Location of this building
“Replacing the 1865 wood-framed Souder’s Station, this iron, stone and stucco building brought a new level of train service to Souderton and symbolized the town’s growth and development.”
The original “Souder’s Station”
Without the railroad, Souderton as we know it would likely not exist at all. Rail service reached the area in 1857 en route to Bethlehem, stopping at a station initially known simply as Franconia. Amazingly, at the height of rail travel, an average of 51 passenger and freight trains rushed through Souderton each day!
Early stations along the line were low, utilitarian, modest wooden structures vulnerable to time, weather, and wear. When nearby towns like Telford and Hatfield received upgraded facilities, indignant business leaders and newspaper editorials pushed for similar treatment here. In 1925, a formal petition by the Chamber of Commerce finally prompted action from the Reading Railroad.
The new 1928 Souderton Station
Entrance to the pedestrian tunnel under the tracks
In 1927, the dangerous Broad Street crossing was closed, the Chestnut Street underpass was opened to reroute traffic, and the long-awaited new station was built across Broad Street from the old one. Underground pedestrian tunnels allowed safe passage beneath the tracks. For a short time, both railroad stations were open at the same time – the new one for southbound passengers, and the original station serving northbound passengers. The new passenger station was opened in early 1928, offering sheltered platforms and an additional wait station on the northbound track. The old wooden station was then finally removed. The new freight depot – slightly to the south – was also constructed during this time.
Restaurant use
When rail travel declined and then disappeared, the station found new life as a series of restaurants. For many years, its attic housed a model railroad club that drew visitors of all ages. Today (2026), the restored station is home to “The Northbound” restaurant, while the former wait and freight stations continue to serve as thriving business spaces in their own right.
The historical markers were made possible by generous donations from Souderton Connects, Univest Corp, and the Souderton-Telford Historical Society. We hope you enjoy them.
