Demise of the Pennsylvania Railroad Depot
I see by the news that they may level a bit of Americana.
Alas, 'tis that old icon, the railroad depot in Richmond, Indiana.
I have many fond and not so fond memories of that old place.
Unless some good soul rescues it, 'twill disappear without a trace!
It has graced the "Hoosier Bowery District" since nineteen aught two.
'Twas designed in the neo-classical style when readied for its debut.
Many sad and happy occasions were witnessed within its walls.
'Tis sad that it might be demolished by inexorable wrecking balls!
'Twas there that I sadly saw my eldest brothers off to war.
'Twas there that I happily welcomed them home to fight no more.
Alas, it also happened that too many next-of-kin so very often,
Bore the grief of receiving their hero there in a flag-draped coffin.
'Twas there that I boarded a train to begin my military service.
That was my first train ride for this country boy and I was nervous!
So nervous that Recruit Reed and I boarded the wrong train, I fear!
Such an ignominious beginning to an otherwise gratifying career!
'Twas from there that our little girls rode their very first train,
To New Jersey and then on to Europe on a big jet plane!
As I reminisce, I recall so many memories both good and bad,
But to raze that old landmark would truly make me sad!
Robert L. Hinshaw, CMSgt, USAF, Retired
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