The Depot’s Railfan Fame- One of Berea’s Hidden Gems

By Victoria Schaft , September 1, 2022 0 Comments

The Berea Depot was built with sandstone from the local quarries and was a railway depot from 1876 to 1954. Today, the building serves as a restaurant, but it is so much more. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and is one of the most popular railfan hotspots in all of the country.

What is a Railfan and What Do They Do?

In summary, railfans gather at the side of the tracks to view the passing of trains. Some do it for the mere excitement and a love for trains, while others keep meticulous records of their sightings. These records might include details such as the types of trains that were spotted, including the dates and times they came through the area. Some railfans even count the number of cars each train has.

Many railfans photograph the trains as they pass by, especially if it is a unique or rare sighting. The Depot was a favorite location for the famous railway photographer, David McKay. His book, Trackside Around Cleveland 1965-1979 with Dave McKay was published in 2005. Unfortunately, he passed away while the book was still being processed and never got to actually see it in print. A bronze memorial dedicated to McKay now rests on the site where he spent so many hours photographing trains. This memorial can be found on the grassy area next to the left-side parking lot.

Railfans are also known to travel to different hotspots for the sole purpose of train-spotting. Member of the Cuyahoga Valley and West Shore Model Railroad Club and Museum, Ron Morgan, speaks about his days as a railfan. He says, “I have been chasing trains since the early 70’s and have been all over the US and several countries.” He told of a time when he was traveling on a passenger bus full of Railfans. “We spotted a train up ahead and the bus actually took a U-turn on a two-lane highway, parked, and we piled out of there so we wouldn’t miss it. It was great fun.”

Railfans from all over the country and the world travel to The Depot to do a little train-spotting.

Why is The Depot Famous Among Railfans?

From left to right: Dave Nuti, Joe DiVincenzo, and Russ Greco

The Depot is one of the most popular train-spotting hotspots in the country, for locals and abroad. When I pulled into The Depot parking lot, there were several railfans there waiting for the next train. Here, I met railfan friends, Dave Nuti, Joe DiVincenzo, and Russ Greco. They explained it is a high traffic area because it is where two lines come together. Furthermore, one is the Chicago line, which spans from New England to Chicago and is one of the busiest lines. On average, about 100-110 trains roll through Berea every day.

Norfolk Southern, Foreign Power and Heritage Unit: Photo taken by Dave Nuti

The diversity of the trains is another attraction for railfans, with double-stacks, freight, coal, and army trains among the many. “This is one thing we like about coming here,” Nuti says. Among these special sightings are the Foreign Power and Heritage Units, which are locomotives that are painted to resemble those of the Norfolk Southern heritage.

There are other commemorative trains as well. “My favorite is the CSX 1776.” DiVincenzo says. The front of this particular engine is blue and yellow and has a gray camouflage body, and is painted in this manner to honor Veterans. Another favorite is the CSX 911 in honor of the 911 first responders, as seen on the right.

Another exciting event that brings railfans to The Depot is when the Nickle Plate 765 steam locomotive rolls through. This locomotive was built in the early 40’s and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society brings this locomotive to the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic railroad for an annual event called “Steam in the Valley.” During this time, railfans have the opportunity to watch it pass by The Depot on its way to the valley.

Morgan says there isn’t necessarily one significant moment that stands out among all the others. He says, “They’re all wow moments—especially when you’re chasing a steam engine.”

Special Railfan Connections

I didn’t get to see any of the “special” locomotives, but I did get to see many trains pass by during my visit. Once, Nuti pointed at the track and said, “Here comes another one.” I looked and didn’t see anything. I listened and didn’t hear anything. But sure enough, moments later, a train appeared in the distance. “Was that some sort of railfan e.s.p.?” I asked as we all waved at the conductor.

“You get an ear for it,” Greco says. However, there are many ways that railfans communicate with each other while they are train-spotting.

Facebook and police scanners set to specific frequencies are two methods of communication between railfans. There are also websites and phone aps that a railfan can program to alert them that a train is coming their way. Many of these can track the Heritage Units and commemorative trains specifically as well. There are also two Railcam cameras set up near The Depot so a railfan can view the trains online. If you are not a seasoned railfan, and you see a group by the rails that’s larger than normal—something special might be coming your way.

Greco also mentions that age is no factor when it comes to a love of trains. “We see everybody from babies to men in their 70’s or older.” He speculates that train-spotting may even be beneficial to kids with special needs, perhaps especially those with Autism. He observes many kids with Autism come to see the trains. “It gets them out of their shell,” he says.

It’s also a great way to meet people and develop strong friendships. Morgan says, “We are very fortunate to have traveled where we have and made so many friends along the way.” While chasing trains, Morgan met Jim Boyd, who was the founder and editor of Railfan and Railroad Magazine. He also met the author of “Night Trick,” O. Winston Link, a prominent photographer who specialized in capturing photos of trains at night. Most importantly, Morgan met many people who became dear friends of his throughout his railfanning years and made priceless memories with his son, Evan.

Being a railfan starts with a love of trains, but rolls its way into something memorable and worth the rails.

Not a Railfan…Yet?

Visit The Depot and park in the left-hand parking lot. Sit in your car, on the hood of your car, or bring a lawn chair. Bring a friend or family member, or come alone and meet new friends. Sit alone and enjoy the relaxing silence (in between the exhilaration of the roaring trains). Watch for fun, or begin your own log book. And when you get hungry, mosey into The Depot diner or patio.

Written By

Victoria Schaft

Victoria Schaft earned a BA in English from Cleveland State University in 2021. She graduated summa cum laude and is a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success. She is an emerging writer in both fiction and nonfiction. She enjoys designing jewelry and has an immense appreciation for the arts and history. Victoria also enjoys outdoor activities (except in the winter). She resides with her husband, a proud fourth-generation Berean, and their Siberian Husky who enjoys outdoor activities (especially in the winter).