Local historians are hoping to convince Amtrak officials that hundreds, if not thousands, of historical bricks unearthed during a train depot renovation are worth preserving.
A $3.78 million project was under way on the train depot at 750 S. 6th St. until, on April 11, a contractor unearthed an unusual find: hand-stamped Coffeyville bricks made in southeastern Kansas. Coffeyville bricks were manufactured between the late 1800s through 1933.
The bricks unearthed earlier this month are likely part of the Arkadelphia station’s foundation as it was when it was erected in 1917. Also found during the dig were what is believed to be the charred remnants of the original station, which was built of wood around 1873 but would later be destroyed in a fire.
The 1917 station that stands today serves as both the county’s historical museum and an Amtrak station for passenger rail customers. Renovations to the station’s platform will include improved drainage, altering the restrooms and replacing the platform to include a lift to make the platform compliant with the American Disabilities Act.
The bricks were found about 3 feet beneath the surface of the now-razed platform. Upon making the discovery, a surprised contractor carried a pair of the bricks to Stephanie Reynolds, director of the Clark County Arkansas Museum. Another exploratory dig unearthed a square of perfectly preserved paving bricks.
The discovery brought the project, within 50 feet of the find, to a screeching halt.
CLICK HERE to read more of this article at The Arkadephian.
