“Old Settlers’ Days is one of the most exciting times of the year at The Depot railroad museum,” says Cecil J. Smith, the volunteer stationmaster.
“We have model trains running, tours of the 1929 Monon caboose and the Monon motor car house.; exhibits in The Depot building, and plenty of good food for sale in the Depot Diner.”
Old Settlers’ Day is Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 21 and 22. Depot hours for that weekend are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday.
Many of Salem’s Old Settlers’ Days activities are centered at the John Hay Center. Craft booths, demonstrators, old time games, and other forms of entertainment will provide something for everyone.
The Depot, which is part of the John Hay Center, will host music groups on its front platform. A large tent set up in the parking lot will provide an enjoyable place to sit in the shade to hear various groups perform.
The Depot diner will offer barbecue sandwiches and low fat hot dogs. Chips and drinks will also be available.
New this year is a 3,000 square foot addition which houses a new meeting and display room on the main floor, and a basement level that serves as the world headquarters and archives room for the Monon Railroad Historical-Technical Society, Inc.
Depot volunteers will be available both days to conduct tours and answer questions.
