On November 18, 1981, the Goleta Depot started its legendary journey from its original trackside location to its new home at Lake Los Carneros County Park, now a City of Goleta Park. Now, over 40 years later, we look back on this momentous night that forever preserved a piece of Goleta’s railroad history.
The Journey Begins
At precisely 1:28 p.m. on that historic day, the landmark building began its move south along Kellogg Avenue. To make the journey possible, the depot was carefully cut into two sections, each loaded onto trucks from AA Jet Moving Co. Crowds gathered along the streets to watch, joined by local media, members of the Goleta Beautiful’s Depot Committee, and utility workers adjusting overhead wires to allow safe passage.
After a brief stop in an adjoining field to allow traffic to thin, the trucks resumed their journey at midnight. The convoy, led by the massive two-story section of the depot, turned west onto Hollister Avenue, creating a unique and magical sight. Colorful running lights lined the depot pieces, lighting up the night and giving the appearance of two enormous Christmas trees making their way through Goleta. Many of those close to the project joined the journey, walking alongside the depot to its new home.
A Procession of Dedication
In the lead were Nancy Ried and Mary Lou Williamson, ceremoniously following the road’s centerlines, step by step, to the new depot site. Joining them throughout the vigil were dedicated committee members Phyllis Olsen, Raymond Baird, Gary Coombs, and his two young daughters, along with Park Commissioner Karen Swenson, who had championed the depot’s preservation. Goleta Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Anna Dato and Depot Committee member George Adams followed by car, playing train sounds to keep the spirit of the railroad alive.
The convoy crossed Highway 101 via the Fairview Avenue overpass, descended onto Calle Real, and made its way to Los Carneros Road. Just after 3:00 a.m., the Goleta Depot arrived safely at its new location, with all lights extinguished and engines turned off. The incredible journey was complete, marking a new chapter in the depot’s life.
A Lasting Legacy
The Goleta Depot’s move was a monumental achievement for the community and a testament to the dedication of the many people who believed in preserving this piece of local history. As the 1981 Depot Dispatch summarized, “WE DID IT!!!”
Today, the South Coast Railroad Museum at the historic Goleta Depot continues to celebrate and preserve the legacy of railroading in Goleta. This November 18-19, join us in remembering this remarkable journey that saved the Goleta Depot for future generations to enjoy.
Visit Us
To learn more about the history of the Goleta Depot, explore our exhibits, or simply enjoy a ride on the Goleta Short Line, visit the South Coast Railroad Museum. The depot’s journey may have ended that early November morning, but its story — and the stories of those who worked to save it — live on.