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The train depot in San Carlos has a rather interesting history which most are unaware of. Originally, the land was part of the massive Rancho de las Pulgus. One of the early 'big shots' in the area, Timothy Guy Phelps purchased 3,500 acres of the huge ranchero with dreams of creating a new town named after himself- Phelps. However, by 1887 his plans fizzled, and the San Carlos Land and Improvement Company, an arm of Southern Pacific Railroad, took over the land. It was under their management the depot opened its doors in 1888. At the time, it was the only public building in San Carlos. It served the local community in several ways. For example, some of its functions included being the first community church. It also housed the city's first library and post office. Later it also housed a restaurant.
The building strikes a resemblance to many of the original buildings at Stanford University. In that case, it should come as no surprise since Charles Coolidge (the architect of much of the famed university) was involved in the station's design.
Another little known fact about the San Carlos depot is it has a twin! Indeed, the small Sonoma County hamlet of Kenwood has a train depot, which was constructed at the same time as the San Carlos depot with a very similar look to it. Originally called South Los Guilicos, it was built as the only stone depot to service the Santa Rosa and Carquinez railroad. Its name was changed to Kenwood Depot in 1895 to match the town's name change. Rail service ceased in 1936.
As for the San Carlos train depot, it was officially retired from regularly scheduled public transportation services in 1967. However, Del Monte and Peninsula commute trains continued stopping there. A more modern elevated station opened in San Carlos in 1997.
Everything else is just history
Some of the photos used in this blog are courtesy of the Local History Room, Redwood City's best-kept secret. The Local History Collection covers all aspects of Redwood City's development, from the 1850s to the present day, with particular emphasis on businesses, public schools, civic organizations, city agencies, and early family histories. The Local History Room is not affiliated with the Redwood City Public Library, but it is inside it.
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