The information here covers surviving Rhode Island railroad stations. The Railroad Station Historical Society (RSHS) and my many thanks to them for such (the information here would not have been possible without their invaluable resources) provided much of the research for this page. If you would like to learn more about the Railroad Station Historical Society or are considering becoming a member please click here to visit their website.
Also, if you know of a railroad station or depot in your area that is not preserved or in danger of being demolished please take action to see if it can be saved. These buildings are beautiful works of architecture and it has been proven time and again that preserved historic railroad stations (whether still in use as a train station or not) increase the value and attractiveness of an area for both visitors and businesses (particularly if it is located in a downtown area). Not only that, but you will be saving an important piece of history!
East Providence: Originally built by the New Haven Railroad (NYNH&H), used as a business.
Greene: Originally built by the New Haven Railroad (NYNH&H), used as a business.
Kingston: Two former New Haven Railroad (NYNH&H) passenger stations here still stand, one used as an Amtrak stop.
Narragansett Pier: Originally built by the Narragansett Pier Railroad, used as a business.
Pawtucket-Central Falls: Originally built by the New Haven Railroad (NYNH&H), vacant.
Peace Dale: Originally built by the NPRR, used as a business.
Westerly: Originally built by the New Haven Railroad (NYNH&H), used as an Amtrak stop.
Woonsocket: Originally built by the Providence & Worcester, used as offices.
While all books featuring a general history of railroad stations in this country can certainly not cover them all two books which do a very good job of covering a general history of such are Train Stations: Whistle Stops, Rail Stations of North America by author Alexander Mitchell and The American Train Depot & Roundhouse from author Hans Halberstadt. While, again, both books are just a very general overview of some of the great stations that once stood in this country they are both quite good with lots of historical photographs, including that of Grand Central Terminal and the late Pennsylvania Station (it also gives a history of the thousands of small depots that existed in most communities). Mr. Halberstadt’s book particularly covers the history of railroad stations quite well, delving deeper into exactly what went on, on a daily basis in and around them. All in all if you’re interested in stations and depots, or would like to learn more about exactly how they worked you’re sure to enjoy either book, or both. If you're interested in perhaps purchasing these books please visit The Railroad Diamond by clicking the tab in the menu to your left marked "TRD Store".
