The Colfax Passenger Depot was constructed in 1905 by the Southern Pacific Railroad in a colonnade style. This style was distinguished by an arcade supported by cast iron columns. While Southern Pacific built 25 Colonnade Depots, only 14 remain standing.

In the region, similar depots were constructed in Lodi in San Joaquin County, and Woodland in Yolo County. The Colfax Depot is the only example of its kind in Placer County and is representative of Southern Pacific's architectural legacy in the west.

The depot's original design has not been altered giving it a strong sense of time and place, and connection to the illustrious railroad history of Colfax. Very few modifications have been made to the depot lending to its integrity of location, architecture and setting which qualifies it for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places.

The Depot was restored to its original look in 2005 and is now occupied by the Colfax Area Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center and Gift shop along with the Colfax Heritage Museum. The Chamber promotes business and communities in California's Placer County along Interstate 80 from Applegate in the Sierra Foothills eastward to the summit. It has information on local business, seniors and child services, information on lodging, restaurants and local recreation. One can also pick up Amtrak train and bus schedules. The Visitor Center offers many local handmade items as well as brochures of upcoming events. Come in and pick up a Walking Tour Map of the City of Colfax.

For more information, visit www.colfaxarea.com. Whether you live here already or looking for a "getaway" for a few days, you'll find this website a valuable tool when exploring the west slope of the Sierra Nevada and the Colfax area.

Time Period Represented: 1905

Hours Open: 10am to 3pm daily

Visitor Fees: Free

Seasons Open: All year.