Railway Express Agency Building
Built in 1918 at the site of the former Essex House, the Railway Express Agency building is now the only building left on the former Big Four Railroad that was directly tied to railroad commerce. The company moved here from their former location at the southwest corner of Broadway and the Illinois Central Railroad. This site was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1994.
The American Express Company was formed in 1850 by Henry Wells and William Fargo. They were responsible for many business innovations such as the C.O.D. system, money orders, and the American Express Travelers Check. In 1892, they negotiated with the Illinois Central Railroad to establish routes along their line. It is then when they came to Mattoon. During World War I, all express companies were combined to form one giant express company, The American Railway Express Company.
The building was in operation 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. They would handle freight from as many as 12 trains per day with up to 50 baggage carts per train. They transferred everything from fresh produce, to circus animals, to furniture, to money for the Federal Reserve Bank. During World War II, more freight went through the intersection of the New York Central (former Big Four) and the Illinois Central then any other in the United States.
The building continued express service until the New York Central went bankrupt in 1964. It was then used as a general freight depot until 1971. It has been a used as a warehouse ever since.
The building is highly visible from 19th and Western. It is on our list of Top 10 Endangered because of its flat roof and lack of activity for many years. It is not clear if has been maintained. From the outside, it seems to be structurally sound. But as we’ve learned in recent days, that has little to do with the decision to demolish.
If you have pictures or stories about this building please e-mail me. I will be happy to include them here. Visit our Railroad Express Photo Gallery.
|
