Cleveland Union Terminal Tower

I have ridden on Amtrak numerous times going to and from Chicago on both the Lakeshore Limited and Capitol Limited.  Both trains passed through Cleveland either in the late evening or early morning hours.  The trains stopped at a modest structure close to the waterfront, but many might not realize that at one time trains stopped at an impressive complex in the center of the city. The Cleveland Terminal Tower complex still exists today, serving rapid transit and local bus patrons.  In the early 20th Century over 90 trains called at Cleveland and the current lakefront depot was unsatisfactory.  In 1920 construction begun on a new facility located on Public Square,  This would include businesses, hotels and an underground station, which would be capable of handling the numerous railroads which served the city.  In 1930 the station included 38 tracks and an extensive  interlocking tower.  Amtrak briefly served the terminal and the last commuter train ended service to Youngstown in 1977.  The complex fell into a state of disrepair; however developers have spent considerable funds in repairing and restoring the complex.​
I hope you find this interesting and enjoyable.  Look for another topic in February. Tom Gallagher

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