1932 Homesteader claims St.Paul Union Depot yard tracks.

[wjstix]

This would be interesting to model. This is from the St.Paul Pioneer Press newpaper's "From the Archives". Back in 1932, a guy believed that a parcel of land in the St.Paul Union Depot's trackage had never been properly sold to anyone, so filed a Homestead Act claim on it and built a 'home' on it. He ended up living there from July to December, when a court ruled against him.

Interestingly, especially now that SPUD has reopened for light rail, bus and Amtrak service, the surrounding scene hasn't changed that much. Some new, large buildings have been built, but a photo from the same spot would be easily recognized if taken today....

 http://blogs.twincities.com/fromthearchives/2015/07/09/carl-f-hirte/?source=hottopics

 

[jrbernier]

Interesting Photo - The location is not on SPUD property, but in the Milwaukee Road 'Old Yard'(note that it is below the SPUD platforms).

[wjstix]

Interesting, was the SPUD roundhouse (located out of picture to the right) not on SPUD property?

[jrbernier]

The roundhouse was located in the wye and was on SPUD property. The photo caption is wrong.