HISTORY OF THE DEPOT (DEPEAUX)

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The City, however, wished to save the depot and entered into negotiations with CSX to buy the property, making many concessions and guarantees in the process.  CSX has now donated the property with the provision that the structure is moved 25 feet further from the tracks.  An engineering study has concluded that this is feasible.  The City applied for and was granted a Federal TEA-21 matching grant so that the building can be moved and stabilized while future plans are being formulated.  On July 16, 2001, the Decatur City Commission officially accepted the deed from CSX Transportation.
 
A private group, the Decatur Preservation Alliance, working alongside the City of Decatur, has been formed to help preserve the heritage of Decatur, with the Depot as its first project.  The City has also appointed a Task Force to discuss and solicit ways to develop the building to once again be the center of Decatur life and the DPA is working with that body.
 
In 2006 Bill Sharkey a 46 year veteran restaurateur and his Louisiana Family met with the City of Decatur and purposed to restore the old depot and turn it into a Cajun Restaurant called the Depeaux.  When the restoration started it was just four walls and a roof.  Now in the depot you can see all of the original beams and the original wood floors in the bar area.  The bar has been built out of the old Wainscoating from the dining room and all of the tables have been built out of the old wood flooring.  A lot of hard work and time has been spent on restoring this beautiful historic building and we are proud to bring you great quality food and service.  We look forward to having you join us!!!  Laissez les bon temps roules!