Hidden treasure near downtown Tyler

TYLER — Paul Royal with the Cotton Belt Depot Museum says the original depot opened up in 1905...and the last passenger train went through in 1956...after that, the building was used for storage and office space.

The City of Tyler eventually bought the place for a dollar in the 80s...now it houses a bus stop as well as a unique look at the railroad of yesterday.

"I guess about 450 to 500 people a month come through here, but I like to call it the best kept secret in Tyler because everybody I talk to in Tyler says 'I don't even know where that is,'" Royal said.

On Saturday, the museum held an open house.  In the parking lot, the Tyler Model-A club showed support for the museum by having an antique car show.

Back inside, Royal shows children and adults alike about the vast collection of railroad memoribilia.

"We get things in here every month from people all over who have amassed these things from their family who used to work for the railroad," Royal said.

The museum is on 210 E. Oakwood Street near downtown Tyler.  You can also visit their website.