The Tiburon Railroad & Ferry Depot Museum, located at 1920 Paradise Drive in Tiburon, California, is a fascinating glimpse into the rich railroad and maritime history of the San Francisco Bay Area. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this Greek Revival-style building, erected in 1886, has served as a testament to the region’s transportation heritage for over a century.
In This Article
Key Points
- The Tiburon Railroad & Ferry Depot Museum showcases the railroad and maritime history of Tiburon and the San Francisco Bay Area
- The museum is housed in a historic Greek Revival-style building from 1886, listed on the National Register of Historic Places
- Visitors can explore a detailed HO-scale model of Tiburon circa 1900-1910 and learn about early 20th-century life in the stationmaster’s house
A Journey Through Time at Shoreline Park
Situated on the picturesque waterfront of Tiburon, the Railroad & Ferry Depot Museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the town’s past as a major railroad and ferry terminus. The museum’s location at Shoreline Park provides stunning views of San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Angel Island, adding to its allure as a must-visit destination in Marin County.
The Railroads That Shaped Tiburon
The museum’s exhibits chronicle the history of the San Francisco and North Pacific Railroad, which was completed in 1884 by Irish immigrant and industrial tycoon Peter Donahue. This railroad, later merged with the Northwestern Pacific Railroad and subsequently the Southern Pacific Railroad, played a crucial role in shaping Tiburon’s development as a thriving railroad town.
- The last train left Point Tiburon on September 25, 1967
- Southern Pacific deeded the shoreline property and depot building to the Town of Tiburon for use as a museum
Exploring the Museum’s Treasures
The HO-Scale Model of Tiburon
One of the museum’s highlights is the meticulously crafted HO-scale model of Tiburon circa 1900-1910, located on the ground floor. This detailed model, built to a scale of 1:87, accurately represents the sizes of landscapes, buildings, trains, and boats from the era. Visitors can marvel at the three ferryboats included in the model, which were part of a large fleet that operated between San Francisco and Point Tiburon.
The Stationmaster’s House
The upper level of the museum houses the Depot House Museum, a recreation of the stationmaster’s living quarters. Restored based on the memories of Florence Bent Palmer, daughter of the last stationmaster, William Bent, the exhibit offers a glimpse into typical middle-class life in the early 20th century. Period details include hanging light bulbs, a coal/wood-burning stove, an ice box, and original furniture from the Bent family.
Educational Opportunities and Group Tours
The Tiburon Railroad & Ferry Depot Museum is a popular destination for school children and groups interested in learning about the area’s history and early 20th-century life. The Landmarks Society, which operates the museum, offers guided tours for senior excursions, school visits, and large groups of 10 or more. These tours, led by knowledgeable docents, provide an engaging and informative experience for visitors of all ages.
Supporting the Museum’s Future
As a cherished piece of California’s heritage, the Tiburon Railroad & Ferry Depot Museum relies on the support of its community to continue preserving and sharing the region’s rich history. There are several ways to get involved:
- Become a member of the Landmarks Society
- Volunteer as a docent
- Make a donation to support the museum’s ongoing restoration and educational efforts
By contributing to the museum’s mission, you can help ensure that future generations have the opportunity to explore and appreciate the fascinating railroad and maritime history of Tiburon and the San Francisco Bay Area.
FAQ
What are the museum’s operating hours?
The Railroad & Ferry Depot Museum is open from April through October on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 1-4 pm. It is also open on Sunny Sundays from 1-4 pm, November through March.
Is the museum accessible for visitors with disabilities?
Yes, the Railroad & Ferry Depot Museum is one of the most easily accessible historical sites operated by the Landmarks Society.
Can I book a private group tour of the museum?
Absolutely! The Landmarks Society offers group tours for senior excursions, school visits, and large groups of 10 or more. To arrange a tour, please call Landmarks at 415-435-1853.
What is the cost of admission to the museum?
The Landmarks Society suggests a donation of $5 per person/per site for group tours. For individual visitors, please contact the museum directly for current admission prices.
How can I support the museum’s ongoing restoration and educational efforts?
There are several ways to support the Tiburon Railroad & Ferry Depot Museum, including becoming a member of the Landmarks Society, volunteering as a docent, or making a financial donation. For more information on sponsorship opportunities, please call Landmarks at 415-435-1853.
