Editing El Paso, Illinois (section)

==== Illinois Central Railroad and Toledo, Peoria, and Western Railroad Freight House ====

The Illinois Central Railroad and Toledo, Peoria, and Western Railroad Freight House, located at 8-10 East Front Street in El Paso and known as "The Depot" by locals, was a key transportation hub in the region, serving both railroads. El Paso was founded in the 1850s by landowners who successfully competed to secure the site of the crossing of these two major rail lines, marking a turning point in the city's development. The depot, initially constructed in 1889-90 following the destruction of the original building, played a vital role in shipping agricultural products from the surrounding area and in supporting the local economy by facilitating the movement of goods. The depot remained operational for many years, becoming a cornerstone of the city's economic activity until rail transport began to decline in the 1930s, ceasing entirely by the 1960s. Despite the decline, it stood as the longest-surviving structure associated with both railroads until its eventual demolition and relocation.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://maps.roadtrippers.com/us/el-paso-il/points-of-interest/illinois-central-railroad-and-toledo-peoria-and-western-railroad-freight-house|title=Illinois Central Railroad and Toledo, Peoria, and Western Railroad Freight House|website=Roadtrippers|access-date=2025-01-06}}</ref>

The freight depot's historical significance was formally recognized when it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places on August 16, 1994. Though it was relocated to 17 East Main Street in El Paso, it retains its status on the register, preserving the memory of its contributions to the city's development. The depot, once a bustling point of activity, symbolizes the important role that railroads played in the economic life of the American Midwest during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Even after rail traffic ceased, the building remained a part of the fabric of El Paso, long after the area had seen a decline in rail use.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://dnrhistoric.illinois.gov/content/dam/soi/en/web/dnrhistoric/preserve/siteassets/pages/places/national-register-listings-in-illinois-updated-june-2022.pdf|title=National Register Listings in Illinois|website=Illinois Department of Natural Resources|access-date=2025-01-06}}</ref>

In 2000, the building found a new purpose when it became the Archbishop Fulton John Sheen Spiritual Centre. Archbishop Sheen, born in El Paso in 1895, was a prominent Catholic figure, known for his popular television programs and his impactful work as a bishop. The center showcases exhibits dedicated to his life and legacy, including personal items such as his 1953 Emmy Award, along with magazines, photographs, and videos of his work. The center is dedicated to preserving his memory and providing an educational experience about Sheen's contributions to the Church and media. The refurbished depot has become a focal point of inspiration and reflection, drawing visitors from across the country.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.archbishopfultonsheencentre.com/default.html|title=Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen Spiritual Centre|website=Official Website|access-date=2025-01-06}}</ref>