Let the Light In: Help Restore the Windows of the L&N Depot
By Jamie Johnson, Executive Director
For 100 years, the windows of Bowling Green’s L&N Depot have welcomed light, framed history, and quietly witnessed the journeys of thousands.
But now, it’s our turn to give them the care they deserve.
This May—National Preservation Month—we’re calling on our community to support our newest and most urgent preservation effort:
Restoring over 50 windows in our 1925 depot building.
Our goal is to raise $155,000 to complete this critical project and ensure the depot remains structurally sound, beautiful, and historically accurate for generations to come.
A Century of Service. A Call for Restoration.
All of the metal-framed windows in the building are original to 1925—a remarkable feat. But time and weather have taken their toll. While many of the wood-framed windows were replaced during a renovation 30 years ago, those units are now in poor condition. Some require extensive repair, while others have deteriorated beyond salvage and must be fully replaced. This isn’t just a cosmetic issue. These windows are essential to preserving the building’s historic integrity and protecting the exhibits, artifacts, and visitor spaces within.
A Gift That Gives Back
To honor your contribution, all donors who give $100 or more will receive a limited-edition keepsake ornament featuring a custom depiction of the depot. This beautiful memento is our way of saying thank you for helping us shine a light on history—literally and figuratively.
Your Support Makes This Possible
We’re working with preservation professionals to ensure that every step of the process respects the depot’s historic character while meeting today’s energy efficiency and safety standards. Whether you give $25 or $2,500, you’ll be part of a community effort to keep this beloved building standing strong for another century. Donate now and help restore our windows.
Why It Matters
The L&N Depot isn’t just a historic building. It’s a living part of Bowling Green’s past and present—home to field trips, weddings, tours, events, and family memories. When you support this campaign, you’re investing in preservation with purpose—ensuring the depot continues to educate, inspire, and connect people for years to come.
Let’s let the light back in. Together.
