Santa Fe Passenger Depot, Fresno

The Santa Fe Passenger Depot is an iconic railroad station currently utilized by Amtrak for its San Joaquin passenger train service. Designed by William Benson Storey for the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway, the depot mirrors the design of the Stockton – San Joaquin Street Station.

Architecturally, the Santa Fe Railroad Depot is a prime example of the Mission Revival style, characterized by its simple yet elegant design. The station features prominent arches and tile roofs, with many windows framed by segmental arched openings. The roofs, predominantly hipped and of medium pitch, contribute to the station's cohesive aesthetic. A single tower and several turrets, all capped with pyramidal tiled roofs, add to the building's distinctive silhouette. The facade is relatively sparse in terms of sculptural ornamentation, with the most notable decoration being located on the tower on the west elevation.

The station's design focuses on functionality and understated beauty, with its Mission Revival elements creating a timeless look. The few shaped gable ends with curvilinear outlines enhance the depot's architectural interest without overwhelming the overall simplicity. This minimalist approach ensures that the depot remains an elegant and functional structure that has stood the test of time.