The History of Railroad Days

A Celebration of Durand's
Railroad Heritage

Durand Railroad Days was established in May of 1975 to pay tribute
to the rail industry that helped develop the nation and was responsible
for the settlement of Durand late in the 1870's. This peaceful community
is located in mid-Michigan between Flint and Lansing. What started as
a small hometown celebration with a few rides for children, has grown
into a celebration that covers the entire downtown area.

Durand was and still is an active railroad center with the historic
Durand Union Station being one of the most photgraphed
train stations in the nation because of its Chateau Romanesque
architecture. Amtrak still makes regular passenger rail stops
at the depot every day. Durand Union Station houses the
Michigan Railroad History Museum and the Durand Union Station
Model Railroad Engineers. The museum showcases
special railroad exhibits and working model trains.

Many local businesses have railroad names and use historical
artifacts and photographs in their decor. Talk at the coffee shops
and pubs still center around trains. Celebrate Railroad Days with
folks who are proud and eager to share their legendary railroad heritage.