on Oct. 1, the Narrow Gauge Railroad rolled into Florissant for the first time, connecting the town with the City of St. Louis. Historic Florissant, Inc. will celebrate this event on Sunday, Oct. 26 with a reception at the Franz Gittemeier House, 1067 Dunn Road, from 2-4 p.m.

Old photographs and memorabilia will be on display, telling the story of the railroad and the electric trolley line that ran until the 1930s. In 1969, the depot faced demolition with the widening of St. Ferdinand Street. It was purchased by Historic Florissant, Inc., moved to Tower Court Park and restored, where it has a new life as the Candy Depot.

Visitors to the Gittemeier House will be able to talk with Rosemary Davison about
her new book on the Narrow Gauge, “Rails, Dreams and Mail” which will be available soon. Admission is free and light refreshments will be served.

At 1 p.m., prior to the reception, the public is invited to a brief ceremony at the Louisa Garrett House, 280 Washington Street. The home, owned and restored by Richard Deposki, has been named to the National Register of Historic Places and a plaque recognizing this honor will be unveiled.

These events are part of Historic Florissant’s yearlong celebration of 50 Years of Preservation in the City of Florissant. This celebration will conclude next month with the annual Christmas House Tour.

For more information on these or other events call Historic Florissant at 314-921-7055.

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